Folk Rock Southern Cross Lyrics Meaning

southern cross lyrics meaning

Crosby, Stills & Nash is a famous folk-rock supergroup known for their smooth harmonies and thoughtful songs.

They rose to fame in the late 1960s with hits like “Suite: Judy Blue Eyes” and “Helplessly Hoping.” Together, they sold millions of records, shaped the sound of classic rock, and headlined legendary concerts.

About the Song

Southern Cross is a smooth, catchy song by Crosby, Stills & Nash. It tells the story of a man sailing to find peace and new hope after heartbreak.

The song’s warm melody and strong chorus make it one of their most loved tracks.

Details Information
Released Jun 21, 1982
Album Crosby, Stills & Nash (Box Set) (1991)
Writers Michael Curtis, Richard Curtis & Stephen Stills
Producers Graham Nash, Stephen Stills & David Crosby

Southern Cross Lyrics by Crosby, Stills & Nash

Verse 1

Got out of town on a boat, going to Southern islands
Sailing a reach before a following sea
She was making for the trades on the outside
And the downhill run to Papeete
Off the wind on this heading lie, the Marquesas
We got eighty feet of the waterline
Nicely making way
In a noisy bar in Avalon, I tried to call you
But on a midnight watch I realized
Why twice you ran away

Pre-Chorus

(I think about)
Think about how many times I have fallen
Spirits are using me, larger voices calling
What heaven brought you and me
Cannot be forgotten (I’ve been around the world)

Chorus

I have been around the world (Looking)
Looking for that woman-girl
(And I know she knows)
Who knows love can endure
And you know it will

Verse 2

When you see the Southern Cross for the first time
You understand now why you came this way
‘Cause the truth you might be running from is so small
But it’s as big as the promise
The promise of a coming day
So I’m sailing for tomorrow, my dreams are a-dying
And my love is an anchor tied to you
Tied with a silver chain
I have my ship
And all her flags are a-flying
She is all that I have left
And music is her name

Pre-Chorus

(I think about)
Think about how many times I have fallen
Spirits are using me, larger voices calling
What heaven brought you and me
Cannot be forgotten (I’ve been around the world)

Chorus

I have been around the world (Looking)
Looking for that woman-girl
Who knows love can endure
And you know it will
And you know it will
(Yes)

Verse 3

So we cheated and we lied and we tested
And we never failed to fail
It was the easiest thing to do
You will survive being bested
Somebody fine
Will come along, make me forget about loving you
In the Southern Cross

Meaning of The Song

Southern Cross tells the story of a man who turns to the sea to heal his broken heart. After experiencing love, loss, and disappointment, he sets sail, searching for peace and a fresh start.

The Southern Cross, a bright star constellation in the southern sky, becomes a guiding light, reminding him that even in dark times, there is direction and hope.

Throughout the path, he examines past mistakes and the pain of lost love, but begins to understand that these experiences are part of life’s lessons.

The song shows that love, even when it fades, leaves behind memories that shape us.”

He realizes he must let go, believing that someone new will come along, helping him move forward. The sea, with its freedom and endless horizon, symbolizes new possibilities.

Southern Cross is a hopeful message that healing takes time, but brighter days always lie ahead.

Similar Songs like Southern Cross

These timeless tracks capture heartfelt emotions, rich harmonies, and soulful storytelling, much like the essence of Southern Cross.

  • Suite: Judy Blue Eyes“: It’s a beautiful song about love and heartbreak, with rich harmonies and shifting melodies that keep the listener hooked.
  • Helplessly Hoping: This is a soft, emotional song that tells a story of love, longing, and the quiet hope of being together again.
  • Wasted on the Way: It is a song that reflects on lost time and missed chances. It has a smooth tune and thoughtful, easy-to-understand lyrics.
  • Carry On: An uplifting song about moving forward through tough times, with powerful vocals and a message of staying strong.

Similar Artists Like Crosby, Stills & Nash

Check out these talented artists and their classic albums. Similar to Crosby, Stills, and Nash, they also offer beautiful harmonies and touching stories.

  • James Taylor
    Genre: Folk Rock, Soft Rock
    Top Album: Sweet Baby James (1970)

  • Jackson Browne
    Genre: Rock, Folk Rock, Soft Rock
    Top Album: Running on Empty (1977)

  • Neil Young
    Genre: Rock, Folk Rock, Country Rock
    Top Album: Harvest (1972)

  • The Byrds
    Genre: Folk Rock, Psychedelic Rock
    Top Album: Mr. Tambourine Man (1965)

Frequently Asked Questions

What Locations are Mentioned in The Song?

Places like Papeete, Avalon, and Marquesas are referenced, highlighting Stills’ real-life sailing experiences in the South Pacific.

What Role does Music Play in The Lyrics?

Music serves as a metaphor for solace and continuity, described as “all that I have left” during moments of emotional turmoil.

How does the Song Showcase Personal Heartbreak?

It captures Stills’ feelings of loss and hope post-divorce, detailing his struggles and eventual acceptance of new beginnings.

What does the Southern Cross Symbolize in The Song?

The Southern Cross, a constellation, represents guidance, hope, and finding direction in life, aligning with the song’s themes of renewal and growth.

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