Interview: Justin Hayward (former singer/guitarist for The Moody Blues)
Table of Contents
- Interview: Justin Hayward – The Voice and Guitar of The Moody Blues
- The Timeless Voice: Justin Hayward and The Moody Blues Legacy
- Early influences and Musical Beginnings
- Joining The moody Blues: A Turning Point
- Crafting Timeless Hits: “Nights in White Satin” and Beyond
- Guitar Techniques and Gear: The Hayward Sound
- The Music Industry: Then and Now
- Solo Career and Continued Creativity
- Legacy and Influence
- First-Hand Experience: A Fan’s Viewpoint
- Practical Tips and Advice inspired by Justin Hayward
- Case Study: “Forever Autumn” and its Enduring appeal
- The Timeless Voice: Justin Hayward and The Moody Blues Legacy
17 April 2025
It was no surprise when The Moody Blues were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2018: after all, they’d created numerous massive hits, including “Nights in White Satin,” “Gemini Dream,” “The Voice,” “Your Wildest Dreams,” “The Other Side of Life,” “I Know You’re Out There Somewhere,” and many more. But in 2021, after the passing of drummer Graeme Edge and multi-instrumentalist Ray Thomas, the remaining members announced that The Moody Blues would not continue. However, vocalist/guitarist Justin Hayward has begun a new chapter as a solo artist. In that capacity, he recently released a cover version of “Life in a Northern Town” (originally by The Dream Academy), and he’s currently on his “Blue World Tour” across North America (full list of dates below). As Hayward told The Big Takeover during a phone call from Florida, where he was preparing to kick off his tour, he always knew he was destined for a music career.
What can people expect when they come to one of your shows on this tour?
JUSTIN HAYWARD: I do things from most of the Moodys albums, and solo things that I’ve done. I’m true to the way the songs were recorded, and how I first felt them, so I hope there’s something there for everybody. I believe there is.
What made you decide to cover “Life in a Northern Town” now?
JUSTIN HAYWARD: A few years ago, my friend Mike Batt and I did an album together with the London Philharmonic Orchestra of songs that we just liked, and we thought would work in an orchestral setting with my voice and without a rhythm section. We were lucky enough that the director of the London Philharmonic went along with that idea. Last year, we were able to have the opportunity to do that again with the London Philharmonic. “Life in a Northern Town” is a song that’s been on our list [to play in] that kind of format. I think it’s a beautiful song. Very English, if you like. I think Mike did a great arrangement, and it suited my voice just fine.
That song is very evocative, and that’s something that I’ve always noticed with your work, too. How did you learn to write like that?
JUSTIN HAYWARD: After I left school, I answered a lot of ads in The Melody Maker and [other] music business magazines, just trying to find work. I had a reply from a rock and roll singer named Marty Wilde, and I auditioned, and I was his guitar player for a couple of years before I joined the Moodys. I was seventeen. Marty was already my hero, but to be playing with him was just wonderful. Hard work, but wonderful. And he always said, “To survive in the business, you must create your own identity, and that is done by writing your own songs, and having something recognizable.” So I started writing then. And I think I came to the Moodys as a songwriter, actually, not necessarily the singer.
Did you have a particular sound in mind when you started, or did it evolve into what you became?
JUSTIN HAYWARD: There’s never been any plan or any strategy. Whenever I’ve tried to do that, I’ve failed miserably! These things happen in a beautiful, wonderful way. You do what comes naturally. I’ve been lucky enough that people do like it. For me, now, it’s just about the songs. That’s the [live] show I’m doing: it’s about songs that I’ve written.
Do you find yourself returning to any particular themes or emotions with your songwriting?
JUSTIN HAYWARD: I think the things that happen to us in our youth are always hugely important. Particularly the love affairs that we’ve had. Emotional things, of course, are always what you draw on. These things stay around with us, don’t they? They stay in our hearts, and we carry them around with us.
Being in the music business can be difficult, so what keeps you motivated?
