On January 18, legendary singer-songwriter and founding member of the Byrds and Crosby Stills Nash and Young sadly passed away at 81. He was known for his candor and willingness to speak out on political issues. He has contributed to several timeless tunes, including a number with socially conscious themes. For example, protest songs that he composed included the Byrds’ “Draft Morning,” Crosby Stills and Nash’s “Long Time Gone,” Crosby Stills Nash and Young’s “Almost Cut My Hair,” and solo “What Are Their Names.”
His final live performance took place on February 26, 2022, when he joined Jason Isbell for a powerful two-song set that included Isbell’s poignant “What’ve I Done To Help” (he also contributed backing vocals to the studio version that appears on Isbell’s 2020 album Reunions) and the Neil Young penned CSNY classic protest anthem “Ohio.” Written in response to the May 4, 1970, Kent State shootings, the lyrics may have had a specific event in mind, but the themes of senseless violence and authoritative overreach in response to protests still tragically remain relevant.
Isbell and Crosby first met at the 2018 Newport Folk Festival where the two like-minded artists struck up a friendship and have performed together on multiple occasions. Both of their career paths have had some notable similarities, including successful battles with personal demons and fearlessness in speaking out on issues, even in the face of potential backlash.
RIP David Crosby (August 14, 1941-January 18, 2023)