Crosby, Stills, Nash performing “Southern Cross” live in the 1970s

About the song

Crosby Stills Nash’s “Southern Cross” is a timeless folk-rock classic that has captivated audiences for decades. Released in 1977, the song became a number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, showcasing the group’s exceptional harmonies and their ability to blend elements of folk, rock, and country music.

The song’s intro immediately sets the stage with a haunting guitar riff and a driving rhythm. The vocals of David Crosby, Stephen Stills, and Graham Nash then come in, delivering the lyrics with a blend of passion and restraint. The lyrics explore themes of adventure, nostalgia, and the search for meaning in life.

One of the song’s most memorable aspects is its iconic chorus, which features the line, “Southern Cross, shining bright above.” The chorus emphasizes the song’s central theme of hope and the desire for a better future.

The song’s production is simple yet effective, with the group’s harmonies taking center stage. The arrangement allows the vocals to shine, while the instrumental accompaniment provides a solid foundation for the song.

“Southern Cross” is a testament to the enduring power of folk-rock music. Its timeless melody, evocative lyrics, and the group’s exceptional harmonies have made it a beloved classic that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to Crosby Stills Nash’s talent and their ability to create music that transcends time and genre.

Video

Lyrics

Got out of town on a boat goin’ to Southern islands
Sailing a reach before a followin’ sea
She was makin’ for the trades on the outside
And the downhill run to Papeete

Off the wind on this heading lie the Marquesas
We got eighty feet of the waterline nicely making way
In a noisy bar in Avalon I tried to call you
But on a midnight watch I realized why twice you ran away

Think about
Think about how many times I have fallen
Spirits are using me larger voices callin’
What Heaven brought you and me cannot be forgotten

(Been around the world) I have been around the world
(Lookin’) Lookin’ for that woman girl
(Who knows she knows) Who knows love can endure
And you know it will

Yes

When you see the Southern Cross for the first time
You understand now why you came this way
‘Cause the truth you might be runnin’ from is so small
But it’s as big as the promise, the promise of a comin’ day

So I’m sailing for tomorrow my dreams are a dyin’
And my love is an anchor tied to you tied with a silver chain
I have my ship and all her flags are a’ flyin’
She is all that I have left and music is her name

Think about
Think about how many times I have fallen
Spirits are using me larger voices callin’
What Heaven brought you and me cannot be forgotten

(I’ve been around the world) I have been around the world
(Lookin’) Lookin’ for that woman girl
Who knows love can endure
And you know it will, and you know it will
Yes

Ooh

So we cheated and we lied and we tested
And we never failed to fail, it was the easiest thing to do
You will survive being bested
Somebody fine will come along, make me forget about loving you
At the Southern Cross