"The Moody Blues speak about their most challenging single, which required nearly a month to complete, and their top and bottom albums, while also discussing Charles Manson and the mind-bending effect of Nights In White Satin"

In the realm of classic rock, few bands have left an indelible mark quite like The Moody Blues. Formed in the 60s, this experimental band successfully fused orchestral music and rock'n'roll, paving the way for a unique sound that continues to resonate today.

The story of The Moody Blues begins with their signing to Decca Records, a label known for preserving material for posterity. It was here that they would release their groundbreaking album, Days Of Future Passed, an orchestral concept album described as an 'evocative mixture of symphonic rock music, orchestral arrangements, and spoken word'.

Despite the success of Decca, the band was approached to work on a pop/rock version of Dvorák's New World symphony. However, they chose to embark on an orchestral concept of their own, a decision that would prove to be a masterstroke.

The band's chairman, Sir Edward Lewis, supported this project, despite his infamous decision to turn down The Beatles. This support allowed The Moody Blues to produce music on their own terms, providing a template for future Moodies releases.

One of the band's most enduring hits is "Nights In White Satin", written by Justin Hayward, one of the two bandleaders of The Moody Blues. This song has appeared in various films such as Easy Rider, A Bronx Tale, and Casino, and has been a recurring hit in the charts, with numerous covers, the latest being by Glenn Hughes on his new album.

The Moody Blues have experienced several changes over the years. After the departure of their lead vocalist Denny Laine, they found a new frontman following a phone call from Eric Burdon, former frontman of The Animals. Key member Mike Pinder left the group in the late 70s, refusing to go on tour.

Despite these changes, The Moody Blues have remained one of the highest-grossing live acts. They reunited in '77 and recorded Octave, an unexpected success. In 1972, after an extended break, they formed their own label, Threshold, which was a vehicle for Moodies releases and new talent.

The band's legacy is further cemented by the recent release of remastered versions of five of their most successful albums. These releases, spanning from 1967's Days Of Future Passed to 1970's A Question Of Balance, have been restored and expanded with out-takes and live tracks, offering fans a deeper insight into the band's creative process.

In a farm in France, the band shut themselves away and wrote new material after Hayward joined the band, testing out their new sound at local venues upon their return to Britain. This period of seclusion and experimentation has clearly paid off, as The Moody Blues continue to captivate audiences with their timeless music.

Orchestral conductor Peter Knight was a willing ally in shelving the Dvorák project to work on the Moodies' concept. Tony Clarke, Decca's house engineer, worked on the Moodies' next eight studio albums after their collaboration, further solidifying the band's relationship with the label.

In conclusion, The Moody Blues have left an indelible mark on the music industry. Their unique fusion of orchestral music and rock'n'roll has stood the test of time, and their enduring legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians. Whether it's the haunting beauty of "Nights In White Satin" or the experimental brilliance of Days Of Future Passed, The Moody Blues' music remains a testament to their creativity and innovation.

"The Moody Blues speak about their most challenging single, which required nearly a month to complete, and their top and bottom albums, while also discussing Charles Manson and the mind-bending effect of Nights In White Satin"