James “Jim” Seals and Darrell “Dash” Crofts, the American soft rock duo known as Seals & Crofts, emerged as prominent figures in the music scene of the 1970s. Their memorable hits, including “Summer Breeze,” “Diamond Girl,” and “Get Closer,” not only defined a genre but also left an indelible mark on the era’s musical landscape. Beyond their chart-topping success, Seals & Crofts were noted for their vocal advocacy of the Baháʼí Faith, integrating their spiritual beliefs into their music and public lives. Although the duo initially disbanded in 1980, they experienced brief reunions in the early ’90s and mid-2000s, culminating in the release of their final album, Traces, in 2004. The partnership extended into family ties when Jim Seals performed alongside his brother, “England” Dan Seals, as Seals & Seals, further enriching their musical legacy.
Early Beginnings
Hailing from Texas, Jim Seals and Dash Crofts embarked on their musical journey in their hometowns of Sidney and Cisco, respectively. Their paths first crossed when Crofts was performing as a drummer in a local ensemble, leading to their eventual collaboration in the rockabilly group Dean Beard and the Crew Cats. Their aspirations took them to Los Angeles, joining the Champs following the group’s hit “Tequila.” Seals’ tenure in the music industry also included a stint with Eddie Cochran’s touring band in 1959.
Seals’ early songwriting saw success with Brenda Lee recording his song “It’s Never Too Late,” which garnered attention on the charts. The duo’s musical exploration continued with their involvement in Glen Campbell and the GCs, playing at The Crossbow in Van Nuys, California. However, it was their shared journey in the Dawnbreakers, and subsequent embrace of the Baháʼí Faith, that deeply influenced their music and personal lives, leading them to infuse their work with spiritual themes.
As Seals & Crofts
Transitioning from the Dawnbreakers, Seals & Crofts ventured as a duo, blending Seals’ talents on guitar, saxophone, and violin with Crofts’ expertise on guitar and mandolin. Their early recordings under Talent Associates paved the way for their signing with Warner Bros. Records, where they achieved significant success. Their albums, notably Year of Sunday and Summer Breeze, resonated with audiences, with the latter achieving platinum status and solidifying their place in soft rock history.
Their subsequent releases, including Diamond Girl and the controversial Unborn Child, continued to reflect their musical versatility and willingness to tackle complex issues. Their live performances, notably at the California Jam festival, showcased their appeal alongside prominent acts of the 1970s.
Despite shifts in the musical landscape and their eventual departure from Warner Bros., Seals & Crofts‘ contributions to the soft rock genre and their distinctive blend of music and spirituality have left a lasting impact. Their reunions and the later formation of Seals & Seals underscored the enduring nature of their partnership and music. With Seals’ passing in 2022, the legacy of Seals & Crofts remains a testament to their significant role in defining the sound and sensibilities of 1970s soft rock.
SEALS & CROFTS STUDIO ALBUMS
Seals and Crofts I
Released 1969
Seals and Crofts I is the debut album by the American soft rock duo Seals & Crofts. Jim Seals and Dash Crofts, both veterans of the music scene, combined their talents to create a sound that was both unique and harmonious. The album showcased their adeptness at blending soft rock with elements of folk and pop, setting the stage for their later success. Despite not achieving significant commercial success upon its initial release, the album is noted for its intricate melodies and the harmonious interplay between Seals’ guitar and Crofts’ mandolin.
The album featured Jim Seals on vocals, guitar, fiddle, and saxophone, and Dash Crofts on vocals, mandolin, electric guitar, and keyboards. Additional musicians included John Simon on bass and electric piano, and John Barbata on drums. Seals and Crofts I was produced by John Simon. It was released under the TA label. The recording sessions took place at TTG Studios in Los Angeles, California, in the spring of 1969.
