Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young was a folk-rock supergroup known for their smooth harmonies and powerful messages.
They formed in the late 1960s, and their music frequently addressed themes of peace, love, and social and political issues. Hits like “Teach Your Children” and “Ohio” became anthems of their time.
Moreover, each member had a strong solo career, but together they created timeless songs that still inspire generations with their honest lyrics and beautiful sound.
About the Song
“Teach Your Children” is a gentle folk-rock song that talks about love, understanding, and the bond between parents and children.
It encourages parents to guide their children with care and children to listen with open hearts, creating a world filled with kindness and respect.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Released | May 1970 |
| Album | Déjà Vu (50th Anniversary Deluxe Edition) (2021) |
| Writers | Graham Nash |
| Producer | Neil Young, Graham Nash, Stephen Stills & David Crosby |
Teach Your Children Lyrics
Verse 1
You, who are on the road
Must have a code that you can live by
And so, become yourself
Because the past, is just a goodbye
Chorus
Teach, your children well
Your father’s hell, did slowly go by
And feed, them on your dreams
The one they pick’s, the one you’ll know by
Post-Chorus
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
Verse 2
And you of tender years (Can you hear and do you care?)
Can’t know the fears (And can you see?)
That your elders grew by (We must be free)
And so please help (To teach your children)
Them with your youth (What you believe in)
They seek the truth (Make a world)
Before they can die (That we can live in)
Chorus
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
Post-Chorus
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
Teach Your Children Covered by Other Artists
1. MonaLisa Twins
The MonaLisa Twins’ cover of “Teach Your Children” is a heartfelt, audible rendition, with their father, Papa Rudi, adding rich three-part harmonies.
The song holds special meaning for them, reflecting on the wisdom and bravery instilled by their dad, making the performance personal and touching.
2. FranzChenChar
The FranzChenChar trio’s cover of “Teach Your Children” offers a warm performance that highlights the family bonds between a father and his daughters.
Their harmonious vocals and gentle guitar create a heartfelt rendition, showcasing the spirit of connection and wisdom passed down between generations.
3. Mike K-Nein, Erik Norman & Bob Salihar
Mike K-Nein, Erik Norman, and Bob Salihar’s cover of Teach Your Children delivers heartfelt harmonies and gentle acoustic guitar, honoring David Crosby’s legacy.
Recorded at K-Nein Studios in January 2023, their rendition evokes a sense of warmth and nostalgia, serving as a poignant tribute to the timeless message of the original classic.
Teach Your Children Live Covers by Other Artists
1. Hanson (2003)
Hanson’s live acoustic cover of Teach Your Children from their 2003 Underneath Acoustic Live session showcases their signature harmonies and heartfelt delivery.
The performance captures the song’s timeless message with gentle guitar and warm vocals, giving tribute to the classic folk anthem
2. Playing For Change (2015)
The Playing for Change live cover of “Teach Your Children,” filmed in Adelaide, Australia, features soulful vocals, great instrumentation, and a message of global unity.
Tula, Roberto Luti, and the PFC Band deliver an inspiring performance, conveying the song’s message of love, understanding, and the power of music across cultures.
3. Playing For Change ( 2016)
The Playing for Change Band’s live cover of Teach Your Children in Brazil gives the feeling of warmth, unity, and hope.
With heartfelt vocals and musicianship, the performance supports music education, showing the power of love and music to connect hearts and inspire change across cultures and generations.
Similar Songs Like Teach Your Children
If you enjoy the gentle spirit of Teach Your Children, these songs offer heartfelt messages, rich harmonies, and themes of love, hope, and unity:
- “Our House“: This song paints a warm picture of domestic happiness, celebrating simple joys and love shared within a peaceful home environment.
- “Carry On“: It encourages hope and strength, blending uplifting harmonies with a message about moving forward through life’s challenges together.
- “Woodstock“: It’s a song that showcases the spirit of unity and peace, reflecting on the iconic festival and the dreams of a generation seeking change.
- “Suite: Judy Blue Eyes“: Weaves heartfelt lyrics and detailed harmonies, telling a story of love, longing, and emotional connection with gentle optimism.
Similar Supergroups Like Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young
These legendary supergroups, like Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, brought together iconic artists to create timeless music filled with emotion and unforgettable collaborations:
- Cream
Genres: Blues Rock, Psychedelic Rock
Top Albums: Disraeli Gears (1967), Wheels of Fire (1968), Fresh Cream (1966) - The Traveling Wilburys
Genres: Rock, Folk Rock
Top Albums: Traveling Wilburys Vol. 1 (1988), Traveling Wilburys Vol. 3 (1990) - Blind Faith
Genres: Rock, Blues Rock
Top Albums: Blind Faith (1969) - The Highwaymen
Genres: Country, Outlaw Country
Top Albums: Highwayman (1985), Highwayman 2 (1990)
Frequently Asked Questions
Has Teach Your Children Won any Awards or Recognition?
Although the song did not win any awards, it has become one of CSNY’s most enduring compositions and is considered a classic of the folk-rock genre.
Did Teach Your Children Chart When Released?
Yes, it reached #16 on the Billboard Hot 100 charts in the United States.
Which Bands were the CSNY Members in Previously?
David Crosby was from The Byrds, Stephen Stills from Buffalo Springfield, Graham Nash from The Hollies, and Neil Young, also from Buffalo Springfield.
