Dave Mason who co-founded British rock band Traffic has died at 79, was he married, did he have children?
Tributes have been paid to musician Dave Mason following his death at 79.
Musician Dave Mason who co-founded British rock band Traffic has died at 79. A statement on his Instagram page reads: “It is with deep and profound sadness that we share the news of the passing of Dave Mason. On Sunday, April 19, after cooking an amazing dinner with his beloved wife Winifred, he sat down to take a nap with sweet Star (the maltese) at his feet. He passed away peacefully, in his favorite chair, surrounded by the beautiful Carson Valley that he loved so much. A storybook ending. On his own terms. Which is how he lived his life right up until the end.
“He leaves a lasting imprint on the soundtrack of our lives and the hearts he has lifted. His legacy will be cherished forever.”
In response to the statement, one fan wrote: “My condolences to his wife and family...My 2 times seeing him Live was at the Troubadour ( right after Alone Together came out) and more recently in Rogers Arkansas at the Amp. Brilliant guitar player, extraordinary song writer. He blended string emotions in his lyrics with equal guitar riffs accentuating his feelings thru poetic words. A true original. 🥀🎸.”
Another fan said: “When I saw your photo, I thought: how wonderful it would be if you announced a tour and came to Argentina. But you set off on another tour instead, one we’ll all join you on someday, with no borders in the way. Such sadness, Dave. You’ll be present in every one of your songs, each time your voice and your wonderfully distinctive guitar are heard. Thank you for being one of those who made this world a more beautiful place.🙌🏻.”
One other person said: “Thank you for the music. Thank you for the blessings of the many live shows I was able to attend. Bless you, Dave. Peace and prayers to your wife and band mates. 🙏🙏.”
In 2024 Dave Mason shared details of his memoir on Instagram and wrote: “📕ONLY YOU KNOW & I KNOW is OUT NOW!! 🎸
“Penning a memoir was an interesting project, to say the least. I’m not one to look back so much, I’m more of a forward looking person. Yet now that it’s written and documented, I must say I’m left with, mostly, immense gratitude, though there’s been many challenges that at the time felt insurmountable.
“Clearly, music has been, and continues to be my North Star. I hope you’ll find Only You Know & I Know not just entertaining - but a read that offers connection. This memoir is a testament to the power of rock ‘n’ roll and the enduring impact it has had on my career and personal life.”
On June 3, 2025 Dave Mason shared a message on his Facebook about having to cancel his tour due to health issues and wrote: “With deep regret, I must cancel all tour dates for 2025 due to ongoing health issues stemming from the infection I battled in March. I’m incredibly grateful to my team of doctors—this has been challenging territory, to say the least.
“A heartfelt thank you to all the fans, and to my family, band, agents, and the venues who’ve waited patiently and supported me throughout this journey. Your kind messages have lifted my spirits more than words can express.
“Recovery is a long road. My love for you all runs deep.
“God bless, Dave.”
Dave Mason will be best remembered for co-founding British rock band Traffic in 1967 with Steve Winwood, Jim Capaldi and Chris Wood. The band’s hit hit Feelin’ Alright?, was written by Dave Mason and later re-recorded by stars such as Joe Cocker and the Jackson 5.
After leaving British rock band Traffic in 1968, he released his debut solo album Alone Together two years later. In the 1990s he briefly joined Fleetwood Mac and went on tour with them for a year in 1994. During his career, Dave Mason also worked with the likes of Sir Paul McCartney and Michael Jackson.
When it came to his personal life, Dave Mason married wife Winifred in 2018 but the couple had been together for many years before they wed. In June 2025 he shared a birthday tribute to her on Instagram and wrote: “Back in 2018, I said “Winifred” might be the next great Summer love song. This year, after everything—we both know it already is. Happy birthday to the heart of the backstage. I love you more than words and chords could say. 🎶💜.”
Dave Mason is survived by wife Winifred, daughter Danielle, he was preceded in death by son True.