Dave Mason dead at 79: Traffic singer and Fleetwood Mac member passes away

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Dave Mason, the lead singer and co-founder of Traffic, has died at the age of 79.

The famous British rock musician, who also played with Fleetwood Mac, died at his home on Sunday. His death was announced on his Instagram account on Tuesday.

Mason’s cause of death has not yet been revealed, though he previously suffered from heart issues. 

I was so incredibly saddened to hear about the passing of Dave Mason. It’s just heartbreaking news, and I’m deeply mourning his loss.

After sharing a wonderful dinner with his wife, Winifred, he peacefully passed away on Sunday, April 19th, while napping in his favorite chair. His beloved Maltese, Star, was by his side, and he was surrounded by the beautiful scenery of the Carson Valley, a place he cherished.

It was a perfect ending, exactly as he wanted it – a fitting close to a life lived fully on his own terms, the statement read.

His music has deeply touched many lives and brought joy to countless people. He will be fondly remembered for years to come.

Dave Mason’s representative confirmed his death to Deadline, sharing, ‘It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Dave Mason on behalf of his family.’

I was so saddened to hear about the passing of a true legend. He was a remarkable talent – a Rock & Roll Hall of Famer, incredible songwriter, musician, singer, and author – and thankfully, he passed away peacefully at his home in Gardnerville, Nevada, on April 19th. It’s a huge loss for the music world, and I’ll always cherish his contributions.

‘Dave Mason lived a remarkable life devoted to the music and the people he loved.’

Mason had a serious heart problem that forced him to cancel his 2024 Traffic Jam Tour.

He announced he would be retiring from touring in 2025 due to ‘ongoing health challenges.’

In 1967, Mason started the English band Traffic alongside Steve Winwood, Jim Capaldi, and Chris Wood in Birmingham.

The band’s first album, Mr. Fantasy, came out in 1967. A year later, in 1968, they released another album simply titled after the band’s name, and it featured their popular song, “Feelin’ Alright?”.

Mason left the band shortly afterwards and moved on to a solo career in the 1970s. 

His other hits include Only You Know and I Know and We Just Disagree.

In the mid-1990s, Mason was briefly a member of Fleetwood Mac. He recorded one album with them, titled Time, which was released in 1995, and toured with the band from 1994 to 1995.

He collaborated with many famous musicians, including Jimi Hendrix, the Rolling Stones, Michael Jackson, Eric Clapton, Paul McCartney and Wings, and George Harrison.

The musician is survived by his wife, Winifred Wilson, his daughter Danielle, and several nieces and nephews.

The musician died after the loss of his son, True, and his sister, Valerie Leonard, who both passed away previously.

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2026-04-22 09:04