The Moody Blues: Videobiography | Music Documentary | Tony Brown | Chris Welch | John Cavanagh

The Moody Blues were an English rock band formed in Birmingham in 1964, initially consisting of keyboardist Mike Pinder, multi-instrumentalist Ray Thomas, guitarist Denny Laine, drummer Graeme Edge and bassist Clint Warwick. The group came to prominence playing rhythm and blues. They made some changes in musicians but settled on a line-up of Pinder, Thomas, Edge, guitarist Justin Hayward and bassist John Lodge, who stayed together for most of the band's "classic era" into the early 1970s. Edge was the group’s sole continuous member throughout their entire history.
Their second album, Days of Future Passed, which was released in 1967, was a fusion of rock with classical music which established the band as pioneers in the development of art rock and progressive rock. It has been described as a "landmark" and "one of the first successful concept albums". The group toured extensively through the early 1970s, then took an extended hiatus from 1974 until 1977. Founder Mike Pinder left the group a year after they re-formed and was replaced by Swiss keyboardist Patrick Moraz in 1978. In the following decade they took on a more synth-pop sound and produced The Other Side of Life in 1986, which made them the first act to earn each of its first three top-10 singles in the United States in a different decade. Health troubles led to a diminished role for founder Ray Thomas throughout the 1980s, although his musical contributions rebounded after Moraz departed in 1991. Thomas retired from the band in 2002; he died shortly before the band were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2018.
The band's last album was the Christmas album December (2003), after which they decided against recording any further studio albums. However, they continued to tour throughout the 2000s and later reunited periodically for events, one-off concerts, short tours and cruises, until Edge's retirement in 2018; he died in 2021.
The Moody Blues' most successful singles include "Go Now", "Nights in White Satin", "Tuesday Afternoon", "Question", "Gemini Dream", "The Voice", "Your Wildest Dreams" and "I'm Just a Singer (In a Rock and Roll Band)". The band has sold 70 million albums worldwide, which includes 18 platinum and gold LPs.
The Moody Blues' "rich symphonic sound" influenced groups such as Yes, Genesis, the Electric Light Orchestra and Deep Purple. They also helped make synthesizers and philosophy "part of the rock mainstream".
The Moody Blues are members of the Vocal Group Hall of Fame. In 2013, readers of Rolling Stone voted for them as one of the ten bands that should be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Ultimate Classic Rock called them "perennial victims of an unaccountable snubbing" and inducted them into its own Hall of Fame in 2014.
Writing for The Guardian in 2015, Rob Chapman described the band as "psychedelia's forgotten heroes". He stated: "Despite their success, rock critics rarely took the Moody Blues seriously, a pattern that continued for the next 45 years." He also wrote: "Despite the critical disapproval, the best of the Moody Blues music between 1967 and 1970 possessed grace and beauty. Like the Beatles, they understood how pop songs worked as ensemble pieces. None of them were particularly virtuosic or showy as musicians and their music is refreshingly free of the noodling long[u]eurs that characterized the output of their more self-indulgent contemporaries."
In December 2017, the band was announced as inductee for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. On 14 April 2018, they were inducted as part of the 2018 class. During his acceptance speech in Cleveland, Ohio, Justin Hayward said, "If you didn't know already, well we're just a bunch of British guys, but of course to us and to all British musicians, this is the home of our heroes and we all know that..." acknowledging the inspirational role of America's rock and roll icons. During the ceremony, Ray Thomas was included as a star that was lost in the past year.
Stars: Tony Brown, Chris Welch, John Cavanagh
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#moodies #musicdocumentary #rockandroll #TheStreamMovies

[@hughc023]

I've never been ashamed of being a Moodies fan, and I've been one for more than 50 years.

[@sharonroy2645]

Absolutely, me too

[@ej3016]

the playlist for the first ten yrs of my life (the sixties) was thnx to my folks - but the playlist for next ten yrs (the seventies) were thnx to my older brother - when I got my own bedroom downstairs it was beside his - his stereo / albums dictated what I heard until we both left for college - Moody Blues were definitely apart of his wide ranging tastes - how a 12 yr old in 🇨🇦 knew about British bands beats me but am glad he did 😂🤣 Nights in White Satin was unintelligible on Friday nights anyway 😂🤣

[@lonelybro77]

Right, from the first time I slow-danced to 'Nights', about age 13 (1973)

[@LesleyMrs]

Same...

[@lindariley1608]

I adore them...

[@kathlenecarney1860]

Wow, who are these old snarky critics and why are they even in this documentary? The Moody Blues made beautiful, unique music that continues to spread joy to this day.

[@ptownscribe1254]

That Mendelsohn guy won't let up. I can't believe someone would waste so much time on a band they can't stand, i.e. don't get.

[@velvetbees]

They are downplaying the artistic merit of the Moody Blues because they are paid to be contrary. The could never squeak out one note as beautiful as an off note on a Moody Blues song. But there are no off notes in Moody Blues music. So the critics don't matter anyhow.

[@lindae2524]

I am not ashamed at all. In the Time Traveler set, the booklet says that regardless of what these people say, they broke attendance records over & over. The fans know what they like and thumb their noses at the "experts". It reminds me about the snotty Broadway critics saying Andrew Lloyd Weber wrote for the "common masses" He's laughing all the way to the bank and I saw some excellent shows.

[@Billy-cs4cc]

Because old snarky people are watching this timeless video, over and over again

[@razsbags]

Critics are critics because they didn’t or couldn’t make it as musicians. The music speaks for itself. Brilliant songwriting & performances. Appreciating them much more now I’m older. They had a lot of competition & should have received more airplay at the time.

[@adamodeo9320]

The Moody Blues' music will live forever and no one is gonna remember the critics

[@lesterpaul9657]

Critics are like eunuchs. They know how it goes but unable to do it.😊

[@deniseg812]

@@lesterpaul9657 or truly appreciate it. From what the commentators said, it seems they never truly got them either.

[@joeanthony7759]

@@lesterpaul9657 I always wondered how one becomes a music or pop critic, to get paid for reviewing/analyzing albums and songs sounded like a dream-job. Then I realized how little respect critics get, even though the more prominent ones had the power to make or break careers.

