Dave Mason, the highly acclaimed singer, songwriter, and musician, a co-founder of the iconic band Traffic and an inductee into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 19, at the age of 79.

His family announced the news with profound sadness, stating that Mason died at his home in Gardnerville, Nevada, having lived a remarkable life dedicated to music and his loved ones.

He was born in post-war England in 1946, Mason first rose to prominence with the blues-rock ensemble Traffic.

His significant contributions to the band included writing credits and lead vocals for memorable tracks such as “Hole in My Shoe” and the enduring hit “Feelin’ Alright?”.

The latter achieved widespread recognition, being recorded by numerous artists including Joe Cocker, the Jackson 5, and John Belushi, solidifying its place in music history.

Traffic, throughout its active years, released 11 albums, with four of them cracking the top 10 on the Billboard 200, and additionally, four of their singles successfully charted on the Billboard Hot 100.

Mason also cultivated an impressive solo career, which commenced in 1970 with his debut album, *Alone Together*.

This album peaked at No. 22 on the Billboard 200 and featured the Billboard Hot 100 hit “Only You Know and I Know.”

His 1977 album, *Let It Flow*, became a platinum-selling success, notable for its single “We Just Disagree.”

His most recent solo album, *A Shade of Blue*, was released in 2025, and after an illustrious 60 years of touring, Mason recently announced his retirement from live performances, citing ongoing health challenges.

Dave Mason was not only known for his band Traffic and solo music, but also for working with many famous artists like Jimi Hendrix, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, The Rolling Stones, Eric Clapton, and Michael Jackson.

His guitar can be heard on popular songs like All Along the Watchtower, Street Fighting Man, and Listen To What The Man Said.

After Traffic broke up in 1974, they reunited briefly in the 1990s. In 2004, Mason was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with his band.

He is survived by his wife, daughter, and other family members. He lost his son and sister earlier in life.