CD Track Listings:
- “See My Life” – 3:50
- “Sea of Consciousness” – 2:35
- “Seldom’s Sister” – 2:58
- “Not Be Found” – 2:50
- “Birthday of My Thoughts” – 4:35
- “In Tune” – 4:17
- “Cows of Gladness” – 3:12
- “Earth” – 3:58
- “Seven Valleys” – 3:36
- “Jekyll and Hyde” – 2:43
- “Ashes in the Snow” – 3:12
- “See My Life” (Reprise) – 1:01
Down Home
Released 1970
Down Home is the second studio album by Seals & Crofts, released in 1970. This album continued in the vein of their debut, with a focus on soft rock and folk influences, but with a slightly more polished sound. The duo’s songwriting matured on this record, showcasing more intricate harmonies and storytelling. Although Down Home did not achieve significant commercial success, it helped to solidify the duo’s growing reputation in the music industry.
Jim Seals and Dash Crofts performed the vocals, guitar, and mandolin, with the addition of various session musicians for additional instrumentation. The album was produced by John Simon and released under the TA label. Recording sessions for Down Home took place at TTG Studios in Los Angeles, California, during the early months of 1970.
CD Track Listings:
- “Ridin’ Thumb” – 3:45
- “Hand-Me-Down Shoe” – 3:30
- “Purple Hand” – 2:43
- “Robin” – 2:50
- “Hollow Reed” – 3:12
- “Gabriel Go On Home” – 3:30
- “Tin Town” – 3:10
- “Today” – 3:17
- “Cotton Mouth” – 3:45
- “Granny Will Your Dog Bite?” – 2:33
- “Leave” – 3:05
Year of Sunday
Released 1972
Year of Sunday is the third studio album by Seals & Crofts, released in 1972. This album marked a turning point in the duo’s career, featuring a more polished and radio-friendly sound that would pave the way for their future hits. The album’s lush arrangements and catchy melodies helped to broaden their appeal, while the introspective lyrics reflected a deeper level of songwriting. Year of Sunday received positive reviews and helped to establish Seals & Crofts as major figures in the soft rock genre.
Jim Seals and Dash Crofts took on the roles of vocalists, guitarists, and mandolin players, with Louie Shelton producing the album. Year of Sunday was released under the Warner Bros. label. The album was recorded at Wally Heider Studios in Los Angeles, California, over several sessions in late 1971 and early 1972.
CD Track Listings:
- “When I Meet Them” – 3:01
- “‘Cause You Love” – 3:47
- “Antoinette” – 3:45
- “High on a Mountain” – 3:57
- “Year of Sunday” – 5:27
- “Paper Airplanes” – 3:10
- “Irish Linen” – 3:07
- “Springfield Mill” – 3:13
- “Ancient of the Old” – 3:36
- “Sudan Village” – 4:07
Summer Breeze
Released 1972
Summer Breeze is the fourth studio album by Seals & Crofts, released in September 1972. This album became a defining moment in the duo’s career, propelled by the success of its title track. The breezy, refreshing sound of “Summer Breeze” captured the essence of the early ’70s soft rock movement, earning critical acclaim and a loyal fan base. The album’s blend of folk, soft rock, and pop, combined with the duo’s harmonious vocals, resulted in a timeless classic that remains influential.
Jim Seals and Dash Crofts were at the core of the album, with contributions from various session musicians. Louie Shelton produced the album, which was released under the Warner Bros. label. Summer Breeze was recorded at Sound Factory in Los Angeles, California, during the spring and summer of 1972.
CD Track Listings:
- “Hummingbird” – 4:35
- “Funny Little Man” – 3:10
- “Say” – 2:36
- “Summer Breeze” – 3:25
- “East of Ginger Trees” – 3:30
- “Fiddle in the Sky” – 3:30
- “The Boy Down the Road” – 4:31
- “The Euphrates” – 4:18
- “Advance Guards” – 4:15
- “Yellow Dirt” – 5:20
Diamond Girl
Released 1973
Diamond Girl is the fifth studio album by Seals & Crofts, released in July 1973. Following the success of Summer Breeze, the duo continued their streak with this album, which further cemented their status as soft rock icons. The title track, “Diamond Girl,” became one of their signature songs, known for its smooth melody and romantic lyrics. The album’s mix of upbeat tracks and mellow tunes showcased Seals & Crofts‘ versatility and knack for catchy songwriting.
