Dave Mason, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Who Co-Founded Traffic and Sang ‘Feelin’ Alright’ and ‘We Just Disagree,’ Dies at 79

Dave Mason, the influential British guitarist, singer, and songwriter known for co-founding the psychedelic rock band Traffic and penning classics such as “Feelin’ Alright” and “We Just Disagree,” has died at the age of 79. Mason’s death was confirmed by his publicist, though no cause was disclosed. His ill health had forced him to cancel a tour the previous year. Mason was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2004 alongside the original members of Traffic. Mason’s career spanned several decades, marked by both his work with Traffic and a successful solo career. He contributed significantly to Traffic’s early sound, writing hits like “Hole in My Shoe” and “Feelin’ Alright,” the latter becoming a widely covered rock standard. Despite an on-again, off-again relationship with the band, Mason’s guitar work and songwriting helped define the group’s psychedelic era sound on albums such as 1967’s “Mr. Fantasy.” Beyond Traffic, Mason collaborated with notable artists including the Rolling Stones, George Harrison, Jimi Hendrix, David Crosby, and Michael Jackson, showcasing his versatility as a musician. Born in Worcester, England, in 1946, Mason began his musical journey with the instrumental group the Jaguars before joining the Hellions. He later became road manager for the Spencer Davis Group, where he worked alongside Steve Winwood. When Winwood left to form Traffic in 1967, Mason joined as a founding member, contributing not only guitar but also sitar and other unconventional instruments, helping to shape the band’s innovative sound. Traffic’s work during the late 1960s, particularly under Island Records, influenced many artists and remains a touchstone of the psychedelic rock movement. Mason’s legacy endures through his enduring songs and collaborations, which have left a lasting imprint on rock music. His ability to blend strong songwriting with distinctive guitar playing made him a respected figure in the music world, and his contributions continue to resonate with fans and musicians alike.