About the song
“Teach Your Children” by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners across generations. Released in 1970 on their landmark album “Déjà Vu,” this song captures the essence of the era’s social consciousness while delivering a message of enduring relevance.
Written by Graham Nash, “Teach Your Children” reflects his thoughtful songwriting and the group’s commitment to harmonious melodies and poignant lyrics. Nash penned the song while still a member of The Hollies, inspired by a photograph of a child holding a toy grenade. This image provoked contemplation about the responsibility adults have in shaping the values and future of the younger generation.
“Teach Your Children” quickly became a defining track for Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, thanks to its gentle yet powerful plea for understanding and guidance between parents and children. The song emphasizes the importance of nurturing love, tolerance, and wisdom to foster a better future. Its lyrics, “Teach your children well / Their father’s hell did slowly go by,” underscore the cyclical nature of generational learning and the need for continuous growth and compassion.
Upon its release, “Teach Your Children” achieved commercial success, reaching number 16 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s success contributed to the overall triumph of the “Déjà Vu” album, which became one of the most iconic records of the 1970s, showcasing the unique synergy of the quartet’s vocal harmonies and musical talents.
Musically, “Teach Your Children” is anchored by its acoustic guitar arrangement and the distinctive pedal steel guitar played by Jerry Garcia of the Grateful Dead. This collaboration added a rich, warm texture to the song, enhancing its folk-country appeal. The harmonies of David Crosby, Stephen Stills, Graham Nash, and Neil Young create a soothing, reflective atmosphere that perfectly complements the song’s message.
“Teach Your Children” remains a staple in the live performances of Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, celebrated for its heartfelt delivery and timeless appeal. Its enduring popularity speaks to the universal themes it addresses, making it a song that resonates with audiences young and old.
In summary, “Teach Your Children” by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young is a beautifully crafted song that combines insightful lyrics with harmonious melodies. Its message of love, guidance, and intergenerational learning continues to inspire and comfort listeners, solidifying its place as a beloved classic in the annals of music history. This song is a testament to the group’s ability to create music that is not only artistically exceptional but also deeply meaningful and relevant.
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Lyrics
You, who are on the road
Must have a code you try to live by
And so become yourself
Because the past is just a goodbye
Teach your children well
Their father’s hell did slowly go by
Feed them on your dreams
The one they pick’s the one you’ll know by
Don’t you ever ask them why
If they told you, you would cry
So just look at them and sigh
And know they love you
And you, of tender years
Can’t know the fears your elders grew by
Help them with your youth
They seek the truth before they can die
Teach your parents well
Their children’s hell will slowly go by
And feed them on your dreams
The one they pick’s the one you’ll know by
Don’t you ever ask them why
If they told you, you would cry
So just look at them and sigh
And know they love you
Don’t you ever ask them why
If they told you, you would cry
So just look at them and sigh
And know they love you
Ooh, and know they love you
And know they love you, yeah
And know they love you