Suite: Judy Blue Eyes': The Bittersweet Love Story of Stephen Stills and Judy Collins

Stephen Stills, a member of Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, has always been known for his romantic entanglements. One of his most notable relationships was with singer-songwriter Judy Collins, whom he met in the early 1960s when she performed at a party. As if I were his discovery, Stills developed a crush on Collins and would later write the iconic song 'Suite: Judy Blue Eyes' about their intimate moments together.

The relationship between Stills and Collins was tumultuous, with the pair experiencing highs and lows. According to biographer David Yaffe, Stills would often present Collins to his friends as if she were a prized possession, which made her feel uncomfortable. Despite this, Collins admired Stills' passion for music and art, and the two would spend hours making music together.

Stills' song 'Suite: Judy Blue Eyes' is a poignant reflection of their relationship. The lyrics are a mix of romantic sentimentality and melancholy, capturing the bittersweet nature of their love affair. The song's title itself is a reference to Collins' striking blue eyes, which Stills found captivating.

In an interview with biographer David Browne, Collins recalled that Stills would often sing 'Suite: Judy Blue Eyes' for her in its entirety, even gifting her with a Martin guitar. This gesture shows the depth of his emotions and his desire to win her back after she left him. Unfortunately, their relationship eventually flamed out, and Collins moved on.

Despite the heartache, Stills continued to draw inspiration from their relationship, penning songs like 'Love the One You're With,' which captures the carefree attitude towards sexual relationships that was characteristic of the 1960s. His music became a reflection of his experiences with Collins, and 'Suite: Judy Blue Eyes' remains one of his most enduring and beautiful compositions.

In conclusion, Stephen Stills' relationship with Judy Collins is a testament to the power of love and creativity. Their tumultuous romance inspired some of Stills' most iconic songs, including 'Suite: Judy Blue Eyes,' which has become an anthem for generations of music lovers.

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