David Crosby dies: Stephen Stills and Graham Nash lead emotional tributes to CSN bandmate

20 January 2023, 09:25 | Updated: 18 September 2023, 13:33

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Despite their strained relationship over the years, Stephen Stills and Graham Nash lead beautiful tributes to David Crosby.

Stephen Stills and Graham Nash have led the tributes to their former Crosby, Stills and Nash bandmate David Crosby, who died yesterday (January 19) at the age of 81.

The relationship between the trio – and occasional fourth member Neil Young – has been tumultuous over the years, which was acknowledged in both men's tender tributes.

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"It is with a deep and profound sadness that I learned that my friend David Crosby has passed," said Nash on a an Instagram post featuring a black and white image of guitar cases, one labelled "David Crosby" and another "Willy Nash".

"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."

Stephen Stills said in a statement: "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.

"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."

Beyond his bandmates, tributes have poured in from friends, fans and fellow musicians since news of Crosby's death broke.

"I don’t know what to say other than I’m heartbroken to hear about David Crosby," said Beach Boys leader Brian Wilson.

"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"