Dave Mason: Rock Legend and Founder of Traffic Band Dies at 79

Liputan6.com, Jakarta - The global rock music world is once again in mourning with the news of the passing of Dave Mason, one of the central figures and founder of the legendary British rock band, Traffic.

The multi-talented musician passed away on Sunday, April 19, 2026, at the age of 79, leaving behind a timeless musical legacy.

A statement from his representatives said he died peacefully on Sunday at his home in Gardnerville, Nevada, after settling in the US in 1969.

“Dave Mason lived a remarkable life devoted to the music and the people he loved,” the statement added.

The exact cause of Dave Mason's death was not officially disclosed to the public.

Dave Mason, the Traffic guitarist who wrote the classic rock standard "Feelin' Alright?” and jammed with The Rolling Stones, George Harrison, and Jimi Hendrix, has died at age 79https://t.co/B6yYUqEACo

— Rolling Stone (@RollingStone) April 22, 2026

Dave Mason was one of the main pillars behind the formation of Traffic in 1967, a band that would go on to make history in rock music.

Along with Steve Winwood, Jim Capaldi, and Chris Wood, Mason created a unique and innovative musical identity.

Traffic was widely recognized for its ability to blend various genres, from psychedelic rock and blues to R&B and even touches of jazz, producing a distinctive and captivating sound.

He not only served as guitarist and songwriter, but also provided lead vocals on some of the band's iconic songs.

Songs like "Hole in My Shoe" and "Feelin' Alright?" are a testament to Mason's genius for creating memorable melodies and lyrics with timeless appeal.

Although a founding member, Dave Mason's tenure with Traffic was short-lived and rejoined the band several times.

After deciding to leave Traffic completely in 1969, Dave Mason began a new chapter in his musical career, focusing on his solo career.

Three of his solo albums even achieved gold certification from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA): "Alone Together" (1970), "Dave Mason" (1974), and "Mariposa de Oro" (1978).

The pinnacle of Dave Mason's solo career was the album "Let It Flow," released in 1977.

This album not only achieved platinum status but also spawned one of his biggest hits, "We Just Disagree," written by Jim Krueger.

Throughout his career, he has collaborated with numerous major names in the music world.

One of his most legendary contributions was playing 12-string acoustic guitar on Jimi Hendrix's version of "All Along the Watchtower."

His list of collaborators also includes other legendary musicians such as George Harrison, The Rolling Stones, Eric Clapton, Paul McCartney and Wings, Michael Jackson, Fleetwood Mac, and Stevie Wonder.

In 2024, Dave Mason was forced to cancel a planned tour after doctors detected a "serious heart condition" requiring "immediate medical attention" during a routine checkup.

Although initially expected to make a full recovery, ongoing health challenges, including a rapidly progressing serious infection, ultimately led him to announce his retirement from touring in 2025.

His final concert was scheduled for August 18, 2024, in Plainfield, Indiana, marking an emotional farewell to his fans on stage.

Despite ending his touring career due to health reasons, Dave Mason's legacy in music has been widely recognized.

One of the highest honors he received was his induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2004.