Buffalo Springfield was a seminal American rock band formed in Los Angeles, California, in 1966. The group was known for its eclectic mix of folk, rock, and country influences, as well as its socially conscious lyrics. The band’s original lineup consisted of Stephen Stills (vocals, guitar), Neil Young (vocals, guitar), Richie Furay (vocals, guitar), Bruce Palmer (bass), and Dewey Martin (drums).
Buffalo Springfield rose to prominence with their debut single, “For What It’s Worth,” released in 1967. The song became an anthem for the counterculture movement of the 1960s, capturing the unrest and social upheaval of the era. Its iconic guitar riff and powerful lyrics made it one of the most enduring protest songs of its time.
The band released three studio albums during their brief career: “Buffalo Springfield” (1966), “Buffalo Springfield Again” (1967), and “Last Time Around” (1968). Despite their relatively short time together, Buffalo Springfield’s influence on the development of folk-rock and country-rock was profound, and their music continues to be celebrated by fans and critics alike.
Buffalo Springfield disbanded in 1968 due to internal conflicts and creative differences among the members. However, their legacy lived on through the solo careers of Stephen Stills and Neil Young, both of whom went on to achieve considerable success in their own right.
In 2010, Buffalo Springfield reunited for a series of concerts, marking their first performances together in over 40 years. The reunion sparked renewed interest in the band’s music and solidified their status as one of the most important and influential acts of the 1960s rock scene.
1. For What It’s Worth
“For What It’s Worth” is a iconic song by the American rock band Buffalo Springfield, released in 1966. The song was written by Stephen Stills and is often seen as an anthem for the counterculture movement of the 1960s.
The song’s lyrics were inspired by the Sunset Strip curfew riots that occurred in November 1966, where young people protested against the enforcement of a new curfew and regulations targeting the emerging youth culture in Los Angeles. Stills’ lyrics capture the tension and unrest of the era, with lines like “There’s something happening here, what it is ain’t exactly clear.”
The song’s memorable guitar riff and catchy melody, combined with its powerful lyrics, helped it become a symbol of social and political protest. “For What It’s Worth” resonated with audiences across the United States and beyond, becoming one of the defining songs of the 1960s.
Despite its initial success, “For What It’s Worth” remains relevant today and continues to be celebrated as a timeless classic. Its message of questioning authority and standing up for one’s beliefs remains as poignant and relevant as ever, cementing its status as one of the most enduring protest songs in rock music history.
2. Bluebird
“Bluebird” is a song by the American-Canadian rock band Buffalo Springfield, released on their second album, “Buffalo Springfield Again,” in 1967. It was written by band member Stephen Stills.
“Bluebird” is notable for its intricate guitar work and harmonies, as well as its experimental and psychedelic sound. The song features a catchy melody and poetic lyrics that evoke imagery of freedom and exploration.
“Bluebird” has been praised for its musicianship and is considered one of Buffalo Springfield’s standout tracks. It remains a classic of the psychedelic rock genre and has been covered by various artists over the years.
3. Rock & Roll Woman
“Rock & Roll Woman” is a song by the American-Canadian rock band Buffalo Springfield, released in 1967 on their self-titled debut album. It was written by band member Stephen Stills.
“Rock & Roll Woman” is characterized by its catchy guitar riff and driving rhythm, typical of the folk-rock sound of Buffalo Springfield. The song’s lyrics reflect the countercultural spirit of the 1960s, with references to rebellion and freedom.
“Rock & Roll Woman” became one of Buffalo Springfield’s most popular songs and remains a favorite among fans of the band and the broader folk-rock genre. Its infectious energy and memorable melody have contributed to its enduring appeal over the years.
4. Mr. Soul
“Mr. Soul” is a song by the American-Canadian rock band Buffalo Springfield, released in 1967 on their debut album, “Buffalo Springfield.” The song was written by Neil Young, who also sings lead vocals on the track.
“Mr. Soul” is characterized by its driving rhythm, distorted guitar riffs, and Young’s distinctive vocal delivery. Lyrically, the song explores themes of disillusionment and existential questioning, with Young reflecting on the pressures of fame and the search for authenticity in the music industry.
“Mr. Soul” became one of Buffalo Springfield’s most enduring and influential songs, with its raw energy and introspective lyrics resonating with listeners. It has since been covered by various artists and remains a classic of the folk-rock genre.
5. Expecting to Fly
“Expecting to Fly” is a poignant and ethereal song by Buffalo Springfield, released in 1967 as a single and later included on their album “Buffalo Springfield Again.” The song is notable for its dreamy atmosphere and lush orchestration, which set it apart from the band’s more rock-oriented material.
Written by Neil Young, “Expecting to Fly” features haunting lyrics that evoke feelings of longing, uncertainty, and introspection. The song’s title suggests a sense of anticipation and hope, yet the lyrics convey a bittersweet sense of resignation and acceptance.
