Rock n Roll Hall of Famer Dave Mason of Traffic has unveiled a new, re-released version of the band’s timeless hit, “Dear Mr. Fantasy.” Alongside blues rock icon, Joe Bonamassa, the two created a reimagining of the 1967 track that both honors the original arrangement, while infusing new creativity into the music.
Traffic released “Dear Mr. Fantasy” in 1967 on the Mr. Fantasy album, the band’s debut release. Original band members Dave Mason, Steve Winwood, Jim Capaldi, and Chris Wood collaborated on Traffic’ discography throughout the 60s and 70s. The band was inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall of Fame in 2004.
’Fantasy’ has been a favorite song of mine since its release in 1967. I’ve played it live for years in a number of different arrangements. As I’ve often said, there are no old songs, just good songs, and ‘Dear Mr. Fantasy,’ in my mind, is one of the finest examples around.
Dave Mason
Joe Bonamassa, who lent his guitar and vocal skills to the new track, is a blues rock musician hailing from New Hartford, NY, a suburb of Utica. Having opened for B.B. King at the age of twelve, Bonamassa released his first album in 2000. Since then, the 3-time Grammy nominee has since released a total of 16 solo records.
To have the opportunity to incorporate one of the modern-day great guitar players, Joe Bonamassa, is as exciting to me as playing with Jimi Hendrix. He is the first person I wanted to include on this new version of ‘Fantasy.’
Dave Mason
Alongside the new release of “Dear Mr. Fantasy,” Mason and Bonamassa released an animated music video, with bright graphics and lyrics to accompany the reimagined track. Watch the new music video below.
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