Moody Blues singer Ray Thomas dies suddenly at 76

Via The Sun

By George Sandeman

His death was confirmed by his record label.

In a statement, they said: “It is with profound sorrow and sadness that Cherry Red Records and Esoteric Recordings regret to announce that Ray Thomas, founder member, flautist and vocalist of the Moody Blues, passed away suddenly at his home in Surrey on Thursday.”

They added:  “We are deeply shocked by his passing and will miss his warmth, humour and kindness. 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 stepped back from the band due to ill health in 1999 and in 2014 confirmed that he had been diagnosed with prostate cancer. In a statement released at the time, he said: “My cancer was inoperable but I have a fantastic doctor who immediately started me on a new treatment that has had 90% success rate.

“Ride My See Saw” by Moody Blues

In Search of the Lost Chord (1968)

“The cancer is being held in remission but I’ll be receiving this treatment for the rest of my life. “I have four close friends who have all endured some kind of surgery or treatment for this cancer and all are doing well.

“While I don’t like to talk publicly about my health problems, after Alvin [Stardust]’s death, I decided it was time I spoke out. “A cancer diagnosis can shake your world and your family’s but if caught in time it can be cured or held in remission.

“I urge all males to get tested NOW. Don’t put it off by thinking it won’t happen to me. It needs to be caught early. “It’s only a blood test – a few minutes out your day to save yourself from this disease. Love and God Bless, Ray.” Ray formed the Moody Blues with Mike Pinder, Denny Laine, Graeme Edge, and Clint Warwick in 1964.

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