Legendary Moody Blues singer-bassist John Lodge has died “suddenly and unexpectedly” at the age of 82. The announcement was made Friday morning by the musician’s family.
A statement posted on Lodge’s official Facebook page, and shared on Moody Blues’ Facebook page, reads as follows:
“It is with the deepest sadness that we have to announce that John Lodge, our darling husband, father, grandfather, father-in-law and brother has been suddenly and unexpectedly taken from us. As anyone who knew this massive hearted man knows, it was his enduring love of his wife, Kirsten, and his family, that was the most important thing to him, followed by his passion for music, and his faith.
He was never happier than being on stage – he was ‘Just a ‘Singer in a Rock and Roll Band’ and he adored performing with his band and son-in-law, Jon [Davison] (vocalist with YES), and being able to continue sharing this music with his fans. It gave him even more joy to be able to work with his daughter Emily and son Kristian and spend time watching his grandson John-Henry play football and dream of him playing for Birmingham City one day!
John peacefully slipped away surrounded by his loved-ones and the sounds of The Everly Brothers and Buddy Holly. We will forever miss his love, smile, kindness, and his absolute and never-ending support. We are heartbroken, but will walk forwards into peace surrounded by the love he had for each of us. As John would always say at the end of the show, thank you for keeping the faith.
Please understand that we are not making any further comments, however we would like to leave you with John’s song ’Whispering Angels’ whilst we take a moment to reflect on this incredible man who touched so many lives.”
Lodge was born in Birmingham, England, on July 20th, 1983. He was a classic member of The Moody Blues, having joined the UK band in 1966, and remained with them until they became inactive in 2018. He appeared on all of their albums aside from their 1965 debut, The Magnificent Moodies.
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He was the co-lead vocalist of the Moody Blues with Justin Hayward, and sang lead on such hits as “Ride My See-Saw,” “I’m Just a Singer (In a Rock and Roll Band),” and “Candle of Life.” Along with his Moody Blues bandmates, he was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2018.
Lodge also released a handful of solo albums, and was actively touring up until August of this year, with his final gig being August 7th in Des Plaines, Illinois, where he performed a set of 17 Moody Blues songs.
Our condolences go out to John Lodge’s family, friends, and bandmates during this difficult time. Revisit a couple of his classic songs with the Moody Blues below.