Skip Spence was a talented musician and songwriter whose impact on the music industry is often overlooked. As a founding member of two seminal bands, Moby Grape and Jefferson Airplane, Spence played a significant role in the development of the San Francisco Sound during the late 1960s. Despite his contributions, Spence’s career was derailed by mental illness, which led to a period of institutionalization and limited output. However, the music he did create during his short career remains a testament to his undeniable talent and unique artistic vision.
In this article, we will be exploring the top 10 best Skip Spence songs of all time. From his work with Moby Grape and Jefferson Airplane to his solo releases, we will delve into the music that defined Spence’s career and cemented his place in music history. Whether you are a long-time fan or a newcomer to his music, this list is sure to provide insight into the genius of Skip Spence and the lasting impact of his contributions to the world of music.
1. Little Hands
“Little Hands” is a hauntingly beautiful song from Skip Spence’s only solo album, “Oar,” released in 1969. The track showcases Spence’s unique and distinctive style, blending elements of folk, psychedelic rock, and blues into a melancholic and introspective ballad. The song’s lyrics are deeply personal, reflecting Spence’s struggles with mental illness and his experiences of being institutionalized. With its simple yet powerful melody and Spence’s emotive vocals, “Little Hands” stands as a poignant and enduring testament to his talent as a songwriter and musician. The track has been covered by several artists over the years, but none have captured the raw emotion and haunting quality of the original.
2. Cripple Creek
“Cripple Creek” is a rollicking and upbeat song from Skip Spence’s time with the band Moby Grape. Released on their debut album in 1967, the track showcases Spence’s impressive skills as a guitarist and his ability to write catchy, infectious melodies. The song’s lyrics draw on traditional American folk themes and tell the story of a man heading to the titular town in search of gold. With its driving rhythm and Spence’s playful vocals, “Cripple Creek” is a standout track on the album and a prime example of the band’s unique blend of folk, rock, and country influences. Despite the band’s short-lived career, the enduring popularity of songs like “Cripple Creek” is a testament to their lasting impact on the world of rock music.
3. Broken Heart
“Broken Heart” is a tender and emotional ballad from Skip Spence’s solo album “Oar.” The track features Spence’s signature acoustic guitar playing and gentle vocals, creating a sense of intimacy and vulnerability. The song’s lyrics express the pain and sadness of a lost love, with Spence pouring his heart out in a way that is both raw and deeply affecting. Despite the somber tone, “Broken Heart” is a beautiful and heartfelt tribute to the power of love and its ability to both lift us up and bring us down. The song’s stripped-down production and intimate feel make it a standout track on the album and a testament to Spence’s unique talent as a songwriter and musician.
4. Diana
“Diana” is a charming and playful song from Skip Spence’s time with Moby Grape. The track features catchy guitar riffs and infectious harmonies, creating a lively and upbeat atmosphere. The lyrics of the song tell the story of a man who is captivated by a woman named Diana, with Spence’s playful vocals adding a sense of humor and whimsy to the tale. The track stands as a testament to Spence’s ability to blend elements of folk, rock, and pop music into a cohesive and enjoyable whole. Despite the song’s lighthearted tone, it remains a favorite among fans of the band and a reminder of Spence’s enduring legacy as a talented and innovative musician.
5. All Come to Meet Her
“All Come to Meet Her” is a dreamy and ethereal song from Skip Spence’s time with Moby Grape. The track features intricate guitar work and lush harmonies, creating a sense of otherworldly beauty. The lyrics of the song are poetic and mysterious, describing a woman who is surrounded by a sense of magic and wonder. With its haunting melody and Spence’s angelic vocals, “All Come to Meet Her” is a standout track on the album and a testament to the band’s unique sound and style. Despite the band’s short-lived career, songs like “All Come to Meet Her” continue to captivate listeners with their timeless beauty and enduring appeal.
6. Books of Moses
“Books of Moses” is a haunting and evocative song from Skip Spence’s solo album “Oar.” The track features Spence’s signature finger-picking guitar style and mournful vocals, creating a sense of spiritual yearning and longing. The song’s lyrics draw on biblical themes and imagery, with Spence invoking the story of Moses and the Ten Commandments. With its stripped-down production and raw emotion, “Books of Moses” is a powerful and intimate testament to Spence’s talent as a songwriter and musician. The track has been covered by several artists over the years, but none have captured the haunting quality and emotional depth of the original. “Books of Moses” stands as a testament to Spence’s enduring legacy and his unique contribution to the world of folk and rock music.
7. Grey/Afro
“Grey/Afro” is a captivating and experimental song from Skip Spence’s time with the band Moby Grape. The track features a dynamic mix of rock and jazz influences, with Spence’s guitar work and vocals creating a sense of free-form improvisation. The song’s lyrics are enigmatic and cryptic, with Spence weaving together images of love, death, and spiritual transcendence. With its unusual structure and unconventional approach, “Grey/Afro” is a standout track on the album and a testament to the band’s innovative sound and style. Despite its experimental nature, the song remains accessible and enjoyable, with its catchy melody and memorable hooks sticking with listeners long after the song has ended. “Grey/Afro” stands as a reminder of Spence’s unique talent and his lasting impact on the world of rock music.
8. Doodle
“Doodle” is a playful and infectious song from Skip Spence’s time with Moby Grape. The track features upbeat guitar riffs and catchy vocals, creating a sense of joyful abandon. The lyrics of the song are nonsensical and whimsical, with Spence playfully riffing on words and phrases in a way that is both clever and entertaining. With its carefree spirit and sense of fun, “Doodle” is a standout track on the album and a testament to the band’s ability to blend elements of rock, pop, and folk music into a cohesive and enjoyable whole. Despite its lighthearted tone, the song remains a favorite among fans of the band and a reminder of Spence’s enduring legacy as a talented and innovative musician.
9. Fountain
“Fountain” is a beautiful and atmospheric song from Skip Spence’s solo album “Oar.” The track features gentle acoustic guitar work and Spence’s emotive vocals, creating a sense of introspection and melancholy. The song’s lyrics are poetic and dreamlike, describing a journey of self-discovery and spiritual awakening. With its haunting melody and evocative imagery, “Fountain” is a standout track on the album and a testament to Spence’s unique talent as a songwriter and musician. Despite the album’s initial commercial failure, songs like “Fountain” have gained a cult following over the years, with listeners drawn to the raw emotion and intimacy of Spence’s music. “Fountain” stands as a reminder of Spence’s enduring legacy and his lasting impact on the world of folk and rock music.
10. Furry Heroine
“Furry Heroine” is a quirky and playful song from Skip Spence’s solo album “Oar.” The track features an infectious guitar riff and Spence’s offbeat vocals, creating a sense of whimsy and humor. The song’s lyrics are enigmatic and surreal, with Spence singing about a mysterious and alluring woman who may or may not be a furry creature. With its lighthearted tone and irreverent humor, “Furry Heroine” is a standout track on the album and a testament to Spence’s ability to blend elements of folk, rock, and pop music into a cohesive and enjoyable whole. Despite the album’s initial commercial failure, songs like “Furry Heroine” have gained a cult following over the years, with listeners drawn to the unique and idiosyncratic nature of Spence’s music.
Darren Jamison 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.
