John Stewart, Songwriter Dies Aged 68

John Stewart, who wrote the Monkees’ hit “Daydream Believer” and became a well-known figure in the 1960s folk music revival as a member of The Kingston Trio, has died, according to the band’s Web site. He was 68.

Stewart suffered a massive stroke or brain aneurysm and died early Saturday at a San Diego hospital, the band announced on its official Web site.

“The world has lost one of its best men, but a man who lived well and made many people happy with his love, his wit and his music,” the announcement said.

Stewart joined The Kingston Trio in 1961, three years after the band released its version of an old folk song, “Tom Dooley,” that went on to become a hit. Stewart replaced the band’s founder Dave Guard, who had left to pursue a new musical direction.

Stewart spent six years leading the group, during which time the band recorded 13 albums, according to its Web site.

After the trio disbanded in 1967, Stewart went on to an acclaimed solo career that included recording more than 40 albums.

Stewart’s wife Buffy and children were at his side when he died, the Web site said. Plans had not been announced for memorial services.