Moody Blues Bassist John Lodge Dies at Age 82

Los Angeles, CA – John Lodge, longtime bassist and vocalist of the British rock band the Moody Blues, has died at the age of 82, his family announced on October 10, 2025. No cause of death was specified.

The announcement revealed Lodge passed away ‘suddenly and unexpectedly’ while surrounded by loved ones, including the soothing music of the Everly Brothers and Buddy Holly. His family expressed their deep sorrow in a statement, saying, ‘John peacefully slipped away’ and highlighting his love, kindness, and unwavering support for his family.

Lodge joined the Moody Blues in 1966, along with guitarist Justin Hayward, after original members Denny Laine and Clint Warwick left. The band initially played rhythm and blues before shifting to a more orchestral rock sound, most notably with their landmark 1967 album ‘Days of Future Passed,’ which included the iconic track ‘Nights in White Satin.’

The Moody Blues rose to fame with a series of successful albums throughout the 1970s and 1980s, including ‘Seventh Sojourn’ and ‘Long Distance Voyager.’ Lodge contributed to the band as a co-writer and lead vocalist, particularly on songs such as ‘I’m Just a Singer in a Rock and Roll Band’ and ‘Your Wildest Dreams.’

Despite the band’s hiatus in the mid-1970s, they reunited in 1977 and continued to tour well into the 2010s. The Moody Blues were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2018, marking a significant milestone in their long career.

With Lodge’s passing, Hayward remains the last surviving member of the band’s classic lineup. Lodge is survived by his wife, Kirsten, and their two children and a grandchild. His family concluded their statement by reflecting on his joy in performing and sharing music with fans, saying, ‘As John would always say at the end of the show, thank you for keeping the faith.’