May 10

 Dave Mason

May 10, 1946 – April 19, 2026

Traffic welcomed founding lead guitarist, sitar player, and harmonica player Dave Mason for stints from 1967 to 1968 and again in 1971. His early creative output provided a folk-influenced contrast to the group's sprawling psychedelic jams, yielding several classic tracks before he established a definitive solo path.

As a solo artist, he released the acclaimed 1970 album Alone Together, where he handled vocals and bass guitar. Throughout the decade, he became a sought-after session player, contributing acoustic guitar to legendary recordings. He later achieved significant commercial success with his 1977 release Let It Flow. By 1980, he had cemented his reputation as a versatile performer capable of blending rock and soul across the global stage.

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Jay Ferguson

May 10, 1947

Jo Jo Gunne was spearheaded by lead vocalist and keyboardist Jay Ferguson following his departure from Spirit in 1971. During his tenure with Spirit from 1967 to 1971, he served as the primary songwriter and percussionist, contributing to their unique fusion of rock and jazz. His transition to a more straightforward hard rock sound with his new quartet yielded the hit Run Run Run, showcasing his energetic piano style and distinctive vocal delivery.

A shift to a solo career in 1976 allowed him to explore a polished pop-rock direction. As a solo lead vocalist and keyboardist, he achieved massive success with the anthem Thunder Island in 1977. By 1978, he released Real Life Ain't This Way, which further solidified his presence on the airwaves. He remained a consistent force in the recording studio through 1980, blending melodic hooks with sophisticated production.

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Bono

May 10, 1960

Paul David Hewson responded to a school noticeboard advertisement in 1976 which led to the formation of the rock group U2. As the lead vocalist, rhythm guitarist, and harmonica player for the ensemble from 1976 to the present, he developed an impassioned performing style within the Dublin post-punk scene. The band operated under the names Feedback and The Hype before settling on their permanent moniker in 1978.

After securing a recording contract with Island Records, he fronted the quartet for the release of their debut studio album Boy in 1980. His early songwriting focused on themes of adolescence and spirituality, characterized by a soaring vocal range that complemented the band's atmospheric sound. By 1980, his charismatic stage presence helped the group establish a dedicated following during their initial tours of the United Kingdom.

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