About the song
Released in 1970, “Ohio” by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young remains a poignant and powerful anthem that captured the turbulent spirit of its time. This iconic protest song was written in immediate response to the tragic events of May 4, 1970, when the Ohio National Guard opened fire on student protesters at Kent State University, resulting in the deaths of four students and injuries to nine others.
The song was released as a single later that same year and also appeared on the album “Four Way Street”, which was a live recording showcasing the formidable talents of Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young. “Ohio” stands out not only for its musical prowess but also for its profound social and political commentary. The lyrics, penned by Neil Young in direct reaction to the Kent State shootings, are both raw and incisive, expressing outrage and sorrow over the tragic loss of young lives in the name of protest.
Musically, “Ohio” is characterized by its driving guitar riffs, haunting vocal harmonies, and urgent rhythm, all of which underscore the urgency and gravity of the song’s message. The iconic opening lines, “Tin soldiers and Nixon’s coming / We’re finally on our own,” set the tone for a blistering critique of the government’s handling of dissent and the Vietnam War.
The song’s impact on society was immediate and profound. It galvanized a generation of young Americans who were already disillusioned with the political establishment and the ongoing war in Vietnam. By directly addressing the Kent State tragedy, “Ohio” became a rallying cry for peace activists and protesters across the country, demanding accountability and justice for the lives lost.
Beyond its immediate social impact, “Ohio” continues to resonate today as a powerful reminder of the importance of speaking truth to power and standing up against injustice. Its themes of protest, resistance, and the consequences of unchecked authority remain relevant in contemporary discussions about civil liberties and the role of government in times of crisis.
In conclusion, “Ohio” by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young stands as a timeless testament to the power of music as a vehicle for social change and political activism. Its enduring legacy lies not only in its musical brilliance but also in its ability to inspire generations to question authority, challenge injustice, and strive for a better, more equitable society. As listeners continue to revisit this seminal track, they are reminded of the enduring relevance of its message and the enduring power of protest in shaping the course of history.
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Lyrics
Tin soldiers and Nixon comingWe’re finally on our ownThis summer I hear the drummingFour dead in OhioGotta get down to it, soldiers are cutting us downShould have been gone long agoWhat if you knew her and found her dead on the groundHow can you run when you know?La-la-la-la, la-la-la-laLa-la-la-la, la-la-laLa-la-la-la, la-la-la-laLa-la-la-la, la-la-laGotta get down to it, soldiers are cutting us downShould have been gone long agoWhat if you knew her and found her dead on the groundHow can you run when you know?Tin soldiers and Nixon comingWe’re finally on our ownThis summer I hear the drummingFour dead in OhioFour dead in Ohio (four)Four dead in Ohio (I said four, I said four)Four dead in Ohio (how many more?)Four dead in Ohio (why?)Four dead in Ohio (I wanna know why)Four dead in Ohio (you better tell me why)Four dead in Ohio (why?)Four dead in Ohio (why did they die?)Four dead in Ohio (you tell me why)Four dead in Ohio (I said why)Four dead in Ohio (I wanna know why)Four dead in Ohio (why?)Four dead in Ohio (I said why)Four dead in Ohio (why, Lord?)Four dead in Ohio (why did they die?)Four dead in Ohio (I said why)Four dead in Ohio (why?)Four dead in Ohio (yeah, why?)Four dead in Ohio (please tell me why)Four dead in Ohio (why?)Four dead in Ohio (I wanna know)Four dead in Ohio (why?)Four dead in Ohio (why did they died)Four dead in Ohio (you tell me why)Four dead in Ohio (why?)Four dead in Ohio (why?)Four dead in Ohio (why?)Four dead in Ohio (why?)Four dead in Ohio (why?)Four dead in Ohio