Buffalo Springfield was a Canadian-American rock band formed in Los Angeles in 1966. The band’s original lineup consisted of Stephen Stills (guitar, vocals), Neil Young (guitar, vocals), Richie Furay (guitar, vocals), Bruce Palmer (bass), and Dewey Martin (drums). The band’s sound blended folk, rock, and country influences, and they were known for their intricate vocal harmonies and thoughtful lyrics.
One of Buffalo Springfield’s most famous songs is “For What It’s Worth,” written by Stephen Stills. The song, released in 1967, became an anthem for the counterculture movement and is often associated with the social unrest of the 1960s. Other notable songs by Buffalo Springfield include “Mr. Soul,” “Bluebird,” and “Rock and Roll Woman.”
Despite their relatively short career, Buffalo Springfield had a significant impact on the development of rock music and is considered one of the pioneering bands of the folk rock and country rock genres. The band disbanded in 1968, but their music continues to be celebrated by fans and musicians alike.
1. For What It’s Worth
“For What It’s Worth” is a song by Buffalo Springfield, written by Stephen Stills. It was released as a single in 1967 and later included on the band’s self-titled debut album. The song is known for its iconic guitar riff and its lyrics, which reflect the social unrest and protests that were happening in the United States in the mid-1960s, particularly in response to the Vietnam War and civil rights issues.
The song’s opening lines, “There’s something happening here, what it is ain’t exactly clear,” have become particularly famous and are often quoted in discussions about the 1960s counterculture movement. “For What It’s Worth” became an anthem for the era and is considered one of the most important protest songs of the 1960s.
The song’s timeless message about questioning authority and standing up for what you believe in has ensured its enduring popularity, and it continues to be relevant in today’s world. “For What It’s Worth” has been covered by many artists over the years and remains a classic of the folk rock genre.
2. Mr. Soul
“Mr. Soul” is a song by Buffalo Springfield, written by Neil Young. It was released in 1967 on the band’s second album, “Buffalo Springfield Again.” The song features a driving rhythm and distorted guitar, characteristic of Young’s style. The lyrics are often interpreted as a response to the pressures of fame and the music industry, with Young reflecting on his own experiences as a young musician.
“Mr. Soul” has been praised for its raw energy and rebellious spirit, and it has become one of Buffalo Springfield’s most popular songs. The song’s title has been used as a nickname for Young himself, highlighting its personal nature.
“Mr. Soul” has been covered by several artists over the years and remains a classic of the 1960s rock era. It is often seen as a highlight of Buffalo Springfield’s catalog and a testament to Young’s songwriting talent.
3. Bluebird
“Bluebird” is a song by Buffalo Springfield, written by Stephen Stills. It was included on the band’s second album, “Buffalo Springfield Again,” released in 1967. The song features intricate guitar work and harmonies, characteristic of the band’s sound.
“Bluebird” is a rock song with a folk influence, showcasing Stills’ songwriting and guitar skills. The lyrics are poetic and abstract, with imagery that has been interpreted in various ways by listeners. The song’s structure includes several instrumental breaks, allowing each band member to showcase their musical abilities.
“Bluebird” is often regarded as one of Buffalo Springfield’s standout tracks, highlighting the band’s musicianship and creativity. The song has been praised for its intricate arrangement and remains a fan favorite among Buffalo Springfield enthusiasts.
4. Rock & Roll Woman
“Rock & Roll Woman” is a song by Buffalo Springfield, written by Stephen Stills. It was released in 1967 on the band’s second album, “Buffalo Springfield Again.” The song features a driving rhythm and Stills’ distinctive guitar work.
“Rock & Roll Woman” is a tribute to women in the rock and roll scene and is often seen as a feminist anthem. The lyrics describe a woman who is confident, independent, and unapologetically herself. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy melody make it a standout track on the album.
“Rock & Roll Woman” has been praised for its catchy hooks and strong vocal performance by Stills. The song’s message of empowerment and celebration of women in music has resonated with listeners over the years, and it remains a popular song in Buffalo Springfield’s catalog.
5. Nowadays Clancy Can’t Even Sing
“Nowadays Clancy Can’t Even Sing” is a song by Buffalo Springfield, written by Neil Young. It was included on the band’s self-titled debut album, released in 1966. The song features Young on lead vocals and acoustic guitar, with Stephen Stills on backing vocals and guitar.