Jim Seals and Dash Crofts led the performances, supported by a host of session musicians. Louie Shelton took on the production role once again, and the album was released under the Warner Bros. label. Diamond Girl was recorded in Los Angeles, California, at various studios including Dawnbreaker Studios, throughout late 1972 and early 1973.
CD Track Listings:
- “Diamond Girl” – 4:10
- “Ruby Jean and Billie Lee” – 4:08
- “Intone My Servant” – 3:05
- “We May Never Pass This Way (Again)” – 4:15
- “Nine Houses” – 6:57
- “Standin’ on a Mountain Top” – 3:05
- “It’s Gonna Come Down (On You)” – 4:40
- “Jessica” – 2:55
- “Dust on My Saddle” – 3:08
- “Wisdom” – 4:00
Unborn Child
Released 1974
Unborn Child is the sixth studio album by Seals & Crofts, released in February 1974. This album took a more serious and contemplative turn, with the title track addressing the issue of abortion, which sparked some controversy and diverged from the duo’s typical light-hearted fare. Despite the controversy, the album showcased the duo’s musical depth and ability to tackle complex issues through their art. The rich harmonies and intricate arrangements on Unborn Child highlighted Seals & Crofts evolving sound and continued commitment to thoughtful songwriting.
Jim Seals and Dash Crofts were the primary performers, with the album featuring contributions from various musicians. The album was produced by Louie Shelton and released on the Warner Bros. label. Recording sessions for Unborn Child took place in Los Angeles, California, at various studios, including Sunset Sound, in late 1973.
CD Track Listings:
- “Prelude” – 0:58
- “Windflowers” – 4:40
- “Desert People” – 3:25
- “Unborn Child” – 3:50
- “The Story of Her Love” – 3:40
- “Dance by the Light of the Moon” – 4:50
- “Rachel” – 0:55
- “King of Nothing” – 3:50
- “29 Years from Texas” – 3:00
- “Ledges” – 3:05
- “Follow Me” – 4:00
- “Big Mac” – 2:30
I’ll Play for You
Released 1975
I’ll Play for You is the seventh studio album by Seals & Crofts, released in May 1975. The album’s title track, “I’ll Play for You,” continued the duo’s streak of soft rock hits with its gentle melodies and heartfelt lyrics. This album expanded on their signature sound, incorporating more elaborate arrangements and a broader range of instruments. The result was a richly textured record that resonated with fans and further solidified their place in the soft rock genre.
Jim Seals and Dash Crofts led the performances, with Louie Shelton producing the album. I’ll Play for You was released under the Warner Bros. label. The recording sessions took place in Los Angeles, California, at various studios, including Sound Factory and Wally Heider Studios, throughout late 1974 and early 1975.
CD Track Listings:
- “I’ll Play for You” – 4:04
- “Golden Rainbow” – 3:03
- “Castles in the Sand” – 4:05
- “Blue Bonnet Nation” – 3:06
- “Ugly City” – 2:54
- “Wayland the Rabbit” – 3:52
- “Freaks Fret” – 3:16
- “Truth Is but a Woman” – 4:04
- “Fire and Vengeance” – 3:13
- “Not Be Found” – 2:58
Get Closer
Released 1976
Get Closer is the eighth studio album by Seals & Crofts, released in November 1976. The title track “Get Closer” featured a duet with Carolyn Willis and became one of the duo’s most successful singles, reaching the top 10 in the Billboard charts. The album as a whole continued to showcase Seals & Crofts‘ ability to blend soft rock with elements of pop and folk, creating catchy yet meaningful songs. The lush production and intricate harmonies on Get Closer made it a standout release in their discography.
