Denny Laine, an English musician, singer, and songwriter who was born Brian Frederick Arthur Hines, is credited with founding two significant rock bands. Laine, 79, passed away in Naples, Florida, on December 5, 2023, from interstitial lung disease. On his official Facebook and Instagram pages, his wife made the announcement of his passing.
Who was Denny Laine?
Denny Laine, originally named Brian Frederick Arthur Hines, was born on October 29, 1944, and passed away on December 5, 2023. He was a prominent English musician, vocalist, and songwriter. Renowned for his role as a co-founder of two influential rock bands, he played a pivotal role in The Moody Blues from 1964 to 1966 and later contributed significantly to Wings from 1971 to 1981.
Laine’s musical journey extended across six decades, collaborating with diverse artists and groups while maintaining an enduring solo career. His contributions to The Moody Blues earned him induction into the prestigious Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2018.
Denny Laine’s Early Life and Career
Denny Laine, originally named Brian Frederick Hines, was born in the Channel Islands to Herbert Edward Arthur Hines and Eva Lillian Hines (née Bassett). He was raised in Tyseley, Birmingham, England, and went to Yardleys Grammar School. Laine began playing the guitar as a child, inspired by the sounds of gipsy jazz artist Django Reinhardt.
He made his professional debut at the age of 12 by showcasing his musical talent in his first solo performance. Laine began his career fronting the band “Denny Laine and the Diplomats,” which included Bev Bevan, the future drummer of the Move and Electric Light Orchestra.
Laine went by Denny Laine instead of Brian Frederick Hines, a change that marked a dramatic shift in his identity. The original name, “Brian Frederick Hines and the Diplomats,” didn’t really resonate with him. Rather, he took on the last name of the well-known singer Frankie Laine, who was his sister’s idol.
The popular idea of having a backyard den as a place to socialise had an impact on the choice of the first name “Denny.”. Laine recalled this and said, “Everyone had a backyard and a den to hang out in. I believe I earned that moniker there.”
Denny Laine, a former member of the Diplomats, formed the Moody Blues in 1964 after leaving the Diplomats. The group’s first big hit was “Go Now,” and Laine sang lead vocals on the group’s other hits, including “I Don’t Want to Go On Without You,” “From the Bottom of My Heart (I Love You),” and “Everyday.”.
Laine also sang on “Can’t Nobody Love You” and “Bye Bye Bird,” which were hits in France. Laine and Pinder wrote most of the band’s B-sides during 1965–66.Laine’s tenure with the Moody Blues was short-lived, and after several chart failures, he quit in October 1966. He was replaced by Justin Hayward.
The last record issued by the Moody Blues featuring Laine was “Life’s Not Life” b/w “He Can Win” in January 1967.
How much is Denny Laine worth?
Denny Laine’s net worth is $10 million. Denny Laine is an English musician, songwriter, and vocalist, Dennis Laine.
