David Crosby’s death has been widely mourned throughout the music business and beyond.
Crosby, a founding member of The Byrds and Crosby, Stills & Nash, died on Thursday after a “protracted illness,” according to his wife. He was 81.
Brian Wilson, the Beach Boys’ singer, composer, and co-founder responded to the news by tweeting a photo of him and Crosby speaking.
“I’m heartbroken to hear about David Crosby, but I’m at a loss for words,” he wrote. “David possessed amazing talent and was a fantastic singer and songwriter. A nice person as well. I simply do not know what to say. David’s loved ones deserve your love and mercy.”
Melissa Etheridge, who previously revealed that Crosby fathered her two kids, Bailey and Beckett, via artificial insemination with her ex-partner Julie Cypher, paid tribute to the late artist as well.
She shared an Instagram photo of Beckett and Bailey with the statement, “I am mourning the demise of my friend Beckett and Bailey’s biological father, David.”
“As a gift, he gave me my family. I’ll be eternally grateful to him, Django, and Jan. His songs and legacy will inspire many future generations. A priceless jewel.”
Christina Applegate described her approach to expressing respect.
“To honor this great spirit and legacy, my friends and neighbors will howl tonight at 7 p.m. PST before blaring CSN. If you do this, please give me the footage. David Crosby, rest in peace! I adore you,” she wrote.
“A legend in his own right and in every group he was a part of, the world has lost yet another ethereal fixture of the peace and love movement of the 1960s,” the Doors said on their official Twitter account. “David Crosby, a teenager during The Doors’ peak, had a vocal and songwriting ability that distinguished him from the rest.”
The band Home Free wished “the iconic David Crosby” a safe voyage to the other side in a touching message.
The band’s performance of Crosby, Stills, and Nash’s “Helplessly Hoping,” as well as a statement saying they would “never finish unpacking the complexities of his music,” were posted online.
Actor and rock musician Michael Des Barres lauded Crosby as a “guy who stuck to his guns” and was “tough and gifted.”
“In Laurel Canyon, his soothing voice may still be heard,” Des Barres continued. “He was a self-assured man who made no apologies for what he said or how he felt. RIP, an American Icon and a talented songwriter.”
“How significant Crosby, Stills, and Nash were to me is beyond words,” artist Rosanne Cash stated. I’m delighted David Crosby was still alive and heartbroken that he’s gone.”
Crosby’s longtime publicist, Emmy winner Danny Deraney, also paid tribute, tweeting a rare film of Crosby singing the 1969 hit song “Long Time Gone” with Crosby.
“When I think back on the guys I worked with who I admired as a child, I have to pinch myself occasionally. I’ve backed David Crosby on several occasions. He was an entrepreneur. He could be a pussycat or a fussy individual. Cros was present. “It’s as authentic as it gets,” Deraney tweeted.
On Thursday, Crosby’s wife informed Variety of his death.
She expressed tremendous grief that our dear David (Croz) Crosby had died after a long illness. “His soul mate Jan, his wife, and their son Django were ecstatically around him. Even though he is no longer with us, his humanism and kindness will continue to inspire us. He will leave a lasting impact through his classic tunes.”
“To everyone who knew David and the individuals he impacted, peace, love, and harmony,” she said. He’ll be much missed. We politely and humbly request privacy during this difficult time as we grieve and work to overcome our tragic loss. I appreciate your prayers and love.”