[@danielschear556]

Amen.

[@foto21]

They sucked me right in in the early 80s when I was coming of age over a decade after their peak. It wasn't until only recently that I realized 'Go Now' was theirs. Their music is timeless.

[@tonyocoffey5175]

The critics couldn’t get it through their thick ears that a rock and roll band could make symphonic rock. I was a teen when the Moody Blues emerged. They changed my perception of what rock and roll can be.

[@Al8101]

Those with no talent become critics.

[@jeffryphillipsburns]

Who better to make “symphonic rock”, whatever that’s supposed to mean, than a rock group? So I’m dubious that that was really any critic’s objection. Probably only rock critics even paid attention, and since rock critics generally know nothing about music, they were probably reviewing just the lyrics, which they probably found simplistic and pretentious. Or maybe the frequent and clumsy attempts at spoken poetry raised their hackles. I don’t remember ever reading a Moody Blues review, though; I’m just guessing. In any case, A symphony is merely a sonata for orchestra. There is nothing necessarily magisterial about it, A typical Moody Blues song to my ears has a simple pleasant diatonic melody, simple triadic harmony, and a simple and transparent yet philosophically ambitious (a quirky combination) lyric.

[@paulherring8959]

As a child I was essentially raised with classical music since both my mother and father loved that genre and had albums worth of it. As a teen I fell in love with rock (of course). So when the Moody Blues came along I fell hard for that orchestral sound and this band, as much as any other, was, and still is, pure magic to me. These critics seem vaguely ashamed to support one of the greatest pioneer bands of all time. I'm not.

[@laminage]

Go Now was produced by The Late Jerry Leiber & Mike Stoller and Whitney Houston's Mother Cissy sang backup. The Brits schooled me with who did the "orginal" version of a Song. Even Australian Acts did cover versions of R & B Records. Also The Beatles did their version of the Leiber/Stoller Song Kansas City originally done by Wilbert Harris.

[@normatible9795]

Symphonic rock. Rock and roll music with symphony back up ( mellotrone of mike pinder ) instead of those deafening lead guitar solos . Critics are closed minded and can not comprehend MB music. Classic yet rockish ​@@jeffryphillipsburns

[@lindawilliams2211]

Justin's voice is haunting. You cannot forget it...

[@lonelybro77]

Particularly, and always, Tuesday Afternoon...and not just on Tuesdays!😉

[@lonelybro77]

@justinhayward3683 you're very welcome, Justin

[@lonelybro77]

@justinhayward3683 currently, in south Florida..but I hate it! I'm a Californian at heart. Anyway, I'm sure I heard Go Now on radio in the car, but wouldn't have known the artist, as I was just a kid. First slow dance to 'Nights', age 13. As so happens, it was the elder brother who introduced us to progressing music, starting with Lost Chord, I reckon..

[@sharoncrawford3042]

Hes beautiful too.

[@sharoncrawford3042]

@@lonelybro77 My first slow dance was to Color My World, by Chicago. My best slow dance ever.

[@jeankaye6760]

Once a Moodies fan ,always a Moodies fan

[@bill2270]

As a college kid in 69-73, three hundred miles from home, no phone, no computer, no car...their music was essential to my well being. And still today at age 73!

[@truefigmandu1810]

In 1969 my bunk mate picked up a record player at the Letterman’s General Hospital PX, it had Days of Future Past packed with it. One listen and we were hooked, 55 years later and I still enjoy the Moody Blues albums just as much.

[@KASH10043]

How could we have ever guessed how lucky we were? Their music still rings a bug smile to my face and brings back a rush of great memories

[@austonboston4361]

Truly one of the greatest bands ever. Their sound was incredibly ethereal.

[@brendasmith1740]

My husband and I ♥️🎸🎤🎹🥁 there music and seeing them Live

[@tome7016]

I don't understand the cynicism of some of the critics in the piece; words like "overblown", "monstrosity", etc. to describe some of the most meaningful and beautiful music of the era astounds me. I've never even thought these words could be used to describe The Moody Blues, and really surprised me to hear them uttered here. Yeah, they weren't ODing, trashing hotel rooms, or crashing automobiles into swimming pools, but really making some of the most memorable music of a generation. I remember hearing them as a kid and just being blown away by the beauty of their message and sound. I guess that makes me unsophisticated and schmaltzy, and so be it then.

[@bluerock4456]

Frankly, I think that most of the so-called critics/music journalists are uncomfortable with Edge's poetry, & the poetry in the song lyrics .... e.g. the sound when we're together, is the music to the story in your eyes ...

[@tome7016]

@@bluerock4456 Absolutely spot on!

[@Unclebrud]

It could be that the critics are pompous and wrong headed. The Moody's were innovating on the key 7 albums and do not sound like any other band. I have been a fan since I was 6! By the way, This Is The Moody Blues is a superb hits/compilation record.

[@mindakahn9964]

Too beautiful a ballad? You could record any of those songs today and they’d still be hits. Why do we have to classify and create musical ghettos? Music is music. It’s all good or it’s not. I except to someone out there.

[@GammelKong]

The critics in this video are all Brits. Brits in general use the dismissive put-down as a way to make themselves feel important. It is a cultural thing. Conceptually it is no different than American rednecks who pull a gun out and shoot something because they don't understand it.

[@mxbishop]

Can't fathom why this video biography never mentioned "Every Good Boy Deserves Favour." A beautiful album with some great songs and vocals. A lot of success has to do with commitment to the work, and this band was very committed to their work, the sound, the production, song-writing, lyrics - everything. What they did not have was a "bad boy" image. They did not incite riots, or drink themselves to death, or drive cars into trees or buildings. This is probably why the critics found them so uninteresting. There was no one tearing hotels apart - or setting off explosives on stage. The Moodies kept their private lives, well . . . private. Very adult, and very unusual for the times - especially for a successful rock band. I actually thought this was the better way to go. Write songs people want to listen to - focus with all energy on the production value, and the soundscape - and don't make a huge mess out of one's life, or squander all the success one is able to achieve. That is how I would do it. That is what they did. Critics found this boring, but the legions of lifelong fans tell the critics they were wrong.

