Mike Pinder ( The Moody Blues ) and Richard Tandy (ELO) Tribute - Now Spinning Magazine

Tributes to Mike Pinder ( Moody Blues ) and Richard Tandy (ELO)
Here I am honoring two incredible keyboardists who shaped the sound of progressive rock: Mike Pinder of The Moody Blues and Richard Tandy of Electric Light Orchestra (ELO). Although we are losing our musical heroes at an increasing pace, their legacy remains immortal through their music.
Remembering Mike Pinder
Mike Pinder, one of the founding members of The Moody Blues, was pivotal in shaping the band’s distinctive sound. His innovative use of the Mellotron created lush soundscapes that helped the band pioneer the progressive rock genre. Here are some of his key contributions and achievements:
Innovator of the Mellotron Sound: Known as the “Father of the Mellotron,” Pinder brought the instrument to the forefront of The Moody Blues’ sound, influencing countless other progressive rock bands.
Key Albums:
“Days of Future Passed” (1967): Introduced symphonic rock with the iconic “Nights in White Satin.”
“In Search of the Lost Chord” (1968): Featured classics like “Legend of a Mind.”
“On the Threshold of a Dream” (1969): Continued their exploration of cosmic themes.
“To Our Children’s Children’s Children” (1969): Inspired by the moon landing, it’s one of my personal favorites, embodying the band’s creative peak.
“Every Good Boy Deserves Favour” (1971): Features “The Story in Your Eyes.”
“Seventh Sojourn” (1972): Contains the soulful “Isn’t Life Strange.”
Mike Pinder’s melodic touch and philosophical lyrics made The Moody Blues a band of lasting impact. His work on the Mellotron in particular left a mark on progressive rock history.
Honoring Richard Tandy
Richard Tandy, the brilliant keyboardist of Electric Light Orchestra, was crucial in helping Jeff Lynne create ELO’s orchestral rock sound. He not only played multiple keyboards but also contributed to songwriting and arrangements.
ELO’s Core Sound Architect:
Tandy’s use of synthesizers, pianos, and the clavinet expanded ELO’s sound palette.
Key Albums:
“Eldorado” (1974): Features “Can’t Get It Out of My Head,” a hauntingly beautiful track that opened the door to symphonic rock.
“Face the Music” (1975): Includes the fan favorites “Evil Woman” and “Strange Magic.”
“A New World Record” (1976): Brought us classics like “Livin’ Thing” and “Telephone Line.”
“Out of the Blue” (1977): Tandy’s keyboard brilliance shines on hits like “Turn to Stone” and “Sweet Talkin’ Woman.”
Tandy’s Collaborations:
He co-wrote “Mr. Blue Sky” and contributed to Jeff Lynne’s solo projects.
Played a key role in ELO’s live sound.
Celebrating Their Legacies
Mike Pinder and Richard Tandy were central figures in two of the most influential bands of the progressive rock era. Their contributions to The Moody Blues and ELO, respectively, left an indelible mark on the genre, showcasing the importance of innovative keyboard playing in shaping the sonic landscapes of progressive rock.
Mike Pinder’s Legacy
Master of the Mellotron: Pinder’s pioneering use of the Mellotron transformed The Moody Blues’ sound into something otherworldly. His mastery of the instrument created dreamy atmospheres that became synonymous with the band’s style.
Lyrical Themes: His philosophical lyrics on albums like “In Search of the Lost Chord” and “To Our Children’s Children’s Children” introduced themes of spirituality and introspection to rock music.
Beyond The Moody Blues: After leaving the band in 1978, Pinder pursued a solo career and released albums like “The Promise” (1976). He also worked as a consultant for Mellotron before retiring from the music industry.
Richard Tandy’s Legacy
Keyboard Virtuoso: Richard Tandy’s versatile keyboard skills brought ELO’s symphonic rock to life. He was equally adept on synthesizers, grand piano, and clavinet, adding layers of complexity to the band’s arrangements.
Co-Writer and Arranger: Tandy co-wrote several tracks with Jeff Lynne and helped arrange some of ELO’s biggest hits, including “Mr. Blue Sky.”
Live Performances: Known for his dynamic stage presence, Tandy played a crucial role in ELO’s electrifying live shows. He was often seen switching between keyboards, guitar, and backing vocals seamlessly.
Beyond ELO: After ELO’s initial disbandment, Tandy continued collaborating with Jeff Lynne on solo projects and the reformation of ELO as Jeff Lynne’s ELO.
Their music remains timeless, and their influence will continue to inspire generations of musicians and listeners alike. This tribute is dedicated to their families, bandmates, and the countless fans who will forever cherish their legacy.
Phil Aston, Now Spinning Magazine

[@JeffLynnesELO2024Tour]

Great comments. It's very much appreciated. Richard and Jeff spent so much time together in the studio to create the most beautiful music.