JUSTIN HAYWARD: I feel that the people who like this music keep me motivated because I feel some kind of responsibility to them. I know that as a live performer, as well, the audience brings something into that room. That’s a feeling that I don’t want to give up. You can do “Nights in White Satin” perfectly at the soundcheck, and it’ll be very nice, but an audience comes in and they bring some magic into that room around songs, and that’s tangible. You can feel it. You can just kind of touch it. That’s a wonderful feeling that scares me and excites me and motivates me.
How did you know you should be a musician in the first place?
JUSTIN HAYWARD: I knew, as a small child, that I loved music. When I was four or five years old, when I very first went to school, we used to sing songs from the New English Hymnal, and I’d think, “I’m really enjoying this. The melodies are so lovely.” My parents knew that music was what my life was about, and they gave me some piano lessons. Then I pestered them for a guitar. They bought me a ukulele. I pestered them for a guitar a bit more, and they bought me a guitar. Then I was forming groups at school. There was never any doubt about what I was going to do. I think if you have a desire and it’s strong enough, then you make it happen. I mean, playing guitar is not easy, so you have to really want to do it. You have to make your fingers hurt. You have to persevere.
Do you remember the first song you wrote where you realized you actually could do this?
JUSTIN HAYWARD: I wrote a lot of awful things before I wrote anything that was nice. But I think there was the song that I did when I first came to the Moodys all those years ago [in] 1966, it’s called “Fly Me High.” When we recorded that, I thought, “I’m really kind of getting somewhere now.”
What do you think about the legacy that you’ve created so far?
JUSTIN HAYWARD: I’m not sure that I do think about the legacy, to be honest. I’m interested in what I’m doing now. Yes, of course there’s a huge body of work – but I like now.
Justin Hayward’s Blue World Tour:
April 18 – Clearwater, FL – Bilheimer Capitol Theater
April 19 – Orlando, FL – The Plaza Live
April 21 – Jacksonville, FL – Florida Theatre
April 23 – Atlanta, GA – Center Stage
April 27 – Minneapolis, MN – Pantages Theatre
April 29 – Peoria, IL – Scottish Rite Cathedral
May 1 – St. Charles, IL – Arcada Theatre
May 2 – Brookfield, WI – Sharon Lynne Wilson Center for the Arts
May 10 – Vancouver, BC – Great Canadian Casino Vancouver
May 13 – Tacoma, WA – Pantages Theatre
May 15 – Salem, OR – Elsinore Theatre
May 17 – Stateline, NV – Harrah’s Lake Tahoe
May 20 – San Francisco, CA – Palace of Fine Arts Theatre
August 30 – Rockport, MA – Shalin Liu Performance Center
August 31 – Derry, NH – Tupelo Music Hall
date: 2025-04-17 18:56:00
Interview: Justin Hayward – The Voice and Guitar of The Moody Blues
image of Justin Hayward performing. (Replace with actual image)
The Timeless Voice: Justin Hayward and The Moody Blues Legacy
Justin Hayward. The name conjures up images of soaring melodies, lush orchestrations, and the ethereal soundscapes that defined The Moody Blues. His voice, instantly recognizable and enduring, has been the soundtrack to generations, and his guitar work, equally distinctive, cemented his place as a progressive rock icon. But what lies beneath the surface of this legendary musician? Let’s delve into an in-depth interview,exploring his journey,his inspirations,and his thoughts on the music industry today.
Early influences and Musical Beginnings
Q: Justin, thank you for taking the time to speak with us. let’s start at the beginning. What were your earliest musical influences, and how did they shape your sound?
A: Well, it all began with Buddy Holly, really. The Crickets’ records were probably the first things I truly loved. Then came people like Lonnie Donegan and, of course, the Shadows with Hank Marvin. I was entirely captivated by the instrumental aspect initially. I tried to emulate Hank’s sound constantly. I wanted to be him! Then, as I grew older, the Beatles and the Stones arrived, and everything changed.
Q: You started quite young. When did you know you wanted to pursue music professionally?
A: I was seven when I got my first guitar and that was it. I was hooked.I remember writing songs from quite early on, even if they were terrible.By the time I was a teenager, I was playing in local bands and knew that was what I wanted to do. There was no question about it.
