“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
John Lodge, the legendary bassist and vocalist of The Moody Blues, continues to captivate audiences with his powerful rendition of the classic hit “Isn’t Life Strange.” The recent performance video showcases Lodge’s enduring talent and the timeless appeal of one of the Moody Blues’ most beloved songs.
Originally released in April 1972 as the first single from the album “Seventh Sojourn,” “Isn’t Life Strange” reached #29 on the Billboard charts and #13 in the UK. Written entirely by Lodge, the song has a fascinating origin story. As Lodge himself revealed, “I wrote this song one night during a dinner party at our house. I heard the melody and just had to leave the room to write it on my piano. I can’t believe that’s 50 years ago.”
The composition itself is a masterpiece of progressive rock, running over six minutes in its album version. Music historians note that its melody was based on Pachelbel’s Canon in D, beginning with a haunting combination of flute and harmonium that immediately draws listeners in. The song’s structure, with its orchestral elements and complex harmonies, exemplifies the sophisticated musicianship that made The Moody Blues pioneers in the progressive rock movement.
What makes “Isn’t Life Strange” particularly special is its philosophical depth. The lyrics explore life’s unpredictability and the surprises it continually presents. As Lodge explains, “People often ask me what it’s about, and I hope everyone can find their own meaning, but for me it’s about how life shouldn’t be about asking what the future has in store for you, you just need to turn the page over, move on, and see what unfolds. It’s what I’ve done my whole life.”
In his recent performances, Lodge brings new energy to this classic track while honoring its original spirit. Backed by his talented 10,000 Light Years Band, his live rendition maintains the song’s emotional resonance while adding contemporary touches that keep it fresh for today’s audiences. The interplay between the instruments—particularly the flute passages that echo Ray Thomas’s original contributions—creates a rich sonic landscape that honors The Moody Blues’ legacy.
Lodge’s voice, remarkably preserved over the decades, delivers the poignant lyrics with the same emotional depth that made the original recording so impactful. When he sings the chorus, “Isn’t life strange? A turn of the page,” the words resonate perhaps even more profoundly now than they did in 1972, carrying the weight of decades of life experience.
For longtime fans of The Moody Blues, Lodge’s performances serve as a nostalgic journey back to the band’s heyday. For newer listeners, they provide an introduction to the sophisticated, orchestral rock that defined an era. Either way, the enduring appeal of “Isn’t Life Strange” speaks to its status as a true classic.
The song has been featured on Lodge’s recent tours, including “The Royal Affair Tour” where he performed alongside other progressive rock legends. These performances have been captured on his live album “The Royal Affair and After,” which Lodge describes as “the soundtrack to my life.” The album features live recordings of all his Moody Blues hits, plus special tributes to his bandmates Justin Hayward, Mike Pinder, Ray Thomas, and drummer Graeme Edge.
As Lodge continues to tour and perform this iconic song, he demonstrates that great music transcends time. In a music landscape that constantly changes, “Isn’t Life Strange” remains a testament to the power of thoughtful composition, meaningful lyrics, and passionate performance. John Lodge’s ongoing commitment to sharing this music ensures that new generations will continue to discover and appreciate the artistic legacy of The Moody Blues.
Indeed, isn’t life strange? And isn’t it wonderful that some things, like truly great music, endure through all of life’s changes?