Watch the video at the end of this article.
Introduction
“Crazy Horses,” released in 1972 by The Osmonds, stands as one of the most surprising and powerful songs in the group’s career, breaking sharply away from their earlier clean-cut pop image. Unlike their well-known bubblegum hits, “Crazy Horses” dives into hard rock territory, driven by heavy guitar riffs, pounding drums, and an aggressive vocal delivery that stunned listeners at the time. The song was written primarily by Alan, Merrill, and Wayne Osmond, reflecting a more mature and socially conscious direction for the band.
Lyrically, “Crazy Horses” is an environmental protest song, inspired by the growing concern over air pollution and industrialization in the early 1970s. The phrase “crazy horses” refers metaphorically to automobiles and machines that flood the air with smoke and noise. Lines like “Crazy horses all got riders, and they’re you and I” directly confront humanity’s responsibility for environmental destruction, emphasizing that people themselves are the drivers behind the damage being done to the planet. The song’s repeated references to “smoke-filled skies” and “pollution” highlight the urgency of the message at a time when environmental awareness was only beginning to enter mainstream culture.
Musically, the track is notable for its raw energy and bold experimentation. Merrill Osmond’s gritty lead vocals, combined with distorted guitar effects and an unusual use of phaser sounds, give the song an intense, almost chaotic feel that mirrors the environmental crisis it describes. This heavier sound was unexpected from The Osmonds, helping the song gain respect beyond their traditional teen-pop audience and earning it lasting credibility as a rock anthem.
The significance of “Crazy Horses” lies not only in its sound but also in its message. It showed that The Osmonds were capable of artistic growth and social commentary, challenging stereotypes about the band. Decades later, the song remains relevant, as its warnings about pollution, overconsumption, and environmental responsibility resonate even more strongly in today’s world. “Crazy Horses” endures as a bold statement, proving that pop groups can deliver powerful messages without sacrificing musical impact.