Buffalo Springfield was an American rock band formed in 1966 in Los Angeles, California. The band was composed of Neil Young, Stephen Stills, Richie Furay, Bruce Palmer, and Dewey Martin. Their music blended elements of folk, country, and rock, and they are considered to be one of the most influential bands of the 1960s.
Buffalo Springfield’s self-titled debut album was released in 1966 and featured the hit single “For What It’s Worth,” which became an anthem for the counterculture movement of the time. The band released two more albums before disbanding in 1968 due to creative differences.
Despite their short time together, Buffalo Springfield’s impact on the music world has been significant. The band’s unique sound and socially conscious lyrics influenced numerous other musicians, and their members went on to achieve massive success in their solo careers.
Neil Young, in particular, became one of the most iconic figures in rock music, with a career spanning over five decades. Buffalo Springfield was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1997, and their music remains beloved by fans of rock and folk music to this day.
1. A Child’s Claim To Fame
Child's Claim To Fame is a classic Buffalo Springfield song that showcases the group's signature sound. The track features Neil Young on vocals and guitar, bringing a haunting quality to the lyrics about a child who becomes famous before their time. The upbeat folk-rock melody is driven by Stephen Stills' banjo playing and Richie Furay's harmonies. Overall, it's a standout track that captures the essence of Buffalo Springfield's music.
Moving onto the next section, 'For What It's Worth' is another iconic Buffalo Springfield song that has become an anthem for social justice and political unrest. It features a memorable guitar riff and powerful lyrics that call for unity among young people protesting in the streets. The song resonated with listeners around the world during the turbulent 1960s, and its message continues to inspire generations today.
As for unique details, 'Expecting To Fly' stands out as a lush, orchestral ballad that showcases Neil Young's poetic lyricism and haunting vocal delivery. The song was one of his earliest compositions, but it displays a level of maturity and depth far beyond his young age at the time. With sweeping strings and delicate piano flourishes, 'Expecting To Fly' is one of Buffalo Springfield's most beautiful creations.
When it comes to suggestions, anyone new to Buffalo Springfield should start with their self-titled debut album from 1966. This record includes some of their most beloved tracks like 'For What It's Worth' and 'Mr. Soul', which showcase their distinctive blend of folk, rock, and country influences. Another great choice would be their second album 'Buffalo Springfield Again', which delves deeper into psychedelic experimentation while retaining their signature sound.
Don't be a bird brain, Buffalo Springfield knew flying on the ground was wrong all along.
2. Flying On The Ground Is Wrong
This song's title hints at the surreal nature of dreamscapes and explores existential questions like what is reality. "Flying On The Ground Is Wrong" invites you to unveil the hidden truths lurking beneath the surface of everyday life. Buffalo Springfield's iconic track showcases striking lyrics, haunting melody, and remarkable harmonies that typify their work. With a driving tempo and dynamic rhythm changes, it draws you into a psychedelic world where nothing is quite as it seems. This track stands out from their other songs because it marries soaring vocals with soulful solos and lush instrumentation.
Listeners will appreciate Buffalo Springfield's ability to blend multiple genres, including folk and country-western, while staying true to their rock roots. The band fuses different sounds seamlessly in "Flying On The Ground Is Wrong," delivering an exceptional musical experience that resonates with fans through time. It also serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of taking flight above common sense, reminding us that we must stay grounded even when exploring our wildest dreams.
Buffalo Springfield's "Flying On The Ground Is Wrong" showcases their unique sound and vision, boundless creativity, and extraordinary musicianship. Fans can't get enough of this guitar-driven anthem which mixes solid songwriting with offbeat experimentation to create something truly magical. For those who have never heard of Buffalo Springfield before, "Flying On The Ground Is Wrong" is an excellent starting point for discovering one of the most influential bands of all time.
For those seeking inspiration for their creative endeavors, taking risks while remaining grounded might be the key to success just like Buffalo Springfield did in this song. By embracing uncertainty and exploring new frontiers while still staying rooted in our core values, we can achieve greatness too. So let us take inspiration from this band by daring to soar but always keeping our feet firmly on the ground!
If you're not sure what it's worth, just ask Buffalo Springfield – they wrote a whole song about it.
3. For What It’s Worth
One of the most iconic songs from Buffalo Springfield is their timeless hit, which could be interpreted as a protest song. "Something's happening here, but what it is ain't exactly clear" are some of the opening lines. The song was released in 1967 and was written by a band member, Stephen Stills. It has been covered countless times and used in various media, making it an anthem for different movements.
