Long time rock guitarist Denny Laine died December 5, 2023 as a result of interstitial lung disease in Naples, Florida at the age of 79.
Laine was a founding member of the Moddy Blues and was a part of Sir Paul McCartney’s band Wings. The Rock and Roll Hall of Famer also co-wrote the song “Mull of Kintyre”.
As a member of Wings, Laine appeared on the Wings’ album “Band on the Run”; an album that McCartney is releasing early next year as a 50th anniversary celebration.
He was born Brian Frederick Arthur Hines on October 29, 1944 in the Channel Islands but grew up in Birmingham, England. He changed his name while still in his teens as a tribute to singer Frankie Laine.
His first band was Denny and the Diplomats.
Laine, Ray Thomas, and Mike Pinder formed the Moody Blues in 1964 but left the band three years later and was replaced by Justin Hayward.
He then worked as a solo artist; along with the Electric String Band and Air Force before joining McCartney in Wings. Laine and the McCartneys were the only members of Wings to remain throughout the life of the band. Laine and McCartney continued to work together on the “Tug of War” and “Pipes of Peace” albums. Laine joined Beatle George Harrison on the John Lennon tribute song “All Those Years Ago”.
After leaving Wings, Laine continued to pursue a solo career or toured with other bands.
Laine is survived by his bride of just five months and children – Laine and Heidi.
Denny Laine’s discography include:
“Aa Laine”
“Holly Days”
“Japanese Tears”
“Master Suite”
“Blue Nights”
“Danger Zone”
“Go Now”
“Reborn”
“Reborn Again”
“Performs the Hits of Wings”
“Blue Musician”
“Love’s Light”
“Denny Laine Band with Special Guest Artist Ron Pullman”
“Butterfly and Wings: Denny Laine Sings Paul McCartney”
Feature photo credit: English rock musician with the Moody Blues and Wings