Dave Mason, Traffic co-founder and ‘Feelin’ Alright’ writer, dies aged 79

Dave Mason, the English rock musician and co-founder of Traffic, has died at the age of 79, according to an announcement from his publicist.

No cause of death was disclosed, although ill health had forced him to cancel a tour last year.

A statement shared to Mason’s Instagram said he died on Sunday, April 19, after enjoying an evening at home with his wife Winifred in Carson Valley. He reportedly made dinner with Winifred before settling into his favourite chair for a nap with their Maltese, Star, at his feet.

It is implied that Mason passed away in his sleep.

A gifted guitarist, songwriter and singer, he wrote some of the band’s most enduring songs, including “Feelin’ Alright” and “Hole in My Shoe,” the latter reaching number two on the UK singles chart. Despite his creative contributions, his tenure with the band was intermittent, leaving and rejoining multiple times.

Born in Worcester, England, in 1946, Mason began his professional music career as a teenager. He first gained experience with early bands including the Jaguars and the Hellions, where he met future collaborator Jim Capaldi.

By 1967, Traffic had emerged as a significant force in the psychedelic rock movement, recording influential albums such as “Mr. Fantasy.”

Following his departure from Traffic in 1968, Mason established himself as a sought-after session musician, collaborating with major artists including the Rolling Stones, Jimi Hendrix and George Harrison. He contributed to notable recordings such as “Electric Ladyland” and “All Things Must Pass.”

Mason also enjoyed a successful solo career in the 1970s, with hits including “Only You Know and I Know” and “We Just Disagree.” His 1974 self-titled album achieved gold status in the United States.

In later years, Mason briefly joined Fleetwood Mac in the 1990s and continued to perform and record music. He was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2004 as a member of Traffic.

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