John Stewart, a name that resonates with the harmonies of the Kingston Trio and the songwriting genius behind the Monkees’ chart-topper “Daydream Believer,” carved his own golden path in the music industry. While his name might not be as instantly recognizable as some of his contemporaries, his 1979 hit song, “Gold,” remains a testament to his enduring talent and the serendipitous magic of collaboration. This track, reaching the Top 5 in the summer of that year, wasn’t just a flash in the pan; it was the culmination of years of dedication and a touch of stardust sprinkled by Fleetwood Mac luminaries, Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nicks.
Stewart’s journey to “Gold” was far from overnight success. Emerging from the vibrant folk scene of the early 1960s as part of the iconic Kingston Trio, he honed his craft before venturing into a solo career. Notably, he shared a formative musical partnership with John Denver in the years following his Kingston Trio tenure, a period that undoubtedly shaped his artistic direction. Beyond the stage, Stewart’s commitment to social causes saw him become deeply involved in the political landscape, even serving as the unofficial musician for the Democratic party in 1968 and traveling alongside Senator Robert Kennedy during his presidential campaign. Throughout the 1970s, he consistently released albums that showcased his songwriting prowess, though mainstream commercial success remained elusive.
The turning point arrived when fate intertwined Stewart’s path with Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nicks. Fresh off the monumental success of Fleetwood Mac’s “Rumours,” Buckingham and Nicks were at the zenith of their rock stardom. Their involvement became the golden key that unlocked broader recognition for John Stewart’s music. It’s crucial to acknowledge Stewart’s inherent songwriting brilliance; “Gold” is inherently a captivating song, evidenced by its continued airplay on classic rock stations. The lyrics paint a vivid picture, evoking the almost dreamlike experience of driving through the illuminated California night, guitar in tow, chasing the next performance under the vast, starlit sky.
However, the contributions of Buckingham and Nicks were undeniably pivotal in propelling “Gold” to commercial heights and shaping its sonic landscape. Buckingham’s guitar work, while restrained compared to his signature flamboyant style, is intricately woven into the fabric of the song, providing an essential textural layer. His vocal harmonies serve as a perfect foil to Stewart’s distinctive, rugged baritone. And then there’s Stevie Nicks, whose instantly recognizable harmonies lend an undeniable authenticity and ethereal quality, elevating the track to another dimension.
“Gold” itself is built upon a foundation of simplicity. The lyrics are straightforward, yet evocative, and the instrumental arrangement is deliberately sparse. Electric piano, a subtle rhythm section of snare and bass drum, and understated electric guitar create a soundscape that feels both intimate and expansive. The production possesses an almost otherworldly quality, as if the song is gradually emerging from darkness into light, ultimately revealing its inherent brilliance – its gold.
John Stewart’s prolific career extended far beyond “Gold.” Even after his passing on January 19, 2008, his legacy as a remarkably productive and deeply personal songwriter endures. As his friend Tom Delisle noted, Stewart’s output is “unparalleled,” encompassing over 45 solo albums following his tenure with the Kingston Trio. He remained dedicated to his craft until his final days, completing yet another album shortly before his death. His catalog boasts an estimated 600 songs, many of which collectively form a poignant musical tapestry of his beloved America.
Despite the commercial success of “Gold,” reaching #5 on the charts, and his album “Bombs Away Dream Babies” breaking into the Top 10, neither actually achieved gold certification – an ironic twist given the song’s title and impact. Perhaps the true gold lies in the enduring appreciation for his music and the timeless appeal of “Gold,” a song that continues to shine brightly in the annals of classic rock. And while John Stewart may have been occasionally mistaken for Garry Shandling, Stevie Nicks’ iconic presence remains uniquely hers, forever etched in the collective consciousness of music lovers.
