'70s Rock Legend Dead at 79
Dave Mason, guitarist and co-founder of the band Traffic, has died.
The English singer-songwriter passed away at his home in Gardnerville, Nevada on Sunday at the age of 79.
The heartbreaking news was confirmed by his family on his official Facebook page.
Although the cause of death has not been revealed, the family shared that he passed away peacefully after spending time with them, including his beloved wife Winifred and their dog Star, on his final day.
"It is with deep and profound sadness that we share the news of the passing of Dave Mason. 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. He passed away peacefully, in his favorite 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," the caption reads.
Prior to his death, Mason was forced to postpone a tour in 2024 due to an "urgent heart condition" that he discovered during a routine medical checkup.
A year later, he called off his full tour schedule as he was still recovering from a "severe infection."
"With deep regret, I must cancel all tour dates for 2025 due to ongoing health issues stemming from the infection I had in March," he mentioned in a statement at the time.
However, in the same year, Mason announced his retirement from touring due to persistent health problems.
As the music legend prioritized his health, he took the opportunity to thank his fans and those around him including his doctors for their compassion and guidance.
"I'm incredibly grateful to my team of doctors-this has been challenging territory, to say the least," he said as cited by Ultimate Classic Rock, adding "A heartfelt thank you to all the fans, and to my family, band, agents and the venues who've waited patiently and supported me throughout this journey."
The late musician is known for co-establishing the acclaimed rock band in 1967 together with Chris Wood, Steve Winwood and Jim Capaldi.
At the height of their career, Traffic released a string of notable hits including "Hole in My Shoe," "Paper Sun" and "Here We Go Round the Mulberry Bush."
In 1970, Mason pursued a solo career and released his debut album, Alone Together.
It was his sixth solo studio album, Let It Flow, when he achieved major solo success through his second single "We Just Disagree," marking his highest-charting solo hit after reaching No. 12 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Related: 1977 Dave Mason Classic That Defined His Solo Career Still Reigns as His Biggest Hit
Copyright 2026 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved
This story was originally published April 22, 2026 at 10:02 AM.