Mike Pinder, founding keyboard player for the Moody Blues, died on Wednesday at age 82. He was the last surviving member of the original lineup of the British prog-rock band, and an important contributor during its glory days in the 1960s and ‘70s.

Pinder’s son, Michael Lee Pinder, confirmed his father’s death on Wednesday in a Facebook post, saying:

“In Honor Of Our Beloved Mellotron Man, Mike Pinder (Musician, Father, Cosmic Philosopher & Friend)

“Michael Thomas Pinder died on Wednesday, April 24th, 2024, at his home in Northern California, surrounded by his devoted family. Michael’s family would like to share with his trusted friends and caring fans that he passed peacefully. His final days were filled with music, encircled by the love of his family. Michael lived his life with a childlike wonder, walking a deeply introspective path which fused the mind and the heart.

“He created his music and the message he shared with the world from this spiritually grounded place; as he always said, ‘Keep your head above the clouds, but keep your feet on the ground.’ His authentic essence lifted up everyone who came into contact with him. His lyrics, philosophy, and vision of humanity and our place in the cosmos will touch generations to come.”

Pinder, a native of Birmingham, England, was a key songwriter and technical innovator for the Moody Blues, as well as an instrumentalist, singer and music arranger. During his tenure with the band, which lasted from 1964 until 1978, Pinder had a crucial influence on groundbreaking albums such as “Days of Future Passed” (1967), “On a Threshold of a Dream” (1969), “A Question of Balance” (1970), “Every Good Boy Deserves Favour” (1971) and “Seventh Sojourn” (1972). “Seventh Sojourn” reached No. 1 in the United States and included the hit single “I’m Just a Singer (In a Rock and Roll Band).”

Pinder left the Moody Blues after participating in the 1978 album “Octave,” and was replaced by keyboard player Patrick Moraz, who had toured with Yes. Pinder continued to make music as a solo artist and studio musician, and was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame with the Moody Blues in 2018.

No details were released about Pinder’s cause of death. Four other original members of the Moody Blues — drummer Graeme Edge, singer/guitarist Denny Laine, multi-instrumentalist Ray Thomas and bassist Clint Warwick — had previously passed away.

The Moody Blues “set rock on a boldly progressive course,” the Rock Hall’s tribute said, “infusing it with a symphonic grandeur and experimental reach. And they sold 70 million albums worldwide and helped usher in the album-rock era. The musical foundation largely resided in Mike Pinder’s groundbreaking use of the Mellotron, an electric keyboard that sounded like an orchestra’s string section, and Ray Thomas’ flute playing.”

Singer/bassist John Lodge and singer/guitarist Justin Hayward, longtime member of the Moody Blues, joined the band in 1966 and also were essential to the its success over the years. Although the Moody Blues are no longer touring — the last tour dates were in 2018 — Lodge continues to perform the band’s music as a solo artist.

Lodge, 80, bid a public farewell to Pinder and paid tribute to his former bandmate with a Wednesday post on X (formerly Twitter), saying, “Mike your music will last forever. Rest in peace on your travels to heaven.”

On an Instagram page devoted to Denny Laine of the Moody Blues, a post by Laine’s widow, Elizabethe Mele-Hines, also pays homage to Pinder and his music.

“Very sad news, the last of the original lineup of the Moody Blues has passed away,” the post says. “He is now reunited with Denny, Ray, Graeme and Clint; what a joyous reunion that must be. Several years ago, Mikes wife, Tara, told Denny and I that Mike always played ‘Go Now’ whenever a piano was in the room, it was always special. Rest in peace and give my Denny a hug. – Liz”

Fans have posted tributes on social media, as well, including Facebook posts in the Mike Pinder Appreciation Group. Here’s a sampling:

“I’m devastated. To me he was the soul of the group and his vision was what got the group to where they were a totally different sound than any other group at that time,” Steve Harrow said. “To me when he left the group. It was never quite the same. This is a tough one for me.”

“The Father and Godfather of the Moody Blues,” said Kirk Knighton. “His music has gotten me over and through many rough patches in my life. RIP Mike!”

“An absolute legend of rock music,” said Mike Fusco. “The mellotron … the pocket orchestra …The smooth vocals, the beautiful songs, the poetry … the connection to space and the stars. Truly one of the greats of ALL time. Rest in peace … thanks for your contributions to my life and the world, and I’m glad you’ll get to rest Among the Stars.”

“How is it that a man whom I’ve never met passes, and I’m crushed with sadness? It is because his music has moved me so deeply, and has meant so much to me in my life,” said Chad Pollock. “Then I think about his family. I’m just a fan, and my life will be the same. I’ll always have the music with me for the rest of my life. So, I want to send my send my sincere condolences to his family. He was absolutely amazing, and will be missed beyond measure.”

“We had become friends two summers ago, and corresponded on Google messenger frequently. He told me he was dying last August, and we talked about what it meant at length,” said Dave Cumming. “We were having a lengthy conversation last fall when he just went silent in the middle of it, which was very unlike him. I had the feeling then that he was beginning his final journey. He was such a thoughtful person, and was always so interested in my life events. I loved the way he called me ‘mate’ or ‘my friend.’ I hope his transition was a peaceful one, and I will always cherish his friendship.”

“A great man who, from many miles away, taught me so much without knowing. I feel I’ve lost a friend and mentor that I never met personally,” said Ian Jenkins. “My thoughts are with Mike’s family, close friends and the wider Moodies community for whom he was such an integral part. RIP Mike.”