British rock musician Dave Mason, co-founder of 1970s rock band Traffic, died Sunday, April 19, at age 79.
A spokesperson for Mason confirmed to USA TODAY that Mason died April 19 at his home in Gardnerville, Nevada.
“Dave Mason lived a remarkable life devoted to the music and the people he loved,” a statement about his passing said.
Mason is survived by his wife and partner, Winifred Wilson; daughter Danielle; nephew John (Trish) Leonard and niece Michelle Leonard; as well as his brothers-in-law Sloan (Claudia) Wilson and Walton (Barbara Sims) Wilson. In addition to True, Mason was preceded in death by his sister, Valerie Leonard.
Here’s what to know about Dave Mason.
When did Dave Mason die?
Mason died Sunday, April 19, at his home in Gardnerville, Nevada, a spokesperson confirmed to USA TODAY.
In 2024, Mason postponed a tour after a serious heart condition was discovered during a routine medical checkup. In 2025, Mason canceled all of his tour dates as his health problems persisted.
“Recovery is a long road. My love for you all runs deep,” Mason wrote on Instagram at the time.
Who was Dave Mason?
Born David Thomas Mason in Worcester, England, known as Dave Mason, he was a musician and co-founder of the British rock band Traffic, Classic Rock History.
“I’m kind of the Forrest Gump of rock,” Mason told USA TODAY in a 2024 interview. In March 2025, he released “A Shade of Blues,” his 21st album, featuring appearances by Michael McDonald and Joe Bonamassa.
Who was Traffic?
Traffic was a British rock band founded in 1967 by Mason, Steve Winwood, Jim Capaldi and Chris Wood, according to last.fm. The group sold over 2.5 million albums in the U.S., BestSellingAlbums.org said.
In the UK, the band’s single “Paper Sun,” reached No. 5 on the charts, while another “Hole in My Shoe,” written by Mason yet controversial within Traffic, hit No. 2, ClassicBands.com noted.
Among the songs that continues to receive airplay in the U.S. is “Dear Mr. Fantasy” from the group’s 1967 “Mr. Fantasy” album. The group also wrote “Feelin’ Alright,” which had greater chart success for Joe Cocker in the 1970s.
USA TODAY contributed.
Contact Jenna Prestininzi: jprestininzi@freepress.com.
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Traffic co-founder Dave Mason dies at 79 after years of health issues
Reporting by Jenna Prestininzi and Melissa Ruggieri, USA TODAY NETWORK / Detroit Free Press
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