Joining The moody Blues: A Turning Point
Q: The Moody Blues. You joined in 1966, replacing Denny Laine.Can you describe that pivotal moment and the direction you and John Lodge brought to the band?
A: It was incredibly exciting and a real baptism by fire. The Moody Blues were already somewhat established, but they were looking for a fresh sound. John [Lodge] and I brought a different songwriting style, which then complemented what Mike [Pinder] and Ray [Thomas] were already doing. We wanted to experiment with orchestral sounds and create somthing more ambitious. We took on the challenge to take the group into more creative projects.
Q: “Days of Future Passed” is considered a landmark album.What was the creative process like during that period, blending rock with orchestral arrangements?
A: It was a revolutionary time, even for us. We were pushing boundaries and experimenting with Mellotron and orchestral sounds in a way that hadn’t really been done before in rock music. Decca Records, our label, had a project to demonstrate stereo capabilities. We convinced them that it should be an album about a day in the life, spanning day and night, with the London Festival Orchestra complementing our music.It was a gamble,but it paid off.Tony Clarke, our producer, was a genius at understanding and capturing our ideas.that record really shaped the path that we took, and we were still exploring that path, some 50 years later!
Crafting Timeless Hits: “Nights in White Satin” and Beyond
Q: “Nights in White Satin”…an iconic song. Can you share the story behind its creation and its enduring appeal?
A: I wrote “Nights in White Satin” when I was 19. It’s really about unrequited love. I was on stage at the time.I had never had a girlfriend before. It was really my feeling about having no girlfriend, about girls not even looking at me. It was just a letter to a girl. I never thought anyone would hear it, never mind it becoming a hit.It’s amazing how it resonates with people across generations. I think it captures a universal feeling of longing and hope.
Q: The Moody Blues had many othre hits. What elements do you beleive contribute to a song’s staying power?
A: Melody is key. A memorable melody connects with people on an emotional level. Lyrics also play a crucial role. They need to be relatable and honest. But ultimately, its a combination of factors. A song also needs a bit of magic, something that makes it special and unique. Plus, you need a little bit of luck as well.
Q: you achieved lots of success on the album charts. in your opinion, what’s the difference from the albums to the singles?
A: We always thought of ourselves as an album band and never tried to release “singles”. “Nights in White Satin” was first released as a single, but didn’t get anywhere. Decca then put it on the B-side of “cities”. It got played on an underground radio station, and then it became a hit. The interesting thing is that albums have a chance to tell a story. The songs on the album are interconnected, and they create a big landscape.Singles are one-shot.
Guitar Techniques and Gear: The Hayward Sound
Q: Your guitar playing contributed substantially to The Moody Blues’ sonic signature. What are some of your signature guitar techniques and favorite pieces of equipment?
A: The ES-335 Gibson is my main instrument.I started playing one in 1963. It whent through many phases. Originally, they had a Bigsby tremolo on them, after Hank Marvin. I’ve put a stop-tail on them and then removed the stop-tail block at one point. I also use Fender Stratocasters, especially when performing live.I loved how the Stratocaster sounded on tour. The strings sing,with a Strat doing its thing. as for my technique, it’s very simple. I play the song, not the guitar. It’s about serving melodies and creating atmosphere. I’m not a shredder.it’s all about the song.
Q: do you have a preferred guitar amplifier and a setup?
A: I like Vox AC30 amps. I’ve been using them for a long time.They deliver the right tone and reliability for me. My signal chain is pretty straightforward: guitar-effects-amp. I rely on my fingers more than effects. The amp is what gets the sound.
| Gear Type | Brand/Model | Primary Use |
|---|---|---|
| Guitar | Gibson ES-335 | Studio and Stage |
| Guitar | Fender Stratocaster | Live Performances |
| Amplifier | Vox AC30 | Main sound |
| Effects | Various (minimal use) | Occasional texture |
The Music Industry: Then and Now
Q: How has the music industry changed as The Moody Blues started out, and what are your thoughts on the current state of music?
