Singer-songwriter David Crosby dies aged 81

Iconic singer-songwriter David Crosby has reportedly died aged 81.

Crosby was a co-founder of two influential 1960s bands including the Byrds and Crosby, Stills and Nash.

His wife released a statement to Variety confirming his death.

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"It is with great sadness after a long illness, that our beloved David (Croz) Crosby has passed away," she said.

"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."

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Crosby joined the Byrds in 1964, but left in 1967 to form another group with Stephen Stills and Graham Nash.

As Crosby, Stills and Nash, they released their first album in 1969.

Going on tour, they signed Neil Young as a keyboard player, and changed their name to Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young.

One of rock music's early supergroups, they played at Woodstock in August of 1969.

The band first broke up in 1970 due to clashing personalities, but periodically reunited, ultimately releasing eight studio albums.

Crosby has been inducted into the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame twice, for his work with the Byrds and Crosby, Stills and Nash.

Politically outspoken, Crosby was an opponent of the Vietnam War and a pacifist - though he also defended gun rights.

More recently, Crosby was a critic of US presidents Donald Trump and Joe Biden, though he voiced praise for the latter after he won the 2020 election.

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