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Crosby, Stills & Nash by Crosby, Stills & Nash

Tom Radigan

11 Jul 2022

During the late 1960’s music had changed to more of a prolific and influential way than it ever did before with enlightened passion, being true to oneself and making a profound statement in one’s art. Three musicians from the biggest bands of the 60’s got together to make beautiful harmonies, and sophisticated lyrics. David Crosby was from the Byrds, Stephen Stills from Buffalo Springfield and Graham Nash from the Hollies. Together they would become bigger than they ever were before with their other groups.

This first album had a body of classic songs. Especially the opening track which is known as their most signature song “Suite Judy Blue Eye" written by Stephen Stills over his relationship with folk singer Judy Collins. Then the next track is Nash’s folk rock tune “Marrakesh Express.” He actually tried to record it with the Hollies but it did not turn out well. The next two songs continue the folk edge until the 5th and 6th track. Another Nash song called “Pre Roads Down” brings the rock elements of the late 60’s and style from other artists like the Beatles.

Then going into my favorite track of the album “Wooden Ships” co-written by Stills, Crosby and Paul Kanter from Jefferson Airplane. The interplay of Still's rough but soft vocals to Crosby’s soothing and gentle voice brings a type of magic to one's ears as they listen to it for the first time. Then after hearing the heavy instrumentation from the guitar, bass, keyboard and drums makes you realize this band is special.

Another essential track would be “Helplessly Hoping” which is another good example of the famous harmonies between the three singers. This song features a genius use of alliteration that Still’s was able to possess in his lyrics.

Their other rock gem “Long Time Gone” by David Crosby brings out his rock persona that we would see carry on in their next album. This song is one example of their political statements which was written the night Bobby Kennedy was assassinated. Crosby has said the song is about losing great leaders with powerful voices like the Kennedy's and Dr. Martin Luther King.

But don’t take just my word for it listen to the album yourself to experience a collection of three unique songwriters making music together.

Crosby, Stills & Nash by Crosby, Stills & Nash
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