[@luchorios5663]

Man what a loss...and what a gift, ....still wrapping my head around it, Thanks for this...RIP Mike Pinder and Richard Tandy

[@pedrorocha9722]

Pinder was my favourite Moody. Still is.

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Thanks for that lovely tribute Phil, sad to hear of the death of Richard Tandy also. Mike Pinder was my uncle (mom's brother) and has been such a huge figure in my life. Those seven albums are a soundtrack to my life and Mike was definitley the soul of the Moodies. ♥ Rich.

[@NowSpinningMagazine]

Thank you 🙏

[@georgeisaac9european387]

Mike Pinder provided that exquisite sound of the Moodies. They would have achieved far more if he had not decided to quit after Octave. My interest waned after he left but I still adore them and would place them along with The Beatles and Jethro Tull as my most favourite bands.

[@TheCroyde]

I ordered two of Mike’s solo CDs directly from him in America, and he very kindly personally signed them. Melancholy Man, which he wrote for the Moody Blues album Question of Balance was a particular favourite. He was the soul of the Moodies. Sat next to John Lodge’s wife at a Moodies Concert a few years ago in London. She was such a nice person to talk to. This was of course post Mike Pinder being in the band, and without Ray Thomas appearing, as he was too unwell. Of course we’ve also lost Graeme Edge, what a drummer and contributor to the feel over the years of the Moodies sound.

[@donstewart6000]

ELO and The Moody Blues Are my favorite 2 Groups eve over the Beatles I loved there songs in the 70s but really became an ELO fan first in 1981 with the album Time It was like nothing I had ever heard before I was 15 when it came out so it's my Sgt Pepper for me and to this day nothing has matched it And I brcame a Moody Blues Fan in 1982 with buying long distance voyager Mike Pender and Richard Tandy were so amazing at keyboards and songs These 2 bands are very similar and different but both have such amazing songwriters and musicians behind them ❤️ And im just a guy who discovered them In the Piney woods of East Texas on my own. ELO and The Moody Blues Forever 🙏🖖👍🫶💯🎸🎶🎵🙌

[@richarddavey9547]

The Guitar intro to ELOs strange magic is actually Richard Tandy , very Talented and will be missed.

[@SJHUE]

Nice tribute video thanks Phil. Happened to play `A Question of Balance` quite recently (just before Mike Pinder passed I believe)and played `Face The Music` two days ago in tribute to Richard Tandy. I shall be playing many more albums by both bands over the coming weeks. Saw Richard Tandy live but unfortunately not Mike Pinder. It`s amazing back in the day how many great bands came from the Birmingham and West Midlands areas.

[@Andiejo40]

I enjoy them both, looking at them on KZbin, and listening to my CD's. I was just telling a friend last week about how most of my favorites are in their mid to late 70's now (I am in my 80's), but that is when music was at it''s best. I do know that Justin Hayward is going to be in a town near me in June, and I saw Alan Parson's in concert right before the covid shutdown.

[@Socrates99]

AS Mike said, "Keep your head in the clouds and your feet on the ground", RIP.

[@lippmb78]

I’ve been listening to the moody blues for 30 years, sad to hear Mike Pinder gone along with Ray Thomas and Graeme Edge. Now Mike Is ( in my opinion) the dark horse of the band, his vocals and performance of the mellotron is a beauty of its own.God bless his soul!!!🙏❤️🩷💚🧡💜🩵💙💛💕🎹🎼

[@markmiwurdz2248]

All of the original line - up of The Moody Blues - with Clint Warwick and Denny Laine, have now passed away. God’s Bar Band get’s better and better.