[@greghilbers4697]

I talked on the phone years ago to a LA based critic about why the Moody Blues were being left off the Hall of Fame ( when it MENT something!) ballot. I said,” Are all Rock Critics ATHIESTS?” He replied ,” Not really”…

[@mxbishop]

@@greghilbers4697 During rock's heyday, to get into the Rock Hall of Fame, I think you had to be much more than a songwriter or performer. You basically had to have a terrible life, a death or two of beloved band members, breakups, reconciliations, people mysteriously drowning, addictions, arrests, hospitalizations, recovery/rehab, confessions, and perhaps a rumor of a murder, all exposed on Oprah, etc. To the critics, that was a real rock star. The music was just a sideshow - and only needed to power-up the freak show, the critics wanted to see.

[@garyssimo]

Well said mxbishop!

[@greghilbers4697]

Mxbishop Out here in Los Angeles, the Music Critic for Years for the LA Times was Robert Hilburn. He was a “ Big Deal”. Years ago I remember he had a list of 300 bands, rated First to Worst. I think the Beatles were Number 1. But I remember the Moody Blues were rated…300!! Now, God and stuff WASN’T part of the Rock life style . AND to Bring It Up REPEATEDLY….you DESERVE Number 300 rating!

[@mxbishop]

@@greghilbers4697 Point taken. But anyone can come up with a list - in any order they want. I was merely pointing out that there was a huge fan base - and that, in itself, was remarkable. Art is mostly subjective, but the number of fans is objective. However, Beatles #1 - Hilburn still made the right call there.

[@stephensharer3663]

From 67 through 72 they created some of best music ever penned by man.

[@stevia3162]

As a Moody Blues fan since roughly about 1968, I find them to be the best of the best! They composed some of the most beautiful melodic songs. Their performance and arrangement of those songs were equally superb! Those melodies still give me chills!

[@gomphrena-beautifulflower-8043]

I have a hoodie that says “Never underestimate a grandmother who listens to Moody Blues” - so proud to wear it!😁

[@VValkyrie]

I want one!

[@razsbags]

Ha! Wish I had that t-shirt to wear. Wear it proudly.

[@razsbags]

Hoodie. Must be my grandmotherly brain. Enjoying watching the videos. Some critics should zip up & wear the hoodie. They just waffle.

[@Shawnne01]

I found the Moodies in 1967. Saw them for the first time in 1970 for two shows in one night at the Minneapolis auditorium. I haven't looked back since. They are easily one of the most wonderful bands in my lifetime!

[@TheStream]

Sounds like an amazing experience!

[@carlrice8614]

The MOODY BLUES is one of the greatest bands in history. They have been in my life since 1971, I just got my first car and girlfriend. I used to play "For My Lady" as I cleqned up my car to pick up my girlfriend later. I love the Moody Blues still and play their music all the time.

[@normatible9795]

Where is the girlfriend now? Just curious. Maybe she remembers all of these moody blues music. Because in 1971, i REMEMBER my ex bf's CSN suite judy blue eyes so im sure she remembers😮

[@KevyNova]

I think one thing that held them back was that they didn’t focus on writing radio friendly singles, they were more concerned with making full albums that were a complete work of art. I think they made the best albums of any band.

[@sudicalwig]

They had integrity and it pays off in the long run.

[@stevenhaywood1195]

But their albums were so good and were so famous and popular and sold very well. Their early albums are such classics. cttcaegoaktd 😛😛😛😛😛😛😛

[@michaelrochester48]

They had many top 40 hits, they just did not reach number one all that often because they were usually too long

[@deansongs]

I agree, with the exception that you have to keep in mind, they were the biggest band in the world when they quit.

[@stevenhaywood1195]

@Phyllis Hall So you were a fan before Jus and John joined. Wow! I certainly like the Moody Blues in those early days too. They did some great R 'n' B back then. And their version of Ain't Necessarily So is awesome. cttcaegoaktd 😛😛😛😛😛😛😛

[@kathyrizzi8754]

Here we are in 2024 & The Moody Blues music is the very best to listen to for me. Every song is spiritually beautiful & no other band has their sound. Justin Hayward changed their music to genius levels that will always live on. ♥️🌹

[@colinbevan3560]

They just are incredible band changed my life and im 68 this year🤗🤗

[@journeyon1983]

My absolute favorite band ever. They introduced so many sounds, harmonies, extensive use of the Mellotron, the flute, the orchestra, the sitar, the slow tempos. They were genius and way ahead of their time and that's why their music still lives on. As a listener, we are all taken on our own personal voyage. They're combined talent made them really stand out.

[@lonelybro77]

What I noticed was they seemed serious-like The Association-but not overly so...lyrics don't have always have to 'make sense'...ex: Jon Anderson

[@denisbarry5105]

Their album covers alone changed how albums were sold. And concerts with symphony orchestras - they did so many "firsts" that others followed.

[@justinthyme5382]

To all Moody Blues fans, I know you're out there somewhere. 😎🎵🎶🎵👋💕 Hi from Perth Australia. Love and peace.

[@annevine1501]

Brilliant!!!!

[@luisacata04]

Hi from Colombia😁

[@rickherrera4859]

For those of us who truly love the Moody Blues , we are family and always will be!

[@waltonwarrior7428]

We’re all out here. Millions of us.

[@thomasmcbride6584]

And from Ireland the top half. Music connects us all.

[@ronmartyn6292]

More talent in their little fingers than any of those critics.

[@cynthiasmith4130]

This band is the best band in the world!!!!! They got me through my teenage year's.. The voice of Justin, is like angel's singing. Their music is phenomenal, one of a kind.. Lovely to see you again my friend!!! 🎶🎶🎶...

[@ansc6472]

The Beatles and Stones perhaps the best rock bands in the world

[@ketchup5344]

I love you 💘 for saying that. Ditto. ✌

[@mikeweizer3149]

@@ansc6472 ....,.Wrong, The greatest was ZEPPELIN!!!!!!!!.

[@yocke222]

Nights in White Satin is so haunting, everyone has been there. In love with someone you’re no longer with.

[@laminage]

Did you ever listen to the Bass Riff and then Aretha Franklin's Do Right Woman, Do Right Man which was the flip side to I Never Loved A Man.

