First finding fame with Traffic, English singer-songwriter and guitarist Dave Mason carved out a Hall of Fame career spanning more than five decades. At 78, he still entertains fans, as witnessed from his current ambitious nationwide tour.

A founding member of Traffic, Mason had a few different stints with the group. He also played and recorded with other legendary musicians including Paul McCartney, Jimi Hendrix, Fleetwood Mac and the Rolling Stones. That is just a short list of dozens of Mason’s collaborations. Achieving three gold albums, Mason had his biggest hit in 1977 with “We Just Disagree” reaching No. 12 on Billboard Top 100 and No. 10 in Canada. In 2004 Mason and Traffic were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

Having traveled countless miles performing in hundreds of cities worldwide, Mason shrugs it off as just part of the journey in our Talking Travel interview, although he had a very wise piece of travel advice. Although there is far too much history to cover in one interview, Mason spent two years recalling all in his new book, Only You Know and I Know, a title borrowed from his 1970 album, Alone Together.

Fortunate enough to read an advance copy, I was impressed as much with Mason’s openness as I am with his accomplishments. From highs to lows, Mason shares all. Having read dozens of musicians’ autobiographies, Only You Know and I Know is among the best. Scheduled for release in September, Only You Know & I Know can be pre-ordered now.

Talking Travel is an interview series on Global Traveler. Subscribe to the GT YouTube channel to be notified of all future interviews and other travel-related videos.

— John Wroblewski, online writer