Denny Laine, Wings and Moody Blues Musician, passes away at 79

Elizabeth Hines, his wife, announced that he succumbed to a prolonged battle with lung disease. Laine, celebrated for his vocal performance on the Moody Blues' hit "Go Now" and co-authoring Wings' "Mull of Kintyre," leaves behind a rich musical legacy. Sir Paul McCartney paid homage to Laine on Instagram, lauding him as "an outstanding vocalist and guitar player" and praising his humor and readiness to help others. McCartney reflected on their rekindled friendship in recent years, sharing fond memories of their time together.

Laine, born Brian Hines in the Channel Islands, was raised in Birmingham, where jazz legend Django Reinhardt inspired him to pick up the guitar. His stage name, a combination of his childhood nickname and his sister's favorite singer Frankie Laine, marked the beginning of a storied career. Laine first gained attention as the frontman of Denny Laine and the Diplomats, featuring future ELO member Bev Bevan. After an unsuccessful record label audition, he joined The Moody Blues, leading them to their first number one hit with "Go Now." Despite subsequent R&B-influenced singles, Laine departed before the band transitioned into progressive rock.

Laine's career took a significant turn in 1971 when he joined Wings, McCartney's first venture post-Beatles. Contributing as a guitarist, bassist, and vocalist, Laine was instrumental in the band's success, featuring in hits like "Jet," "Band on the Run," and "Live and Let Die." Having known McCartney since the '60s, Laine embraced the collaborative nature of Wings, enjoying the "shadows" as much as the spotlight. He expressed satisfaction with his role in the band in a Billboard interview earlier this year, appreciating the learning and experiences it brought.

Post-Wings, Laine continued his solo career, which had begun in the 1970s. His 1980 album "Japanese Tear" featured "Send Me The Heart," co-written with McCartney, and unreleased Wings tracks. Laine's discography expanded with "Hometown Girls," "Wings On My Feet," and "Lonely Road," culminating in his final album "The Blue Musician" in 2008. He continued touring, performing his vast repertoire of songs, until recently. His passing comes as Wings prepares for the 50th anniversary reissue of "Band On The Run," an album Laine held in high regard for its creative collaboration. Laine's wife shared that he bravely battled lung disease, hoping for recovery. She thanked fans for their support and requested privacy for the family during their time of grief.