Legendary singer David Crosby dies aged 81 after 'long illness'
19 January 2023, 22:19 | Updated: 19 January 2023, 23:32
Rock legend David Crosby has died aged 81 after a long illness.
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The singer co-founded both the Byrds and Crosby, Stills and Nash, taking the music scene by storm in the 60s and 70s.
During his time in LA-based folk-rock group The Byrds, Crosby collaborated on chart-topping hits including a cover of Bob Dylan's Mr Tambourine Man and Turn! Turn! Turn!.
Shortly after leaving the band in 1967 following a tumultuous tenure, he joined the supergroup Crosby, Stills and Nash - with Stephen Stills and Graham Nash, which later added Neil Young.
He wrote Guinnevere, Almost Cut My Hair, Long Time Gone, Delta and Deja Vu for the group.
Crosby's success saw him inducted to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice.
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In a statement shared with Variety, his wife said: "It is with great sadness after a long illness, that our beloved David (Croz) Crosby has passed away.
"He was lovingly surrounded by his wife and soulmate Jan and son Django.
"Although he is no longer here with us, his humanity and kind soul will continue to guide and inspire us.
"His legacy will continue to live on through his legendary music.
"Peace, love, and harmony to all who knew David and those he touched. We will miss him dearly.
"At this time, we respectfully and kindly ask for privacy as we grieve and try to deal with our profound loss. Thank you for the love and prayers."
Beach Boys singer Brian Wilson was one of the first to pen a tribute to Crosby, writing that he is "at a loss for words" following the news.
"I don't know what to say other than I'm heartbroken to hear about David Crosby. David was an unbelievable talent - such a great singer and songwriter. And a wonderful person," he tweeted.
