- Music
- 08 Jan 18
Rock legend Ray Thomas has died at the age of 76 following a battle with prostate cancer.
Ray originally left the band in 1999 because of ill health. Moody Blues formed back in 1964 and are best known for hit singles such as "Go Now", "Nights in White Satin", "Tuesday Afternoon", and "Question".
Moody Blues, who have been awarded 18 platinum and gold discs and have sold 70 million albums worldwide, will be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame later this year.
In a statement released last night, Ray's record label confirmed that he had died last Thursday.
"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," the statement read.
"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."
When he was first diagnosed with cancer back in 2014, Ray said: "'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.'"