The Moody Blues founder Mike Pinder dies aged 82 as bandmates pay tribute
Mike Pinder, a founding member of The Moody Blues, has been hailed as a "great cosmic philosopher" after his passing at 82. The legendary Birmingham band, known for timeless classics like 'Nights In White Satin' and 'Tuesday Afternoon', was formed by Ray Thomas, Denny Laine, Graeme Edge, Clint Warwick, and Pinder in 1964.
John Lodge, a former bandmate, shared a heartfelt statement on Facebook from Pinder's family, revealing the keyboardist passed away peacefully at his California home on Wednesday. Lodge said: "Michael's family would like to share with his trusted friends and caring fans that he passed peacefully. His final days were filled with music, encircled by the love of his family.
"Michael lived his life with a childlike wonder, walking a deeply introspective path which fused the mind and the heart. He created his music and the message he shared with the world from this spiritually grounded place; as he always said, 'Keep your head above the clouds, but keep your feet on the ground'.
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"He was a beacon of light for all who met him. His lyrics, philosophy, and vision of humanity and our place in the cosmos will touch generations to come."
A Brummie through and through, Pinder's influence on the band's sound was profound, contributing significantly to their debut album 'The Magnificent Moodies' and later to the 1978 album 'Octave'.
His legacy also includes solo albums like The Promise in 1976 and Among The Stars in 1994. The band itself was honoured with an induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2018. American musician Al Jardine took to Instagram to express his sorrow: "Very sad to hear of the passing of Mike Pinder, who was an original founding member of the Moody Blues and created the most amazing pocket orchestras with his Mellotron."
"I love Days of Future Passed and will always remember Mike as the Mellotron Man and great cosmic philosopher. Mary Ann and I send our condolences to his lovely wife Tara and family, friends and fans everywhere. RIP Mike... among the stars."
The band has seen the loss of other members over the years; drummer Edge passed away at age 80 in 2021, singer Thomas died at 76 in 2018, and bassist Warwick died in 2004 at the age of 63.
Denny Laine, who co-founded Wings with Beatles legend Sir Paul McCartney, died at 79 in December after a battle with lung disease. Guitarist Justin Hayward and Yes keyboardist Patrick Moraz contributed to the band in later years.