Courtesy of Rock & Roll Hall of FameThe first time was the charm for The Moody Blues. The veteran British band will be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2018 after being nominated for the first time this year, although they’ve been eligible since 1989.
The group’s classic 1967-1978 lineup will be welcomed into the Rock Hall: singer/guitarist Justin Hayward, singer/bassist John Lodge, drummer Graeme Edge, singer/flutist Ray Thomas, and singer/keyboardist Mike Pinder.
Hayward, Lodge and Edge, who continue to play with The Moody Blues, have issued statements in response to the honor.
“I’m extremely grateful to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, first for creating the supreme temple to all that has brought endless joy into my life since I was a small boy, and now, after all these years, for including us,” says Hayward. “It’s a privilege to be celebrated in the same building, on the same street even, as my own heroes — Buddy Holly and The Everly Brothers — and now, at last, with us, my heroine Nina Simone.”
Hayward also thanks the fans, as does Lodge, who calls them “the heart of the Moody Blues — their faith, support and love have moved mountains. Their voices have been heard.”
As for Edge, he also thanks the fans, as well as his peers who voted for The Moodies’ induction, and “the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame foundation for putting a cap on my career; one that continues to astonish me with its gifts.”
Pinder, who left The Moody Blues in 1978, has posted a message on his official website that reads, “This win is for the listeners of our music. Thank you for the love and support.”
The 2018 Rock Hall ceremony takes place April 14 in Cleveland.
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