The Osmonds – Crazy Horses

About the Song

“Crazy Horses” by The Osmonds is a bold, electrifying rock anthem that shattered expectations and redefined the band’s image. Released in 1972 as the title track of their album Crazy Horses, the song marked a dramatic departure from the clean-cut pop and family-friendly image the group was known for. With its heavy guitar riffs, driving rhythm, and socially conscious lyrics, “Crazy Horses” proved that The Osmonds could hold their own in the rock arena, earning them critical acclaim and broadening their fan base.

Right from the start, “Crazy Horses” grabs attention with its thunderous opening riff, courtesy of Wayne Osmond on guitar and Jay Osmond on drums. The track’s gritty, hard-rock sound was groundbreaking for the group, showing a raw energy and edge that contrasted sharply with their earlier bubblegum hits. Adding to its intensity is the distinctive wah-wah effect on the keyboards, played by Alan Osmond, which mimics the sound of horses neighing—a clever nod to the song’s title and theme.

Lyrically, the track tackles a serious and timely subject: the environmental impact of pollution. Lines like “Crazy horses all got riders, and they’re you and I” serve as a wake-up call, urging listeners to consider humanity’s role in harming the planet. The “crazy horses” are a metaphor for gas-guzzling cars and industrial pollution, making the song one of the earliest rock anthems to address ecological concerns.

Vocally, Merrill Osmond delivers a powerful, raspy performance that adds grit and urgency to the track. His commanding voice, combined with the harmonized backing vocals of his brothers, creates a dynamic contrast to the song’s aggressive instrumentation. This combination of raw energy and polished harmonies showcases the group’s versatility and musical prowess.

At the time of its release, “Crazy Horses” surprised both fans and critics, as it was a stark departure from The Osmonds’ wholesome image. However, the gamble paid off, with the song becoming a commercial success. It reached No. 14 on the UK Singles Chart and performed well internationally, particularly in Europe. It also earned the respect of rock enthusiasts, who appreciated its heavy sound and daring subject matter.

Decades later, “Crazy Horses” remains a standout in The Osmonds’ catalog and a favorite among fans. It’s frequently cited as a highlight of their live performances, where its high-energy vibe and head-banging rhythm continue to ignite audiences. The track’s legacy also extends to its influence on later artists, with bands like Metallica and Motorhead expressing admiration for its bold sound.

“Crazy Horses” is a testament to The Osmonds’ ability to defy expectations and experiment with their sound. It’s a rock anthem with a message, proving that even a family band rooted in pop can deliver music that’s both hard-hitting and meaningful.

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Lyrics: “Crazy Horses”

There’s a message floating in the air
Comes from crazy horses riding everywhere
It’s a warning, it’s in every tongue
Gotta stop them crazy horses on the runWhat a show, there they go
Smoking up the sky, yeah
Crazy horses all got riders
And they’re you and I

Crazy horses
Crazy horses

Never stop and they never die
They just keep on puffin’
How they multiply
Crazy horses
Will they never halt
If they keep on moving
Then it’s all our fault

What a show, there they go
Smoking up the sky, yeah
Crazy horses all got riders
And they’re you and I

So take a good look around
See what they’ve done, what they’ve done
They’ve done, they’ve done
They’ve done, they’ve done
They’ve done, they’ve done

Crazy horses
Crazy horses
Crazy horses
Crazy horses
Crazy horses
Crazy horses
Crazy horses
Crazy horses