[@lippmb78]

@@markmiwurdz2248 the two band members remaining are Justin Hayward and John Lodge ,I hope they don’t go to soon 🙏

[@trevorpugh6475]

Thank you Phil for this tribute to Mike Pinder. The Moody Blues have a very special place in my heart, I first heard them on the On The Threshold Of A Dream album in 1969 and later that year I bought the newly released To Our Children’s, Children’s Children, a beautiful recording. To my mind Mike Pinder was THE sound of the Moodies thanks to his mastery of the Mellotron, my all time favourite keyboard. Mike truly was not only a first class maestro when it came to that instrument but also a genuinely talented songwriter. I’m very sad at the passing of Mike Pinder, another member of one of my favourite prog bands. 😔

[@jasonjones8178]

Hi Phil so sorry to hear the sad loss of Richard tanby

[@robertpottle5427]

Well said Phil.......I still have my old copy of Eldorado on vinyl. A magnificant record.

[@RobertZarywacz]

To Our Children's Children's Children is for me the most exquisite album ever. Apparently, it never caught on big because it was too quiet for radio, but it still takes my breath away 50 years after first hearing it. While all things pass, it does feel melancholy to lose these two keyboard players.

[@boysiesolem4752]

Hello Phil, a very heartfelt tribute video 💕 Thank you for your sincere outreach to all of us music lovers 🙏🙏

[@NowSpinningMagazine]

Thank you :)

[@julianirving9868]

Phil, another sad week with these two passing. Both from Brummie bands and my thoughts are with family and friends.

[@seanwills4946]

Sad news at the loss of two great keyboardists who have been a big part of my listening experiences of over forty years of listening to and buying music. ELO were the first band I got into and who started me on my wonderful musical journey.

[@rolandpritchard1731]

2 great bands of all time, love them and sping them always. Moody blues and E.L.O. . How if you play if out of the blue on C.D. its better than ever as you now hear it as that concept L.P. .god bless them and thank you for there wonderful gifts thay we may sping and keep spinnig for all time.

[@richardwillis6936]

It is sad that these tribute videos are coming so close together, but time marches on. RIP Mike and Richard.

[@johntymon5917]

Out of the Blue was the first vinyl album I ever bought sad loss again :(

[@ingemarstenstrom2524]

Hello Phil!! Two Prog Heroes!! And to Eric Carmen!! So Sad… R.I.P😢🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤……

[@michaellord9745]

My favorite E.L.O. album is TIME where Tandy's keyboard work really stands out for me.

[@normanmacfarlane6724]

Phil , Phil , Phil . . . what are you doing to me. I spent a sleepless night thinking about the Pyramid SD and I believe it is not on Amazon ATM but my eye was drawn to Ammonia Avenue , a SD deluxe edition and before I knew it I was getting the " order received " from Amazon for the Ammonia Avenue SD ❤😂 I have decided that I shall only buy two more SDs this year. One being the Pyramid SD and the forthcoming Rory Galagher 20 cd 2 blu ray SD box sets.😂❤ Oh , BTW, I just grabbed a SD boxset of the Humble Pie Live albums. Whew , that will keep me going for a bit 😂 Deeply sorry to hear of the passing of Mike Pinder. My condolences to his family. The Moody Blues were an exceptional band. I only have a double cd of Days of Future Past and it is a wonderful album. Good on you Phil 😂

[@NowSpinningMagazine]

Thank you for being part of this community - Phil :)

[@clevebaker8399]

Keyboard heaven 🥹 rip

[@jerrygeorgopolis8015]

Phil, Well said ! Good day from the U.S.A.

[@mrsbluesky9750]

Thank you for this respectful tribute to the great Richard Tandy. A musical genius who was a member of the best band EVER! ELO! Their music will always live on as you say. ‘Daybreaker’ is a wonderful instrumental by ELO. Give it a listen.☺️

[@SpaceWreck]

What a drag....First album I ever bought was ELO's Greatest Hits, and the first concert I ever saw was the Moody Blues in 1983 (Pinder was long gone, of course). The 60s & 70s output of those 2 bands were a big part of the soundtrack of my youth. 😢

[@robertholmes7467]

This was sad news Phil, two legends and giants of the keys. Maybe not as upfront as say Emerson or Wakeman but none the less very important. There music shows us how important the tickling-of-the-ivorys are to Classic Rock.

[@ianemery4355]

Sad news for us Midlanders! And I agree sad times coming now!

[@jasonjones8178]

Hi Phil time is my favourite album

[@NowSpinningMagazine]

Great choice !

[@rolandconnor575]

Just some major loses, One Summer Dream from Face the Music is my favorite and there is a beautiful live version with some great smiles from Tandy. RIP and thanks Phil

[@747jono]

Sad news Phil 😅😅😅😅😅

[@jasonjones8178]

Hi Phil so sorry to hear the sad loss of Richard tanby