Dash Crofts of Seals and Crofts duo dies aged 85

Dash Crofts, one half of the soft rock duo Seals and Crofts, has died at the age of 85, according to confirmation shared by longtime collaborator Louie Shelton.

Shelton, who produced the group during the 1970s, announced the news on social media, writing: “Sad to hear our dear brother and partner in music has passed away today,” and adding, “Sending love and prayers to all his family and fans.”

Crofts, whose full name was Darrell George Crofts, reportedly died due to complications following heart surgery, according to information shared with TMZ by a family member.

He formed Seals and Crofts with Jim Seals in 1969, and the duo became known for a series of successful releases throughout the 1970s.

Their most recognised song, “Summer Breeze,” reached number six on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1972. The pair followed with “Diamond Girl” in 1973 and “Get Closer” in 1976, both of which also reached number six on the same chart.

Additional songs in their catalogue included “I’ll Play for You” and “You’re the Love,” contributing to their presence within the soft rock genre during that period.

Seals and Crofts released their debut album, Seals & Crofts, in 1969 and went on to produce a total of 17 albums. After releasing “The Longest Road” in 1980, the duo separated, marking the beginning of a lengthy hiatus. They later reunited to release their final album, “Traces,” in 2004.

Jim Seals, Crofts’ musical partner, died in 2022.