[@anthonyhunt701]

Let’s all wish for John Lodge’s good health❤️💙🎸🤞🏻

[@billyhensley7770]

The moody blues were a great band with killer lyrics injected with killer riffs

[@lonelybro77]

Critic killers, b!👍

[@dctrevett]

John Mendelson is exactly why I never listen to critics.

[@jdekong3945]

yes, what a pratt 😹

[@grandpavanderhof]

Like most critics, he's a failed musician...enough said.

[@ediewall6360]

i found him somehow off-putting or annoying, aside from his words. Now I see that it was not just me who felt that way.

[@dctrevett]

@@ediewall6360 You are definitely not alone in that feeling!

[@chuckgrigsby9664]

@@grandpavanderhof Critic: a legless man who teaches running.

[@robrussell5329]

Was at my local music store, looking to buy the latest Top 40 single or two. The guy had "Children's" playing. I was dumbstruck. Had never heard anything like that before. I bought the album, played it for three weeks, and started working backwards, picking up their previous albums as I could afford them. And I never bought another single. "Childrens' will always be the one for me. No hits. No Love songs. No chick songs. Probably not for the "Nights in White Satin' crowd. But to me, it's the high-water mark of the Moody Blues. Try it with headphones, if just for the production, which is exquisite.

[@jennd8935]

It's really quite hard to pick a favorite album from the 'core 7', but when pushed, I have to agree that 'Children's' is my favorite, especially if I want to 'space out' with either headphones, or a good amp and good speakers with me right in the middle.

[@josephloesch9270]

What a great LP. II heard them at Elysian Park just before that album was out,. The very start of the concert was Justin playing fiery chords before the band came in on a new song, Gypsy.

[@brendabiffibaldovino8306]

❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@Wildlonesome77]

What an amazing, incredible band. So glad they made the Hall. Tons of memories. Love this band immensely.

[@brendasmith1740]

We Wish They Had Been Induced In To The Rock Hall Sooner

[@bungopony]

Who are all these people that supposedly hate the Moodies? I've never heard a single person, no matter what version of rock they prefer, ever say anything negative about them. What did they do that was so bad? They made an s-load of great songs that people could sing along and even had some meaningful lyrics. They also influenced a lot of bands and made flutes and other non rock instruments cool.

[@petercena9497]

In the late 70s rock critics turned on art/prog rock to the point that it became fashionable. The Moody Blues are probably more revered in the U.S. than in the U.K. My favorite band for sure.

[@laminator72]

I agree with you. I've been listening to them since the 60s and never heard anyone say they didn't like them. If I had to listen to just one group it would be the Moody Blues.

[@moonshinefiftyseven6063]

Jann Wenner of Rolling Stone magazine hated them.

[@Funandconsciousness]

I had one fella tell me - long ago - that the Moody Blues songs were "all the same." Oy vay!@@laminator72

[@reinaldofavoreto7160]

I didn´t know critics didn´t like them. I absolutely love them from the fisrt time I heard them, they are absolutelly original, melodious and evocative. Only MB sound like MB, and I don´t know the secret, but I love it

[@NYCOPERAFAN]

They were particularly trashed by Rolling Stone which is a much better political magazine than musical one.

[@lesterpaul9657]

@@NYCOPERAFAN Rolling Stone Magazine always was made by a bunch of snooty " I tell you what good music is about" writers unable to tell a major from a minor chord.

[@richardfalice6364]

Rolling Stone makes fair toilet paper.

[@ediewall6360]

i was too young to ever even consider critics

[@johnhorner5711]

I never cared what the critics said, and I still don't. Unlike basketball commentators, most of whom have played the game at a high level, these wankers are at best wannabes.

[@jeffsilverman6104]

Happy Heavenly birthday to Ray Thomas, he would've been 81 today. In my humble opinion, Ray was the heart and soul of The Moody Blues, he was certainly the romantic of the group. He wrote and sang some of their prettiest songs. Good journey to you, Mr. Thomas.

[@KevyNova]

“And The Tide Rushes In” and “Veteran Cosmic Rocker” are two of my favorite songs.

[@dougreed2257]

Jeff, they were all as important to the sound they created as each other. I wouldn't say Ray was " thee" heart and soul of the moodies, an integral part, yes, Mike's mellotron was probably heart and soul of the band!

[@mattscanlon2541]

To each his own. I think that Ray’s FOR MY LADY is his most heartfelt declaration of love. RIP Ray! Thank you for touching so many souls!

[@mattscanlon2541]

All 5 equally provide the heart of the band. Mike P’s mellotranic genius provided the musical umbrella all 5 MBs could settle under and allow the MB’s music to soar collectively!

[@bluerock4456]

I somewhat agree, but I think that Justin's lyrics give Ray a darn good run for his money!

[@charisselandise]

Critic John Mendelson's extremely irrelevant criticisms of the band made Justin Hayward's talent shine more brightly!!! Thanks for the contrast John, I love the band even more!!! Moody Blues deserve the Music Hall of Fame!!!

[@gregelvert833]

I was fortunate enough to have seen the Moodies with Mike Pender in 71,their last tour with Mike and his glorious melaton, before they took their break and left us with my favorite seven sojourn. They were so good live ,they blew my mind, I was 16 yrs Old and a Moodies fan for life! My wife and I were fortunate enough to see them everytime they came to Southern California, and they played often when you include Las Vegas shows it's close to 60 shows! My first concert was Joe Walsh,warming for Black Sabbath, paranoid then the Who playing Who's Next, live at Leeds,and Tommy, 3 1\2 hrs of the most intense music I've ever seen or heard then a few months later the MoodyBlues! I was hooked for life.!!! I saw 98 concerts before I graduated from high school. I was fortunate to have my good friend dad who worked with the mayor of Long Beach so I would call him up and tell him when. The rock band were coming to Long Beach arena or the Long Beach Auditorium and back in the early seventies all the great bands played there ,Led zeppelin, the Who, Niel Young, George Harrison, Traffic,TYA ,Elton John and so many more I was very fortunate to have this connection be cause the seventies you had to go to the site to buy your tickets, so it could be very time consuming, like spend the night consuming like I did when groups didn't play at Long Beach. I'm sorry I've gotten way off base with all this but wanted for you to know that I've been lucky enough to have seen most of "classic rock bands" and the Moodies are my favorites, They sound so much like their albums like Pink Floyd and a few others,!Eagles! Thanks for the journey Moodies.

