Another goodbye: David Crosby

Tonight, a longtime voice of the progressive era of the ’60s is silenced, as David Crosby passed away at age 81.  Crosby is responsible for writing and performing songs that became anthems as a member of both The Byrds, and later Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young (CSNY).  Songs like “Turn, Turn, Turn,” “Teach Your Children,” “Wooden Ships,” and dozens more, helped shape a unique acoustic sound of the late ’60s and early ’70s.  The lyrics questioned authority and brought a new era of musicians standing up for social causes – and making positive change for the world.

In the ’80s, Crosby dealt with substance abuse issues, but cleaned up his act after stints in rehab.  In the early 2000s, it was revealed that Crosby donated his sperm to Melissa Etheridge and her partner to father their children.  He was one of the first high-profile celebrities to publicly announce sperm donation.

In recent years, he continued to tour with CSNY members Stephen Stills and Graham Nash, last performing as a threesome in 2015.

As performers, the trio – or quartet – had some of the tightest harmonies ever. Their messages of change helped inspire a generation.  And David’s signature look helped him stand out from the crowd for years to come.

Whether he was a part of your personal collection or not, the messages and inspiration he gave America during the tumultuous times of Woodstock will FOREVER live on in our history.  And for that, we salute you, David.  Thank you for being a voice of reason, a voice for change, and a voice for music.  Godspeed, my friend.