Denny Laine, Former Member of Moody Blues and Wings, Passes Away at 79
Denny Laine, a renowned British singer, songwriter, and guitarist, has died at the age of 79. Laine was part of the early, pop-oriented version of the Moody Blues and later became Paul McCartney’s longtime sideman in the ex-Beatle’s solo band Wings. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of the Moody Blues five years ago.
A Tribute to a Great Talent
Laine’s wife, Elizabeth Hines, announced his passing on his Instagram page, revealing that the cause of death was interstitial lung disease. Laine’s death comes nearly 50 years after the release of McCartney’s acclaimed “Band On the Run” album, on which Laine played guitar and provided backing vocals. McCartney posted a heartfelt tribute to Laine on Instagram, praising his talent and sense of humor.
A Journey in Music
Born as Brian Frederick Arthur Hines, Laine changed his professional name in his early teens as a tribute to Frankie Laine, a singer he admired. In 1964, he joined the Moody Blues and sang lead on their breakthrough hit, “Go Now.” However, the band struggled to replicate their initial success, and Laine left in 1967, making way for Justin Hayward. The Moody Blues then delved into classically influenced sounds with songs like “Nights in White Satin.”
Laine pursued a solo career and collaborated with various groups, including Electric String Band and Ginger Baker’s Air Force. He eventually reunited with McCartney and became a member of Wings, which was founded in 1971. Over the following decade, Wings experienced personnel changes, with Laine, McCartney, and McCartney’s wife, Linda, being the only consistent members. The band achieved multiple No. 1 singles, including “My Love,” “Listen to What the Man Said,” and the title track of “Band On the Run.” Laine also co-wrote the million-selling hit “Mull of Kintyre.”
A Lasting Legacy
After Laine’s departure from Wings in the early 1980s, McCartney disbanded the group. However, Laine continued to contribute to McCartney’s albums, such as “Tug of War” and “Pipes of Peace,” and provided backing vocals for George Harrison’s tribute to John Lennon, “All Those Years Ago.” Laine remained active in the music industry, touring and recording, with one of his notable albums being “The Blue Musician.”
Denny Laine’s passing marks the end of an era in the music world. His contributions to both the Moody Blues and Wings, as well as his collaborations with Paul McCartney, have left a lasting impact on the industry. He will be remembered as a great talent and a beloved figure in the rock and roll community.