David Crosby, co-founder of The Byrds, dies at 81

david crosbyfounding member of The Byrds and Crosby, Stills & Nash, He died this Thursday at the age of 81.

The David’s wife, Jan Danceannounced the sad news in a statement to Variety.

“It is with great sadness after a long illness that our beloved David (Croz) Crosby passed away. He was lovingly surrounded by his wife and soul mate Jan and his 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 live on through his legendary music,” he commented.

And he added: “Peace, love and harmony to all who knew David and those he touched. We will miss him very much. At this time, we respectfully and kindly ask for privacy as we grieve and try to deal with our profound loss. Thanks for the love and prayers.”

David joined The Byrds in 1964, and the group became known for a cover of Mr. Tambourine Man by Bob Dylan and an adaptation of Turn! by Peter Seeger.

Later, the California native joined Stephen Stills and Graham Nash to form Crosby, Stills & Nash (CSN) in 1968.

The group had hits like Marrakesh Express, Teach Your Children Y Our house.

David was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for his work with the Byrds in 1991 and again for CSN in 1997.

The star had a long history of medical problems and received a liver transplant in 1994.

David is also survived by his three other children, James, Donovan and Erika, from previous relationships.