Dash Crofts, the American musician best known for his soft rock hits in the 1970s as part of the duo Seals and Crofts, has passed away at the age of 85, apparently from complications due to a heart procedure.
His death was shared by the duo's longtime producer and friend Louie Shelton on Facebook, who wrote: "Sad to hear our dear brother and partner in music has passed away today. Sending love and prayers to all his family and many fans. R.I.P. my brother.....Dash Crofts."
© Getty ImagesFans inundated the post with tributes like: "Dash?! O my gosh, I'm so sorry Louie. Sending hugs," and: "Very sad news. He and Jim Seals were one of the best singing duos in history. Such a talent. RIP Dash," plus: "Both he and Jim made some wonderful music with your guidance, Louie. My condolences."
His family, including his wife and their two kids, shared a statement with USA Today that reads: "With sorrow and gratitude, we mourn a man whose loving-kindness, remarkable compassion, beautiful and tender voice has uplifted so many hearts across the globe."
"We extend our gratitude and appreciation for the outpouring of love and support that we have received from around the world, and we celebrate and honor his legacy of service to mankind."
Born in 1940, Dash first began his career as a drummer, first venturing into the music industry as a professional when he was just in high school. Dash played with Dean Beard & The Crew Cats, where he met the group's saxophone player Jim Seals.
© Getty ImagesIn 1958, Dash and Jim joined the group The Champs, best known for their hit "Tequila," and remained with the group until 1965, before deciding to venture into music as a duo. After a few failed attempts, in 1969, they formed the soft rock duo Seals and Crofts.
Jim picked up guitar, violin and saxophone, while Dash added the guitar and mandolin to his repertoire, with both penning their own songs as well. Their self-titled debut album was released later that year, to little fanfare. Their next two albums, Down Replica Luxury Handbag and Year of Sunday, both charted but failed to make a huge impact.
© Getty ImagesHowever, 1972's Summer Breeze was their commercial breakthrough, hitting the top 10 of the Billboard 200 and going 2x Platinum. The eponymous track remains their defining hit, peaking in the top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100, with second single "Hummingbird" also reaching the top 20.
1973's Diamond Girl continued their hot streak, their highest charting album to date, spawning another top 10 with its title track. They continued releasing music until 1980, with their 1975 Greatest Hits record also going double platinum, earning their final Hot 100 top 10 with 1976's "Get Closer" featuring Carolyn Willis.
© Getty ImagesThey decided to take a hiatus from music after the release of 1980's The Longest Road, their final record under their Warner contract. They officially reunited in 1989 for a series of concerts, disbanding again in 1992. They reunited once again in 2004 for their final album, Traces. Jim passed away at the age of 79 in 2022.
