Graham Nash, Stephen Stills Lead Tributes To David Crosby
Graham Nash and Stephen Stills were among the music greats paying tribute to David Crosby, who died yesterday aged 81.
Nash shared a heartfelt post reflecting on the musical partner with whom he shared most of his adult life, “I know people tend to focus on how volatile our relationship has been at times, but what has always mattered to David and me more than anything was the pure joy of the music we created together, the sound we discovered with one another, and the deep friendship we shared over all these many long years,” he continued.
“David was fearless in life and in music. He leaves behind a tremendous void as far as sheer personality and talent in this world. He spoke his mind, his heart, and his passion through his beautiful music and leaves an incredible legacy. These are the things that matter most. My heart is truly with his wife, Jan, his son, Django, and all of the people he has touched in this world.”
Meanwhile, another of Crosby’s long-term collaborators, Stephen Stills wrote, “I read a quote in this morning’s paper attributed to compose [sic] Gustav Mahler that stopped me for a moment: ‘Death has, on placid cat’s paws, entered the room.’
“I shoulda known something was up. David and I butted heads a lot over time, but they were mostly glancing blows, yet still left us numb skulls. I was happy to be at peace with him. He was without question a giant of a musician, and his harmonic sensibilities were nothing short of genius. The glue that held us together as our vocals soared, like Icarus, towards the sun. I am deeply saddened at his passing and shall miss him beyond measure.”
Brian Wilson, co-founder of The Beach Boys, reacted to the news on Twitter, writing: “I don’t know what to say other than I’m heartbroken to hear about David Crosby. David was an unbelievable talent – such a great singer and songwriter. And a wonderful person. I just am at a loss for words. Love & Mercy to David’s family and friends. Love, Brian.”
Another Crosby collaborator, David Gilmour of Pink Floyd wrote the simple message, “We sang together, we played together and had great times together. I’ll miss The Croz more than words can say. Sail on.”