Denny Laine, a pivotal figure in rock music history known for his roles in The Moody Blues and Paul McCartney’s band Wings, died on Tuesday, December 5, 2023, at the age of 79.

Laine’s death occurred in Naples, Florida, and was attributed to interstitial lung disease, a condition he had been battling.

Brian Frederick Arthur Hines, better known as Denny Laine, was born in 1944 and quickly became a key player in Britain’s music industry. He chose his stage name in tribute to Frankie Laine during his early teens. His early career included leading Denny Laine and the Diplomats, alongside future stars like Roy Wood and Bev Bevan.

In 1964, Laine’s career took a significant turn with the inception of The Moody Blues. As a leading vocalist, he contributed to the success of “Go Now,” a track emblematic of the 1960s. The Moody Blues faced challenges in replicating their early success, resulting in Laine’s departure in 1966 and the band’s evolution under Justin Hayward.

Laine’s post-Moody Blues career was marked by collaborations with various groups, including Ginger Baker’s Air Force and the Electric String Band. His most notable achievement was forming Wings with Paul McCartney following the Beatles’ split. Wings, featuring Laine, McCartney, and Linda McCartney, became a 1970s sensation, producing hits such as “My Love,” “Listen to What the Man Said,” and “Band On the Run,” with Laine’s writing expertise highlighted in “Mull of Kintyre.”

Even after leaving Wings in the early 1980s, Laine continued to work with McCartney on albums like “Tug of War” and “Pipes of Peace.” He also participated in George Harrison’s homage to John Lennon, “All Those Years Ago.”

Laine’s later career included tours and new albums like “The Blue Musician,” underscoring his ongoing influence in rock. His induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of The Moody Blues further cemented his status in the industry.

Laine’s passing has elicited tributes from many, including McCartney, who reminisced about their friendship and collaborative experiences. His wife, Elizabeth Hines, offered poignant insights on social media, portraying Laine as a resilient individual who balanced his musical passion with his family life, even amidst health struggles.

Denny Laine’s enduring legacy in rock music, through his roles in The Moody Blues and Wings, continues to resonate within the genre.