The Word Crosby Said He Always Avoided In Lyrics — And Finally Used In His Last Album

April 2, 2025

David Crosby, one of the iconic voices of the 1960s music revolution, had spent much of his career avoiding a single word. Despite his impressive catalog of songs and collaborations, he steered clear of the word “love.” To him, it felt like a cliché, an overused term that might cheapen the true emotions he wanted to convey. But in the twilight of his life, as he faced health challenges and looked back on his incredible journey, Crosby felt the pull to confront this elusive word.

It was during the making of his last album, *For Free*, that Crosby found himself reflecting on his past decisions and the relationships that shaped him. As he sat in his studio, surrounded by guitars and old photographs, memories flooded back—of friendships forged in the heat of creativity, of the highs and lows of fame, and of the people he had loved deeply. This moment of reflection was both a challenge and a revelation. For the first time, he felt ready to embrace “love” in a way he hadn’t before.

With a renewed sense of purpose, Crosby poured his heart into the album. The process was not just about music; it was about healing and acceptance. He wrote lyrics that explored the complexity of love—its joy, its pain, and its ability to inspire greatness. “Love is a powerful force,” he realized, “and it deserves to be sung about honestly.” The songwriting became cathartic for him, a way to lay bare his soul and share the depths of his experiences with his listeners.

When *For Free* was finally released, the world heard a new side of David Crosby—one that embraced vulnerability and authenticity. Critics praised the album for its heartfelt lyrics and rich melodies, but more importantly, fans connected with it on a personal level. Many were inspired by Crosby’s willingness to confront a word he had once avoided, and they found strength in his honesty. For Crosby, the album became a symbol of his resilience, a testament that it’s never too late to express what truly matters.

As the days passed, Crosby felt a sense of liberation. He’d taken a leap into the depths of emotion and emerged triumphant. The words he once shied away from had become a bridge, connecting him to both his past and his audience in a way he had never imagined. Reflecting on his life’s work, he understood that music wasn’t just about the notes and rhythms—it was about sharing experiences and emotions that resonate with others.

Crosby’s journey taught him that embracing love, in all its forms, was essential to both his art and his life. By opening up about love in his final album, he not only enriched his own spirit but also inspired countless others to be brave in their own lives. As he shared this story with friends and fans, he left behind a legacy not of avoidance but of open-hearted acceptance—a powerful reminder that our experiences, no matter how complicated, make us who we are.