New Delhi, Oct. 10 -- John Lodge, the legendary singer and bassist for the British rock band The Moody Blues, has died at the age of 82.

In a statement released on Friday, Lodge's family confirmed the news "with the deepest sadness," saying that Lodge passed away "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, Lodge joined The Moody Blues in 1966, two years after its founding, alongside fellow newcomer Justin Hayward. The pair stepped in following the departure of Denny Laine and Clint Warwick and went on to shape the band's signature sound. Lodge remained a member until the group stopped touring in 2018.

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