Farewell to a Legend: David Crosby, Co-Founder of Byrds and Crosby, Stills & Nash, Passes Away at 81

David Crosby, Co-Founder of The Byrds and Crosby, Stills & Nash, Passes Away at 81

It is with deep sadness that the music world mourns the loss of one of its most iconic figures, David Crosby. The singer, songwriter and guitarist, who was a co-founder of two of the most influential bands of the 1960s and 1970s, The Byrds and Crosby, Stills & Nash, passed away on January 14th, 2021 at the age of 81.

A Pioneer of Folk-Rock

David Crosby was a pioneering figure in the folk-rock movement of the 1960s, and his influence on music can still be felt today. As a member of The Byrds, Crosby helped to popularize the genre by blending traditional folk music with rock and roll.

The band’s hit songs, such as “Turn! Turn! Turn!” and “Eight Miles High,” were a reflection of the counterculture of the time and still resonate with audiences today.

In 1969, Crosby co-founded Crosby, Stills & Nash with Stephen Stills and Graham Nash.

The band’s debut album, also named Crosby, Stills & Nash, was a critical and commercial success, and it included hit songs like “Suite: Judy Blue Eyes” and “Marrakesh Express.”

The band went on to release several more albums and became one of the most popular and enduring groups of the era.

Tributes Pour In

Crosby’s passing has been met with an outpouring of grief and tributes from those who knew him and were influenced by his music.

Stephen Stills, his bandmate of Crosby, Stills & Nash, said in a statement, “I am heartbroken to hear of David’s passing. He was my friend and bandmate for over 50 years, and I will miss him dearly.”

From Stephen:
“I read a quote in this morning’s paper attributed to composer Gustav Mahler that stopped me for a moment:
‘Death has, on placid cat’s paws, entered the room.’
I shoulda known something was up. 1/3 pic.twitter.com/eikZ47Kmso

— Stephen Stills Official (@Stephen__Stills) January 20, 2023

Graham Nash, also a bandmate, tweeted, “He was my friend, my buddy, and I will miss him.

His voice, his laughter, his guitar playing, his songwriting, his wit, his intelligence, and his love of life will always be with us.”

Many other musicians and celebrities also took to social media to pay their respects to Crosby, including Neil Young, Jackson Browne, and Graham Nash.

A Legacy that Lives On

David Crosby’s contributions to music will never be forgotten. His songs and his voice will continue to be an inspiration to generations to come.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family, friends and fans during this difficult time. Rest in peace, David Crosby. Your music will live on forever.