A rock n’ roll legend has retired from touring after 60 years.
Dave Mason announced Tuesday that he is “closing the curtain” on performing, citing ongoing health challenges. The Rock and Roll Hall of Famer previously canceled his 2025 shows after a severe infection set back his recovery from a heart condition.
“For those who have attended a Dave Mason concert, you know the standard of excellence he demanded of himself and his band. One of Mason’s proudest achievements was keeping his performances entirely live and authentic—no backing loops, no overdubbed vocals, none of the ‘smoke and mirrors’ often used to dilute the truth of a performance,” a statement said. “Onstage, he was the real deal. Offstage, he embodied the consummate road dog, fully devoted to the work and the life he loved.”
Mason, a former member of Traffic and Fleetwood Mac, had more than 20 shows scheduled in July and August, including an Aug. 6 concert at the Clayton Opera House in Upstate New York.
“With deep regret, I must cancel all tour dates for 2025 due to ongoing health issues stemming from the infection I had in March,” Mason said in June. “A heartfelt thank you to all the fans, and to my family, band, agents and the venues who’ve waited patiently and supported me throughout this journey. Your kind messages have lifted my spirits more than words can express. Recovery is a long road. My love for you all runs deep.”
Mason, 79, is an English singer-songwriter who first rose to fame with the classic rock band Traffic, singing lead vocals on hits like “Feelin’ Alright?” and “Hole in My Shoe.” He also had solo hits with “Only You Know and I Know” and “We Just Disagree.”
Mason was also briefly a member of Fleetwood Mac, contributing to the 1995 album “Time” and touring with the band in the mid-’90s. Mason additionally worked as a session musician for artists like Michael Jackson, The Rolling Stones, Eric Clapton, George Harrison, Steve Winwood, “Mama Cass” Elliott, and Jimi Hendrix.
“His imprint on rock music is undeniable and monumental,” a rep said in a statement.
Mason is expected to continue creative projects in his retirement, including an upcoming children’s book and plan to share unreleased tracks from his decades-long career.
Mason was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2004 as a founding member of Traffic. He released a memoir, “Only You Know & I Know,” last year, and most recently released a solo album, “A Shade of Blues,” in March.
“He retires from touring a happy man with a heart full of gratitude to his band members, business colleagues, and especially his legions of fans who made his life one of deep satisfaction and fulfillment. The immensity of his joy remains solid as he steps back from the stage,” the statement continued. “Dave Mason’s legacy is a testament to the enduring power of rock n’ roll and to a man who has followed his passion with authenticity and joy for more than six decades. His music will continue to inspire and resonate for generations to come.
