Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young have been working separately for years, recording and touring either individually, or at times joining another star (as witnessed by Stephen Stills touring with Judy Collins last year), but David Crosby caused a stir by hinting a reunion may be possible, if for the only reason that a strong political viewpoint has given them something in common. While we wait to see if a reboot occurs, let’s pick out a song from each of their solo works that we believe are their best.
“Love the One You’re With” Stephen Stills from 1970 from his debut album, which was born out of a phrase keyboardist Billy Preston would say on tour. The song includes Rita Coolidge, David and Graham, and Lovin’ Spoonful’s John Sebastian.
From Graham Nash’s 1971 debut LP ‘Songs For Beginners,’ the song “Chicago (We Can Change the World)” comes to mind as one of his best solo efforts. The song is a complete reference to the violence from the 1968 Democratic Convention in the Windy City.
“Rocking in the Free World” from 1989 ‘Freedom’ LP, and displays the real genius of Neil, a carefree ‘take no prisoners’ attitude about his criticism of the George Bush administration.
Finally, David Crosby’s “Laughing” is one of the most beautiful songs ever written, from his “If I Could Only Remember My Name” LP.
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