Buffalo Springfield was an influential American rock band renowned for their innovative fusion of folk rock, country, and psychedelic elements, shaping the musical landscape of the late 1960s. Formed in 1966 in Los Angeles, California, the band was a melting pot of remarkable talent, featuring Stephen Stills, Neil Young, Richie Furay, Bruce Palmer, and Dewey Martin. Their music, marked by intricate harmonies and socially conscious lyrics, resonated with the tumultuous spirit of the times, addressing themes of political unrest and personal introspection.
The band released their eponymous debut album, “Buffalo Springfield,” in 1966, which included the iconic protest song “For What It’s Worth,” penned by Stills. This track, with its haunting melody and poignant lyrics, became an anthem of the era, capturing the growing sense of unease and change. Despite their short-lived existence, Buffalo Springfield produced three studio albums, leaving an indelible mark on the folk-rock genre. Their innovative sound, a blend of electric and acoustic elements, along with their profound lyrical narratives, paved the way for future genres and influenced countless artists.
Though plagued by internal tensions and frequent lineup changes, Buffalo Springfield’s legacy endures through their significant contribution to the music of their time and their lasting influence on the genre. Their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1997 further cemented their status as pioneers of the folk-rock movement.
1. For What It’s Worth
“For What It’s Worth” is one of the most recognizable and enduring songs by Buffalo Springfield, written by Stephen Stills and released in 1967. The song is often perceived as a protest anthem, reflective of the social and political upheaval during the 1960s, especially regarding the Vietnam War and civil rights movements. However, its origins are more directly tied to local events in Los Angeles.
The song was inspired by the Sunset Strip curfew riots in November 1966, a series of protests that erupted when a 10 pm curfew for young people was strictly enforced by police on the famous Sunset Strip. Young music fans and counterculture youth gathered to protest against the shutdown of a popular club, Pandora’s Box, leading to a stand-off with law enforcement. Stills, moved by the events and the broader implications of the clash between the establishment and the youth, penned the lyrics that poignantly captured the tension and the call for reflection and peace.
The opening lines, “There’s something happening here / What it is ain’t exactly clear,” perfectly encapsulate the song’s essence — a sense of confusion and a need for caution and awareness in turbulent times. The chorus, “Stop, children, what’s that sound? Everybody look what’s going down,” further emphasizes the need to be alert and aware of the surrounding societal changes.
Although “For What It’s Worth” is often associated with anti-war sentiments, its lyrics are intentionally vague and broad, allowing it to serve as an anthem for various protests and movements. The song’s timeless quality lies in its ability to resonate with audiences facing different struggles, making it one of the most significant and versatile protest songs of the 20th century. Its enduring appeal is a testament to its powerful message and the artistry of Buffalo Springfield.
2. Mr. Soul
“Mr. Soul” is another prominent song by Buffalo Springfield, predominantly penned and sung by Neil Young. The track is featured on their second album, “Buffalo Springfield Again,” released in 1967. It showcases a more rock-oriented sound compared to some of the band’s folk-driven numbers, marking it as one of the early indicators of Young’s eclectic and evolving musical style.
The song begins with a distinctive, distorted guitar riff, setting a gritty, intense tone that carries throughout the track. The lyrics of “Mr. Soul” are introspective and somewhat enigmatic, often interpreted as Young’s reflection on the pitfalls of fame and the music industry’s commercialism. Lines like “I was down on a frown when the messenger brought me a letter” and “In the dungeons of my mind, I was searching for the stones to find” suggest a journey through personal turmoil and artistic struggle.
Young’s delivery of the lyrics, combined with the song’s driving beat and the twangy, raw guitar, creates a sense of urgency and restlessness. “Mr. Soul” is considered a significant track in Buffalo Springfield’s catalog for its introspective lyricism and its role in foreshadowing the more hard-edged rock sound that Young would explore in his subsequent solo career and with bands like Crazy Horse.
The song’s influence extends beyond its initial release, as it has been covered by various artists and remains a favorite among fans of Buffalo Springfield and Neil Young’s early work. Its enduring appeal lies in its raw energy, memorable guitar riff, and the thought-provoking depth of its lyrics.
3. Bluebird
“Bluebird” is a song by Buffalo Springfield, appearing on their second album, “Buffalo Springfield Again,” released in 1967. The song is known for its intricate guitar work, rich harmonies, and the folk-rock sound that characterized much of the band’s music.
Written by Stephen Stills, “Bluebird” showcases the band’s ability to blend rock, folk, and country elements into a cohesive and captivating sound. The song features a notable acoustic intro, leading into sections with electric guitars, and is distinguished by its shifting tempos and dynamic arrangement.
