A potent allegory for environmental destruction and the relentless pace of modern life.
Released in 1972 as the title track from their album of the same name, Crazy Horses became one of The Osmonds’ most enduring hits, reaching number 14 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and peaking at number 2 on the UK Singles Chart. Notably, this track distinguishes itself within The Osmonds’ discography as the only hit single to feature Jay Osmond on lead vocals, lending a distinct edge to their typically harmonious sound. This departure from their usual bubblegum pop image marked a significant shift, showcasing a harder, more rock-infused sound that resonated with a broader audience.
The story behind Crazy Horses is as compelling as the song itself. The inspiration came from the sight of exhaust fumes billowing from cars on a Los Angeles freeway, an image that deeply troubled the Osmond brothers. Witnessing this pervasive pollution sparked a conversation about the destructive impact of unchecked industrial progress on the environment. This concern translated into the song’s powerful lyrics, which use the metaphor of “crazy horses” to represent the relentless forces of technology and industrialization, galloping across the landscape, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake.
The song’s lyrics paint a vivid picture: “There’s a message floatin’ in the air / Come from crazy horses ridin’ everywhere / It’s a warning, it’s in every tongue / Gotta stop them crazy horses on the run.” 1 These words, delivered with a raw urgency, carry a profound message about the need for environmental consciousness. It wasn’t just a catchy tune; it was a call to action, urging listeners to recognize the consequences of their actions and to take responsibility for the future of the planet. In a time where environmental awareness was starting to gain traction, Crazy Horses became an anthem, a powerful reminder of the delicate balance between progress and preservation.
For many who grew up in the 70s, Crazy Horses was more than just a song; it was a soundtrack to their youth. The driving guitars, the pounding drums, and Jay Osmond’s distinctive vocals created an atmosphere of both excitement and unease, perfectly capturing the anxieties of a generation grappling with the rapid changes of the modern world. It was a song that you could dance to, but also a song that made you think. It spoke to the growing awareness of environmental issues, a topic that was just beginning to enter the mainstream consciousness. The song’s heavy guitar riffs and powerful drumbeat were a stark departure from the typical bubblegum pop sound that The Osmonds were known for, signaling a maturation in their music and a willingness to tackle more complex themes.
The song’s enduring appeal lies in its timeless message. Even today, the themes of environmental destruction and the relentless pace of modern life remain relevant. The “crazy horses” continue to run, and the need to address their impact is more urgent than ever. This enduring relevance ensures that Crazy Horses remains a powerful and poignant piece of music, a reminder of the past, a reflection of the present, and a warning for the future. Listening to it now, decades later, evokes a powerful sense of nostalgia, transporting us back to a time when music had the power to not only entertain but also to inspire change. It’s a testament to the power of music to capture the spirit of a time and to resonate across generations. The sheer energy and rawness of the track, coupled with its important message, makes it a true rock classic.