The Moody Blues founding member, Mike Pinder, dead at 82-Brooke Ivey Johnson-Entertainment – Metro

Mike Pinder (right) has died at age 82 (Picture: Getty Images)

Moody Blues founding member and keyboardist Mike Pinder has died at 82.

The band’s bassist, John Lodge shared a statement: ‘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.’

Pinder’s cause of death was not disclosed in the statement.

The Moody Blues was originally composted of Graeme Edge, Ray Thomas, John Lodge, Mike Pinder and Justin Hayward in London, United Kingdom. (Picture: Chris Walter/WireImage)

He was the last original surviving member of the iconic group, which he co-founded in 1964 with Ray Thomas, Denny Laine, Graeme Edge, and Clint Warwick.

Pinder played both keyboard and mellodrome for The Moody Blues until he left the band in 1978.

He told ClassicBands.com: ‘It was as easy to leave as it was to start the band. 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.’

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