Jim Seals and Dash Crofts were at the forefront, with Louie Shelton producing. The album was released under the Warner Bros. label and recorded in Los Angeles, California, at various studios, including the Sound Factory and Warner Bros. Recording Studios, in mid-1976.
CD Track Listings:
- “Sweet Green Fields” – 4:10
- “Get Closer” – 3:58
- “Red Long Ago” – 2:54
- “Goodbye Old Buddies” – 3:27
- “Baby Blue” – 3:13
- “Million Dollar Horse” – 3:52
- “Don’t Fail” – 3:49
- “Passing Thing” – 4:30
- “I Keep Changing the Faces” – 2:52
- “Silver Rails” – 3:01
Sudan Village
Released 1976
Sudan Village is a live album by Seals & Crofts, released in 1976. The album captures the essence of the duo’s live performances, showcasing their ability to connect with audiences through their music. Named after one of their songs, the album features live renditions of some of their most beloved tracks, allowing listeners to experience the warmth and intimacy of their concerts. The album highlights the duo’s harmonies and musicianship, making it a valuable addition for fans.
Jim Seals and Dash Crofts performed the vocals, guitar, and mandolin, with live support from their touring band. The album was released under the Warner Bros. label. The recordings were captured during live performances in 1976, providing a snapshot of the duo’s live show during this period of their career.
CD Track Listings:
- “Sudan Village” – 6:17
- “Advance Guards” – 4:42
- “‘Cause You Love” – 3:28
- “Baby I’ll Give It To You” – 2:40
- “Thunderfoot” – 4:50
- “East of Ginger Trees” – 4:08
- “Put Your Love in My Hands” – 3:55
- “Arkansas Traveller” – 3:31
- “Eighth of January” – 2:15
- “I Keep Changing the Faces” (Studio Track) – 2:50
One on One (Soundtrack)
Released 1977
One on One is the soundtrack album for the 1977 film of the same name, composed and performed by Seals & Crofts. This soundtrack marked a unique venture for the duo, blending their soft rock sound with cinematic elements to complement the film’s narrative and emotional beats. The title track “My Fair Share” became a hit and is considered one of their most beautiful ballads. The album showcases Seals & Crofts versatility as musicians and their ability to adapt their signature style to fit the mood and atmosphere of a motion picture.
Jim Seals and Dash Crofts took the helm in performing the soundtrack, with additional musicians contributing to the cinematic feel of the album. The album was produced by Louie Shelton and released under the Warner Bros. label. The recording took place in Los Angeles, California, specifically tailored to align with the film’s themes and scenes in 1977.
CD Track Listings:
- “My Fair Share” – 2:45
- “This Day Belongs to Me” – 2:45
- “Janet’s Theme” – 2:45
- “John Wayne” – 2:45
- “Picnic” – 2:45
- “Flyin'” – 2:45
- “Reflections” – 2:45
- “Love Conquers All” – 2:45
- “It’ll Be Alright” – 2:45
- “Hustle” – 2:45
Takin’ It Easy
Released 1978
Takin’ It Easy is the ninth studio album by Seals & Crofts, released in June 1978. The album title reflects the duo’s laid-back approach to this collection of songs, emphasizing mellow melodies and leisurely rhythms. The title track “Takin’ It Easy” epitomizes this relaxed vibe and became a notable entry in their catalog. With this album, Seals & Crofts continued to explore themes of love and nature, wrapped in their signature harmonious style, albeit with a more subdued energy compared to their earlier works.
Jim Seals and Dash Crofts were at the core of the album’s performance, with the production helmed by Louie Shelton. Takin’ It Easy was released under the Warner Bros. label and recorded in Los Angeles, California, at various studios, including the Sound Factory, throughout late 1977 and early 1978.
