Dave Mason Dies at 79 in Northern Nevada

Dave Mason Dies at 79 in Northern Nevada

Dave Mason, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer and founding member of the British rock band Traffic, died on Sunday, April 19, at his home in Gardnerville. He was 79.

According to a family statement, Mason died peacefully after spending the evening with his wife, Winifred Wilson, cooking dinner and later resting in his favorite chair with the family’s Maltese, Star, at his feet. He died in the home overlooking the Carson Valley, a place he had come to love.

“It is with deep and profound sadness that we share the news,” the family said, describing his passing as peaceful and “on his own terms.”

Mason had stepped back from touring in recent years following serious heart-related health issues first discovered in 2024. He canceled all remaining tour dates in 2025 as his condition persisted, writing at the time, “Recovery is a long road. My love for you all runs deep.”

Born May 10, 1946, in Worcester, England, Mason rose to prominence in the late 1960s as part of Traffic, contributing to early hits including “Paper Sun” and “Hole in My Shoe.” He is widely associated with the 1968 song “Feelin’ Alright?”, later turned into a signature anthem by Joe Cocker.

That recording helped cement Mason’s reputation as a songwriter whose work often outlived its original intent. “I’m kind of the Forrest Gump of rock,” he said in a 2024 interview, reflecting on a career that placed him alongside Jimi Hendrix, George Harrison, Paul McCartney, the Rolling Stones, and Fleetwood Mac.

After leaving Traffic, Mason launched a solo career that included the 1977 hit “We Just Disagree” and more than 20 albums over five decades, including his 2025 release A Shade of Blues, featuring Michael McDonald and Joe Bonamassa.

He also documented his life and career in his 2024 memoir, Only You Know & I Know, which mixed tour stories, industry history, and personal struggle, including addiction, financial collapse, and the death of his son in 2006.

Mason is survived by his wife, Winifred Wilson; his daughter, Danielle; and his extended family.