Crosby, Stills & Nash – Southern Cross

About the song

Crosby, Stills & Nash, a trio of folk-rock luminaries, released “Southern Cross” in 1982 as part of their album *Daylight Again*. The song, a melodic and introspective ballad, immediately captivated audiences with its evocative imagery and timeless themes.

“Southern Cross” is a song that invites listeners on a metaphorical journey of self-discovery and spiritual seeking. The titular constellation, a celestial guide for sailors in the Southern Hemisphere, becomes a symbol of hope and direction in the face of life’s uncertainties. The song’s lyrical narrative unfolds as a poignant exploration of personal loss, longing, and the search for meaning.

Stephen Stills, the primary songwriter of “Southern Cross,” has often spoken about the deeply personal nature of the lyrics. Drawing inspiration from his own experiences, Stills crafted a narrative that resonated with listeners on a profound level. The song’s melancholic tone, coupled with the harmonies of Crosby, Stills, and Nash, creates a melancholic yet uplifting atmosphere.

With its evocative imagery and heartfelt message, “Southern Cross” remains a cornerstone of the Crosby, Stills & Nash catalog. It is a testament to the trio’s ability to craft timeless music that speaks to the human condition, offering solace and inspiration to listeners across generations.

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