News : Dave Mason of Traffic has passed away

Traffic co founder Dave Mason has passed away at the age of 79.

In a message shared on Tuesday, a spokesperson confirmed with “deep and profound sadness” that the English singer songwriter and guitarist died over the weekend.

“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,” they shared. “He passed away peacefully, in his favorite chair, surrounded by the beautiful Carson Valley (in Nevada) that he loved so much. A storybook ending. On his own terms. Which is how he lived his life right up until the end.”

The representative also expressed gratitude to fans for their continued support.

“He leaves a lasting imprint on the soundtrack of our lives and the hearts he has lifted. His legacy will be cherished forever,” they added.

No official cause of death has been revealed.

Born in Worcester, England in 1946, Mason first gained recognition as a founding member of the rock group Traffic.

He was behind some of the band’s most well known songs, writing and performing lead vocals on tracks such as Feelin’ Alright? and Hole in My Shoe.

His time with Traffic was marked by several changes, as he left following the release of their debut album Mr Fantasy in 1967, returned for their self titled album in 1968, and later stepped away once again.

Throughout his career, Mason also worked alongside a wide range of artists, including George Harrison, Eric Clapton, Fleetwood Mac, and the Rolling Stones.

He also wrote Only You Know and I Know for Delaney & Bonnie and achieved solo success with his 1977 hit We Just Disagree.

In 2025, Mason revealed he was stepping back from live performances, cancelling scheduled shows due to “ongoing health challenges” and confirming his retirement from touring.

He is survived by his wife Winifred Wilson and his daughter Danielle.