John Lodge, the legendary bassist and vocalist who helped define The Moody Blues’ iconic sound for more than five decades, died suddenly on October 10, 2025, at age 82. His family announced that Lodge “peacefully slipped away surrounded by his loved ones and the sounds of The Everly Brothers and Buddy Holly.”
Born in Erdington, Birmingham, England, on July 20, 1943, Lodge joined The Moody Blues in 1966 alongside fellow singer Justin Hayward, replacing departing members Denny Laine and Clint Warwick. This pivotal moment transformed the band from its rhythm and blues roots toward the orchestral rock and progressive sound that would define their legacy.
Lodge’s family described the loss as sudden and unexpected, noting that his enduring love for his wife Kirsten and family remained his highest priority, followed by his passion for music and his evangelical Christian faith. The musician often credited his religious beliefs with helping him navigate the excesses of rock and roll throughout his career.
The bassist’s contributions proved instrumental in creating some of The Moody Blues’ most celebrated albums, including the groundbreaking 1967 release “Days of Future Passed,” often cited as one of rock’s first concept albums. This landmark recording, produced on just four tracks, showcased the band’s innovative fusion of orchestral arrangements with rock instrumentation.
Lodge penned several of the band’s most recognizable hits, including “Ride My See-Saw,” “I’m Just a Singer (In a Rock and Roll Band),” and “Isn’t Life Strange.” His songwriting earned him ASCAP awards for “I’m Just a Singer” and “Isn’t Life Strange,” while he co-wrote the band’s 1981 number 12 hit “Gemini Dream.”
The band’s creative output during Lodge’s tenure resulted in 12 consecutive U.S. Top 40 albums, including chart-toppers “Seventh Sojourn” in 1972 and “Long Distance Voyager” in 1981. Other successful releases included “A Question of Balance,” “Every Good Boy Deserves Favour,” and “The Other Side of Life,” which reached the U.S. Top 10.
Lodge remained with The Moody Blues through their final touring year in 2018, the same year the band received induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The group’s last studio album, “December,” featured Christmas songs and was released in 2003.
Beyond his work with The Moody Blues, Lodge released several solo projects, including three studio albums, and collaborations with bandmate Justin Hayward on the 1975 album “Blue Jays” during the band’s five-year hiatus. His most recent solo work included the 2023 album “Days of Future Passed: My Sojourn” and the February 2025 EP “Love Conquers All.”
Following The Moody Blues’ retirement from touring, Lodge continued performing with his son-in-law Jon Davison, vocalist for the band Yes. His current tour was named after his hit “I’m Just a Singer (In a Rock and Roll Band),” with December shows previously scheduled.
Justin Hayward, Lodge’s longtime bandmate, expressed his shock and sadness at the news, recalling happy memories of making music together and extending condolences to Lodge’s wife and family. Producer Tony Visconti remembered Lodge’s generosity, recounting how the musician once invited him to stay at his home during a motorcycle journey from London to Barcelona.
Lodge’s passing marks another significant loss for The Moody Blues family. He becomes the fourth member to die following their 2018 Hall of Fame induction, after founding drummer Graeme Edge in 2021, original vocalist Denny Laine in 2023, and founding keyboardist Mike Pinder in 2024. Founding flutist Ray Thomas died in January 2018, months before the induction ceremony.
The musician married Kirsten in September 1968, and the couple had two children, Emily and Kristian. His daughter Emily was referenced in The Moody Blues song “Emily’s Song” from the 1971 album “Every Good Boy Deserves Favour.” Lodge is also survived by his grandson, John-Henry.
His family emphasized that Lodge was never happier than when performing on stage, describing him as someone who adored sharing music with fans and working alongside his children and son-in-law. They noted his massive heart, love, smile, kindness, and unwavering support for those around him.
The family concluded their statement by referencing Lodge’s customary closing words at concerts, thanking fans for keeping the faith. They requested privacy during their mourning period while celebrating the incredible man who touched countless lives through his music and personal relationships.
