[Clyde] Skip Battin

Clyde "Skip" Battin (1934-2023) was an American singer-songwriter and musician known primarily for his contributions to rock and country music. He gained prominence as a member of The Byrds in the late 1960s, where he played bass and contributed to the band's evolving sound during their transition to country rock, particularly on albums like *Ballad of Easy Rider* (1969) and *The Byrdmaniax* (1971). Battin's songwriting skills were showcased in tracks such as "Jesus Is Just Alright" and "I Wanna Grow Up to Be a Politician." After leaving The Byrds, he collaborated with fellow band member Roger McGuinn and formed the group The New Byrds, further exploring the fusion of rock and Americana. He also worked extensively with the band The Flying Burrito Brothers and released solo albums, including *Skip Battin* (1972) and *The First Time* (1974). Battin's impact on music lies in his ability to blend rock with country influences, contributing to the genre's evolution in the late 20th century. His work continues to be celebrated for its innovation and enduring influence on subsequent generations of musicians.