[@jeffreybeigie5244]

I wouldn’t take anything a man who sits there with a t-shirt of history’s greatest mass murderer on with any respect. He is one of those smug little people that lives to tear down everyone else. The Moody’s are a great band, that put on a great show. I saw them in the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s. They were good every time.

[@robertjordan7348]

John Mendelssohn has always been pretentious. After loving the Kinks, he dissed all of their work (a ton of which was great) after 1970.

[@taylordw]

Mendeleson also trashed Led Zeppelin, starting with their first album. A “rock critic” whose ear was out of tune with his own generation. 👎

[@gloriastroedecke2717]

Yes! What a nasty creature! Snide and sneering. Why was he asked to participate? Was it to cast a shadow on an otherwise bright and beautiful experience?

[@yesman2755]

I never ever felt apologetic for being a Moodies fan like a lot of people mention. Musically for me they were head and shoulders above any other band in the 70’s creatively. Thought they were pretty great in the 80’s too with Moraz. Such a shame it’s all over now but at least we’ve got the records. John and Justin still out there keeping the Moodies flame alive.

[@jmad627]

Yeah me either.

[@tarunkrishna8147]

Why on Earth would anyone feel apologetic for being a Moodies fan? Proud, more like it! Despite having lots of Zeppelin, Purple, Neil Young, and even Neil Diamond (among a plethora of this, that, and and experimenting with even almost anything) in my collection, and gravitating towards jazz-rock and eventually ECM jazz, I maintained a special respect for the music and philosophic leanings of the Moody Blues. I started with Lost Chord > Threshold of a Dream and then every Moodies album that came out till I spent years living off-grid and away from recorded music. Even just this week in 2023 I've found myself singing So Deep Within You (off Threshold). Chee! The Moodies were and still are their own special, sweet, wholesome kind of addiction. Ignore what the lunkhead bogan idiots with their flash in the pan "heavy pop" bands might imagine they think. The Moodies = a definitive mainstay of 60s and 70s creativity; and wasn't that such an amazingly creative era? Cheers Yesman. t Timothy Leary is not dead (even if he is; I wouldn't know if he is or not).

[@yesman2755]

@@tarunkrishna8147 well said. What annoys me also is that you hardly ever hear the Moodies on the radio, even on the classic rock stations, and they were the KINGS of classic rock. Long live the Moody Blues

[@tarunkrishna8147]

@@yesman2755 Thanks for the reply. I hardly ever hear the radio, even if driving, but I'd say you're correct; maybe "White Satin," I gave up on radio a long time ago. You might need to request a Moodies song from time to time; nothing too obscure though. All the best.

[@yesman2755]

@@tarunkrishna8147 John Lodge : “Thanks for keeping the faith”

[@johnjacks4937]

This band changed my life outlook. Only ignorance to the lyrics and music brought negativity. What a band 👏👏👏👏👏

[@margaretchayka6878]

Can't think of any other band where I could love every album. What a great band. Interesting music, intelligent lyrics.

[@walterfechter8080]

The Moody's sound is one of love, romance, faith, adventure, and voyaging the cosmos in general. "Tuesday Afternoon" is like opening a door which opens into eternal Summer. "Ride My See Saw" is as big as all outdoors -- the intro beat reminds me of beautiful powerful white horses at full gallop -- manes flying free. Moreover, Justin Hayward's Spanish-influenced guitar solo made that tune so very special. Many thanks for this in-depth documentary about an extremely talented and wondrous band!

[@twistoffate4791]

Beautifully stated.

[@walterfechter8080]

@@twistoffate4791 - Many thanks. I just said what was on my heart and mind -- the Moodys and their sound put it there. Cheers -- W

[@sierravista9013]

I was blown away first time I heard Nights in White Satin ...

[@warriorempathshealingfromn5625]

Watching this in 2023, I find it incredible that the Moodies music is just as relevant now as it was when it was originally released, maybe more, I saw John Lodges show in LA in July and he is still fantastic and his songs are still relevant Best concert, even for a Moody Blues concert.

[@garyssimo]

The glove box in my 66 GTO was crammed full of their 8 tracks! The soundtrack to my life for many years. Through headphones they were incredible! They could take you on a trip with NO DRUGS INVOLVED.

[@traversej5332]

One of the best bands and one of my favorite of my generation. I still remember all the words to most of their songs after 50+ yrs.

[@jaynesager3049]

What great musicians and songwriters. Good guys, good to their fans also. That’s why we love them!

[@WELLBRAN]

Not to Patrick Moraz treated him rotten

[@jaynesager3049]

@Phyllis Hall happy new year to you too

[@brendasmith1740]

Thankful for Justin Hayward and John Lodge Singing Music With Moody Blues ♥️🎸🎹

[@minismama2030]

“On The Threshold Of A Dream “, was the first Moody Blues album that I ever listened to. It was very very special.

[@stoneagedjp]

The ethereal sound produced by this band exalts the listener into a world beyond. You yourself become greater by listening to it.

[@ediewall6360]

And I am always attempting to bring in more ethereal in aspects of my life, wherever possible. Ethereal matters! At least to me.

[@lonelybro77]

@@ediewall6360 Miss Edie, we are many, tho scattered presently.

[@ediewall6360]

@@lonelybro77 Yes, I agree. More power to your vibes!

[@angeloiodice9304]

The Moody Blues were very helpful to me on my spiritual journey. Their music opened me to greater possibilities, soothed my soul, inspired me, and acted as a friend and guru to me. I not only loved their music, but I respected them as fellow wayfarers. I also found their more erudite English culture to soften my crudeness, and, I also loved their frankness, politeness and sense of humor. Listening to and studying their albums, the music, as well as the art, was an education. I am a better person because of the Moody Blues.

[@namcat53]

Very well said. There are many of us who're young adults when The Moody Blues released their first album and we all grew spiritually by listening to that band.

