Mike Pinder, the last surviving founding member of the pioneering progressive rock band, the Moody Blues, passed away at the age of 82 in his Sacramento home. His son confirmed his death, stating that he had been in hospice care due to breathing difficulties. The Moody Blues, formed in 1964, initially included Pinder on keyboards, and the group achieved early success with their song “Go Now!” Shortly after, there were changes in the lineup, culminating in the inclusion of Justin Hayward and John Lodge and a shift towards a more psychedelic, orchestral sound that set the stage for their acclaimed 1967 album, “Days of Future Passed.”
Before joining the Moody Blues, Pinder had worked at a Mellotron factory, where he got to experiment with the instrument and understand its musical possibilities. Using the Mellotron on “Days of Future Passed” and subsequent albums allowed him to develop melodies and create an orchestral backdrop for the band. Pinder’s unique contribution to the band’s sound was recognized by his bandmates and other musicians. He also recommended the Mellotron to John Lennon and Paul McCartney, mentioning the instrument’s influence on the Beatles’ iconic single, “Strawberry Fields Forever.”
Born in Birmingham in 1941, Pinder had no formal musical training but developed a passion for music from a young age. His introduction to the Beatles sparked his interest in pursuing a career in music, leading him to join the Moody Blues and contribute to their distinct sound. Pinder’s creative vision and skill with the Mellotron played a pivotal role in shaping the band’s music, particularly on albums like “In Search of the Lost Chord” and “On the Threshold of a Dream.” He also explored other electronic keyboards in subsequent recordings and embarked on a solo career, releasing albums such as “The Promise” and “Among the Stars.”
In addition to his musical career, Pinder also ventured into creating children’s albums, combining storytelling with his musical arrangements. Alongside his wife, Taralee, he curated picture books with multilevel meanings, aiming to provide engaging and thought-provoking stories for children. Pinder’s diverse range of projects showcased his creative versatility and passion for music and storytelling. Despite spending time away from the music scene, working on composing music for Atari, he remained dedicated to his craft and continued to explore new avenues of expression.
Following the Moody Blues’ induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2018, Pinder reflected on the ceremony and shared his experience on his website. He noted the significance of the event for the band and its fans, highlighting the magic of being surrounded by family members and generations of supporters. While Pinder did not speak at the induction due to the late hour of the ceremony, his presence and contributions to the band’s legacy were celebrated and recognized by fellow bandmates and fans alike. Pinder’s impact on music, especially his innovative use of the Mellotron, continues to be felt and appreciated by audiences worldwide.
