Co-founder of British rock band Traffic, Dave Mason, has passed way, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee was the songwriter and guitarist behind classics including Feelin’ Alright
07:18, 22 Apr 2026Updated 07:20, 22 Apr 2026
NEW YORK, NEW YORK–MARCH 08: Dave Mason poses for a portrait backstage before he and his full band perform on March 8, 2003 in New York City. (Photo by Al Pereira/Getty Images/Michael Ochs Archives).
Traffic co-founder Dave Mason has passed away. His family revealed that the legendary musician died on April 19 after leading a “remarkable life” which he “devoted to music”. In a statement issued on behalf of his relatives, a spokesperson said: “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 author passed away peacefully at his home in Gardnerville, Nev. “Dave Mason lived a remarkable life devoted to the music and the people he loved.”
Meanwhile, a post on Dave’s Facebook page stated: “On Sunday, April 19, after cooking an amazing dinner with his beloved wife Winifred, he sat down to take a nap with sweet Star (the maltese) at his feet.
English singer, songwriter and guitarist Dave Mason of the rock group Traffic poses for a portrait in 1968 in London, UK. (Photo by Chris Walter/Getty Images)
“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.” , reports the Mirror.
The cause of death remains undisclosed.
Mason, who hailed from Worcester, was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as one of Traffic’s founding members in 2004, nearly four decades after the rock group was established.
The iconic band was established in 1967 in Birmingham, initially featuring 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, before subsequently acquiring properties in Carson City, Nevada, and Hawaii.
The late artist was behind Traffic’s 1969 classic, Feelin’ Alright, which reached Number 51 on the Official UK Charts. He also composed Hole in My Shoe for the band, with Dave’s distinctive guitar work becoming a defining characteristic of the group’s fusion of blues and psychedelic sounds.
Dave Mason performing at Chicagofest in Chicago, Illinois, August 15, 1980. (Photo by Paul Natkin/Getty Images)
Despite their achievements, Dave chose to leave the band shortly following the release of their debut album, Mr Fantasy, though he subsequently returned in 1971 and once more in 2004.
Following his exit, he collaborated with stars including The Beatles’ George Harrison, Jimi Hendrix and The Rolling Stones. He also toured with Eric Clapton, backing Delaney and Bonnie and Friends, and composed Only You Know and I Know for the pair, which was released in 1970.
Dave also experienced a short period with Fleetwood Mac, with their 1995 release, Time, marking their first record since Lindsey Buckingham departed the band. It was also their inaugural album without Stevie Nicks, two decades after she became part of the group. The late musician had intended to tour in 2024 and 2025, but these dates were subsequently postponed after the artist “contracted a severe infection” in March of 2024 and “courageously” fought the illness throughout the following year.
Dave will be sorely missed by many(Image: Getty Images)
Just last year, Dave revealed his retirement from touring, citing personal health concerns. A statement 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 joy remains solid as he steps back from the stage.” Tributes have subsequently flooded in, with fellow musician Stephen Bishop commenting: “I am very sorry to hear about the passing of my friend Dave Mason. We did a show together back in the early 70s, and I remember how incredibly talented he was. I was always 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 wife Winifred Wilson, his daughter Danielle and his nieces and nephews.
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