Heartfelt tributes to David Crosby, a legendary US musician who founded The Byrds David Crosby is now 81

David Crosby, an American musician who founded two of the most influential rock bands in his career, has passed away at the tender age of 81.

The singer-songwriter rose in fame with the Los Angeles-based band The Byrds. He joined them in 1964 and worked on hits such as a cover of Bob Dylan’s Mr Tambourine Man and Turn! Turn! Turn!.

After a turbulent period, he left the band in 1967 and joined Crosby, Stills & Nash – along with Stephen Stills, Graham Nash, and later, Neil Young.

He also wrote Guinnevere (Almost Cut My Hair), Long Time Gone, Delta and Deja Vu during his time in the band.

In a statement to the American magazine Variety, his wife Jan Dance wrote: “Our beloved David (Cruise) Crosby has sadly passed away after a long illness. Jan, his friend, and Django, were there to comfort him.

Even though he is no more with us, his humanity will continue to inspire and guide us. His music will carry his legacy on.

“Peace, love and harmony to all who knew David and those who touched him. He will be greatly missed. As we grieve and deal with our deep loss, we respectfully request your privacy. Thank you for the love and prayers.”

Crosby was inducted twice into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for his contributions to both bands.

Brian Wilson, the Beach Boys singer, was the first to pay tribute to Crosby. He wrote that he was “at loss for words” following the news.

He tweeted: “I don’t know what to say other than I’m sad to hear about David Crosby. David was an incredible talent – ​​a great singer-songwriter. And an amazing person.”

Press Association – Elie Oorizo