Stephen Stills – It Doesn’t Matter: A Timeless Reflection on Love and Loss
When Stephen Stills released “It Doesn’t Matter” in 1972, as part of the album “Manassas,” it was met with a warm embrace from both critics and fans alike. This song, co-written with Chris Hillman, reached a modest yet respectable position on the charts, highlighting its resonance with listeners during a time of profound musical exploration. Stills, already a legendary figure through his work with Buffalo Springfield and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, continued to captivate audiences with his introspective songwriting and soulful melodies.
“It Doesn’t Matter” is a poignant exploration of the complexities of love and the inevitable heartache that often accompanies it. The song’s gentle acoustic strumming, combined with Stills’ heartfelt vocals, creates an atmosphere of wistful reflection—a hallmark of his songwriting genius. For those who lived through the early ’70s, this track evokes memories of a transformative era in music history, when artists were unafraid to bare their souls and confront their vulnerabilities through song.
The backstory of “It Doesn’t Matter” is rooted in the collaborative spirit that defined the album “Manassas.” Stills formed the band Manassas with an eclectic mix of musicians, including Chris Hillman from The Byrds. Together, they created a double album that defied traditional genre boundaries, blending rock, folk, country, and blues into a seamless tapestry of sound. This collaboration was emblematic of the period’s musical innovation and experimentation—a time when artists were pushing the limits of what was possible in popular music.
Lyrically, “It Doesn’t Matter” delves into themes of emotional uncertainty and resignation. The song captures the essence of realizing that some aspects of life and love are beyond our control—a sentiment that resonates deeply with those who have experienced the ebb and flow of relationships over time. Stills’ delivery is both tender and resigned, suggesting an acceptance of life’s impermanence while still holding onto hope.
For older listeners revisiting this classic track, “It Doesn’t Matter” serves as a reminder of the universal truths that bind us all—love’s joys and sorrows, its fleeting moments that linger in our hearts long after they have passed. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to speak to the human experience with authenticity and grace.
In reflecting on Stephen Stills’ career, “It Doesn’t Matter” stands out as a testament to his artistry and his ability to capture the zeitgeist of an era marked by both turmoil and beauty. It invites us to pause and reflect on our own journeys, to remember that while life may be unpredictable, music remains a constant source of comfort and connection.
As we listen to “It Doesn’t Matter” today, we are transported back to a time when music was not just entertainment but a vital form of expression—a way to make sense of the world and our place within it. And perhaps that is why this song continues to resonate: it speaks to the timeless nature of love and loss, reminding us that even amidst uncertainty, there is beauty to be found.