[@angeloiodice9304]

@@namcat53 I actually remember leaving my guru because I felt a receding connection for a long time, but easing out of that relationship so seamlessly and comfortably because the Moody Blues music cradled me in love and self-worth. The Moody Blues’ music, especially their earlier albums were so wonderfully attuned to Spirit and the plight of those seeking spiritual counseling and redemption. They spoke to a generation of kindred souls.

[@vincentcuccaro6967]

Yes,as my spiritual journey drpened they were the soundtrack of my life.....as I write this...*"listen we think we have found you..."is playing in my ears. *Dawning is the Day

[@vincentcuccaro6967]

@@angeloiodice9304 Yes!!!

[@jakethomas3205]

Great band.I Saw them in 1970 with the classic line up including Mike Pinder.They were excellent live.What amazed me about the Moodies is that although they weren't considered a 'guitar' band they had a great guitarist in Hayward who was using two Hiwatt stacks powered by Hiwatt 200 Heads!Not bad for a band that was not considered loud at the time!

[@genegantii8638]

Hugely underrated guitarist,the bootlegs from 70-74 show he was now slouch in the lead department!

[@wburke121]

I saw them in 72 and was surprised that they were just as good as the record. Seeing other vocal groups live like CSNY and beach boys they never could get ghe harmonies right live. The moodiness stayed true to the record. Very professional. I've seen them many time since with orchestra and without,and even their 50 anniversary of days of future passed. I even like their 80s and solo stuff. The critics views don't stand the test of time like the moodiness music does. Ha!

[@douglasj.arcuri1370]

I was there Carnegie Hall 1970 Amazing Musical Experience!

[@joannekucks4343]

Been following and collecting this band forever. Will be on Justin’s music cruise in two weeks! 🥰🎶🎸🛳🥂 RIP Ray and Graeme. ❤️

[@ediewall6360]

jealous. Have a great time

[@shelpais814]

I'ved loved them since DOFP and seen them over 15 times. I still listen to them almost daily, and play many of their songs on guitar and keys. And I will for the rest of my life.

[@blainglenn7184]

When I was in high school in '72 and '73, the Moody Blues, in particular Seventh Sojourn, was always playing in the cafeteria, in our classrooms, on the radio, and they drove into the very heart of my longing to be free from the world around me and what it expected of me. They dwelled in the very essence of my every acid trip, my friendships and the girl I had a crush on. I would come home to my room and put on my headphones and listen to New Horizons and Land of Make Believe Lost in Lost World, and When You're a Free Man and cry my eyes out. Once when a girl during a study period in chemistry class had Isn't Life Strange playing on her transistor, my best friend commented to her that she should try to understand what that song that she loved so much really meant. I was out on the school's back lawn asking the girl I had a crush on for a date, and somebody at that very moment started playing For My Lady from the window of a classroom. When Octave, Long Distance Voyager and the 80s came along, nothing could have been more disappointing than all that love and beauty by empty schlock. I always hoped that the Moodies or Mike or Justin would come out with something that approximated the consciousness that drove those early classic albums, but they never really did. The hope was always that some musicians somewhere would produce some music that came near that consciousness, but none have yet to do so.

[@jimfritz9503]

Artists create. Critics criticize . My opinion is way more valid than ANY critic . I want to hear their songs/ poetry . Those that can , do. Those who can't become critics.

[@garymartin1045]

Critics are there direct attention to their selves probably never played an instrument or sang the fans of The Moody Blues and other great bands let the music do the talking never heard of critic ever do a song no one would listen

[@lonelybro77]

Right, in sport we call them bench-warmers

[@andrestipanovic7407]

What a collective talent, the sum of which was greater than the parts. My favorite album is To Our Children’s Children’s Children

[@9211goat]

It was my fav in college....70-71.

[@laminator72]

In my opinion it was their best album when you consider every song on an album.

[@Hansse]

Mine too for 50 years. An absolute masterpiece.

[@lazaruslaser]

Absolutely

[@theodorabruin4601]

One of my very favorite groups. Saw them in person a couple of times...what a show!!!

[@theodorabruin4601]

@Phyllis Hall Agree!!! Blessings to you in the New Year!

[@Stroudtucson]

Totally agree! I remember seeing them at Caesar's Palace back in the late 90s and a young guy was at our table who had never seen them before and didn't really know them. At the end of the show he kept saying "WOW! Just WOW!" As a live band there has never been anyone finer.

[@Funandconsciousness]

I've seen them live 6 times, and they have been awesome every time. They also introduced me to Shawn Phillips, the only musical talent I place even above the Moodies and Pink Floyd!

[@flintlockhomestead460]

I fell in love with the Moody Blues in 1969 when a friend gave me "In Search of the Lost Chord" for Christmas. I've never looked back.

[@marriedevries]

These guys were a HUGE part of my adolescence. Thank YOU!!!!!!!!! xxxx

[@slaphead8835]

The Moody Blues will always be one of my all time favorite bands. I was fortunate to have seen them in concert twice, a good 25 years apart. “Days of Future Passed” and “Childrens Children” are flawless works of art.

[@sheldonridley1394]

Born in 62' with teenage parents...I grew up with the Moody Blues. Saw them many times at various venues in and around Vancouver...my favorite was at Deer Lake Park in Burnaby...saw them there 2x! My personal favorite album is Question of Balance..R.I.P. 🙏💖

[@claudegagnon999]

Lucky man(ELP)

[@yuvegotmale]

There is nothing else in the world of music like the early mellotron dripping albums...they changed me .

[@sprintcarfan87]

The Moody Blues are and will continue to be my favorite band ever. The critics really have no idea what they are talking about. The Moodies were a groundbreaking group of brilliant musicians.

[@sharoncrawford3042]

We were so much better looking in the 60s and 70s. Bummer getting older.

[@MitchellDormont]

Hey, be glad you are getting older, day by day

[@steveberkson3873]

You can’t be a child of the ‘60s without their sound.

