David Crosby on Thursday shared the title track to his upcoming album, For Free, which just so happens to be a Joni Mitchell cover. Crosby’s new studio album is out on July 23rd via BMG.
This latest track finds the former Byrds guitarist harmonizing with singer Sarah Jarosz. Mitchell’s original version comes from her 1970 album Ladies of the Canyon and went on to be covered by an array of artists, including The Byrds and more recently Lana Del Ray. Crosby has never minced words about his former girlfriend’s immense talent, naming her as the greatest singer-songwriter of his generation on numerous occasions, as well as in a statement attached with the single.
“Joni’s the greatest living singer/songwriter, and ‘For Free’ is one of her simplest,” Crosby said. “It’s one of my favorite songs because I love what it says about the spirit of music and what compels you to play.”
Related: David Crosby Talks CSNY, Joni Mitchell, Mortality On ‘Stern’ [Videos/Audio]
The piano-based duet gives reverence to Mitchell’s words. The minimalistic approach puts the voices out front, as Crosby and Jarosz’s gentle delivery creates a musical conversation enveloping the lyrics of “For Free”.
Stream David Crosby’s cover of “For Free” by Joni Mitchell below, set to appear on Dave’s forthcoming solo album of the same name. For Free is available here for pre-order.
David Crosby, ft Sarah Jarosz – “For Free” (Joni Mitchell)
[Video: David Crosby]