Dash , One Half of Seals and Crofts, Dies at 87
One half of the legendary soft rock duo, Seals and Crofts, Dash Crofts passed away at 87.
The announcement was made on social media by the duo’s producer, Louie Shelton, who wrote: “Very sad to hear that our dear brother and music partner has passed away today. Sending love and prayers to his family and fans. Rest in Peace my brother…..Dash Crofts.”
A relative confirmed that Crofts died of complications from heart surgery. He is remembered for hits such as “Summer Breeze” and a beautiful legacy is left behind by him in the music world.
Dash Crofts
Alongside Jim, Dash Crofts played a pivotal role in creating the characteristic sound of soft rock of that era through their partnership as Seals and Crofts.
Their work, particularly the 1972 record Summer Breeze became extremely popular, making it to the top 10 of the U.S. charts. It contained several hit songs, including the title track and “Hummingbird.” In 1973, they came out with Diamond Girl. The single of the same name from the album managed to reach No. 6 on the U.S. charts.
The nature of their work also led to issues. In 1974, the two-man band put out Unborn Child, a record that mirrors their viewpoint that a human existence starts at conception. Coming out soon after the Roe v. Wade decision, the record was met with a lot of negativity and was even banned by some radio stations.
Dash Crofts and Jim Seals: The End of an Era in Music
The rise of punk and disco led to the decline of the music style of Dash Crofts and Jim Seals, so they eventually parted ways in 1980.
Separately, Crofts shifted to Nashville and lived a relatively quiet life, mainly performing country music and occasionally releasing singles. Seals and Crofts were hardly seen together in public, but they did release one last album, Traces, in 2004.
However, they never got together for a tour at any time. Seals, Crofts’ dearly beloved musical partner, died in 2020 at the age of 80. John Ford Coley, who was in England Dan & John Ford Coley with Seals’ brother, said at that time: “This is a very difficult thing for me on so many levels because a musical era is passing.”
His cousin Brady Sels also stated: “I just found out that James ‘Jimmy’ Seals has died.” The news of Crofts’ death represents another closing chapter for fans of the legendary soft rock duo.
Seals and Crofts Star Behind “Summer Breeze, ” Passes Away at 87
Dash Crofts, who formed the other half of legendary soft rock duo Seals and Crofts, has passed away at 87 years-old as a result of complications after heart surgery.
Following the announcement of the tragedy, many people expressed their feelings. A message read, “My heart just breaks for his wife Ruby and their children. Please keep them in your prayers. What an incredible legacy he leaves behind.”
Crofts was one of the most successful artists of the 1970s and in the position of Jim Seals, contributed significantly to the popularization of the sound of laid-back soft rock. In addition to the hit songs “Summer Breeze, ” “Diamond Girl, ” “Get Closer, ” “Goodbye Old Buddies, ” and “I’ll Play For You, ” their repertoire reflects a profound influence on the world of music.
