David Crosby, the legendary singer-songwriter, has lived a life that reads like a Hollywood script. From co-founding iconic bands like The Byrds and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young to surviving heroin addiction and prison time, Crosby’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. "I was supposed to be dead 20 years ago," admits the 77-year-old musician. Now, his wild ride through life and music is captured in the new documentary, David Crosby: Remember My Name. As the film hits theaters, Crosby opens up to Closer Weekly about his tumultuous relationship with Joni Mitchell, his role in fathering Melissa Etheridge and Julie Cypher's children, and the steadfast love of his wife of 32 years, Jan Dance.
Reflecting on his life, Crosby shares, "I’m better at loving Jan than I was with the others. She’s not perfect, and neither am I, but we genuinely love each other, and that creates a special magic between us." His journey with Jan Dance has been a cornerstone of his survival and success.
Scroll down for an exclusive Q&A with David Crosby.
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Reflecting on the Film: A Gritty Look at a Remarkable Life
The documentary is an intense and honest portrayal of Crosby's life. He acknowledges its gritty nature but expresses satisfaction with the final product. Producer and interviewer Cameron Crowe has known Crosby since he was 15, giving the film a depth of authenticity. "There was a high degree of honesty—he gave me nowhere to hide," Crosby shares. The film delves into his friendships, his struggles, and the profound impact of his relationships.
From the Byrds to the Beatles: An Unlikely Friendship
When the Byrds hit it big with "Mr. Tambourine Man," the Beatles took notice. Recognizing their efforts to change the music scene, the Beatles extended a hand of friendship. "They were extremely kind to us. They said a lot of really kind things about us that helped us get started," Crosby recalls. Their friendship blossomed, leading to dinners, conversations, and jam sessions that shaped Crosby's musical journey.
Joni Mitchell: A Complex Relationship
Crosby's relationship with Joni Mitchell remains a significant chapter in his life. Despite their breakup, they maintain a cordial relationship. "I had dinner at her house a couple of months back, and we talked. And I love her," he says. Acknowledging her unhappiness, Crosby respects her distance while cherishing their shared history. "I think she certainly was the best singer-songwriter of all of us," he adds.
Breaking Up Through Song: "That Song About the Midway"
One of the most poignant moments in the film is Mitchell's use of a song to convey her decision to end their relationship. "‘That Song About the Midway’—it was her goodbye song to me," Crosby explains. The emotional weight of the moment is palpable as he recounts the look on her face after she performed it twice, directly at him.
Reconciling with the Past: Apologies and Forgiveness
Crosby's relationships with Stephen Stills, Graham Nash, and Neil Young have been fraught with tension. While the film might seem like an olive branch, Crosby insists it's not. "I’ve already apologized to those guys for most of the things that I think I should have apologized for," he says. Reflecting on his past as a junkie, he acknowledges the pain it caused his friends. "That was the worst thing I did to any of them," he admits. Yet, he holds no grudges, wishing them all well in their lives.
The Mystery of His Voice: Staying Strong Through Adversity
Despite years of drug and alcohol abuse, Crosby's voice remains remarkably strong. "My friends who are really good singers tell me that I’m singing probably better than I have in my life," he marvels. The mystery of his vocal endurance baffles even him, but he remains grateful.
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A Creative Surge: Four Albums in Four Years
Crosby's recent burst of creativity has resulted in four albums over four years, with a fifth in progress. "It doesn’t make any sense. What? Why? How? Who?" he jokes. This surge can be attributed to the supportive environment provided by his son James and talented young collaborators, fueling his passion for music.
From Acting Dreams to Musical Triumphs
Initially, Crosby aspired to follow in his father's footsteps as a cinematographer and pursue acting. However, his love for music took over when he began singing in a Santa Barbara coffeehouse during his teenage years. "That was it, boom," he recalls. His journey from aspiring actor to music legend is a testament to his passion and perseverance.
Familial Bonds: A Source of Pride
Among Crosby's greatest achievements are his children. He speaks fondly of Erika, Donovan, Django, Bailey, and Beckett. While some have distanced themselves, others remain close, bringing him immense joy. He’s proud of their ability to avoid the pitfalls of addiction, crediting their awareness of his struggles for their cautious approach to life.
The Key to Survival: A Strong Reason for Being
Crosby attributes his survival to a deep sense of purpose. "A lot of people don’t have a really good, strong reason that they believe in for their life to go forward," he explains. For Crosby, his love for his wife, family, and music provided the strength to overcome his addiction. "I had every reason on Earth to beat the dope and get to here," he concludes.
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