David Lindley dies at the age of 78 after ‘months of illness’

David Lindley passed away on Friday at the age of 78 after reportedly being ill for several months.

The American musician was best known for his collaborations with big names in the industry, including Dolly Parton, Rod Stewart, Jackson Browne, Bonnie Raitt and Ry Cooder.

He also founded the band El Rayo-X and formed the psychedelic folk group Kaleidoscope with Chris Darrow in the 1960s.

David’s friend Douglas Reynolds confirmed the sad news of his passing on Friday and tributes have been pouring in for the talented star ever since.

His cause of death has not been confirmed, but it was believed that he was suffering from illness before his death.

Stars: The American musician (pictured in 2017) was best known for collaborating with big names in the industry, including Dolly Parton, Rod Stewart, Jackson Browne and Bonnie Raitt

Stars: David played a key role in Jackson Browne’s recordings and Browne helped bring David into the mainstream with the 1973 song For Everyman

Born March 21, 1994, David is survived by his wife Joan Lindley and his daughter Rosanne.

Douglas announced David’s death on a page called David Lindley Medical Fundraiser on Custom Ink, which sold T-shirts to raise money for medical expenses.

He wrote, “I am saddened to pass on the news that my friend David has left the planet this morning, March 3rd. Thank you to everyone who bought a t-shirt and donated to the fundraiser.

“It will help his girls – his wife Joanie and his daughter Rosanne – not have to think about money in this sad time.

‘The bills keep coming in and of course there will still be terminal costs. I thought about putting this off, but I’ve been encouraged to pass it on for his girls, so I will.”

Since the tragic news, stars and fans alike have taken to Twitter to share heartfelt tributes to the guitarist.

Author Stephen King wrote: ‘I am sorry to hear that the great David Lindley has passed away. The world has lost a brilliant musician.’

While singer Paul Young wrote, “I’m so sorry to hear that David Lindley has left this earth. He rode shotgun with some of the best American performers, and English ones too.

Please listen to his solo albums, El Rayo X and Very Greasy. What a fine guitarist and harmonist. Condolences to his wife Joan & family.’

Jason Isbell added: “The loss of David Lindley is huge. Without his influence my music would sound completely different. I was really obsessed with his playing from the first time I heard it. The man was a giant.’

David was known for his wide knowledge of instruments and is credited with helping shape the sound of soft rock.

He has collaborated with Rod Stewart, Bob Dylan, Linda Ronstadt and Graham Nash during his successful five-decade career.

David played a key role in Jackson Browne’s recordings, and Browne helped bring David into the mainstream with the 1973 song For Everyman.

Star: David’s friend Douglas Reynolds confirmed the sad news of his death on Friday and tributes have been pouring in for the talented star ever since

Career: David (pictured in 1974) founded the band El Rayo-X and formed the psychedelic folk group Kaleidoscope with Chris Darrow in the 1960s

Band: He took his own signature sound in his band Kaleidoscope with Chester Crill, John Vidican, Solomon Feldthouse and Chris Darrow (pictured in 1967)

Music: In recent years, David performed at Arroyo Seco Weekend in June 2017 (pictured) and appeared at the Folk Music Center’s 60th anniversary celebration the following year

He brought his own signature sound into his two bands Kaleidoscope, who recorded four albums for Epic Records from 1976-1970, and El Rayo-X, with whom David released his debut solo album in 1981.

Eclectic star David also teamed up with Byrds star David Crosby, who passed away on Jan. 18 at age 81.

David was known for his hits Mercury Blues, She Took Off My Romeros and Ain’t No Way, as well as These Days and Redneck Friend.

In recent years, David performed at the Arroyo Seco Weekend in June 2017 and appeared at the Folk Music Center’s 60th anniversary celebration the following year.