The Meaning Behind The Song: Long Time Gone by Crosby – Stills & Nash
The song “Long Time Gone” was released in 1969 as part of the Crosby – Stills & Nash self-titled debut album. Written by David Crosby, the song has been described as an anthem for the anti-war movement during the Vietnam War era.
The Lyrics
The song opens with the lines:
It’s been a long time coming
It’s going to be a long time gone
The lyrics describe a sense of disillusionment and apathy towards the state of the world. The second verse touches on the political climate at the time, with references to politicians and their affiliations.
The chorus of the song, with its energetic harmonies, speaks to a desire for action and change:
We can’t just wait with our heads in the sand
I’ll be proud to go down fighting
The Music
Musically, “Long Time Gone” has been noted for its mix of folk and rock influences. The song features a driving drum beat and layered vocal harmonies, with a guitar solo towards the end.
The Meaning
“Long Time Gone” has been interpreted as a call to action for social and political change, specifically aimed at the anti-war movement in the late 1960s. David Crosby has said that he wrote the song in response to the assassination of Robert F. Kennedy, as well as the ongoing war in Vietnam.
The lyrics express frustration with the state of politics and a desire for a shift towards peace and justice. The song was popular among protesters at the time, and has continued to be associated with social activism in the decades since its release.
The Legacy
“Long Time Gone” remains a beloved classic rock song, and has been covered by a variety of artists over the years. The song’s message of hope and determination in the face of adversity has resonated with generations of listeners.
In 2006, David Crosby was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, in recognition of his contributions to music. “Long Time Gone” is just one example of his enduring impact on the industry.
FAQs
1. What inspired David Crosby to write “Long Time Gone”?
David Crosby has said that the song was a response to the political and social climate of the late 1960s, including the ongoing Vietnam War and Robert F. Kennedy’s assassination.
2. What message does the song convey?
“Long Time Gone” is a call to action for social and political change, with lyrics expressing frustration with the status quo and a desire for peace and justice.
3. How has the song been received over the years?
“Long Time Gone” remains a beloved classic rock song, and has been covered by a variety of artists over the years. Its message of hope and determination has resonated with generations of listeners.
4. What other songs did Crosby – Stills & Nash release?
Crosby – Stills & Nash released a number of highly successful albums, including “Déjà Vu,” “CSN,” and “Daylight Again.”
5. What impact did the song have on the anti-war movement?
“Long Time Gone” became a rallying cry for the anti-war movement in the late 1960s, and has continued to be associated with social activism in the decades since its release.
6. Who produced the song?
“Long Time Gone” was produced by Stephen Stills and Bill Halverson.
7. What genre of music is “Long Time Gone”?
“Long Time Gone” is a mix of folk and rock influences, and has been noted for its driving rhythm and layered harmonies.
8. How did the song perform on the charts?
“Long Time Gone” peaked at number 28 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1969.
9. What other artists have covered “Long Time Gone”?
“Long Time Gone” has been covered by a variety of artists over the years, including Emmylou Harris, Eva Cassidy, and Patty Loveless.
10. What is David Crosby’s legacy in the music industry?
David Crosby is widely regarded as one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century, and has been inducted into both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame. His work as a member of Crosby – Stills & Nash, as well as his solo career, has had a lasting impact on the industry.
