RIP David Crosby, Dead at 81

Legendary musician David Crosby, founding member of the Byrds and renowned for his role in the super-group, Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young, has died at the age of 81.

“It is with great sadness after a long illness, that our beloved David (Croz) Crosby has passed away,” his wife wrote in a statement to Variety. “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.”

“Warner Music is deeply saddened by the passing of David Crosby, truly a landmark musician and also a seminal figure in the history of Atlantic Records," said Kevin Gore, President of Global Catalog, Recorded Music for Warner Music Group, in a press statement. "Twice inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame as a founding member of both The Byrds and Crosby, Stills & Nash, Crosby made a lasting impact on popular music and culture with his introspective, intuitive songcraft, impeccable musicianship, and glorious lead and harmony vocals. From his groundbreaking albums with CSN and CSNY to his solo masterpiece If I Could Only Remember My Name, Crosby’s songs are essential threads in the fabric of rock and roll, uniquely crafted in self-lacerating introspection, acute social commentary, and atmospheric melodies. The Warner Music family will continue to honor the brilliant work he’s left behind and thank him for his extraordinary contributions to music history. Our deepest condolences go out to his wife Jan, his sons James Raymond and Django, daughters Erika and Donovan, along with his bandmates, friends, and millions of fans around the world. Rest In Peace, David.”