In 1967, the Moody Blues released the groundbreaking album “Days of Future Passed” in collaboration with The London Festival Orchestra. This album, which soared to the #1 spot on the US Cash Box Top 100, includes some of the band’s most iconic tracks, notably “Nights in White Satin.” The song achieved immense success, reaching #2 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and #9 on the UK Singles Chart.
“Nights in White Satin,” written by the then-new member Justin Hayward, is an emotional ballad inspired by the end of one love affair and the beginning of another. Hayward described the song as “quite autobiographical,” having written it in his Bayswater bed-sit after receiving a set of white satin sheets.
Hayward’s talent for songwriting was apparent early on. Before joining the Moody Blues, he had a publishing deal with Lonnie Donegan’s company, which granted Donegan a significant share of the royalties for Hayward’s early compositions. Donegan, a major figure in the 1950s, was known for his skiffle music, which had a significant influence on bands like The Beatles and The Who.
“Days of Future Passed” is a concept album structured around different times of the day, featuring songs such as “Dawn Is A Feeling” and “Tuesday Afternoon.” “Nights in White Satin” represents the nighttime and serves as the album’s closing track. Hayward was inspired by fellow band member Mike Pinder’s composition “Dawn Is A Feeling” and sought to create a counterpart for the night.
The orchestral sections of “Days of Future Passed” were recorded separately by The London Festival Orchestra and then integrated with the Moody Blues’ parts. Contrary to what the album credits might suggest, the orchestra did not perform alongside the band. The initial concept was for a rock interpretation of Dvorak’s “New World Symphony” to showcase enhanced stereo sound technology.
“Nights in White Satin” remains one of the Moody Blues’ most cherished songs, as evidenced by the heartfelt comments from fans. One fan remarked, “This was when music was music from very talented people.” Another added, “Lord, please let 60’s music reign in Heaven!!” The song’s emotional depth resonates with many, with one listener sharing, “I can feel his pain and anguish so much in his voice of lost love. Being heartbroken is worse than physical pain.” Another simply called it “a classic from the vault of many classic hits from back in the day!”
The enduring appeal of “Nights in White Satin” was clear from its release and continues to this day. The song has become a staple of classic rock radio and is frequently covered by other artists, highlighting the Moody Blues’ talent and the timeless beauty of this piece.
If you haven’t already, take a moment to listen to “Nights in White Satin” and discover why it remains so beloved. Share the experience with your friends, as it stands as a testament to an era when music