Ray Thomas, a founding member of Moody Blues, died last week at the age of 76.
The musician’s death was confirmed in a Facebook post by his label Esoteric Recordings/Cherry Red Records.
“We are deeply shocked by his passing and will miss his warmth, humour and kindness,” read the statement. “It was a privilege to have known and worked with him and our thoughts are with his family and his wife Lee at this sad time.”
Thomas, who wrote and sang Moody Blues songs like “Legend of a Mind,” and ‘Dear Diary,” reportedly died at his home in Surrey, England. No cause of death was revealed – though Thomas had previously said he was suffering from prostate cancer.
Moody Blues bassist John Lodge tweeted: “Ray and I have been on this magical journey through life together since we were 14... two young kids from Birmingham who reached for the stars...and we made it together. El Riot you will always be by my side.”
In addition to his work with Moody Blues, Thomas recorded solo albums in 1975 and 1976.