Rock Icon Mark Volman of The Turtles Dies at 78

Mark Volman, the esteemed co-founder of the American rock band The Turtles, passed away on September 5, 2023, at the age of 78 after a “brief, unexpected illness,” as confirmed by his representative. Volman was celebrated for his contributions to music, particularly for the band’s iconic 1967 hit, Happy Together. In recent years, he faced health challenges, having been diagnosed with Lewy body dementia in 2020, a fact he publicly revealed only in 2023.

Despite his diagnosis, Volman maintained an optimistic outlook. He shared with People magazine, “I got hit by the knowledge that this was going to create a whole new part of my life. And I said, ‘Okay, whatever’s going to happen will happen, but I’ll go as far as I can.’” His resilience was evident as he continued to perform on the annual Happy Together music tour, which he headlined alongside The Turtles, even after his bandmate Howard Kaylan stepped back due to health issues.

Early Career and Legacy

Volman’s journey in music began in high school in 1963 when he joined his classmate Kaylan’s band, initially named The Crossfires. This band eventually evolved into The Turtles, achieving their first top 10 hit in 1965 with Bob Dylan’s It Ain’t Me Babe. The Turtles enjoyed significant success throughout the 1960s before disbanding in 1970.

After the split, Volman and Kaylan formed the duo Flo + Eddie, where they collaborated with notable artists such as Frank Zappa. Their musical versatility allowed them to provide backing vocals for prominent figures including Bruce Springsteen, Duran Duran, and T. Rex.

Volman’s passion for music extended beyond performance. In his 40s, he earned a master’s degree in screenwriting and later transitioned into teaching music at Belmont University in Nashville, sharing his knowledge and experience with the next generation of artists.

Challenges and Triumphs

Throughout his battle with Lewy body dementia, which included symptoms such as tremors and hallucinations, Volman’s spirit remained unbroken. He expressed gratitude for the support of his friends and fans, emphasizing the importance of connection. “I feel good. My friends are here. I’m still here. And I want people to connect with me,” he remarked.

Volman’s contributions to the music industry and his ability to inspire others will be remembered fondly. His legacy as a pioneering figure in rock music and a symbol of resilience continues to resonate with fans worldwide. As the news of his passing spreads, many reflect on the joy he brought through his music and the indomitable spirit he embodied throughout his life.