The Moody Blues were one of the signature rock bands of the 1960s and 1970s. Songs like "Nights in White Satin" and "Tuesday Afternoon" established their reputation. Their dreamy, gossamer sound was so singular and exquisite. Sadly, one of their marquee members, singer and bassist John Lodge, has died at the age of 82.
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Lodge's Family Issued a Sorrowful Statement
His family issued a lengthy statement on Lodge's Facebook page.. It said, "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."
It continued, "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 (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!"
"We Are Heartbroken"
And there was also this. "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."
The announcement is accompanied by many photos of Lodge's personal and professional life. He apparently lived both to the absolute hilt and will be greatly missed.
Fans Are Deeply Mourning Lodge's Loss
Many people left comments on his Facebook page describing how affected they are by Lodge's death. It almost sounds as if they lost a family member themselves. Those who were fortunate enough to have met Lodge treasured the memory of the encounter.
Wrote one, "I am so heartbroken and shocked to wake up this morning and find out that our wonderful John has left us. He was my special favorite of the band and I was lucky enough to meet him and spend time with him several times after concerts...."
From another came this. "So sad. Lovely to know the warmth your smile and music has brought to me. Glad that I saw John play in July. Such good memories over the years. This is a picture of John with my daughter in 1992. He signed her birthday card and later the picture I took of them."
A personal memory from this fan. "My parents recorded the Live From Red Rocks concert on VHS, when they first aired it on PBS. We watched it every weekend for a whole summer. This one hurts."
"Very sad. He wasn't just a singer in a rock and roll band. [Lodge wrote the Moody Blues' song, "I'm Just a Singer in a Rock and Roll Band."] He was a legend." How true!