A: It’s unrecognisable from what it was. Back in the ’60s and ’70s, record labels were the gatekeepers.They controlled everything. Now,artists have more control over their music and distribution,but it’s harder to get noticed. The internet has democratized everything, but it’s also created a lot more noise. There’s too much choice.
Q: What advice would you give to young musicians starting their careers today?
A: Focus on writing great songs. Practice your craft. Don’t be afraid to experiment. And most importantly, believe in yourself. The music business is tough, but passion and perseverance pay off. Also, don’t give away your publishing rights!
Solo Career and Continued Creativity
Q: You’ve enjoyed a accomplished solo career alongside your work with The Moody Blues. How does your solo work differ from the band’s sound?
A: My solo work allows me to explore different musical avenues and express my personal thoughts and feelings more directly. It’s a chance to be more introspective and experiment with different genres.My voice is more personal and my lyrics are less commercial.
Q: What inspires you to continue creating music after so many years?
A: It’s just something I have do.I love crafting songs. I can’t explain it fully. There’s a constant need to create, to express myself through music. life’s experiences, personal relationships, and the world around me inspire me. I’m always listening, always observing, and always taking notes.
Legacy and Influence
Q: The Moody Blues have influenced countless artists. How does it feel to know that your music has touched so many lives?
A: It’s incredibly humbling.I’m truly grateful that our music has resonated with so many people and continues to do so. It’s a great feeling to know that our music has provided comfort, joy, and inspiration to others. It’s the greatest reward an artist can ask for.
Q: How do you wish The Moody Blues to be remembered?
A: As a band who never compromised their artistic vision. As a band who tried to create something lovely and meaningful. And ultimately, as a band who brought joy to their audience. A band who followed their hearts.
Q: Looking back on your career,what are you most proud of?
A: the longevity. the fact that our music has stood the test of time. And that we were able to be true to ourselves and create the music we wanted to create. Plus, that we did this with the people that we considered our best friends.
First-Hand Experience: A Fan’s Viewpoint
I remember listening to “Question” for the first time and being absolutely floored by emotion and the depth of the song. It made me wont to learn to play guitar. Justin Hayward’s music opened my eyes and ears to a whole new world of music and made me want to be involved in it in some way. I’m not alone in this feeling and I think this feeling is what has made Justin Hayward and The Moody Blues so successful over the years. They touched the emotions of fans and made them want to be involved with their music in any way that they could. By being able to connect with their fans on an emotional level, the band not only gained a large and loyal following but also influenced the lives of many young would-be musicians.
Practical Tips and Advice inspired by Justin Hayward
Justin Hayward’s story offers valuable lessons for aspiring musicians. From his early influences to his enduring solo career, his experiences provide many helpful tips. Here are some key takeaways:
Follow Your passion: Hayward’s early and persistent dedication to music serves as a reminder to pursue your passion relentlessly.
Embrace Collaboration: The Moody Blues’ success was driven by the fusion of diverse talents and the willingness to experiment with new ideas.
Stay True to Your Vision: Despite industry pressures,Hayward continues to focus on authentic creativity.
Connect with Your Audience: Music should resonate with listeners on a deeper level. It builds a lasting and loyal fanbase.
Never Stop Learning: A willingness to evolve and embrace new technologies keeps your music fresh.
Case Study: “Forever Autumn” and its Enduring appeal
“Forever Autumn” is a song co-written and performed by Justin Hayward. It was originally extracted from Jeff Wayne’s Musical Version of The war of the Worlds.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Original Release | 1978 |
| Album | Jeff Wayne’s Musical Version of The War of the Worlds* |
| Key Elements | Hayward’s evocative vocals, poignant lyrics, haunting melody |
| Enduring Impact | Critically acclaimed and an audience favorite. |
The song’s haunting melody and lyrics about loss and longing, combined with Hayward’s evocative vocals, have resonated with audiences for decades. Its success lies in its ability to tap into universal emotions and create a sense of timeless beauty. This song helps illustrate how a blend of creative songwriting and emotional delivery ensures enduring appeal.