Lodge’s family confirmed the heartbreaking news Friday, telling Fox News Digital that the rock pioneer died “suddenly and unexpectedly.” They added that he “peacefully slipped away surrounded by his loved ones and the sounds of The Everly Brothers and Buddy Holly.”

Born in Birmingham, England, Lodge joined The Moody Blues in 1966 — two years after the band first formed — alongside fellow frontman Justin Hayward. The pair replaced founding members Denny Laine and Clint Warwick and went on to define the group’s signature sound for decades.

Lodge became one of the creative engines behind The Moody Blues’ lush blend of orchestral rock and psychedelic experimentation. His songwriting and musicianship helped shape classic albums like 1967’s Days of Future Passed and 1968’s In Search of the Lost Chord, both of which cemented the band’s place in rock history.

He continued to evolve with the band through the years, contributing to their 1977 record Octave, which leaned into a more pop-driven sound, and their final studio release, December (2003), a Christmas-themed collection that capped off their storied career.

Even after the hits slowed, Lodge stayed loyal to the stage — performing with The Moody Blues until 2018, the same year the band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

“As John would always say at the end of the show, thank you for keeping the faith,” his family said in their statement.

Beyond the spotlight, Lodge’s life was rooted in family and faith. He married his wife, Kirsten, in 1968, and the couple had two children, Emily and Kristian. His daughter inspired “Emily’s Song,” featured on the band’s 1971 album Every Good Boy Deserves Favour.

A devoted Evangelical Christian, Lodge often credited his faith with helping him stay grounded amid the chaos of rock stardom.

From sold-out arenas to symphonic collaborations, John Lodge’s voice, basslines, and spiritual endurance helped define a generation of rock