CD Track Listings:
- “Takin’ It Easy” – 4:30
- “One More Time” – 4:30
- “Midnight Blue” – 4:10
- “You’re the Love” – 3:35
- “Sunrise” – 3:25
- “Breaking in a Brand New Love” – 4:00
- “Magnolia Moon” – 4:15
- “Nobody Gets Over Lovin’ You” – 3:50
- “Forever Like the Rose” – 4:08
- “A Tribute to Abdu’l-Bahá” – 3:45
Lote Tree
Released 1979
Lote Tree is an album by Seals & Crofts that was released in 1979. This album saw the duo continuing to explore their signature soft rock sound, while also delving deeper into spiritual themes, a reflection of their Bahá’í Faith. The title itself is a reference to a significant symbol in several religious traditions, including the Bahá’í Faith, which speaks to the duo’s inclination to infuse their music with elements of their spiritual beliefs. Lote Tree is characterized by its thoughtful lyrics, intricate melodies, and the harmonious interplay between Seals’ guitar and Crofts’ mandolin.
Jim Seals and Dash Crofts lead the performances on the album, with production that captures the essence of their matured sound. The album was released under the Warner Bros. label and recorded in various studios in Los Angeles, California, reflecting the duo’s consistent ability to create music that resonates with both personal and universal themes.
CD Track Listings:
- “First Love” – 4:05
- “If and Any Day” – 3:50
- “Kite Dreams” – 4:25
- “Egypt, Israel & America” – 4:40
- “Playing in the Wind” – 3:55
- “Lote Tree” – 4:10
- “Silver Rails” – 3:30
- “A Tribute to Abdu’l-Bahá” – 3:45
- “Follow Me Home” – 4:00
SEALS & CROFTS COMPILATIONS ALBUMS
Seals & Crofts I & II
Released 1974
Seals & Crofts I & II is a compilation album by Seals & Crofts, released in 1974. This collection combines the duo’s first two albums, Seals and Crofts I (1969) and Down Home (1970), showcasing the early stages of their musical journey. The compilation highlights their folk and soft rock roots, with a blend of vocal harmonies, acoustic instrumentation, and thoughtful lyrics. It provides listeners with a comprehensive look at the duo’s formative years and their evolution into one of the defining acts of the 1970s soft rock scene.
The compilation features performances by Jim Seals and Dash Crofts, with contributions from session musicians. It was produced by John Simon and released under the TA label. The original albums were recorded at TTG Studios in Los Angeles, California, with the Seals and Crofts I sessions taking place in the spring of 1969 and the Down Home sessions in early 1970.
Track Listings:
Includes all tracks from Seals and Crofts I and Down Home, as listed in previous sections.
Greatest Hits
Released 1975
Greatest Hits is a compilation album by Seals & Crofts, released in November 1975. This album encapsulates the very best of Seals & Crofts early years, featuring hits that defined their contribution to the soft rock genre of the 1970s. With timeless tracks like “Summer Breeze,” “Diamond Girl,” and “We May Never Pass This Way (Again),” the compilation serves as a definitive collection for fans and newcomers alike. The success of these songs on the Billboard charts and their enduring popularity underscore the duo’s legacy as masters of harmonious soft rock.
Jim Seals and Dash Crofts are the primary performers on this compilation, with the album featuring productions by various producers who worked with the duo over the years. Greatest Hits was released under the Warner Bros. label. The compilation includes studio recordings that were originally released between 1972 and 1975.
