Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young
at Woodstock 1969

CSNY performed their second ever concert at Woodstock, and their harmonies and political songs helped define the festival's legacy. Joni Mitchell's "Woodstock" song came from their perspective.

Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young — Woodstock 1969

Despite their later success, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young must have felt nervous performing at Woodstock — it was only their second concert together as a group. The supergroup had recently formed in 1968 following the breakup of The Hollies (Graham Nash), The Byrds (David Crosby), and Buffalo Springfield (Stephen Stills).

Initially a trio, the members needed additional instrumental support, and Neil Young joined as the fourth member. Their Woodstock set featured both acoustic numbers from their first album and electric material, with Young and Stills performing certain sections as a duo. They were mistakenly introduced from the stage as their "former band Buffalo Springfield."

The decision to include Neil Young in the lineup had only recently been made, and the chemistry between all four members was still developing. Yet their harmonies — particularly on songs like "Suite: Judy Blue Eyes" and "Long Time Gone" — were stunning. The contrast between acoustic introspection and electric intensity created a set that was among the most musically sophisticated at the festival.

Following their festival performance, CSNY released "Déjà Vu," which topped charts and generated multiple hit singles. Neil Young's politically charged "Ohio," written in response to the Kent State massacre, created internal friction that led to inconsistent touring between three and four-member configurations.

Their friend Joni Mitchell, who had been unable to attend Woodstock due to a TV commitment, wrote the song "Woodstock" based on accounts from Stills and others. Stills's lead vocal on the CS&N version made it "instantly the most recognizable song about the Woodstock festival."

CSNY has remained one of the most influential acts in rock history, returning for occasional reunions through the decades.

Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young Woodstock Setlist

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