Rock & Roll Icon Mark Volman, The Voice Behind "Happy Together," Passes Away at 78

The music world mourns the loss of a true rock and roll luminary, Mark Volman, the charismatic co-founder of the iconic 1960s band The Turtles. Known affectionately as "Flo" from the legendary duo Flo & Eddie, Volman passed away at the age of 78 after a brief illness, leaving behind an indelible mark on generations of fans.

His voice, instantly recognizable, helped craft some of the most enduring melodies of his era, none more beloved than the timeless anthem, "Happy Together."

Born in Los Angeles, Volman's musical journey began in earnest with his childhood friend and collaborator, Howard Kaylan. Together, they formed The Crossfires in 1963, a band that would soon evolve into The Tyrtles, and finally, The Turtles.

Their distinctive folk-rock sound quickly captivated audiences, leading to a string of chart-topping hits that defined an era. Beyond the monumental success of "Happy Together" in 1967, The Turtles enchanted listeners with tracks like Bob Dylan's "It Ain't Me Babe," "Let Me Be," "You Baby," "Elenore," and "She'd Rather Be with Me," cementing their place in pop music history.

Despite their immense popularity, The Turtles faced considerable challenges, notably a prolonged legal battle with their label, White Whale Records.

These disputes ultimately led to the band's dissolution, but for Volman and Kaylan, it marked a new, adventurous chapter. They ingeniously rebranded themselves as Flo & Eddie, a comedic and musically versatile duo who went on to join Frank Zappa's Mothers of Invention. Their unique blend of harmonies, humor, and rock prowess earned them a reputation as one of the most sought-after backing vocalists in the industry, contributing to projects for an astonishing array of artists including T.

Rex, John Lennon, Yoko Ono, and Stephen Stills.

Volman’s career extended far beyond the stage and studio. A multifaceted talent, he delved into radio and television, lending his distinctive voice and personality to various projects. Yet, his commitment to music education truly showcased his passion for nurturing future generations.

He pursued a master's degree in fine arts and went on to teach, serving as an assistant professor at Belmont University in Nashville, and later as the Chair of the Music Business Department at Concordia University in Irvine, California. Even while inspiring students, Volman continued to tour and perform, ensuring that the spirit of The Turtles, featuring Flo & Eddie, remained vibrant for loyal fans.

Mark Volman’s legacy is a rich tapestry woven with melody, laughter, and an unwavering dedication to his craft.

He was more than just a singer; he was an entertainer, an educator, and a pivotal figure in shaping the sound of rock and roll. His passing leaves a void, but the joy and harmony he brought to the world through his music will undoubtedly echo on, forever reminding us to be "Happy Together."