Dave Mason, the English rock musician who helped define a generation of classic rock, has died at age 79.
‘On behalf of his family, it is with deep and profound sadness that we share the news of the passing of Dave Mason,’ a statement read.
‘Dave Mason lived a remarkable life devoted to the music and people he loved.’
No cause of death has been revealed, but in September 2024, Mason was forced to cancel a tour after a ‘serious heart condition’ was discovered during a routine appointment.
Then, the rocker announced his retirement from touring last year, citing ongoing health challenges.
A statement at the time read: ‘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 fulfillment.’
A founding member of Traffic and a prolific solo artist, Mason was also known for penning one of rock’s most enduring anthems, Feelin’ Alright.
Across his long career, Mason also moved in and around some of rock’s most iconic circles, including collaborations and touring connections with members of Fleetwood Mac during the band’s ever-shifting early line-ups.
He officially joined the band in 1993 and remained for several years, appearing on the 1995 album Time.
Born in Worcester, England, in 1946, Mason showed an early affinity for music, picking up the guitar as a teenager and quickly immersing himself in the burgeoning British rock scene.
In 1967, alongside Steve Winwood, Jim Capaldi, and Chris Wood, he formed Traffic, a band that would become hugely impactful to the development of 70s rock.
Though his time with Traffic was famously turbulent — Mason left and rejoined the group multiple times — his contributions were foundational.
He wrote and sang Feelin’ Alright, later popularised by Joe Cocker, and helped establish the band’s sound.
Mason also played a role in one of rock history’s most celebrated records, contributing acoustic guitar to Electric Ladyland by Jimi Hendrix.
After leaving Traffic for good, Mason embarked on a solo career that would span decades. His 1970 album Alone Together became his most commercially successful release, eventually achieving platinum status in the United States.
He also worked with and can be heard on the albums of an array of major artists, including George Harrison, Paul McCartney and The Rolling Stones, earning a reputation as a musician’s musician.
Mason was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2004 as a member of Traffic, cementing his place in rock history.
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