Lyrically, “Bluebird” is somewhat enigmatic and open to interpretation, with poetic imagery that invites listeners to find their own meaning in the song. The recurring theme of the bluebird is often seen as a symbol of happiness, hope, or the search for freedom and fulfillment.
“Bluebird” is celebrated for its musical complexity and the high level of musicianship displayed by Buffalo Springfield members, including Stephen Stills, Neil Young, Richie Furay, Bruce Palmer, and Dewey Martin. The song remains a standout track in the band’s catalog and is a testament to their influence in the folk-rock genre and the wider music scene of the 1960s.
4. Rock & Roll Woman
“Rock & Roll Woman” is a song by Buffalo Springfield, featured on their second album, “Buffalo Springfield Again,” released in 1967. Written primarily by Stephen Stills, with some input from David Crosby of The Byrds, the song is noted for its distinctive rock and folk elements, rich vocal harmonies, and engaging melody.
“Rock & Roll Woman” has a driving rhythm and features the band’s signature sound, blending rock with elements of folk and country. The song’s lyrics, while open to interpretation, seem to celebrate the allure and mystique of a woman who embodies the spirit of rock and roll.
The harmonies in “Rock & Roll Woman” are particularly noteworthy, showcasing the vocal chemistry and talent of the band members. The guitar work, both in the rhythmic foundation and the melodic solos, adds depth and character to the track, making it one of the memorable songs from the album.
Buffalo Springfield, though short-lived, was a highly influential band in the late 1960s, with members who would go on to have significant careers in music. “Rock & Roll Woman” is a testament to their collective talent and their ability to craft songs that resonated with the spirit of the era and continue to be cherished by fans of the genre.
5. Kind Woman
“Kind Woman” is a poignant and tender song from Buffalo Springfield’s third and final studio album, “Last Time Around,” released in 1968. The song stands out for its gentle, country-inflected melody and heartfelt lyrics, showcasing a different facet of the band’s musical versatility. Richie Furay, one of the founding members of Buffalo Springfield, wrote and sang “Kind Woman,” and the track is often considered one of his signature contributions to the band’s repertoire.
The song’s arrangement is notably softer and more melodic than many of Buffalo Springfield’s rock-driven tracks. It features a mellow blend of acoustic guitars, pedal steel guitar, and subtle percussion, creating a warm, intimate atmosphere. The lyrics of “Kind Woman” express deep gratitude and affection, likely inspired by Furay’s feelings for his wife, Nancy. Lines like “I got a good reason for loving you / It’s an old-fashioned sign / I kinda get the feelin’ like mmm you know when / I fell in love the first time” convey a sense of timeless, enduring love and a deep emotional connection.
“Kind Woman” is often praised for its heartfelt sincerity and its beautiful, understated instrumentation. The song’s serene, comforting vibe provides a gentle close to Buffalo Springfield’s turbulent and dynamic journey as a band. Over the years, “Kind Woman” has been covered by various artists and remains a beloved classic, highlighting Richie Furay’s songwriting talent and the band’s ability to craft songs that resonate on a deeply personal level.
6. Nowadays Clancy Can’t Even Sing
“Nowadays Clancy Can’t Even Sing” is a song by Buffalo Springfield, appearing on their debut, self-titled album released in 1966. The song was written by Neil Young, and it stands out as one of the band’s early compositions that helped establish their unique sound, blending elements of folk, rock, and country.
The song features introspective lyrics that are somewhat enigmatic, a characteristic of many of Neil Young’s compositions. “Nowadays Clancy Can’t Even Sing” explores themes of alienation, introspection, and the search for identity and purpose, resonating with the feelings of disillusionment and questioning that were common among the youth during the 1960s.
Musically, the song is marked by its melodic structure, harmonious vocals, and the blend of acoustic and electric guitar sounds. The vocal harmonies, primarily led by Richie Furay, with the rest of the band contributing, add depth and emotion to the song, enhancing the reflective mood of the lyrics.
“Nowadays Clancy Can’t Even Sing” was not a commercial hit for Buffalo Springfield, but it has been appreciated for its artistic merits and is considered one of the standout tracks from their debut album. The song showcases the band’s early potential and the songwriting prowess of Neil Young, hinting at the significant impact Buffalo Springfield would have on the folk-rock and country-rock genres.
7. Broken Arrow
“Broken Arrow” is one of the most ambitious and complex compositions by Buffalo Springfield, featured on their second album, “Buffalo Springfield Again,” released in 1967. Written by Neil Young, the song is notable for its intricate structure, profound lyricism, and the use of unconventional recording techniques. It’s a piece that showcases Young’s experimental approach to songwriting and arrangement, which he would continue to explore throughout his career.