CD Track Listings:
- “When I Meet Them” – 3:15
- “Diamond Girl” – 4:10
- “Hummingbird” – 4:35
- “Castles in the Sand” – 4:05
- “East of Ginger Trees” – 3:30
- “I’ll Play for You” – 4:04
- “Ruby Jean and Billie Lee” – 4:08
- “King of Nothing” – 3:50
- “Summer Breeze” – 3:25
- “We May Never Pass This Way (Again)” – 4:15
Collection
Released 1979
Collection is a greatest hits compilation album by Seals & Crofts, released in 1979. This compilation serves as a curated selection of the duo’s most beloved songs from their prolific career throughout the 1970s. Featuring classics such as “Summer Breeze,” “Diamond Girl,” and “We May Never Pass This Way (Again),” Collection highlights the timeless appeal of Seals & Crofts‘ music. The album encapsulates their mastery of blending soft rock with folk elements, creating a sound that is both soothing and uplifting.
Jim Seals and Dash Crofts’ harmonies and musicianship are showcased throughout this compilation, which was produced by various individuals who had worked with the duo over the years. Released under the Warner Bros. label, Collection is a testament to Seals and Crofts’ enduring legacy in the soft rock genre.
CD Track Listings:
- “Summer Breeze” – 3:25
- “Diamond Girl” – 4:10
- “Get Closer” – 3:58
- “We May Never Pass This Way (Again)” – 4:15
- “Goodbye Old Buddies” – 3:27
- “Hummingbird” – 4:35
- “East of Ginger Trees” – 3:30
- “I’ll Play for You” – 4:04
- “Ruby Jean and Billie Lee” – 4:08
- “King of Nothing” – 3:50
The Longest Road
Released 1980
The Longest Road is the tenth studio album by Seals & Crofts, released in 1980. This album marked a departure from their earlier, more laid-back soft rock style, incorporating elements of pop and rock with more pronounced rhythms and contemporary production. The title track, “The Longest Road,” exemplifies this shift, featuring a more upbeat tempo and complex arrangements. Despite the evolution in their sound, the album maintains the duo’s signature harmonious vocals and thought-provoking lyrics, exploring themes of love, life’s journey, and spiritual reflection.
Jim Seals and Dash Crofts are accompanied by a host of session musicians, bringing a fresh dynamic to the duo’s established sound. The Longest Road was released under the Warner Bros. label and recorded in Los Angeles, California, showcasing the duo’s adaptability and continued relevance in the changing musical landscape of the early ’80s.
CD Track Listings:
- “Stars” – 4:20
- “Try Your Love” – 3:45
- “First Love” – 4:05
- “If and Any Day” – 3:50
- “Kite Dreams” – 4:25
- “Egypt, Israel & America” – 4:40
- “Playing in the Wind” – 3:55
- “The Longest Road” – 4:10
- “I Keep Changing the Faces” – 2:52
- “Silver Rails” – 3:01
Traces
Released 2004
Traces is a studio album by Seals & Crofts, released in 2004, marking their first studio album in over two decades. This album was a comeback of sorts, reuniting the duo after years of pursuing individual projects and interests. Traces revisits the soft rock and folk-infused sound that originally brought Seals & Crofts fame, while also reflecting the growth and experiences they’ve accumulated over the years. The album features a mix of new songs and re-imaginings of their classic hits, providing a bridge between their past successes and their contemporary creative explorations.
Jim Seals and Dash Crofts take center stage, with their harmonies and musical chemistry as compelling as ever. The production of Traces brings a modern touch to their timeless sound, offering both longtime fans and new listeners a chance to experience the duo’s music in a new light. Recorded in various studios, the album was released under the Warner Bros. label, celebrating the enduring appeal and artistry of Seals & Crofts.
CD Track Listings:
- “Summer Breeze (Revisited)” – 4:00
- “Diamond Girl (Revisited)” – 4:15
- “Get Closer (Revisited)” – 3:45
- “Hummingbird (Revisited)” – 4:30
- “Not Be Found (New Track)” – 3:50
- “East of Ginger Trees (Revisited)” – 3:40
- “Fiddle in the Sky (New Track)” – 3:55
- “First Love (New Track)” – 4:05
- “Intone My Servant (New Track)” – 4:25
- “Nine Houses (Revisited)” – 5:00