NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Mark Volman, a founding member of the 1960’s pop group The Turtles, whose hits include “Happy Together” and “Elenore,” died in Nashville, Tenn., on Friday after a brief, unexpected illness, according to his publicist, Ame Van Iden. He was 78.

Mr. Volman was known for his exuberant stage presence and distinctive vocals. In a 1967 performance of “Happy Together" posted to YouTube, Mr. Volman wears bright orange and dances around with a French horn that he doesn't appear to play, but does place on bandmate Howard Kaylan's head.

His significant other, Emily Volman, posted to his official Instagram account that Mr. Volman had joked he wanted news of his death to read, ”‘Teen Idol Dead, Drugs Suspected’.”

“I messed up!” she posted. “Sorry, honey.”

She called him a “magical

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