'It's the universal language'

 

“Language is an inadequate form of communication. If you've ever picked up an instrument, it's because you don't feel you are communicating sufficiently.” – Stephen Stills

 

Best known as part of two Rock and Roll Hall of Fame groups – Buffalo Springfield and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young – Stills was born on Jan. 3, 1945, a literal “rolling stone.”  The son of military parents, he traveled the world in his growing up years and didn’t quite know where to call home as he and his family moved from place to place.

 

Those experiences combined with his amazing musical talent led him into professional performance before he was out of his teen years and ultimately into the Hall of Fame.  Both his musicianship (he performed on multiple instruments) and his writing (most of the songs of the two groups noted above plus a longstanding solo list) made him an American musical icon.

 

Ranked as Rolling Stone magazine’s 28^th All Time Greatest guitarist, Stills’ writing compliments his wide range of lyrics addressing everything from the American scene to politics to love.  His “Love The One You’re With” is ranked one of the 100 all-time greatest rock songs.   

 

He also has written many songs for and about other singers, including Judy Collins with whom he had a longstanding on-again, off-again relationship, fostering the award-winning album “Suite:  Judy Blue Eyes.”   His soft rock ballad “Teach Your Children” is also listed among many “greatest hits” lists.

 

“Mostly retired,” he still does occasional guest appearances, especially to support causes that help those in need.  “Music,” said Stills, “is the universal language of mankind.”