From Buffalo Springfield to Crosby, Stills & Nash, Stephen Stills has delivered hit after hit throughout his long and successful career. Though far from underrated, Stills is one of a few singer/songwriters who defined a generation but could stand to get a bit more love. Neil Young once called him a genius, after all. If you’re starting to get into Stephen Stills, these four songs are essential listening!
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1. “Old Times, Good Times”
This solo career classic from 1970 is essential listening for any Stephen Stills fan worth their salt. This is a particularly rock-focused tune with some excellent guitar riffs from none other than Jimi Hendrix. It was one of the last tracks he recorded before his untimely death.
If anything, “Old Times, Good Times” is a symbol of what could have been if history had been just a little different. Allegedly, Hendrix wanted Stills to be the bass player for The Experience. Stills was also set to record with Hendrix for his solo record, but a broken hand prevented Stills from working with him.
2. “Rock & Roll Woman”
This is one of Buffalo Springfield’s best tracks from 1967. “Rock & Roll Woman” is also a bit of a window into the future, as the overall instrumentation and vibe of the song is quite similar to Crosby, Stills & Nash. David Crosby even does backing vocals on this song. However, this eclectic track also has a notable psychedelic energy to it that makes it stand out.
3. “Sit Down I Think I Love You”
This Buffalo Springfield classic from 1966 is one of Stephen Stills’ very best songs. “Sit Down I Think I Love You” was written before the band was even formed, too. Stills originally sold the song to The Mojo Men (as well as The Executives), and it became a Top 40 hit that earned Stills exactly $0 in royalties.
Thankfully, Stills opted to include it on Buffalo Springfield’s debut album so we could at least enjoy that superior version, even if it didn’t earn Stills a dime.
4. “Carry On”
This Deja Vu classic from 1970 will knock the air out of you if you’ve never heard it before. Adding Neil Young to Crosby, Stills & Nash (renamed Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, respectfully) was such a smart choice. Young and Stills worked beautifully together.
Originally, “Carry On” was written years prior to its release. All it took was a powerful jam session to really bring the whole thing together and make it album-worthy.
Photo by Richard E. Aaron/Redferns
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