The music industry is mourning the profound loss of one of its most distinctive voices, Mark "Flo" Volman, who has died at the age of 75. The co-founder of the legendary 1960s band The Turtles and a key collaborator with Frank Zappa passed away following a courageous battle with cancer.
Volman's family confirmed the heartbreaking news, revealing the iconic singer succumbed to the illness on Friday, June 20th. His death marks the end of an era for psychedelic and sunshine pop music.
A Legacy of Sunshine Pop and Psychedelic Rock
Alongside his lifelong musical partner Howard Kaylan, Volman achieved global fame as a founding member of The Turtles. The band's 1967 mega-hit "Happy Together" became an enduring anthem of the era, cementing their place in rock and roll history. Their harmonious vocals and catchy melodies defined the sound of Southern California's sunshine pop scene.
The Frank Zappa Years and Beyond
Following The Turtles' initial success, Volman and Kaylan embarked on a remarkable new chapter as members of Frank Zappa's The Mothers of Invention. Adopting the stage names The Phlorescent Leech and Eddie (later shortened to Flo & Eddie), they brought their unique vocal talents and comedic timing to Zappa's avant-garde projects.
Their contribution extended beyond performance to writing and arranging, leaving an indelible mark on seminal albums like "Chunga's Revenge" and "Fillmore East - June 1971".
From Radio to Rock Royalty
Volman's career showcased remarkable versatility. Beyond performing, he became a respected voice on radio with the "Flo & Eddie" show on SiriusXM, connecting with new generations of fans. He also dedicated himself to music education, sharing his vast knowledge and experience as a professor at Belmont University in Nashville.
His legacy is survived by his wife of five decades, April, their three children, and five grandchildren. Tributes from across the music world have poured in, celebrating a man remembered not just for his incredible talent, but for his warmth, humour, and enduring passion for music.
