Moody Blues founder Mike Pinder dies, age 82

nme.com:

The Moody Blues, has died aged 82.News of his death was shared by his family and by fellow Moody Blues colleague John Lodge.Sharing an official statement with fans, his family wrote: “Michael Thomas Pinder died on Wednesday, April 24th, 2024 at his home in Northern California, surrounded by his devoted family.“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.”The statement continued: “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.’ His authentic essence lifted up everyone who came into contact with him.

His lyrics, philosophy, and vision of humanity and our place in the cosmos will touch generations to come.”Pinder had been the last surviving founding member of the band.

Clint Warwick, the original bassist, died in 2004, and vocalist and flautist Ray Thomas died in 2018. Graeme Edge, who was the original drummer fro the group passed in 2021, and original guitarist Denny Laine died last year.“All the love possible goes out from the Lodge family to Mike’s family today… RIP,” wrote former Moody Blues colleague and close friend John Lodge.Similarly, Justin Hayward, who contributed vocals and guitars to the Moody Blues from 1966 until their dissolution in 2018 added: “Mike was a natural born musician who could play any style of music with warmth and love.