Watch Stephen Stills Music Battle A Harmonicist In “Miltary Madness” Live

Graham Nash, a legendary artist known for his contributions to iconic bands like the Hollies and Crosby, Stills, and Nash, has left an indelible mark on rock history. With multiple inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame, Nash’s career has spanned pivotal moments in music, from the British Invasion to the emergence of the Laurel Canyon movement. However, it is his profound songwriting that truly distinguishes him, as his compositions have become part of the soundtrack of our lives for nearly six decades.

One notable example of Nash’s songwriting prowess is “Military Madness,” an anti-war anthem that reflects his personal experiences and upbringing. Born during World War II in Blackpool, England, where his mother sought refuge from the bombings, Nash’s father served in the English army. This upbringing instilled in him an early awareness of the senselessness of war. In the liner notes of the 1991 CSN boxed set, Nash shared his perspective, stating, “You could say from a very early age I’ve been aware of the absurdity of war… One side always emerges victorious economically and industrially because they are the ones who orchestrated the conflict and manufactured the weapons.”

In the studio version of “Military Madness,” Rita Coolidge provides backing vocals, and Dave Mason contributes on lead guitar. The song served as the opening piece during Crosby, Stills & Nash’s acoustic tour in 1991, coinciding with the commencement of the Gulf War. This choice reflected the timely and poignant nature of the song’s message.

Check out one of Graham Nash’s finest performances of his song “Military Madness” along with his former CSNY bandmate, Stephen Stills.