Love the One You’re With

Zoo Freaks, get ready to groove with the Zoo Crew as they spin the classic "Love the One You're With" by Stephen Stills from his 1970 self-titled debut album. This iconic track, peaking at No. 14 on the Billboard Hot 100, was inspired by a catchy phrase Stills heard from musician Billy Preston: "If you can't be with the one you love, love the one you're with." Stills, struck by the line’s potential, asked Preston’s permission to use it, and the result was his biggest solo hit. In a 2022 post on X, Stills shared that he crafted the song around this phrase, particularly enjoying the steel drums he played, which he perfected by "diddling around" until he found the right notes. Another story, shared by UK soul singer Doris Troy on Spencer Leigh’s "On the Beat" radio show, claims she inspired the title when she comforted a lonesome Stills at a London party, saying, "Love the one you're with, Sugar!" Stills loved the expression and, with her blessing, turned it into the song we know today.

The track’s infectious vibe is elevated by an all-star lineup of background vocalists, including David Crosby, Graham Nash, Rita Coolidge, her sister Priscilla Jones, and John Sebastian, creating its rich, harmonious sound. Stills himself showcased his versatility, playing guitar, organ, percussion, and those memorable steel drums. In a Reddit thread on r/ClassicRock, fans praised Stills’ multi-instrumental talent, noting that his organ parts give the song its distinctive edge. The song’s free-love ethos sparked varied reactions; some women in 1970 criticized it for seeming cavalier about relationships, though others noted its universal message applies to all. Covers by artists like the Isley Brothers, who took it to No. 18 on the pop charts with a gospel-driven flair, and Aretha Franklin, who performed it on her 1971 live album, show its lasting appeal across genres.

Stephen Stills, born January 3, 1945, in Dallas, Texas, kicked off his musical journey in a family that nurtured his early passion for music. Raised in various places, including New Orleans, which he considers home, Stills honed his skills on guitar, piano, and bass as a teenager, drawing inspiration from Bob Dylan, Billie Holiday, and Hank Williams. Dropping out of college to pursue music, he hit the ground running in the mid-1960s by co-founding Buffalo Springfield with Neil Young. Their hit "For What It's Worth" became a defining anthem of the 1960s. After the band’s breakup, Stills joined forces with David Crosby and Graham Nash to form Crosby, Stills & Nash, whose 1969 debut album, featuring songs like "Suite: Judy Blue Eyes," sold over four million copies and won a Grammy for Best New Artist. His 1970 solo album, which included "Love the One You're With," featured guests like Jimi Hendrix and Eric Clapton, cementing his reputation as a versatile musical force.

Stills’ career spans over six decades, with combined record sales of over 35 million albums across his work with Buffalo Springfield, Crosby, Stills & Nash, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, and Manassas. Ranked among Rolling Stone’s top guitarists, he’s the only artist to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice in one night—for Buffalo Springfield and Crosby, Stills & Nash. Despite battling stage fright, Stills’ dedication to live performance shines through, as he once said in a quote, “I much prefer the road. My thing is getting live in front of people.” Fans can connect with him on his official website, Facebook, Instagram, and X. For community vibes, check out the Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young Fan Group on Facebook or dive into discussions on the r/ClassicRock subreddit, where Stills’ legacy continues to resonate with devoted listeners.