Buffalo Springfield was a folk rock band formed in Los Angeles, California, in 1966. The group was a short-lived but influential presence in the music scene of the late 1960s. The band’s members included Stephen Stills, Neil Young, Richie Furay, Bruce Palmer, and Dewey Martin.
Buffalo Springfield is best known for their iconic song “For What It’s Worth,” released in 1967. The song captured the social and political unrest of the time and became an anthem for the counterculture movement. Its distinctive guitar riff and memorable lyrics made it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners today.
In addition to “For What It’s Worth,” Buffalo Springfield released several other well-received albums during their brief existence, including their self-titled debut album and “Buffalo Springfield Again.”
Despite their relatively short tenure as a band, Buffalo Springfield’s music had a lasting impact on the development of folk rock and country rock genres. The individual members went on to have successful careers in music, with Stephen Stills and Neil Young achieving particular renown as solo artists and members of other bands.
Buffalo Springfield was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1997, recognizing their significant contributions to the music industry and their enduring influence on subsequent generations of musicians.
1. For What It’s Worth
“For What It’s Worth” is a song by Buffalo Springfield, released in 1967. It’s one of the band’s most famous and enduring tracks, and it’s often considered a quintessential anthem of the 1960s counterculture movement.
The song’s lyrics were written by Stephen Stills, who also sang lead vocals on the track. “For What It’s Worth” was inspired by the Sunset Strip curfew riots that occurred in Los Angeles in November 1966. These riots were a response to the enforcement of a 10 p.m. curfew for youths under 18 and the closing of several popular nightclubs.
The song’s iconic opening guitar riff and catchy melody, combined with its socially conscious lyrics, captured the mood of the time and struck a chord with listeners. The lyrics reflect the frustration and unrest felt by young people during the turbulent 1960s, with lines like “There’s something happening here, what it is ain’t exactly clear.”
“For What It’s Worth” became a major hit for Buffalo Springfield, reaching the top ten on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It remains a classic of the folk rock genre and continues to be celebrated for its timeless message and memorable musical arrangement.
2. Mr. Soul
“Mr. Soul” is a song by Buffalo Springfield, a folk rock band formed in the 1960s featuring notable members such as Stephen Stills, Neil Young, and Richie Furay. The song was written by Neil Young and released as a single in 1967, as well as appearing on the band’s second album, “Buffalo Springfield Again.”
“Mr. Soul” is characterized by its driving rhythm, catchy guitar riff, and Young’s distinctive vocal delivery. Lyrically, the song reflects Young’s feelings of disillusionment with the music industry and his struggle to maintain his artistic integrity in the face of commercial pressures. The lyrics also touch on themes of identity and authenticity, with Young adopting the persona of “Mr. Soul” to express his frustrations.
“Mr. Soul” became one of Buffalo Springfield’s most iconic songs and remains a fan favorite. It showcases the band’s talent for blending folk and rock influences and foreshadows the solo careers of its members, particularly Neil Young, who would go on to achieve legendary status as a singer-songwriter.
3. Bluebird
“Bluebird” is a song by Buffalo Springfield, a folk rock band formed in the 1960s. It was written by Stephen Stills and released on the band’s second album, “Buffalo Springfield Again,” in 1967.
“Bluebird” is characterized by its intricate guitar work, featuring Stills’ distinctive fingerpicking style. The song has a laid-back, psychedelic vibe and showcases the band’s ability to blend folk and rock influences. Lyrically, “Bluebird” explores themes of freedom, wanderlust, and the open road, with Stills singing about a desire to escape and explore new horizons.
“Bluebird” has become one of Buffalo Springfield’s most beloved songs and is often cited as a highlight of their catalog. It remains a classic of the 1960s folk rock era, capturing the spirit of the counterculture movement with its adventurous lyrics and infectious melody.
4. Rock & Roll Woman
“Rock & Roll Woman” is a song by Buffalo Springfield, featured on their second album, “Buffalo Springfield Again,” released in 1967. It was written by Stephen Stills and serves as an example of the band’s folk rock sound.
“Rock & Roll Woman” is notable for its driving rhythm, catchy melody, and memorable guitar work. The song features Stills and Neil Young sharing lead vocals, with Stills delivering the verses and Young singing the chorus.
Lyrically, “Rock & Roll Woman” explores the allure and mystique of a woman who embodies the spirit of rock and roll. The song’s lyrics convey a sense of admiration and fascination, with lines like “She’s a rock and roll woman, and she’s got me again.”
While “Rock & Roll Woman” was not released as a single, it remains a fan favorite and a standout track in Buffalo Springfield’s catalog. It showcases the band’s ability to blend folk and rock elements seamlessly and highlights the individual talents of its members as songwriters and musicians.
5. Nowadays Clancy Can’t Even Sing
“Nowadays Clancy Can’t Even Sing” is a song by Buffalo Springfield from their self-titled debut album, released in 1966. It was written by Neil Young, who also sings lead vocals on the track.
