Introduction
“Crazy Horses” is a 1972 song by The Osmonds, released on October 14 as the second single and title track from their Crazy Horses album. It is notable for marking one of the clearest departures by the group from their earlier style of clean-cut pop and teen idol fare into a harder rock sound.
The song was written by Alan Osmond, Merrill Osmond, and Wayne Osmond; production was handled by Alan Osmond together with Michael Lloyd. Unlike many of their earlier singles, “Crazy Horses” features Jay Osmond as the lead vocalist, whose rougher, more growling voice was considered especially well-suited for the heavier sound of the track. It also incorporates distinctive instrumental touches, including a riff originally developed by Wayne, chords by Alan, and lyrical ideas contributed by Merrill.
Lyrically, “Crazy Horses” is often interpreted as having environmental themes: the “horses” in the song are metaphorical for polluting, gas-guzzling cars, especially given the repeated imagery of “smoking up the sky” and concerns over air pollution. Much of its power lies in juxtaposing a catchy melody with lyrics carrying a warning, which was somewhat unusual for the Osmonds’ fanbase up to that point.
In terms of chart performance, “Crazy Horses” was successful: it reached No. 14 on the US Billboard Hot 100, and in the UK it climbed even higher, to No. 2. It helped broaden The Osmonds’ audience, attracting more male listeners who may previously have dismissed them as a teen-oriented group.
“Crazy Horses” remains one of The Osmonds’ most enduring songs — in many ways their bold statement that they could rock just as hard as they could charm.