Moody Blues singer Ray Thomas has died at the age of 76, according to reports on Sunday.
The singer, born in England, died suddenly on Thursday, his record label said.
Cherry Red Records and Esoteric Recordings wrote in a statement, “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.”
“We are deeply shocked by his passing and will miss his warmth, humor 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.”
#RayThomas has died, 4th Jan 2018, aged 76.
Musician, songwriter & singer.
Flautist and co-founding member of The #MoodyBlues in 1964.
“I never thought of myself as being very gifted; I was just happy to play a part in bringing out the talents of those around me” – Ray Thomas. pic.twitter.com/Ho7MsfT1SF— Music History (@RockWalkLondon) January 7, 2018
Thomas said in 2014 that he was diagnosed with prostate cancer.
“My cancer was inoperable but I have a fantastic doctor who immediately started me on a new treatment that has had 90% success rate,” he said at the time, according to The Guardian. “The cancer is being held in remission but I’ll be receiving this treatment for the rest of my life.”
Moody Blues bassist John Lodge tweeted on Sunday, “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.”
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