Moody Blues founder Mike Pinder has died at age 82.
Pinder, best known for playing the keyboard and the Mellotron, was one of the founding members of the rock group, and the last surviving member of its original line up.
He died at his home in Northern California, and the cause of death was not announced.
He was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2018.
Bassist John Lodge announced Pinder’s death on Facebook.
“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,” the statement read.
Pinder was born in Birmingham, England on Dec. 27, 1941.
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.
Laine and Warwick left the band in 1966 after the release of 1965’s debut album, The Magnificent Moodies. Guitarist Justin Hayward and bassist Lodge then joined the band to replace them.
His use of the keyboard was a key influence in the instrument becoming a staple in music by other bands such as “Yes” and “Genesis.”
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 realized 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.”
Lodge’s statement added, “He created his music and the message he shared with the world from this spiritually grounded place; as he always said, ‘Keep your head above the clouds, but keep your feet on the ground.’ His authentic essence lifted up everyone who came into contact with him. His lyrics, philosophy, and vision of humanity and our place in the cosmos will touch generations to come.”