Darrell “Dash” Crofts, half of the beloved 1970s soft rock duo Seals & Crofts, has died at the age of 80. He died at the age of 87. Born Darrell George Crofts, he and his musical partner Jim Seals left an indelible mark on American music. The pair that first came together in 1969 soon reached superstardom with their soothing melodies and often poignant lyrics.
In the case of Seals & Crofts, they issued their self-titled debut album in the very same year they started recording. It was their 1972 breakout album, “Summer Breeze,” which shot them to stardom. The album rocketed straight to the No. 20 position on the Billboard 200 album chart. At the same time, its title track rocketed to an impressive No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart.
Beyond “Summer Breeze”, Crofts and Seals wrote other chart-toppers in the 70s. Their follow-up single, “Hummingbird,” later went on to top the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Arguably their biggest and best known release came from their eighth studio album, “Get Closer.” The title song, “High Horse,” quickly raced to a career-highest No. 6 position on the singles chart.
Seals & Crofts continued to create music that resonated with audiences, including hits such as “Diamond Girl” and “We May Never Pass This Way Again.” The album, “Diamond Girl” released in 1973, was praised for its mellow jazzy details and interactive narratives. Legendary producer Louie Shelton was in the mix with the duo on a handful of albums, producing music like “Summer Breeze” and “Diamond Girl.”
In the years since, Crofts’ family have worked to carry on his legacy. His daughter, Lua Crofts Faragher, with her family and cousin Brady Seals—Jim Seals’ cousin—are mourning his loss. Today Lua Crofts Faragher performs with Brady Seals and they are billed as Seals & Crofts 2.
Louie Shelton expressed his sorrow regarding Crofts’ passing, stating,
“Sad to hear our dear brother and partner in music has passed away today.”
He further added,
“Sending love and prayers to all his family and many fans. R.I.P. my brother…..Dash Crofts.”
Lua Crofts Faragher also reflected on her father’s impact, noting,
“We are honoring and celebrating the amazing life and legacy of Darrell George ‘Dash’ Crofts, and are so grateful for the music that lives on through Seals & Crofts 2.”