[@coxdenton]

You can I’m living proof

[@laurieelliott3791]

The passionate creativity of the artists of Moody Blues is much appreciated by this listener 🎶🎧

[@toddblanks]

The moody blues to me as an englishman are a pure very original sounding essential 1960's R&B rock and roll band from birmingham who dared to do things that extra different to everyone else on the scene, they were extremely daring and very unusually diverse especially for the time and even to this day! This was all brand new fresh ideas from all five individuals who put their heads together and created something so unique and very special that no one could ever of thought of, they tested what could work and it all gelled impeccably. Totally strange at that time, but bursting with great enthusiasm. What they had in the pocket was all a beautiful concoption of songs that have remarkably blown this world to the highest of hights. The moody blues help me to open my mind with ease. Its bands as the moodies which ups passion about the music of these times and need i have to put anything so close to my heart as much as i always will with the moody blues. Inspiration of these bands keeps my smile forever in place. This band means the world to me. I couldn't go a day without hearing one song. The trees are drawing me near. For some reason they always have done I as i am a man will always stand rooted to this ground after all, i am a man of my roots who needs air and earth I need to breath and understand others as much as i can. Mike, ray, graeme, justin and john five incredible minds! Breathtaking beauty in all.

[@jobaecker9752]

As a rock musician myself, I can appreciate what seems like a universal need for people (especially men) to hide behind some form of bravado. And that includes music critics as well. For many of us, "hard" rock filled the missing pieces of our ego. But growing up in the late 60's and early seventies, the Moodies really was the band that was answering my own questions. I first heard them when my 6-year older sister spun the "Question of Balance" record on her record player. I've had the chance to share stages with many well-known rock acts, and to have been managed by some of rock's most legendary managers, but at the end of the day, the biggest reason why I stay in this business is the same reason that the Moodies had when they decided to put their heads and their hearts onto a piece of audio tape.

[@lymangreen5020]

Well said, any of us that play with music do it for that reason alone!!

[@rob4835]

Nicely done. Saw them at Duke University in 1970 ... the Question tour. Was blown away, particularly by cathedral-like sounds of the mellotron. It was Mike Pinder and the dreamy mellotron -- a truly transformative instrument at the time -- that drew me to the Moodies. Pinder worked for Streetly Electronics which made the mellotron thus he had an insider's knowledge of this orchestral sounding yet quirky instrument. Proud to own a 1960s mellotron ... my way of re-living the soundscapes from the 1970 Moodies show.

[@nicksaint-erne]

The greatest band of all time: The Moody Blues!

[@Sheamarie]

I love the Moody Blues, I love the sound and I love the lyrics. Nuff said.

[@garyney828]

The most underrated band in the history of rock. I first heard then 1974 when I was 16 years old. Fell in love immediately and forever.

[@robertjohnstone3706]

To our children’s children’s children was my first moodies album and was always and still is my favourite moodies album .

[@giftedplanksify]

They are still timeless in 22😃✌

[@garyssimo]

And will be in 2044

[@giftedplanksify]

@@garyssimo and 13022 even

[@jamesgross6466]

The .Moody Blues are an absutely incredible band! It's been a great time to live and a wonderful experience! Lovely to see you again, my friends....

[@zenzen9131]

I never cared what anyone else thought. I loved them to bits !

[@teresagorden5984]

The Moody Blues were best things I discovered in music. I was just in my teens, heard the Beatles, saw them on tv, but while in the music store whole looking at instruments I was flipping through LPS, and bought 2 of the first albums. I had to play them on the QT sly, when my parents went out, as there was a HiFi player, but it was my father's, not to be touched, by us kids. So I would wait for them to be out everyday, as I could not get enough of the MBs. I loved the music, the lyrics, and gained an appreciation of symphony orchestra. I played them, sang them, turned my younger sister on to them, but I never heard her sing along, nor play them without me there, so maybe she was not as big a fan, as I.I was glad my boyfriend ( once I was old enough) who was a gifted musician, liked them, as well. Once we got married, we would have MB coming through every window and door . Thank goodness we had lived in a rustic log cabin on acreage, and never had complaints from neighbors. I live in West coast of Canada, and have seen them every time they toured, introduced my 10 yr .old son to a MB concert beside a Lake, and my youngest son was just a month old, and was baptized early with their music. I for one was very glad that they toured for so long, as I was able to have my kids enjoy them. I was and still am a great fan. 👍 The Moody Blues were my favorite band of all time, also Justin Hayward as a solo performer. I actually named my younger son after Justin, decades before the other Justin's were even born. I would see them again if they managed a tour.. (Timberlake and Beiber). I totally agreed with the man in this video that it was a travesty the Moodys were not inducted into the R n R Hall of Fame..

[@frankbarnwell____]

Rip Graeme Edge, and Ray Thomas. When I see videos of TMB, I'd think Graeme is so overlooked... and would have liked to party with him... what a drummer!

[@barryroberts2474]

To psychoanalyse a band after all these years may please some, trying again to see where the Moodys fitted. We were kids, teenagers who liked what we liked and didn't we have a great variety into which this magnificent band fitted our mood. When we didn't rock to The Stones or The Who we chilled to the Moodys, made love with them as a background. My teen and early twenties would not have been complete without The Moody Blues. Bravo boys!

[@HikerBiker]

Nights of White Satin is right up there with Stairway to Heaven by Led Zeppelin.

[@KevyNova]

Better than Stairway in my opinion. The lyrics actually mean something and the music is majestic.

[@roops2939]

I always assumed the title of that song was Knights in White Satin.

[@bogtrottername7001]

@@roops2939 Look at the album cover.

[@bogtrottername7001]

When you get to the top of the stairway the Moodies are up there beginning their next set !

[@billd.4701]

The MoodyBlues will always be the most magical band ever. Their music is what dreams are made of. No other band can take you where your mind wants to go!…

[@literacylabyrinth4018]

Once heard you can never forget their songs.

[@timothydillow3160]

"Anytime you hear a music critic say that something is self indulgent, artsy or pretentious, run out and buy it, or see it, ..it's probably a masterpiece."

[@theshrubberer]

yeah, i find "self indulgent" to be the laziest criticism.

[@mattscanlon2541]

Amen! The Moodies are one of the most unique bands in history and beckoned us to realms beyond ourselves and our individual lives! They remain a musical treat for me and always will!