Musically, “Expecting to Fly” is characterized by its atmospheric arrangement, featuring delicate strings, gentle acoustic guitars, and Neil Young’s emotive vocals. The song’s ethereal soundscapes and evocative melodies create a captivating listening experience that transports listeners to another realm.
Despite not achieving the same level of commercial success as some of Buffalo Springfield’s other hits, “Expecting to Fly” has endured as a fan favorite and a critical darling. Its unique blend of folk, rock, and orchestral elements, coupled with its introspective lyrics, have earned it a place as one of the standout tracks in Buffalo Springfield’s discography and as a highlight of Neil Young’s songwriting career.
6. Broken Arrow
“Broken Arrow” is a song by the American-Canadian rock band Buffalo Springfield, released in 1967 on their album “Buffalo Springfield Again.” The song was written by band member Neil Young.
“Broken Arrow” is known for its atmospheric sound and evocative lyrics. The song features intricate guitar work and haunting vocal harmonies, creating a sense of introspection and melancholy. Lyrically, “Broken Arrow” is enigmatic, with abstract imagery and poetic language that has invited various interpretations.
The song’s title, “Broken Arrow,” has been suggested to refer to a Native American symbol of peace or a metaphor for the breakdown of communication and understanding. “Broken Arrow” has been praised for its musical complexity and emotional depth, cementing its status as a standout track in Buffalo Springfield’s catalog.
7. I Am a Child
“I Am a Child” is a gentle and introspective song by Buffalo Springfield, released in 1967 as part of their album “Buffalo Springfield Again.” The song was written by Neil Young, who also provides lead vocals.
“I Am a Child” is characterized by its stripped-down arrangement, featuring acoustic guitar, subtle percussion, and Young’s plaintive vocals. The song’s simple yet poignant lyrics explore themes of innocence, vulnerability, and the passage of time. Young reflects on his own youth, expressing a sense of longing and nostalgia for the innocence of childhood.
Despite its understated production, “I Am a Child” resonated with audiences and became a fan favorite. The song’s sincerity and emotional resonance struck a chord with listeners, solidifying its place as one of the standout tracks on the album.
“I Am a Child” remains a beloved song in Neil Young’s catalog and in the broader folk-rock genre. Its timeless themes and heartfelt delivery continue to resonate with listeners, making it a cherished classic among fans of Buffalo Springfield and Neil Young alike.
8. Nowadays Clancy Can’t Even Sing
“Nowadays Clancy Can’t Even Sing” is a song by the American-Canadian rock band Buffalo Springfield, released on their self-titled debut album in 1966. It was written by band member Neil Young.
The song is characterized by its folk-rock sound, featuring acoustic guitar, harmonica, and vocal harmonies. Lyrically, “Nowadays Clancy Can’t Even Sing” tells the story of a man reflecting on the changing times and the loss of innocence. The narrator reminisces about a simpler past when even Clancy, a character representing stability and tradition, could sing, but now struggles to find his voice in a world that has become increasingly complex and uncertain.
The song’s introspective lyrics and melodic composition showcase Neil Young’s songwriting talent and foreshadow the themes that would come to define his later work. “Nowadays Clancy Can’t Even Sing” remains a fan favorite and a classic of the folk-rock genre.
9. Burned
“Burned” is a song by Buffalo Springfield, appearing on their eponymous debut album released in 1966. The song was written by Neil Young.
“Burned” is a mid-tempo rock song with folk-rock influences, featuring jangly guitar work and vocal harmonies typical of Buffalo Springfield’s sound. Lyrically, the song expresses feelings of disillusionment and frustration, with Young’s lyrics exploring themes of alienation and uncertainty.
Despite not being released as a single, “Burned” became a fan favorite and received critical acclaim for its infectious melody and introspective lyrics. The song’s raw energy and emotive delivery captured the spirit of the 1960s counterculture movement, resonating with listeners who identified with its themes of rebellion and defiance.
“Burned” remains a beloved track in Buffalo Springfield’s repertoire and is often cited as an early example of Neil Young’s songwriting talent. Its enduring popularity speaks to its status as a classic of the folk-rock genre and as a highlight of Buffalo Springfield’s debut album.
10. Go and Say Goodbye
“Go and Say Goodbye” is a song by the American-Canadian rock band Buffalo Springfield, released on their self-titled debut album in 1966. It was written by band member Stephen Stills.
The song is characterized by its folk-rock sound, featuring acoustic guitar, harmonica, and vocal harmonies. Lyrically, “Go and Say Goodbye” tells the story of a relationship on the brink of ending. The narrator urges their partner to go and say goodbye to someone else, suggesting that they both need to move on from their troubled relationship.
“Go and Say Goodbye” showcases Stephen Stills’ songwriting talent and the band’s ability to blend folk and rock influences. The song remains a fan favorite and a classic of the folk-rock genre.
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.
