About the song

In 1972, The Osmonds shocked both critics and fans with a song that broke away from their wholesome, teen-friendly image. “Crazy Horses” was a bold, hard-rock anthem laced with heavy guitar riffs, screaming vocals, and a serious environmental message that was ahead of its time. Known mostly for their polished harmonies and family-friendly appeal, the group took a creative risk that revealed a deeper, more rebellious artistic side—one that few expected.

The song’s lyrics use the metaphor of “crazy horses” to represent gas-guzzling cars polluting the planet. Lines like “What a show, there they go, smokin’ up the sky” paint a vivid picture of environmental destruction caused by humanity’s unchecked obsession with speed and consumption. It was a surprising choice for a band often associated with bubblegum pop, and the powerful message resonated with a generation growing increasingly aware of ecological issues.

Musically, the track is aggressive and raw, featuring Jay Osmond’s pounding drums, Wayne Osmond’s distorted guitar, and Merrill Osmond’s gritty lead vocals. The song drew comparisons to Led Zeppelin and Black Sabbath, and even earned praise from rock legends like Ozzy Osbourne. It proved that The Osmonds weren’t afraid to defy expectations and experiment with genre and message.

“Crazy Horses” became an international hit, particularly in the UK, and over time has gained cult status among rock enthusiasts. Its legacy lies not just in its chart success, but in its ability to surprise, challenge, and evolve the image of a band known for its clean-cut reputation. In many ways, “Crazy Horses” stands as one of the most daring and socially conscious songs of the early 1970s—proof that even the most unexpected voices can speak out powerfully about the world around them.

Video

https://youtu.be/28iHA3501MY

Lyrics

There’s a message floatin’ in the air.Crazy horses ridin’ everywhere.It’s a warning, it’s in every tongue.Gotta stop them crazy horses on the run.
What a show, there they go smokin’ up the sky, yeah.Crazy horses all got riders, and they’re you and I.Crazy horses (repeat 3 times)
Never stop and they never die.They just keep on puffin’ how they multiply.Crazy horses, will they never halt?If they keep on movin’ then it’s all our fault.
What a show, there they go smokin’ up the sky, yeah.Crazy horses all got riders, and they’re you and I.Crazy horses (repeat 3 times)
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.
Crazy horses.

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