LONDON (Reuters) -John Lodge, the co-singer and bass guitarist of British rock band The Moody Blues, has died at the age of 82, his family said on Friday in a statement cited by British media. The
Moody Blues singer and bassist John Lodge dies at 82
Tribute to John Lodge
LONDON (Reuters) -John Lodge, the co-singer and bass guitarist of British rock band The Moody Blues, has died at the age of 82, his family said on Friday in a statement cited by British media.
Life and Career
The family said Lodge, whom they described as a "darling" husband, father, grandfather, father-in-law and brother, had been "suddenly and unexpectedly" taken from them.
Impact on Music
"John peacefully slipped away surrounded by his loved ones and the sounds of The Everly Brothers and Buddy Holly," the family said, referring to musicians Lodge admired.
Pioneering Progressive Rock
Born in Birmingham, Lodge joined The Moody Blues in 1966, two years after the band's formation. Together, they ventured away from the band's original R&B roots into the realm of symphonic rock.
Concept Albums and Legacy
Lodge remained with the band until it stopped performing live in 2018, following the retirement of Graeme Edge, the last remaining original member, and the same year they earned their place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
The Moody Blues are widely recognised for helping to pioneer progressive rock, notably through their use of orchestral arrangements and the Mellotron, an electro-mechanical keyboard instrument.
Their 1967 album, 'Days of Future Passed', is considered one of the first concept albums, blending rock with classical music, and features hit single 'Nights in White Satin'.
(Reporting by Sam Tabahriti; Editing by Catarina Demony)
