David Crosby, legendary singer and songwriter, dead at 81

Originally Published: 19 JAN 23 18:47 ETUpdated: 19 JAN 23 18:48 ETBy Dan Heching, CNN

    (CNN) -- David Crosby, a folk rock pioneer and one of the founding members of The Byrds and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, has died, his family announced Thursday.

He was 81.

"It is with great sadness after a long illness, that our beloved David (Croz) Crosby has passed away. He was lovingly surrounded by his wife and soulmate Jan and son Django. Although he is no longer here with us, his humanity and kind soul will continue to guide and inspire us. His legacy will continue to live on through his legendary music. Peace, love, and harmony to all who knew David and those he touched. We will miss him dearly. At this time, we respectfully and kindly ask for privacy as we grieve and try to deal with our profound loss. Thank you for the love and prayers," the Crosby family said in a statement, obtained by CNN through a family spokesperson.

Representatives for Crosby had no comment when reached by CNN.

The-CNN-Wire