“Broken Arrow” is characterized by its episodic structure, shifting between different musical themes and narratives, somewhat akin to a musical collage. The song begins with the sound of a live audience, creating the illusion of a live performance, and transitions through various sections, each with distinct melodies and moods. The lyrics are reflective and cryptic, weaving a tapestry of imagery and emotion that invites various interpretations. Many listeners perceive the song as a commentary on the complexities of fame, the changing landscape of the 1960s, and the personal trials of the songwriter.
The arrangement of “Broken Arrow” includes a wide range of instruments, such as piano, organ, strings, and horns, contributing to its rich and layered sound. The production techniques, including the use of live sound snippets and the splicing together of different sections, were innovative for the time and added to the song’s unique and experimental quality.
Despite its complexity, “Broken Arrow” is celebrated for its artistic ambition and is considered a highlight of Neil Young’s early songwriting. The track’s boldness in structure and expression reflects the broader creative spirit of Buffalo Springfield and their willingness to push musical boundaries. Over the years, “Broken Arrow” has continued to captivate listeners and critics alike, securing its place as a standout track in the band’s influential discography.
8. Expecting to Fly
“Expecting to Fly” is a song by Buffalo Springfield, featured on their second album, “Buffalo Springfield Again,” released in 1967. The song was written and composed by Neil Young, and it’s notable for its lush orchestration and departure from the band’s usual folk-rock sound.
“Expecting to Fly” is often regarded as one of Neil Young’s most beautiful and evocative compositions during his time with Buffalo Springfield. The song doesn’t feature the full band but instead highlights Young’s vocals and guitar, accompanied by rich, orchestrated arrangements. The orchestration was arranged by Jack Nitzsche, who was known for his work with Phil Spector and his “Wall of Sound” technique.
The lyrics of “Expecting to Fly” are introspective and poetic, touching on themes of change, disillusionment, and the passage of time. The song’s ethereal and somewhat melancholic tone is enhanced by the sweeping strings and the overall lush production.
“Expecting to Fly” showcases Neil Young’s ability to explore different musical landscapes and his talent for creating deeply moving compositions. Although not a typical Buffalo Springfield song in terms of its sound and production, it remains one of the highlights of their discography and a testament to the band’s and Young’s artistic range and influence in the music scene of the late 1960s.
9. Go and Say Goodbye
“Go and Say Goodbye” is a standout track from Buffalo Springfield’s debut album, “Buffalo Springfield,” released in 1966. The song was written and sung by Stephen Stills, and it’s recognized for its catchy melody, jangly guitar riffs, and clear, straightforward lyrics. This track is one of the band’s first recordings and is notable for its blend of folk-rock and country influences, showcasing the diverse musical backgrounds and talents within the group.
The song’s lyrics are direct and poignant, dealing with the themes of love, betrayal, and the painful realization that a relationship has come to an end. The chorus, “You better go and say goodbye,” encapsulates the song’s message of facing the difficult truth and taking the necessary, albeit painful, step of ending a relationship that’s no longer working.
Musically, “Go and Say Goodbye” is characterized by its bright, clean guitar work and tight vocal harmonies, a hallmark of Buffalo Springfield’s sound. The song’s structure is straightforward, with a verse-chorus format that emphasizes the catchy melody and the lyrical message.
As one of the tracks on Buffalo Springfield’s debut album, “Go and Say Goodbye” helped establish the band’s sound and contributed to their early success. The song remains a favorite among fans of the band and is often praised for its melodic appeal and emotional resonance. It’s a testament to Stephen Stills’ songwriting prowess and the band’s ability to create music that speaks to universal experiences and emotions.
10. Sit Down I Think I Love You
“Sit Down, I Think I Love You” is a song by Buffalo Springfield, featured on their debut self-titled album, “Buffalo Springfield,” released in 1966. The song was written by Stephen Stills and is known for its cheerful melody, harmonious vocals, and the blend of folk-rock elements that were characteristic of the band’s music.
The song’s lyrics express a lighthearted and somewhat hesitant declaration of love, with the narrator contemplating the feelings they have and the implications of expressing those feelings. The upbeat tempo, jangly guitars, and the clear, harmonious vocal delivery make “Sit Down, I Think I Love You” a charming and engaging track.
Musically, the song reflects the folk-rock sound that Buffalo Springfield helped popularize, with a catchy tune and a feel-good vibe that invites listeners to sing along. The song showcases the band’s ability to craft songs that are both musically rich and accessible, a quality that contributed to their influence and popularity in the 1960s music scene.
“Sit Down, I Think I Love You” remains one of the memorable tracks from Buffalo Springfield’s debut album, highlighting the songwriting talent of Stephen Stills and the collective musical prowess of the band. The song’s enduring appeal is a testament to the band’s impact on the folk-rock genre and their ability to create music that resonates across generations.
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.
