Charlottesville - I got the chance of a lifetime to witness the infamous folk rock band Crosby, Stills, and Nash when they performed at the Charlottesville Pavilion in September.  Since their self-titled first album in 1969, it is difficult to comprehend the vivacity they must possess to continue touring together despite many hardships that span over forty years.  Their music has brought so much meaning and comfort to a loyal fanbase throughout the years, which was evident when I witnessed a sea of faces yearning to revisit their youth.  It was as if I traveled backwards to a time when society’s youth were seeking something found only in the music that urged change.

As the trio approached the stage, the crowd rose and clapped frantically in their honor.  They started off exceptionally strong with "Military Madness," and followed with an array of classic favorites including: "Our House," "Long May You Run," "Guinnevere," "Cathedral," "Suite Judy Blue Eyes," "Southern Cross," "Wooden Ships," "Almost Cut My Hair," "Delta," "Marrakesh Express," "Love the One Your With," "Teach Your Children," "For What It's Worth," and "Long Time Gone."  Supplementing these traditional favorites that shaped an entire culture, David Crosby stated that they would be singing songs that he wished the group had written which included The Who's "Tommy" and the Allman Brothers' "Midnight Rider."  I felt as if I was watching living history, frozen for all who worshipped and continue to worship the legendary trio.

There is no doubting that the trio’s vocal fusion takes you to a higher musical elevation.  As the lights glittered the stage of blue, red, and gold that evening, their vocal harmonies echoed throughout the late summer air giving way to musical nostalgia.  It was as if the three were climbing a vocal ladder, and by the end of the fourth song, Stephen Stills started throwing picks to the front row of the audience who eagerly fought for a little piece of rock and roll greatness.  This greatness is evident as Crosby, Stills, and Nash were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1997, and are in fact the only band to have all its members inducted into the Hall twice - David Crosby with the Byrds in 1991, Stephen Stills with Buffalo Springfield in 1997, and this year Nash was inducted with the Hollies.  (Frequent collaborator Neil Young was inducted for his solo work in 1995 and for Buffalo Springfield in 1997.)

As the night progressed, I found myself drawn to these individuals that exude Americana peace.  Their songs tackle an array of perspectives including anti-war protest songs, Americana folk ballads, and heartfelt disillusionment with the state of their country.  Combined with their enduring personal struggles, as well as their group’s cohesive evolution, it is a miraculous story of overcoming great odds in which fame spares a rare few.  With each vocal contribution, along with Crosby and Stills on guitar and Nash on the keys and harmonica, it is apparent when listening to these gifted individuals' that they are all musically inclined to the point where it transitions quickly to the level of genius.

As Crosby, Stills, and Nash continue to tour for interested fans spanning multiple decades, it is important to gather so that we can support artists who give so much.  There is no disputing that Crosby, Stills, and Nash have retained their authentic musical integrity, always managing to maintain the original purity of their soulful and hauntingly romantic music.  It was an honor and a pleasure to be in the presence of such awe-inspiring musicians.  For future show information, please visit CrosbyStillsNash.com, and for further exciting shows at the Charlottesville Pavilion, go to CharlottesvillePavilion.com. 

By Director and Correspondent: Helen Brown

Although originally from Marion Junction, Alabama, Helen has been living in Virginia for the last three years because she absolutely loves the Blue Ridge Mountains.  She attended Emory and Henry College in Emory, Virginia, gaining a degree in Philosophy and Psychology.  Helen moved to Charlottesville on a whim because of the unique music scene, interest in the food and wine Industry, and the desire to incorporate music into her professional aspirations.  She is looking forward to listening to an array of eclectic music, observing the local talent, and meeting some interesting people while working with the Magazine33 team!  See you around town ...