Two special concerts have been announced to celebrate the life, music, and legacy of John Lodge and the Moody Blues. The first takes place Friday, July 17 at The Bilheimer Capitol Theatre in Clearwater, Florida. The second follows Sunday, July 26 at Esher Theatre in Esher, UK. Together, they represent the fulfillment of a promise made to one of rock music’s most beloved figures.
When the Moody Blues stopped touring in 2018, John Lodge made it his mission to keep the music alive. Beginning with his first solo tour in 2015, alongside Music Director Alan Hewitt and the 10,000 Light Years Band, Lodge built a show of genuine grandeur, growing from intimate venues into full productions with captivating video, lights, and an unwavering passion for music he described as the soundtrack of his life. Along the way, Jon Davison of Yes joined the band, brought into the fold through his relationship with Lodge’s daughter Emily, whom he later married. The stage partnership between John and Jon became something deeply meaningful for everyone involved.
Davison will now lead these celebration concerts alongside Hewitt and the 10,000 Light Years Band, fulfilling Lodge’s expressed wish that they carry the music forward. The setlist will draw from hits and fan favourites, incorporating enchanting vocals and visuals of John alongside Davison’s voice and the full band. Videographer Andy Clark, a longtime collaborator, has been working on the visual component of the shows.
“I had a unique perspective of John in that I was lucky enough to become his son-in-law and close friend,” said Davison. “Along with the incredible Alan Hewitt and the 10,000 Light Years Band, I’m thrilled to have the blessed opportunity to be standing by John’s side one more time.” Hewitt added, “John had a huge heart and was loved by so many. I know he’ll be with us in spirit and smiling, knowing that we kept the promise we made before he left to fly with the angels.”
The heart of these concerts belongs to Emily Davison, John’s daughter. “To be able to work with my darling Jon and the incredibly talented Alan on these shows for my father has been the thing that has made the sun shine again,” she said. “It is not a time for sadness. It is a time to smile to the heavens.” As John Lodge always said: Thank You for Keeping the Faith.
John Lodge Celebration Concerts:
July 17 | Clearwater, FL @ The Bilheimer Capitol Theatre
July 26 | Esher, UK @ Esher Theatre