Dave Mason, the British singer, guitarist, and co-founder of the seminal rock band Traffic, has died at the age of 79. A statement from his representative confirmed he passed away peacefully on Sunday at his home in Gardnerville, Nevada, where he had settled.
Mason was a pivotal figure in the late 1960s British music scene, best known for his contributions to Traffic, an innovative group formed in Birmingham. He wrote and performed some of the band's most enduring tracks, including the globally recognised 'Feelin' Alright?', a song that has been covered by numerous artists over the decades.
Beyond his foundational role in Traffic, Mason embarked on a highly successful solo career, producing several platinum-selling albums. His versatility and talent as a guitarist and songwriter also led to collaborations with an array of A-list musicians. Notably, he worked with Jimi Hendrix, contributing to his iconic album 'Electric Ladyland', and also performed with Fleetwood Mac, further cementing his reputation as a respected musician.
His career spanned decades, seeing him move from the burgeoning British psychedelic rock scene to achieving significant success in the United States. Mason's distinctive guitar style and soulful vocals left an indelible mark on rock music, influencing countless musicians and delighting fans worldwide.