British Musician Denny Laine, Co-Founder of Moody Blues and Wings, Dies at 79
Denny Laine, the British musician known for co-founding the Moody Blues and later joining Paul McCartney in the band Wings, has died at the age of 79. Laine’s wife, Elizabeth Hines, announced his passing on his official social media pages, revealing that he had been battling interstitial lung disease.
Born Brian Hines in 1944, Laine began his music career in his hometown of Birmingham, England, playing in rock bands alongside future Electric Light Orchestra drummer Bev Bevan. In 1964, he co-founded the Moody Blues with Ray Thomas, Mike Pinder, Graeme Edge, and Clint Warwick, and the group achieved success with their #1 hit single “Go Now!” in the UK. Despite the Moody Blues’ promising trajectory as one of England’s biggest rock bands and even opening for the Beatles, Laine left the group after two years.
In 1971, Laine joined forces with Paul and Linda McCartney to form the band Wings, and they released their debut album “Wild Life” later that year. Laine co-wrote the band’s hit single “Mull of Kintyre,” which went on to become one of the best-selling singles in UK chart history.
Following his time with Wings, Laine continued making music and collaborated with Paul McCartney on several albums, in addition to releasing solo LPs. His most recent solo album, “The Blue Musician,” was released in 2008.
Upon news of Laine’s passing, Paul McCartney issued a statement on social media, honoring his late bandmate. McCartney reflected on their friendship, noting Laine’s talent and sense of humor, and remembering the mutual respect between the Beatles and the Moody Blues. “Denny was a great talent with a fine sense of humour and was always ready to help other people,” McCartney wrote.
Denny Laine’s contributions to the music world will be remembered by fans and fellow musicians alike, as he leaves behind a legacy of timeless music and unforgettable performances.