Dave Mason: The Untold Story. An Homage to the Late Guitar Legend

About this episode

Dave Mason reflects on his life in music, his time with Traffic, and his solo career in a candid interview.

Sandy recently sat down with legendary guitarist, singer-songwriter and founding member of Traffic, Dave Mason, for a candid and often humorous look back at a remarkable life in music. Dave reflects on his early beginnings, revealing how a failed ambition to join the Royal Air Force led him instead toward music—a path he committed to in his teens after forming his first bands. He shares how his connection with Steve Winwood and others came about, giving insight into the organic, free-spirited formation of Traffic during the vibrant 1960s music scene. The conversation explores Dave’s songwriting journey, including the creation of classics like “Hole in My Shoe” and the enduring anthem “Feelin’ Alright.” He explains how his early lack of life experience pushed him to seek inspiration abroad, ultimately shaping some of his most iconic work. Dave also reflects on the tensions within Traffic, driven by differing musical directions, which led to his eventual departure. Moving into his solo career, Dave discusses working alongside music giants such as Jimi Hendrix, George Harrison and Paul McCartney. He speaks with admiration about Hendrix in particular, describing him as truly one of a…

People in this episode

Host: Sandy Kaye

Guest: Dave Mason

Topics covered

• music history
• songwriting
• fame
• creativity
• Traffic
• guitar legends

Keywords

• Dave Mason
• Traffic
• songwriting
• Jimi Hendrix
• music career
• 1960s music scene
• Feelin' Alright
• Hole in My Shoe
• fame
• creativity

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Traffic

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