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Dave Mason, Traffic Co-Founder and Writer of 'Feelin' Alright?', Dies at 79

Peers are honoring a six-decade career that shaped rock through enduring songs and wide-ranging collaborations.

Overview

  • Mason’s family confirmed he died Sunday, April 19, at home in Gardnerville, Nevada, describing a peaceful passing after cooking dinner and napping with his dog at his feet.
  • A cause of death has not been disclosed, and he is survived by his wife, Winifred Wilson, and daughter, Danielle.
  • The Worcester-born guitarist co-founded Traffic in 1967 and wrote band staples including “Feelin’ Alright?” and “Hole in My Shoe,” later scoring a solo hit with “We Just Disagree.”
  • His career included sought-after session work with Jimi Hendrix, George Harrison, the Rolling Stones and Eric Clapton, a brief stint with Fleetwood Mac in the 1990s, and Traffic’s 2004 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction.
  • In recent years he canceled tour dates in 2024 after doctors found a serious heart condition and retired from touring in 2025, closing a long run of active live work.