They possessed that unmistakable ’70s vibe — so genuine, lovely, and uplifting.
However, the remaining member of the legendary soft-rock duo Seals & Crofts is now gone.
Darrell “Dash” Crofts passed away on Wednesday, March 25, at the age of 85.
Songs like “Summer Breeze,” “Diamond Girl,” and “Get Closer” continue to be cherished classics for fans of Seals & Crofts — as well as for many other music enthusiasts who hold dear the tunes from that time.
Unfortunately, Dash Crofts, the last surviving member of Seals & Crofts, has now passed away.
He died due to complications after heart surgery, as reported by TMZ.
“With a mix of sorrow and gratitude, we remember a man whose kindness, extraordinary compassion, and gentle voice have touched countless hearts worldwide,” the family expressed in a moving statement. “We are thankful for the overwhelming love and support we have received from all corners of the globe, and we take this time to celebrate and honor his legacy of service to humanity.”
Louie Shelton, a longtime producer for Seals & Crofts, was one of the first to publicly announce the news. “It’s heartbreaking to learn that our dear brother and musical partner has passed away today,” Shelton posted on Facebook. “Sending love and prayers to his family and many fans. Rest in peace, my brother…..Dash Crofts.”
Nickname explanation
Darrell George Crofts was born on August 14, 1940, in Cisco, Texas. He had a twin sister named Dorothy and earned the nickname “Dash” as a baby when his mother entered them in a “beautiful baby” contest, humorously suggesting they would be even cuter as “Dot” and “Dash.”
Crofts began his musical career as a drummer before he met saxophonist Jim Seals. The duo first performed together in the rock band The Champs and later in groups like Glen Campbell and the GCs, as well as the Dawnbreakers, before they formed Seals & Crofts.
Their first album was released in 1969, but it was the 1972 album Summer Breeze that propelled them to fame. The album achieved gold status and eventually sold two million copies, with the title track reaching No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Their music became synonymous with the ’70s, featuring hits like Diamond Girl and Get Closer. While their songs often had a light, soft-rock vibe, Crofts and Seals infused them with the spiritual teachings of the Baháʼí Faith, which they embraced during their time with the Dawnbreakers.
Their career was not without its share of controversy. After the pivotal Roe v. Wade decision, the duo launched Unborn Child in 1974, expressing their anti-abortion views—a decision that ignited significant discussion.
Despite changing trends and the band’s eventual breakup in the early ’80s, their music remained relevant, with short reunions occurring in the late ’80s, early ’90s, and ultimately in 2004 for their final album, Traces.
Crofts’ impact on music was profound. “Around the same time as artists like Crosby, Stills and Nash, we recognized the need to move away from the profit-driven nature of loud rock ’n’ roll to create music that we truly believed in,” he shared with Record Mirror.
His bandmate Jim Seals.
Critic Robert Christgau referred to their work as “classic folk-schlock,” yet for millions of fans, the duo’s heartfelt melodies and spiritual themes were ageless.
Beyond his musical contributions, Crofts returned to Texas later in life, spending his time raising horses and reflecting on a career that had impacted countless lives.
His bandmate Jim Seals, who passed away in 2022, described the soft-rock duo’s enchantment as a blend of friendship, shared vision, and unwavering harmony—traits that characterized Crofts both on stage and off.
“The Baha’i Faith promotes the unity of individuals from all races, beliefs, religions, politics, and truths. We’re not promoting religion through our music, but the principles of Baha’i do emerge in it—such as the idea of the oneness of humanity,” Crofts once remarked, a fitting testament to the gentle, uplifting spirit he embodied throughout his musical journey.
Although Dash Crofts may no longer be with us, his voice, his spirit, and the music he crafted will forever echo through the ages. Rest in peace!
