Dave Mason, the vocalist, guitarist, and co-founder of Traffic, has died. He was 79 years old.
"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 reads. "On Sunday, April 19, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee, celebrated songwriter, musician, singer, and author, passed away peacefully at his home in Gardnerville, NV."
"He is survived by his beloved wife and partner, Winifred Wilson, his daughter Danielle, nephew John (Trish) Leonard, and niece Michelle Leonard, as well as his brothers-in-law Sloan (Claudia) Wilson and Walton (Barbara Sims) Wilson," the statement added. "He was preceded in death by his son, True, and his sister, Valerie Leonard."
As the co-founder of Traffic, Mason was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame as a member of the group.
He wrote and sang lead vocals on two of the band's most famous songs, "Hole in My Shoe" and "Feelin' Alright?" His song "Only You Know and I Know" became a signature song for Delaney & Bonnie, and "We Just Disagree," Mason's 1977 solo U.S. hit, written by Jim Krueger, has become a staple of U.S. classic hits and adult contemporary radio playlists.
After leaving Traffic, he pursued a solo career and recorded with artists including George Harrison, the Rolling Stones, Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, Paul McCartney and Wings, Michael Jackson, David Crosby, Graham Nash, and Fleetwood Mac.
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