I Almost Cut My Hair (Live 1989)

The Zoo Crew is spinning a classic today with "I Almost Cut My Hair (Live 1989)" by David Crosby from the King Biscuit Flower Hour album, and Zoo Freaks, this track is loaded with vibes and history. Originally released on Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young's 1970 album Déjà Vu, the song captures a defining moment of hippie counterculture. Written by Crosby, it reflects the real-life dilemma of whether to cut his long hair—a symbol of rebellion—or keep it as a "freak flag" waving against the establishment. Crosby himself called the lyrics "the most juvenile" he'd ever written, yet admitted they carry a raw emotional punch that resonates deeply. The 1989 live version, recorded at the Tower Theatre in Philadelphia, showcases Crosby’s triumphant return to the stage after years of personal struggles, including drug addiction and a prison sentence. The performance, backed by a tight band including guitarist Dan Dugmore and keyboardist Michael Finnigan, brings a fresh urgency to the track, with fans on Amazon praising its stellar sound quality and electrifying arrangements.

The song’s cultural impact is undeniable, with posts on X highlighting its significance. One user, @RealRichardNeer, wrote in 2023 that "Almost Cut My Hair" defined the hippie_voided_ a sentiment echoed by @caljam1, who recalled Crosby’s solo performance of the song in Milwaukee, where he outshone even The Beach Boys in front of 50,000 fans. The 1989 King Biscuit recording captures Crosby at a pivotal moment, promoting his solo album Oh Yes I Can. Reviewers on Rate Your Music note that while the live versions don’t always surpass the studio originals, the setlist, including "Almost Cut My Hair," is a compelling mix of old and new, delivered with grit and soul. This performance is a testament to Crosby’s resilience, as he reclaimed his artistry post-recovery.

David Crosby’s journey to becoming a music legend began in Los Angeles, where he was born on August 14, 1941, to a cinematographer father and a Macy’s salesperson mother. Immersed in the folk scene of the early 1960s, Crosby co-founded The Byrds in 1964, helping pioneer folk rock with hits like "Mr. Tambourine Man." After leaving The Byrds in 1968, he connected with Stephen Stills and Graham Nash through Cass Elliot of The Mamas & the Papas, forming Crosby, Stills & Nash. Their 1969 debut album, with its rich harmonies and California sound, was a massive hit, and their second performance ever was at Woodstock. When Neil Young joined, they became CSNY, releasing Déjà Vu, which topped charts. Crosby’s songwriting, including tracks like "Almost Cut My Hair" and "Guinnevere," cemented his legacy, earning him two Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductions for his work with both bands.

Fans can connect with Crosby’s legacy through his official website, davidcrosby.com, though social media accounts like Facebook, Instagram, and X are less active following his passing in 2023. For community vibes, check out the Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young Fan Group on Facebook, where Zoo Freaks can share their love for Crosby’s music. Fan sites like 4waysite.com offer deep dives into CSNY history, perfect for exploring more about this iconic track and Crosby’s enduring influence.