“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”

Introduction

The Roar of “Crazy Horses”: An Unexpected Anthem

Released in 1972, The Osmonds’ “Crazy Horses” stands as a surprisingly raw and hard-hitting track, a stark departure from the clean-cut pop image they had cultivated. Far from their usual bubblegum sound, this song plunged into the burgeoning hard rock and glam rock landscape of the early 70s, showcasing a heavier, more experimental side of the Utah-based family band.

The song’s content and meaning are powerfully conveyed through its aggressive instrumentation and poignant lyrics. “Crazy Horses” isn’t literally about equines; rather, it’s a searing environmental protest song disguised as a rock anthem. The “crazy horses” symbolize the internal combustion engines of cars, spewing pollution into the atmosphere and choking the planet. Lines like “Oh, crazy horses / We’re coming to the end” and “The air is getting thick, the skies are turning black” paint a vivid and alarming picture of ecological decay. The song expresses a deep concern for the future of the Earth, warning of the destructive path humanity was taking with unchecked industrialization and consumption.

Musically, “Crazy Horses” is a bold and innovative piece for its time, especially for The Osmonds. It features a prominent, distorted guitar riff, driving drums, and a powerful bassline that give it a substantial, almost proto-punk energy. Merrill Osmond’s lead vocals are passionate and uncharacteristically gritty, conveying the urgency of the song’s message. The use of synthesizers for the horse-whinnying sound adds a unique, almost unsettling layer to the track, contributing to its distinct identity.

The significance of “Crazy Horses” lies in its ability to transcend The Osmonds’ established genre and deliver a socially conscious message with genuine rock conviction. It proved that the band was capable of more than just teen pop; they could tackle serious themes and experiment with heavier sounds. While it might have initially shocked some fans, the song’s enduring appeal lies in its powerful message, its compelling musicality, and its unexpected place in the Osmonds’ diverse discography, solidifying its status as a cult classic and an early example of environmentalism in mainstream music.

Video