About the song
In the vibrant tapestry of the 1970s music scene, Crosby, Stills & Nash (CSN) stood as a beacon of harmony and lyrical depth. One of their standout performances from this era is their rendition of “Wooden Ships,” recorded live in Houston, Texas, in 1977. This performance is not only a testament to the trio’s musical prowess but also a reflection of the era’s complex social and political climate.
“Wooden Ships,” originally penned by David Crosby, Stephen Stills, and Paul Kantner of Jefferson Airplane, is a song steeped in themes of hope and renewal amidst the backdrop of a post-apocalyptic world. The lyrics, which imagine a world where society has collapsed, convey a sense of longing for peace and understanding. The song’s title refers to the wooden ships that symbolize a return to simpler times and the hope for rebuilding a better future.
The 1977 live performance in Houston captures the essence of CSN’s ability to blend intricate harmonies with thought-provoking lyrics. The live setting adds a raw, emotional quality to the performance, allowing the audience to experience the song’s full depth. The trio’s seamless vocal harmonies and the instrumental arrangement highlight their exceptional skill and the powerful message of the song.
In this performance, the audience witnesses the magic of CSN’s live interaction, where each note and lyric is delivered with sincere emotion and a profound sense of connection. The Houston show is a reminder of why Crosby, Stills & Nash are celebrated not just for their studio recordings but for their remarkable live performances that continue to resonate with listeners.
For those who cherish the music of the 1970s and the enduring spirit of Crosby, Stills & Nash, this rendition of “Wooden Ships” remains a memorable and significant piece of musical history, showcasing the trio’s timeless ability to blend harmony, message, and emotion.
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Lyrics
If you smile at me, I will understand
‘Cause that is something everybody everywhere does
In the same languageI can see by your coat, my friend
You’re from the other side
There’s just one thing I got to know
Can you tell me please, who won?Say, can I have some of your purple berries?
Yes, I’ve been eating them for six or seven weeks now
Haven’t got sick once
Probably keep us both aliveWooden ships on thе water, very free and easy
Easy, you know thе way it’s supposed to be
Silver people on the shoreline, let us be
Talkin’ ’bout very free and easyHorror grips us as we watch you die
All we can do is echo your anguished cries
Stare as all human feelings die
We are leaving, you don’t need usGo, take your sister then, by the hand
Lead her away from this foreign land
Far away, where we might laugh again
We are leaving, you don’t need us