The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee and one of the co-founders of the Birmingham-based rock band, Traffic, David Thomas Mason, commonly known as Dave Mason, passed away at 79 on April 19, 2026, as per Page Six. While the British guitarist-turned-singer-songwriter Dave’s exact cause of death is still unclear, the rock legend took his last breath at his residence in Nevada, US.
The news about Dave Mason’s death was confirmed by his family on April 22, 2026. According to People Magazine, a representative of the Mason family released a statement on April 19, which read:
“On behalf of his family, it is with deep and profound sadness that we share the news of the passing of Dave Mason. The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee, celebrated songwriter, musician, singer, and author passed away peacefully at his home in Gardnerville, Nevada.”
The statement further added:
“Dave Mason lived a remarkable life devoted to the music and the people he loved.”
An influential figure in rock history, Dave Mason, who had a long and successful career that spanned over sixty years, left behind his wife of six years, Winifred Wilson, and his daughter Danielle. Dave tied the knot with Winifred in 2018. Besides being his wife, Wilson was also his merchandise manager and tour hostess.
Dave Mason’s health struggles explored as he passes away at 79
Being a well-established artist and with a successful music career, Dave Mason had his fair share of good fortune. However, the legendary guitarist, Mason, struggled with his health from time to time. In the last few years, he was in the news due to his health issues.
As per People Magazine, in September 2024, Dave Mason suffered a “serious heart condition”, which turned into a “severe infection.” In 2025, Dave also had to postpone his fall tour. At the time, Dave Mason released a statement in which he wrote:
“With deep regret, I must cancel all tour dates for 2025 due to ongoing health issues stemming from the infection I had in March. I’m incredibly grateful to my team of doctors. This has been challenging territory, to say the least.”
In the statement, while he appreciated his family, band members, and fans for supporting him during his tough time, Dave Mason further added:
“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.”
According to the BBC, Mason also had to go through surgery in November 2024, which involved a heart valve replacement. He was admitted to Nevada’s Sierra Medical Center. As he later dealt with health issues, his heart valve replacement surgery was a success.
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Dave Mason, released his memoir Only You Know & I Know in September 2024.
Edited by Priscillah Mueni