According to a statement from his family via a representative, Mason passed away after cooking dinner with his wife Winifred, sitting down to take a nap with his dog Star, and dying in his favourite chair. The family described him as a celebrated songwriter, musician, singer, and author who lived a remarkable life devoted to music and the people he loved. An Instagram post from his account added that he died surrounded by the beautiful Carson Valley that he loved so much, calling it a storybook ending on his own terms.
Mason co-founded the group Traffic in Birmingham in April 1967, but left shortly after the release of their self-titled sophomore album. He then pursued a solo career and recorded with a wide array of legendary artists, including George Harrison, the Rolling Stones, Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, Paul McCartney and Wings, Michael Jackson, David Crosby, Graham Nash, and Fleetwood Mac. His family noted that he leaves a lasting imprint on the soundtrack of our lives and the hearts he has lifted, with his legacy to be cherished forever. His work with these artists spanned decades, contributing to numerous iconic albums and live performances that defined rock music, and he was known for his distinctive guitar playing and songwriting that blended rock, folk, and blues influences.
Mason kept touring until 2024, when he cancelled his Traffic Jam Tour after doctors advised him to avoid all tour activity due to a serious heart condition. He announced his official retirement from touring in 2025, citing ongoing health challenges. The exact cause of his death has not been disclosed, nor have the specific serious heart condition or other health challenges that led to his retirement been detailed. Plans for a public memorial or funeral service, and the status of any unreleased music or projects at the time of his death, remain unknown. His family has requested privacy during this time, and fans worldwide have expressed tributes on social media, highlighting his influence on generations of musicians and his role in shaping the sound of classic rock.