Co-founder of British rock band Traffic, Dave Mason, has handed approach, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee was the songwriter and guitarist behind classics together with Feelin’ Alright
NEW YORK, NEW YORK–MARCH 08: Dave Mason poses for a portrait backstage earlier than he and his full band carry out on March 8, 2003 in New York City. (Photo by Al Pereira/Getty Images/Michael Ochs Archives).
Traffic co-founder Dave Mason has handed away. His household revealed that the legendary musician died on April 19 after main a “remarkable life” which he “devoted to music”. In a press release issued on behalf of his kinfolk, a spokesperson stated: “On behalf of his family, it is with deep and profound sadness that we share the news of the passing of Dave Mason.”
They continued that the “Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, celebrated songwriter, musician, singer, and creator passed away peacefully at his residence in Gardnerville, Nev. “Dave Mason lived a exceptional life dedicated to the music and the individuals he cherished.”
Meanwhile, a publish on Dave’s Facebook web page acknowledged: “On Sunday, April 19, after cooking a tremendous dinner with his beloved spouse Winifred, he sat all the way down to take a nap with candy Star (the maltese) at his ft.
“He passed away peacefully, in his favourite chair, surrounded by the beautiful Carson Valley that he loved so much. A storybook ending. On his own terms. Which is how he lived his life right up until the end. He leaves a lasting imprint on the soundtrack of our lives and the hearts he has lifted. His legacy will be cherished forever.” , reviews the Mirror.
The reason for demise stays undisclosed.
Mason, who hailed from Worcester, was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as considered one of Traffic’s founding members in 2004, practically 4 many years after the rock group was established.
The iconic band was established in 1967 in Birmingham, initially that includes Steve Winwood, Dave, Jim Capaldi and Chris Wood. Merely two years following the group’s formation, Dave relocated from the UK to the United States, residing for 16 years in Ojai, California, earlier than subsequently buying properties in Carson City, Nevada, and Hawaii.
The late artist was behind Traffic’s 1969 basic, Feelin’ Alright, which reached Number 51 on the Official UK Charts. He additionally composed Hole in My Shoe for the band, with Dave’s distinctive guitar work turning into a defining attribute of the group’s fusion of blues and psychedelic sounds.
Despite their achievements, Dave selected to depart the band shortly following the discharge of their debut album, Mr Fantasy, although he subsequently returned in 1971 and as soon as extra in 2004.
Following his exit, he collaborated with stars together with The Beatles’ George Harrison, Jimi Hendrix and The Rolling Stones. He additionally toured with Eric Clapton, backing Delaney and Bonnie and Friends, and composed Only You Know and I Know for the pair, which was launched in 1970.
Dave additionally skilled a brief interval with Fleetwood Mac, with their 1995 launch, Time, marking their first report since Lindsey Buckingham departed the band. It was additionally their inaugural album with out Stevie Nicks, 20 years after she grew to become a part of the group. The late musician had meant to tour in 2024 and 2025, however these dates have been subsequently postponed after the artist “contracted a severe infection” in March of 2024 and “courageously” fought the sickness all through the next 12 months.
Just final 12 months, Dave revealed his retirement from touring, citing private well being issues. An announcement on social media declared: “He retires from touring a happy man with a heart full of gratitude to his band members, business colleagues, and especially his legions of fans who made his life one of deep satisfaction and fulfilment.
“The immensity of his pleasure stays stable as he steps again from the stage.” Tributes have subsequently flooded in, with fellow musician Stephen Bishop commenting: “I’m very sorry to listen to in regards to the passing of my good friend Dave Mason. We did a present collectively again in the early 70s, and I keep in mind how extremely gifted he was. I used to be all the time a fan of his early work with Traffic.
“I especially love his song ‘Only You Know and I Know.’ We stayed in touch through the years, and he was always kind to me and an incredible guitar player. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and fans.” Joe Bonamassa wrote: “Very sad news from America about the sudden passing of Dave Mason. Dave was not only a musical hero of mine but a true friend. These photos are from a session I did with him and Steve Cropper a few years ago. ( no pressure, right?) It’s hard to believe that we have lost both of them in such a short period of time. Cherish every day you have with the ones you love. Rest in peace, my friend. My condolences to his family and loved ones.”
Dave leaves behind his spouse Winifred Wilson, his daughter Danielle and his nieces and nephews.
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