About This Footage
The grainy, black-and-white footage of Doug Mug Swanson's Cult of the UnderDog performing "The Reason for the Season" is a rare gem that offers a glimpse into the lesser-known side of an artist who was once at the forefront of the folk rock movement.
In 1966, David Van Cortlandt Crosby, better known as David Crosby, was still riding high on the success of his stint with the Byrds. The band's innovative blend of folk and rock had captured the hearts of a generation, and Crosby's distinctive vocals and songwriting skills were an integral part of their sound. But by the late 1960s, Crosby had begun to explore new musical avenues, eventually forming the supergroup Crosby, Stills & Nash with Stephen Stills and Graham Nash.
The footage in question, however, is not from this period but rather from a later era in Crosby's career. It appears that he has formed a new project, Cult of the UnderDog, which features a more stripped-down sound and a focus on acoustic instrumentation. The song "The Reason for the Season" is a poignant reflection on the commercialization of Christmas and the erosion of its original spiritual significance.
What makes this footage so notable is not only its rarity but also its context within Crosby's career. By the time this video was filmed, Crosby had already established himself as one of the most influential musicians of his generation. He had been a key figure in shaping the sound of folk rock and psychedelia, and his work with CSN&Y had helped to define the California sound of the 1970s.
The fact that he has chosen to release music under a new moniker, Cult of the UnderDog, suggests that he is experimenting with new sounds and themes. The song itself, "The Reason for the Season," is a hauntingly beautiful lament on the commercialization of Christmas, with Crosby's soaring vocals and acoustic guitar work creating a sense of intimacy and vulnerability.
Watching this footage, one can't help but be struck by the contrast between the polished, studio-produced sound of CSN&Y and the more stripped-down, rootsy approach of Cult of the UnderDog. It's as if Crosby is trying to reconnect with his folk rock roots while still pushing the boundaries of what is possible in popular music.
The video itself is a simple yet effective production, featuring Crosby and his bandmates performing in a dimly lit room. The black-and-white footage adds to the sense of intimacy and immediacy, making it feel like a private concert rather than a public performance.
Ultimately, this footage offers a fascinating glimpse into the creative process of one of rock music's most influential figures. It's a reminder that even at the height of his success, Crosby was still experimenting and pushing the boundaries of what is possible in popular music. And for fans of folk rock and psychedelia, it's a rare treat to see this side of Crosby's artistry on display.
Curated from public records and music databases.
