The Moody Blues, long considered to be a glaring omission from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, are no longer omitted.
Eligible for nomination since 1989, the Moodies were elected on their first nomination. As bassist John Lodge points out, they got an assist from their fans, who propelled them to number-two on the Fan Ballot, behind Bon Jovi.
After talking to us, Lodge planned to phone drummer Graeme Edge and former bandmates Ray Thomas and Mike Pinder. He had already spoken to singer and guitarist Justin Hayward when we reached him.
Justin shared his thoughts about the honor with us, saying, "I’m extremely grateful to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, first for creating the supreme temple to all that has brought endless joy into my life since I was a small boy, and now, after all these years, for including us. It’s a privilege to be celebrated in the same building, on the same street even, as my own heroes -- Buddy Holly and the Everly Brothers -- and now, at last, with us, my heroine Nina Simone. But all the thanks must go to The Moody Blues fans for giving us a wonderful, wonderful life in music - our induction has now validated the music they so love, and I’m so, so pleased, for us all. Yippee!"
Graeme Edge, who lives in Florida, says, “I want to thank all of my peers who bestowed the honor of voting us in. Most of all, I’d like to thank all of our fans who have supported us over the years, and have steadfastly stood by us. I would also like to thank the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame foundation for putting a cap on my career; one that continues to astonish me with its gifts." When we spoke to him a few weeks ago, he said he hoped the first incarnation of the band, which included Denny Laine and the late Clint Warwick, would also be recognized.