Dave Mason, the talented guitarist behind hits like “Feelin’ Alright?” and “We Just Disagree,” passed away on Sunday at the age of 79. His family shared the news, expressing their sorrow: “Dave Mason lived a remarkable life devoted to the music and people he loved.” This announcement comes after Mason retreated from touring last fall due to health issues, leaving behind a legacy filled with gratitude for his fans and colleagues.
Mason kickstarted his career with Traffic, a psychedelic band that achieved major success with songs like “Hole in My Shoe.” He left the group soon after, hinting at a lifelong tendency to explore various musical paths. His impressive career saw him collaborating with legends such as Jimi Hendrix, the Rolling Stones, and Fleetwood Mac, often joking that he was like “the Forrest Gump of rock,” thanks to his many encounters with rock royalty.
Born on May 10, 1946, in Worcester, England, Mason’s musical journey began early. His passion was ignited by rock & roll, especially the music of Buddy Holly. By age 16, he was playing professionally and had already begun forming valuable connections in the industry. He played guitar in various bands, eventually leading to the formation of Traffic alongside Steve Winwood and Jim Capaldi.
Traffic quickly became known for their unique sound, blending elements of rock and psychedelia. Their hits “Paper Sun” and “Here We Go Round the Mulberry Bush” were just the beginning. Mason’s song “Feelin’ Alright?” found new life when Joe Cocker covered it in 1969, demonstrating Mason’s knack for creating music that resonated deeply.
His journey wasn’t without challenges. After leaving Traffic, Mason faced several ups and downs, including a fallout with the band. Winwood’s dismissal of him led to a period of self-discovery and collaboration with other artists, including a memorable session with Hendrix on “All Along the Watchtower.”
In the 1970s, Mason began his solo career, starting with his album Alone Together, which showcased his distinct sound and earned critical acclaim. Hits like “Only You Know and I Know” and “We Just Disagree” solidified his status as a solo artist. Interestingly, Mason’s evolution reflects broader shifts in music during the late 20th century. Where once rock dominated, the late ’70s saw a surge in disco and punk, pushing many artists to adapt or fade away. Mason navigated these changes, releasing albums throughout the ’80s and ’90s, although he found it hard to fit the evolving music industry.
Mason’s influence still resonates. Recently, trends on social media highlighted fans reminiscing about his work and sharing their favorite tracks. His music remains a staple in many playlists, demonstrating his lasting impact.
Despite the challenges, Mason never lost his love for music or performing. “I never wanted to be a rock star. I just wanted to write great music, make some money, and have fun,” he once said. Through his extensive career and unwavering passion for music, Mason cultivated a legacy that will be remembered for years to come.
For more on Mason’s journey and contributions to music, check out his recent memoir, Only You Know and I Know, where he reflects on the people and moments that shaped his remarkable life.
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