John Lodge of Moody Blues passes away at 82

Moody Blues singer and bassist John Lodge has passed away at the age of 82.

On Friday, the family of the longtime member of the British rock group shared the news of his death.

In a statement, his loved ones said his passing was “unexpected.” They did not disclose the cause of death.

“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,” they wrote. “John peacefully slipped away surrounded by his loved ones and the sounds of the Everly Brothers and Buddy Holly.”

His family added, “We will forever miss his love, smile, kindness and his absolute and never-ending support.”

They ended the message with a tribute to his signature words at the end of every concert.

“We are heartbroken, but will walk forwards into peace surrounded by the love he had for each of us,” they shared. “As John would always say at the end of the show, thank you for keeping the faith.”

Lodge was best known for co-writing and performing many of the Moody Blues’ most beloved tracks, including 1972’s I’m Just a Singer (in a Rock and Roll Band) and 1968’s Ride My See-Saw.

He was a driving force behind the band’s distinctive sound, contributing to their defining records, including 1967’s Days of Future Passed, considered one of rock’s earliest concept albums, and 1968’s In Search of the Lost Chord.

Over a five-decade career with the Moody Blues, Lodge appeared on 15 of their 16 studio albums and continued touring until the band retired in 2018.

He is survived by his wife Kirsten, whom he married in 1968, and their two children, Emily and Kristian.