(CNN) — David Crosby, a pioneer of folk and rock ‘n’ roll music and one of the founding members of The Byrds and Crosby, Stills & Nash, has died aged 81, his family announced Thursday.
“It is with great sadness that our beloved David (Croz) Crosby has passed away after a long illness. He was surrounded by his wife and soul mate Jan and son Django. Although he is no longer here with us, his humanity and the kindness of his soul will remain with us continue to guide and inspire. His legacy will live on through his legendary music. Peace, love and harmony to all who knew David and to those he touched. He will be greatly missed. At this time, we respectfully and kindly for privacy as we grieve and try to come to terms with our profound loss. Thank you for the love and prayers,” the Crosby family wrote in a press release.
Crosby’s reps did not comment when contacted by CNN.
Crosby was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1991 with the Byrds and again in 1997 with Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young.