“Southern Cross” is a song by Crosby, Stills & Nash released in 1982

About the song

Crosby, Stills & Nash’s “Southern Cross,” released in 1977, is a timeless folk-rock anthem that has captured the hearts of listeners for generations. The song’s evocative lyrics, coupled with the band’s harmonies and the gentle strumming of their acoustic guitars, create a sense of tranquility and longing.

“Southern Cross” is a tribute to the constellation Southern Cross, which is visible from the Southern Hemisphere. The song’s lyrics explore themes of travel, adventure, and the search for meaning in life. The Southern Cross serves as a symbol of hope and guidance, representing the desire for a better future.

Musically, “Southern Cross” is a beautifully crafted folk-rock song that showcases the talents of Crosby, Stills, and Nash. The arrangement is sparse, allowing the band’s harmonies and the acoustic guitars to take center stage. The song’s gentle tempo and melodic structure create a sense of peace and tranquility.

Beyond its commercial success, “Southern Cross” has become a cultural touchstone, influencing countless artists and cementing Crosby, Stills & Nash’s legacy as pioneers of folk-rock. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and its ability to connect with listeners on a deep emotional level. As we listen to “Southern Cross” today, we are reminded of the power of music to evoke powerful emotions and the enduring beauty of nature.

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