Denny Laine of Wings and Moody Blues Passed Away At 79

Denny Laine, a key figure in both the Moody Blues and Wings, has died at 79, as confirmed by his wife, Elizabeth Hines, in a social media post on Tuesday. Laine had been facing interstitial lung disease, and Hines had initiated a GoFundMe page for his medical expenses back in September.

In her heartfelt message, Hines shared:

“My darling husband passed away peacefully early this morning. I was at his bedside, holding his hand as I played his favorite Christmas songs for him. He’s been singing Christmas songs the past few weeks and I continued to play Christmas songs while he’s been in ICU on a ventilator this past week.”

Circumstances Surrounding Denny Laine’s Passing

“He and I both believed he would overcome his health setbacks and return to the rehabilitation center and eventually home. Unfortunately, his lung disease, interstitial lung disease (ILD), is unpredictable and aggressive; each infection weakened and damaged his lungs. He fought every day. He was so strong and brave, never complained. All he wanted was to be home with me and his pet kitty, Charley, playing his gypsy guitar.”

Hines expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and support during Laine’s health crisis, stating:

“Denny was so very thankful to all of you who sent him so much love, support and the many kind words during these past few months of his health crisis-it brought him to tears. I thank you all for sending both of us love and support. It was my absolute honor and privilege to not only be his wife but to care for him during his illness and vulnerability.”

Laine co-founded the Moody Blues in 1964, contributing as the lead singer on their early hit, “Go Now,” before parting ways in 1966. He then ventured into various musical projects, including the Electric String Band, Balls, and Ginger Baker’s Air Force, alongside launching a solo career with a couple of singles.

Denny Laine’s Post-Wings Journey

In 1971, Laine teamed up with Paul and Linda McCartney to establish Wings, a prominent group in the ’70s post-Beatles era. He remained with the band until its dissolution a decade later, playing a significant role in their albums, including the iconic Band on the Run released in the U.S. 50 years ago to the day of his passing. During his time in Wings, Laine often took on lead vocals and contributed to the band’s success.

After Wings disbanded, Laine resumed his solo career, releasing several albums over the years, with his last studio work, The Blue Musician, coming out in 2008.

In late September 2023, as Laine battled a critical illness, Hines launched a GoFundMe page, detailing his struggles with lung issues that emerged post-COVID. Despite numerous tests, surgeries, and ongoing medical challenges, Laine’s condition continued to worsen over the past two months.

Hines concluded her post announcing Laine’s passing with a poignant tribute:

“My world will never be the same. Denny was an amazingly wonderful person, so loving and sweet to me. He made my days colorful, fun and full of life – just like him. Thank you, sweetie, for loving me, for all the laughter, friendship, fun and for asking me to be your wife. I will love you forever.”