[@thebarbecutioner6977]

Days of future past is a singular event in human history. So far ahead of it's time, seven years, until the album was a hit. Still hits me emotionally in the most delightful way. The Blue Jays were great as well.

[@paulhaxter9617]

Awesome. I’m 72. Lived thru it all and glad of it.

[@davidharris5736]

A few years agoI had the pleasure of meeting John Lodge at a small garden concert he gave in France. A really talented and all around nice person. A pleasure to hear play and talk with.

[@moonshinefiftyseven6063]

I met him a year ago. I can attest to the fact he's a nice person. Very friendly, and took time to answer my silly questions, none of them musically based. I met his daughter Emily, too. Just as sweet as her dad.

[@lisagerman2111]

I think this is a case where over-anaylisis doesn't serve to purpose. The Moody Blues created, by whatever means & for whatever supposed purpose, a sound so distinct that decades later is definable in the first chord evolution.

[@caravanstuff2827]

NIGHTS IN WHITE SATIN is a master piece!!.💕🇬🇧

[@robertwbingo]

The absolute roots of progressive rock. Their music will still be played 100 years from now.

[@franksmith6871]

The Moody Blues albums were, for me and my friends in the late sixties and early seventies, like going to church. A religious experience, especially when our consciousness' had been altered with the help of Timothy Leary's recommended herbs and potions! I can still listen to their first seven albums and be transported back to that time of wonder and strong emotional experiences. Their music was very much a part of our journeys into adulthood. The message in John Lodge's song, "I'm Just A Singer (In a Rock and Roll Band)" was received loud and clear by me. He didn't want to bear the mantle of being thought of as a spiritual leader, even though the lyrics of many of The Moody's songs WERE spiritual in nature and certainly received as such by many. His disclaimer was a bit of a slap in the face, but at the same time I understood that young people can and did go overboard when looking for spiritual leadership, as many were in those days of psychedelics and Maharishi Mahesh Yogi's Transcendental Meditation and the like. I've been a musician since 1967, having been inspired to take up instruments by The Beatles, and have always loved The Moody Blues' music and I always will. The only thing I cringe at since my critical ear of recordings has been developed over the years, is the terrible sound of the reverb that they used on the voices. I wish someone would go back to the master tapes, as Giles Martin has done with some of The Beatles records, and edit out that shrill sounding primitive reverb sound. Other than that, the music is and always will be fantastic to me, and a trip back to a wonderful frame of mind and development!

[@MikeRobWil]

The ultimate in classic rock from one of the best bands in the history of popular music. Period.

[@TheBluebirdkev]

I will die a happy person knowing that the sounds of the moody blues , and seeing them live in concert. They don't rely om their stage presents, they just rely on the music that they play.

[@hughgroenewald1435]

'Question' is an absolute masterpiece, as good as anyone of the brilliant best compositions from the best period in music, the 60's, 70's

[@adrianadesouzamartins1247]

Moody fez parte da minha pré juventude e ainda hoje tenho minha dose de Moody todos os dias . Moody foi o único q venceu a prova do tempo . Forever Moody ❤

[@JamesBrown-js3lm]

I have always loved the Moody Blues, they were unique and original. Their music was exceptional and the songs had meaning for the times. I’ve been a fan from the beginning and I am 66 still listening.

[@ronnyrono782]

They were an astonishing group of musicians

[@tylerdurden6208]

Me and my ilk, Viet Vets revered to Moody Blues as Primo influencers of peace thru out the 70's.

[@titasantiniE]

I saw them in concert TWICE, in L.A. 1971. They were and are awesome! Creative, unique, fantastic!!!!!

[@JohnCBurzynski]

I regret not seeing them in person. I was and am a huge Beatles fan. One day I was telling my friend, that most other groups played songs without meaning, just music for when you're stoned or want to dance. He played a Moody Blues album for me and I am hooked forever. Great bands, like the Beatles evolve. The Moody's were constantly evolving, yet staying connected to what made them great: thoughtful, well produced albums, with rich vocals, and meaningful lyrics. Also, I love the 80's. The Voice, I know you're out there, Wildest Dreams are great.

[@alanbailey5621]

Where I come from, the Moody Blues were always considered to be something very special.

[@jonathanrobins558]

R.I.P. Mike Pinder. The greatest mellotron innovator ever, an extraordinary writer and musical genius. His oneness with the Universe shone through his contributions to music and consciousness. Thanks for decades of happiness. Go Now. It's Twilight Time. xx

[@rebeccachapman6950]

To me there has never been a world without The Moody Blues. I was born in 1969. Their music has always taken me places in my mind, from my cradle to now. I was always the unusual one for loving them in my group of friends.

[@edwardallan197]

Search for the Lost Chord is a fine concept album and I still love it. The Moodies had a place and will be remembered long......

[@OurPlanet]

The Moody Blues especially Mike Pinder and also Justin Hayward - were aware of 'something else' - in other words that 'we were spiritual beings having an earth experience.' They were singers of metaphysical insights and why I like 'To our Children's Children Children - was because it was all esoteric, being based on being 'out of the body' - like the upper astral plane. Hence their lyric content conveyed that - it was exceptionally brilliant. Some say that they 'downloaded' these songs and that the Angelic Hierarchy was their muse. Meditation sure did help and their first 7 albums were when they were plugged in. Many fans in America thought that they were messengers of God. Universal Love was what they melodiously shared. They had a huge influence on my life. 🌿🔥🌏💟

[@lenp00]

My initial exposure to the Moody Blues was “Days of Future Past”. I thought it was brilliant and rushed to buy each subsequent album as they were released. They were my favourite band during that time and still enjoy listening to their music, it is timeless. A few years ago I was lucky enough to see the remaining members perform and it instantly transported me back to my youth. I say “bollocks” to the critics 🤬

[@marktrail8624]

It's passed. Why do so many MB's fans get that wrong? C'mon now.

[@waynemather6560]

One of the greatest bands. Never tire of their music.

[@timmccullough409]

The Moodies an all the Solo albums are just awesome. My 1st LP was " This is the Moody Blues" handed down to me from my brother. From there, I explored ALL their albums . I don't have a favorite cuz they are all so amazing.