Celebrating the Legacy of Dave Mason: A Guitar Icon’s Journey
Dave Mason, who passed away on April 19, just shy of his 80th birthday, leaves behind a remarkable six-decade legacy filled with both triumphs and challenges, yet never lacking in excitement.
While many recognize him for his pivotal role in the late-1960s progressive rock band Traffic, his influence extends far beyond that, with notable contributions to the works of legends like Jimi Hendrix, The Rolling Stones, George Harrison, Eric Clapton, and Fleetwood Mac.
The Turbulent Dynamics of Traffic
Despite his undeniable talent, some critics argue that Mason’s career could have soared even higher if not for the internal strife within Traffic, particularly his tumultuous relationship with Steve Winwood. This discord often hindered the band’s progress and may have prevented them from achieving the legendary status of their contemporaries. Reflecting on this, Mason once remarked to The Guardian in 2024, “On one level, I could hate every one of them.”
Early Beginnings and Breakthroughs
Born on May 10, 1946, in Worcestershire, David Thomas Mason emerged as a perfect counterpart to Winwood when the latter departed from the Spencer Davis Group in 1967. Their collaboration initially flourished, highlighted by Mason’s composition and vocals on the hit single hole In my Shoe, wich soared to No. 2 in the UK charts. However, the rest of the band was less enthusiastic about its psychedelic pop direction, and Mason himself felt a yearning for deeper life experiences to inspire his songwriting. this led to his departure shortly after the release of Traffic’s debut album, Mr. Fantasy (1967).
A Return to traffic and Iconic Hits
After producing Family’s debut album, Mason rejoined Traffic for their self-titled follow-up in 1968, where he once again showcased his talent with the classic Feelin’ Alright? This track would later be covered by numerous artists, including Joe Cocker and Paul Weller. However, tensions with Winwood resurfaced, culminating in Mason’s dismissal just months later. He recounted being told, “I don’t like the way you write. I don’t like the way you sing. I don’t like the way you play. And we don’t want you in the band anymore.”
Collaborations with Rock Legends
In the wake of his departure from Traffic, Mason thrived as a sought-after session musician. He played the shehnai on The Rolling Stones’ iconic 1968 track Street Fighting Man and contributed his skills to Jimi Hendrix’s legendary All Along The Watchtower, recalling that it took him over ten takes to nail the intricate 12-string acoustic intro. Mason also collaborated with Eric Clapton’s associates Delaney & Bonnie and later joined the ranks of Derek and the Dominos. His versatility shone through as he lent his guitar work to George Harrison’s All Things Must Pass (1970) and Wings’ hit Listen To What The Man said (1975).
Solo Success and Later Years
the 1970s marked a high point for mason, with his solo album Let It Flow achieving platinum status in the U.S. However, the 1980s saw a decline in his commercial success, and his collaborations became less frequent. A stint with fleetwood Mac in the mid-1990s was notably fraught, with Christine McVie describing it as “very acrimonious.”
A Lasting Impact and Final Years
In the years following the turn of the millennium, Mason remained active, even launching his own sustainable guitar brand, RKS, in collaboration with designer Ravi Sawhney. Keith Richards praised the brand as a “fucking impressive device.”
“when Dave joined me to create RKS Guitars,” Sawhney reflected after Mason’s passing, “he didn’t come as a rock star looking to slap his name on a product.He was hands-on in every aspect of the process.He was a true creator, a rare talent who constantly sought innovation.”
However, in September 2024, Mason disclosed that he was receiving treatment for a serious heart condition, which led to the cancellation of his tour dates due to ongoing health challenges. In a touching tribute, Winwood led the acknowledgments following mason’s death.
“Dave was integral to Traffic’s early days, considerably shaping the band’s sound and identity. His songwriting, musicianship, and unique spirit contributed to music that transcends time and continues to resonate with audiences worldwide. His legacy will forever be cherished,and through his music,he remains present.”
Mason’s family shared a poignant final note, indicating he found peace in his last moments. “After preparing a wonderful dinner with his wife, Winifred, he settled down for a nap with his dog at his feet. he passed away peacefully in his favorite chair, surrounded by the beautiful Carson valley he adored. A storybook ending, on his own terms, just as he lived his life until the very end.”
