The rock world has lost another legend! David Crosby, the founding member of The Byrds passed away Thursday at age 81. The folk rock pioneer was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of the Byrds in 1991 and with Crosby, Stills and Nash in 1997. Not many musicians have the title of being inducted into the Hall twice.
Born and raised in the Sunshine State, Crosby began his career in the early 60’s as an actor. After a short stint, he formed the rock group The Byrds, and the rest is history! The original band members consisted of Roger McGuinn, Gene Clark, Michael Clarke, Chris Hillman and of course David himself. The Byrd’s debut album, ‘Mr. Tambourine Man’ in 1965, followed by ‘Turn! Turn! Turn!’, would go on to solidify the group in rock history and earn the group a Grammy nomination for best new artist in 1965.
Although The Byrds broke up as a group in the mid-1960’s, their influence on rock music is undeniable. Their signature sound along with 12-string guitar and live instruments are sampled today by some of the genre’s most popular artists. The Byrds 1965 smash hit, ‘Turn! Turn! Turn!’, is forever cemented in popular culture by the 1994 feature film, “Forrest Gump”, in which the song serves as almost a theme song.
In 1968, shortly after leaving The Byrds, David Crosby teamed up with like minded musicians and formed the band, Crosby, Stills & Nash (CSN). The band’s debut album, ‘Crosby, Stills & Nash’ was an instant success and earned the group a Grammy in 1970 for best new artists. In 1970, the group would change the name of the band to Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young with the addition of Neil Young.
David Crosby would continue to make albums and tour with ‘‘Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young’’ as well as release a collection of solo albums. Today, David Crosby is also known for his many collaborations with rock music royalty to include; Carole King, the Grateful Dead, Jerry Garcia and countless others.
In late 1985, David Crosby spent five months in jail due to weapons and narcotic charges which he attributes as a turning point in his life. Crosby continued to make great music although his health began to decline in the late 80’s and early 90’s. In 1994, David Crosby underwent numerous procedures for heart issues. In addition Crosby received a liver transplant and was managing diabetes.
In 1996, David Crosby, along with Jeff Pevar and James Raymond formed the group CPR. The group would release two studio albums and live albums. David Crosby will go down as a true rock legend. The Rock World is truly shattered – Lamont Renzo Bracy. Some of the biggest names in rock to social media to share their condolences on their friend and pioneer, David Crosby.
David Crosby is survived by his wife Jan Dance and his children. May David Crosby, forever ~ Rest in Peace
