Southern Man
Crosby Stills And Nash & Neil Young Lyrics

The lyrics of Southern Man by Crosby Stills Nash & Young are a poignant commentary on the socio-political landscape of America in the 1970s. The song opens with a warning to the Southern man to be cautious and mindful of his actions, reminding him to not forget what his good book teaches him. The lyrics highlight the changes that are taking place in the South, but also address the burning crosses that indicate the deep-seated still-existing racism in the region.

The second verse paints a picture of the stark socioeconomic divide between the white and black populations in the South with cotton fields and little shacks contrasted against tall white mansions. The call of the singer to the Southern man to pay them back speaks to the deep-seated anger and resentment towards the systematic oppression for the black population. The final verse is a dark and starkly brutal description of the singer's pledge to protect Lillie Belle, by cutting down her black lover if necessary. These lyrics show not just the entrenched systemic racism but also the personal vendettas that were taking place.