The one-time Hollies founder and member of Crosby, Stills and Young has stories to tell and he clearly loves the job.
At 83 years of age he enjoys his work travelling the world with his intimate shows full of memories and hits from the many stages of his illustrious career.
He is laid back in his delivery with little trace of his Blackpool childhood.
Graham lived in California and is now New York based apparent in his endearing trans-Atlantic phraseology.
It was a night to celebrate his legacy especially his part in the mould-breaking ‘British invasion’ of America – musically, that is.
But opening for him on stage (after Graham’s surprise introduction for his supporting artiste) was Peter Asher- a joy to see and hear.
Peter was one half of the Everly Brothers-inspired duo Peter and Gordon.
He later became a top record producer and is still a major figure in the music industry.
He talked warmly of his actress sister Jane – one time girlfriend of Paul McCartney.
Peter’s 40 minute set was a beautifully put together ‘documentary’ styled account of an emotional flashback with Peter joined by violin and piano accompaniment.
We lost Gordon in 2009 but he is with every performance via a tape recording of World Without Love written by Paul McCartney.
Beatles fans in the audience were treated to an actual demo tape played of Paul singing the song which went on to be a hit in 31 countries topping the charts in the UK and USA.
Not bad for a song rejected by John Lennon.
There was also a magical version of True Love Ways – the Buddy Holly classic.
After the interval, Graham, in cool black t-shirt and jeans topped by a full head of silver hair looks every inch the elder statesman of 60s pop and later the West Coast music sound.
He sat down for the whole gig revealing a fall in the Big Apple led to a knee operation
“But I didn’t fall on my voice,” he smiled.
With guitars to hand he only switched to piano on a song dedicated to Rita Coolidge- the optimistic Better Days.
His emotionally-draining ballad A Simple Man about his split with Joni Mitchell echoed throughout the Hall.
One of many highlights in a stage adorned by candlelight.
Graham talked about his love of Liverpool and how the Hollies were discovered after playing a lunchtime concert in the Cavern in 1962.
Look Through any Window and Bus Stop were Hollies hits penned by Graham Gouldman of 10cc fame which received rapturous responses.
Graham Nash appearing at the Liverpool Philharmonic Hall (Image: Peter Grant)
Each CSNY period song was also a master class in how to create and perform unforgettable melodies and lyrics.
Marrakesh Express, Our House, Love The One You’re With and Teach Your Children all soared – aided every now and then by audience harmonies.
There was a wonderful Woodstock and a dazzling final encore with Judy Blue Eyes.
This was show where you sat back and enjoyed songwriting of the highest quality from a musician with a big heart and talent to match.
5 Stars
Timeless Troubador