Mark Volman, Co-Founder of The Turtles, Passes Away at 78

Mark Volman, the co-founder of the iconic American rock band The Turtles, passed away on September 5, 2023, at the age of 78. His representative confirmed that Volman succumbed to a “brief, unexpected illness.” Best known for the band’s hit single “Happy Together,” released in 1967, Volman’s contributions to music have left an indelible mark on the industry.

Career Highlights and Personal Struggles

Volman’s musical journey began in high school in 1963, when he teamed up with his classmate Howard Kaylan to form The Crossfires. The band later rebranded as The Turtles and achieved their first top 10 success in 1965 with a cover of Bob Dylan’s “It Ain’t Me Babe.” The Turtles gained widespread popularity in the late 1960s but disbanded in 1970.

Despite the dissolution of The Turtles, Volman continued to collaborate with Kaylan under the name Flo + Eddie. The duo toured with the avant-garde musician Frank Zappa and provided backing vocals for major artists such as Bruce Springsteen, Duran Duran, and T. Rex. Volman’s versatility and talent allowed him to remain a significant figure in the music scene.

In 2020, Volman was diagnosed with Lewy body dementia, a progressive neurological condition that affects cognitive function and movement. He kept his diagnosis private until 2023, when he shared it publicly in an interview with People magazine. At that time, Volman expressed his determination to embrace the challenges posed by his condition, stating, “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.’”

Legacy and Continued Passion for Music

Even while facing the symptoms of his illness, which included tremors and hallucinations, Volman continued to perform. He participated in the annual Happy Together music tour, which he headlined alongside The Turtles. Notably, Kaylan was unable to join due to his own health issues, marking a poignant moment in the duo’s enduring legacy.

Throughout his career, Volman also earned a master’s degree in screenwriting and taught music at Belmont University in Nashville. His commitment to education reflects his passion for music and desire to inspire future generations of artists.

Mark Volman’s influence extends beyond his musical achievements. He remains a beloved figure in rock history, with fans and fellow musicians honoring his contributions to the industry. His ability to face adversity with grace and positivity serves as a testament to his character and enduring spirit.