Moody Blues bassist John Lodge has shared the news of founder member Mike Pinder’s death.
Pinder was 82.
“Michael Thomas Pinder died on Wednesday, April 24th, 2024 at his home in Northern California, surrounded by his devoted family,” the statement read.
“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 cause of death was not announced.
Pinder, best known for playing the keyboard and the Mellotron, was one of the founding members of the rock group, and the last original surviving member.
He co-founded the Moody Blues in 1964 with multi-instrumentalist/singer Ray Thomas, singer/guitarist Denny Laine, drummer Graeme Edge and bassist/singer Clint Warwick.
Pinder left the band in 1978.
“It was as easy to leave as it was to start the band,” he told ClassicBands.com. “It was just a decision in my life, you know?
“I left the group to lead a normal life, and I realised that if I put so much energy into writing a song, why not put that same amount of energy into raising a family and holding a marriage together, which is exactly the reason why I decided to give it up.”
Pinder was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2018.