The lyrics might have originated from the Sunset Strip curfew riots that Stills witnessed while sitting outside Whisky a Go Go with his fellow bandmate Richie Furay. However, the message remained ambiguous enough to make it applicable to any movement for change. Some people interpret it as an anti-Vietnam or civil rights song, while others view it as a call to arms against authority figures.
Despite this ambiguity, "For What It's Worth" remains one of the most iconic anti-establishment anthems not just from Buffalo Springfield but also from the '60s era. Its message hasn't dulled over time and still resonates today.
Another notable aspect of this song is how Buffalo Springfield incorporated their distinct voices into creating a sound that would become synonymous with folk rock music. Stills' vocals lead while Furay provides harmonies alongside Dewey Martin on drums, Richie Hayworth on bass guitar, and Neil Young on electric guitar.
To fully appreciate "For What It's Worth," one should listen to the nuances of each instrument and voice that complements each other perfectly. The overall impact leaves an unforgettable impression that stands out among other rock hits of its era.
One suggestion would be to watch archival footage of protests from that period, including images or videos where this song is playing in the background – this experience will provide insight into how music can amplify social movements. "For What It's Worth" proved how relevant music can be when paired with activism – its timeless melody will continue to inspire future generations to fight the good fight.
On The Way Home, Buffalo Springfield makes you feel like taking the scenic route, even if it means getting lost and never actually making it home.
4. On The Way Home
The fourth entry in the '10 Best Buffalo Springfield Songs of All Time' is a legendary track that portrays love and nostalgia. 'Homeward Bound' showcases impeccable harmonies, expertly executed guitar riffs, and stunning lyrics that tell a story of reminiscing and returning home. The song's upbeat tempo belies the somber tone of the lyrics, adding depth to the emotions conveyed in this classic tune.
As the band's final single, 'On The Way Home' takes listeners on a journey through lush instrumentation and brilliant vocal performances. Its bouncy melody and intricate guitar work complement Stephen Stills' lead vocals perfectly, showcasing his unique style and creativity. This powerful track highlights the band's strengths while delivering a memorable musical experience.
What sets 'On The Way Home' apart from other tracks on this list is its ability to blend emotion and musicianship seamlessly. Its infectious hook and soaring chorus are instantly recognizable, making it one of Buffalo Springfield's most beloved songs. Invest some time to explore this gem of a song, you won't regret it.
Don't miss out on experiencing this timeless classic; listen to 'On The Way Home' today and discover why it deserves its place among the 10 Best Buffalo Springfield Songs of All Time.
Mr. Soul proves that even the father of grunge needed a little sunshine in his life.
5. Mr. Soul
This song, with its catchy rhythms and powerful lyrics, is one of the most iconic songs by Buffalo Springfield. It features a driving beat that is characterized by its heavy use of drums and bass guitar. The lyrics themselves focus on feelings of disconnection from society and the search for individual identity. This track showcases the vocal prowess of Neil Young, who gives a masterful performance throughout. The interplay between his voice and the instrumentals creates a dynamic tension that keeps the listener engaged.
The use of harmonies in this track adds further depth to the already rich sound, creating a wall of sound effect that draws the listener in. The lyrics themselves are heartfelt and evocative, showcasing Young's skill as a songwriter. The song builds to an explosive crescendo before coming back down to earth in a cool, bluesy coda that leaves the listener wanting more.
The driving force behind this song is its ability to tap into universal themes that anyone can relate to. It captures feelings of frustration and alienation in a way that few songs have managed to emulate since. For anyone looking for an introduction to this classic band, Mr. Soul is an excellent place to start.
Pro Tip: To get the full impact of this song, be sure to listen with headphones on so you can fully appreciate all the intricate nuances of the sound mixing.
Don't let the title fool you, this Bluebird doesn't bring happiness, it brings a haunting melody that'll stick with you all day.
6. Bluebird
Starting with a fan favorite, this entry delves into the fascinating world of 'Bluebird'. The fifth song on Buffalo Springfield's chart-topping album, this piece showcases the band's versatility and creativity.
For a more in-depth look at 'Bluebird', here is a table providing details about the song's various aspects:
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Length | 4:28 |
| Genre | Folk rock |
| Writers | Stephen Stills |
| Album | Buffalo Springfield Again |
| Label | Atco |
Moving beyond the statistics, it is worth noting that 'Bluebird' has stood the test of time thanks to its catchy rhythm and poignant lyrics. Often described as an anthem for freedom and self-discovery, it offers listeners a sense of hope in uncertain times.
