Mike Pender, founder of the Moody Blues, dies at the age of 82

Moody Blues founder Mike Pinder has died at the age of 82.

Best known for playing the keyboard and mellotron, Binder was one of the founding members of the rock group and the last surviving original member.

He died at his home in Northern California, and the cause of death was not announced.

He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2018.

Ba*sist John Lodge announced Pinder’s death on Facebook.

“Michael Thomas Bender pa*sed away on Wednesday, April 24, 2024 at his home in Northern California, surrounded by his devoted family. Michael’s family would like to share with his trusted friends and concerned fans that he pa*sed away peacefully. His final days were filled with music and surrounded by the love of his family. “Michael lived his life with childlike wonder and walked a deeply introspective path that fused mind and heart,” the statement read.

Pinder was born in Birmingham, England, on December 27, 1941.

He co-founded the Moody Blues in 1964 with multi-instrumentalist/vocalist Ray Thomas, singer/guitarist Denny Laine, drummer Graeme Edge and ba*sist/vocalist Clint Warwick.

Lane and Warwick left the band in 1966 after the release of their 1965 debut album, The Magnificent Moodies. Then guitarist Justin Hayward and ba*sist Lodge joined the band to replace them.

His use of the keyboard was a major influence in the instrument becoming a staple in the music of other bands such as Yes and Genesis.

Bender left the band in 1978.

“It was as easy to leave as it was to start the band,” he told Cla*sicBands.com. “It was just a decision in my life, you know? I left the band to live a normal life, and I realized that if I put that much energy into writing a song, why wouldn’t I put the same amount of energy into raising a family and keeping the marriage together, and that’s exactly why I decided to So 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 in the clouds, but keep your feet on the ground.” His authentic essence lifted all who came into contact with him. His words, philosophy, and vision for humanity and our place in the universe will touch generations to come.