New York, April 22 -- Veteran English guitarist, singer and songwriter Dave Mason, best known as a co-founder of the rock band Traffic and for writing the classic track Feelin' Alright?, has died at the age of 79.

A spokesperson for his family confirmed the news to PEOPLE magazine that the popular guitarist passed away peacefully at his home in Gardnerville, Nevada, on April 19.

"On behalf of his family, it is with deep and profound sadness that we share the news of the passing of Dave Mason," the spokesperson said. The family also remembered him as a celebrated songwriter, musician, singer and author.

Born in Worcester, United Kingdom, Mason rose to fame after co-founding Traffic in 1967 along with Steve Winwood, Jim Capaldi and Chris...