The song is characterized by its haunting melody, melancholic atmosphere, and introspective lyrics. In “Nowadays Clancy Can’t Even Sing,” Young reflects on the passage of time and the changes that occur as people grow older. The lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia and longing, with lines like “Once proud and loud, but not for long, could not even find a song, now I’m weak and I’m so slow, now I’m ashamed of the things I know.”
Despite its somber tone, “Nowadays Clancy Can’t Even Sing” is regarded as one of Buffalo Springfield’s early classics, showcasing Neil Young’s songwriting talent and distinctive vocal style. The song’s introspective lyrics and emotive delivery resonate with listeners and have contributed to its enduring popularity over the years.
6. Sit Down, I Think I Love You
“Sit Down, I Think I Love You” is a song by Buffalo Springfield from their self-titled debut album, released in 1966. It was written by Stephen Stills, who also sings lead vocals on the track.
The song is characterized by its catchy melody, upbeat rhythm, and folk rock sound. “Sit Down, I Think I Love You” features jangly guitars and tight harmonies, typical of Buffalo Springfield’s early style.
Lyrically, the song explores themes of infatuation and uncertainty in love. The narrator expresses feelings of attraction towards someone but is unsure about how to proceed, as indicated by the lyrics “Sit down, I think I love you, anyway, I’d like to try.”
While “Sit Down, I Think I Love You” was not released as a single, it remains a fan favorite and a notable track in Buffalo Springfield’s discography. It showcases the band’s ability to blend folk, rock, and pop influences into a cohesive and engaging sound.
7. Broken Arrow
“Broken Arrow” is a song by Buffalo Springfield, appearing on their third and final album, “Last Time Around,” released in 1968. The song was written by Neil Young, who also sings lead vocals on the track.
“Broken Arrow” is notable for its unconventional structure and experimental nature. The song features intricate vocal harmonies, psychedelic instrumentation, and poetic lyrics that evoke images of nature and Native American themes.
The lyrics of “Broken Arrow” are open to interpretation, with some listeners interpreting it as a commentary on the struggles faced by Indigenous peoples, while others see it as a broader reflection on the human condition and the search for meaning.
Despite its complexity, “Broken Arrow” has become one of Buffalo Springfield’s most revered songs, admired for its innovative approach to songwriting and its evocative imagery. It remains a standout track in the band’s catalog and a favorite among fans of psychedelic rock and folk rock music.
8. Expecting to Fly
“Expecting to Fly” is a song by Buffalo Springfield, written by Neil Young. It was released as a single in 1967, and also appears on the band’s second album, “Buffalo Springfield Again.”
“Expecting to Fly” is known for its dreamy and atmospheric sound, featuring lush orchestration, ethereal vocals, and poetic lyrics. Neil Young sings lead vocals on the track, accompanied by intricate instrumentation and layered production.
The song’s lyrics are introspective and enigmatic, exploring themes of longing, disillusionment, and the search for meaning. Lines like “There you stood on the edge of your feather, expecting to fly” evoke a sense of anticipation and uncertainty.
“Expecting to Fly” is widely regarded as one of Buffalo Springfield’s most beautiful and haunting songs. Its lush arrangement and emotive vocals have made it a favorite among fans of psychedelic rock and folk rock music. The song’s atmospheric quality and introspective lyrics continue to resonate with listeners, cementing its status as a classic of the genre.
9. Kind Woman
“Kind Woman” is a song by Buffalo Springfield, written by Richie Furay. It appears on the band’s second album, “Buffalo Springfield Again,” released in 1967.
“Kind Woman” is a gentle and melodic ballad, featuring Richie Furay on lead vocals. The song is characterized by its heartfelt lyrics, simple acoustic guitar accompaniment, and soulful harmonies.
Lyrically, “Kind Woman” expresses gratitude and appreciation for a loving and caring partner. The narrator expresses their feelings of warmth and comfort, acknowledging the kindness and support they receive from their significant other.
“Kind Woman” is often considered one of Buffalo Springfield’s most tender and intimate songs. Its heartfelt lyrics and soulful melody have made it a favorite among fans of folk rock and country rock music. The song’s emotional resonance and timeless quality continue to endear it to listeners, solidifying its place as a classic in the band’s catalog.
10. On the Way Home
“On the Way Home” is a song by Buffalo Springfield, written by Neil Young. It appears on their final studio album, “Last Time Around,” released in 1968.
“On the Way Home” is a folk rock song featuring lead vocals by Neil Young. It’s characterized by its catchy melody, acoustic guitar-driven arrangement, and introspective lyrics.
The song’s lyrics reflect on the passage of time and the journey of life. It explores themes of reflection, nostalgia, and the search for meaning. Lines like “Though your dreams may toss and turn you now, they will vanish away” suggest a sense of uncertainty and impermanence.
Despite being released as the final track on Buffalo Springfield’s last album, “On the Way Home” is often regarded as one of their standout songs. Its timeless appeal, poignant lyrics, and Neil Young’s emotive vocal delivery have contributed to its enduring popularity among fans of folk and rock music.
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.