Pro Tip: Pay attention to the song's instrumental interludes, which beautifully showcase each member's talent and elevate the piece to new heights.
Even Clancy couldn't sing along to this list of the best Buffalo Springfield songs – and he's been dead for over a century.
7. Nowadays Clancy Can’t Even Sing
This track depicts Neil Young’s admiration for his friend, Clancy. Unfortunately, he’s no longer the man he once was. The track addresses his decline as a singer and musician, comparing it to a flower that has withered away. Despite being sad and melancholic, the song remains one of the Buffalo Springfield's most memorable pieces. Neil Young's heartfelt lyrics and vocal delivery are what make this track so significant.
'Nowadays Clancy Can’t Even Sing' is a perfect example of how music can capture heartache and longing in just three minutes. It portrays the drastic change that takes place within peoples’ lives over time — an aspect each listener can easily identify with. There are slower tempos present throughout, which help deliver a more emotional impact than some of their other upbeat tracks.
The song finds its footing on Neil Young's sharp guitar playing and Stephen Stills' smooth vocals complementing it beautifully; it is no wonder that 'Nowadays Clancy Can’t Even Sing' enjoys massive popularity amongst fans worldwide. This timeless classic has an incredible ability to take listeners back to a simpler time while filling them with nostalgia.
It's interesting to note that 'Nowadays Clancy Can’t Even Sing' was released as part of Buffalo Springfield's 1966 eponymous debut album; it gained immediate popularity amongst fans worldwide for its hauntingly beautiful melody combined with lyrics so heart-wrenching they could easily reduce you to tears moments after hearing them first.
Broken Arrow may not be about a broken arrow, but it certainly hits the bullseye when it comes to great music.
8. Broken Arrow
This track, featuring on Buffalo Springfield's second album, took inspiration from a Native American legend in which an Indian chief shot an arrow into the sky and it came down to earth as rain. The song starts with a gentle acoustic guitar riff before building to a more upbeat tempo.
The melodic harmonies of Stephen Stills and Richie Furay deliver a soulful message about personal growth and spiritual awakening that resonates with listeners. Its thoughtful lyrics combine with the sweet melody to create one of Buffalo Springfield's most beloved songs.
In addition to its widely appreciated sentimentality, Broken Arrow was also musically innovative – for instance, it features backwards guitar tracking, something which had never been done before in rock music.
This song has inspired many covers over the years from various artists, including Rod Stewart and Neil Young himself in later years.
Broken Arrow remains significant today for its timeless message about benevolent personal growth, as well as creating new possibilities through musical creativity.
Four days may feel like an eternity, but listening to Buffalo Springfield's 'Four Days Gone' is a timeless escape from reality.
9. Four Days Gone
This track showcases the lyrical prowess and vocal harmonies of Buffalo Springfield. With its haunting melody and intricate fingerpicking, it's no surprise that "Four Days Gone" has become a fan favorite. The song is notable for its blend of folk and rock influences, as well as its introspective lyrics that touch on themes of loss and regret. It serves as a reminder of the band's ability to craft poignant ballads alongside their more upbeat rock offerings.
Another standout feature of "Four Days Gone" is the interplay between Richie Furay's lead vocals and Stephen Stills' harmonies. The two voices complement each other perfectly, creating an ethereal quality that enhances the emotional impact of the song.
One unique aspect of the track is its use of dynamic shifts, with soft verses leading into louder choruses that showcase the band's instrumental prowess. This creates a sense of tension and release throughout the song, adding to its overall impact.
Pro Tip: "Four Days Gone" is a great example of how dynamics can be used to enhance a song's emotional impact. Experiment with volume changes in your own music to add drama and intensity to your compositions.
Expecting To Fly? More like expecting to be blown away by this ethereal masterpiece.
10. Expecting To Fly
This song, with its ethereal melody, showcases roots in both folk and psychedelic music. The elusive lyrics evoke a sense of longing and melancholy, while the orchestral accompaniment adds to the dreamlike quality of the track.
It was released in 1967 as part of Buffalo Springfield's second album, "Buffalo Springfield Again." This emotional ballad is regarded by many fans and critics as one of their best works for its unique sound and profound lyrics.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
