Washington/Los Angeles: Veteran US folk-rock star David Crosby has died.

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,” the Crosby family said in a statement, obtained by CNN through a family spokesperson. “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”

In addition to his solo career, the singer was a founding member of both the Byrds and Crosby, Stills & Nash.

Crosby joined the Byrds in 1964. They had their first number-one hit in April 1965 with a cover of "Mr. Tambourine Man" by Bob Dylan.

Crosby appeared on the Byrds' first five albums and produced the original lineup's 1973 reunion album.

He subsequently formed Crosby, Stills & Nash in 1968 with Stephen Stills and Graham Nash.