The lyrics of “Nowadays Clancy Can’t Even Sing” are somewhat cryptic and open to interpretation. The song has been seen as a commentary on the changing times and the struggles of everyday people. The melancholic melody and Young’s plaintive vocals give the song a haunting quality.
“Nowadays Clancy Can’t Even Sing” is often praised for its evocative lyrics and emotional depth. It is considered one of the standout tracks on Buffalo Springfield’s debut album and a showcase for Young’s songwriting talent. The song has been covered by several artists over the years and remains a fan favorite.
6. Sit Down, I Think I Love You
“Sit Down, I Think I Love You” is a song by Buffalo Springfield, written by Stephen Stills. It was released in 1966 as the band’s second single, following their debut single “Nowadays Clancy Can’t Even Sing.” The song was included on the band’s self-titled debut album.
“Sit Down, I Think I Love You” is a folk-rock song with a catchy melody and lyrics that reflect the uncertainty and excitement of new love. The song features Stills on lead vocals and guitar, with a lively rhythm and harmonies from the rest of the band.
“Sit Down, I Think I Love You” was not a major commercial success, but it has since become a fan favorite and a classic of the folk-rock genre. The song’s upbeat tempo and Stills’ heartfelt vocals make it a standout track on Buffalo Springfield’s debut album.
7. Broken Arrow
“Broken Arrow” is a song by Buffalo Springfield, written by Neil Young. It was released in 1967 on the band’s second album, “Buffalo Springfield Again.” The song is notable for its complex arrangement and enigmatic lyrics.
“Broken Arrow” features a series of musical movements, with changes in tempo and mood throughout the song. The lyrics are abstract and open to interpretation, with imagery that suggests themes of change, loss, and renewal. The song’s title has been interpreted as a metaphor for a broken heart or a shattered dream.
“Broken Arrow” is considered one of Neil Young’s early masterpieces, showcasing his songwriting skills and musical vision. The song’s innovative structure and poetic lyrics set it apart from more conventional rock songs of the era. “Broken Arrow” has been praised for its emotional depth and musical complexity, and it remains a favorite among fans of Buffalo Springfield and Neil Young.
8. Expecting to Fly
“Expecting to Fly” is a song by Buffalo Springfield, written by Neil Young. It was released in 1967 as a single, with “Everydays” as the B-side, but it was not included on any of the band’s albums. The song later appeared on Neil Young’s compilation album “Decade.”
“Expecting to Fly” is a lush, orchestral ballad with a dreamy, ethereal quality. The song features intricate instrumentation, including strings and horns, and Young’s haunting vocals. The lyrics are poetic and abstract, with imagery that suggests a sense of longing and yearning.
“Expecting to Fly” is considered one of Neil Young’s early masterpieces and a departure from Buffalo Springfield’s more typical folk-rock sound. The song’s complex arrangement and emotional depth make it a standout track in Young’s catalog. “Expecting to Fly” has been covered by several artists over the years and remains a fan favorite among Neil Young’s songs.
9. Kind Woman
“Kind Woman” is a song written by Richie Furay, originally recorded by Buffalo Springfield. It appeared on their 1968 album *Last Time Around*. The song is a gentle, country-tinged ballad featuring Furay’s heartfelt vocals and acoustic guitar.
“Kind Woman” is a tender love song with lyrics expressing gratitude and affection. It has a soothing, melodic quality that sets it apart from some of Buffalo Springfield’s more rock-oriented tracks. The song is notable for its simple yet beautiful arrangement, with subtle instrumentation that complements Furay’s vocals.
“Kind Woman” has been praised for its sincerity and emotional resonance, and it remains one of Buffalo Springfield’s most beloved songs. It has been covered by several artists over the years and is considered a classic of the folk-rock genre.
10. On the Way Home
“On the Way Home” is a song written by Neil Young that was first recorded by Buffalo Springfield. It was released on their third and final album, *Last Time Around*, in 1968. The song features Richie Furay on lead vocals and is known for its upbeat tempo and catchy melody. “On the Way Home” reflects on the passage of time and the journey of life, with lyrics that evoke a sense of nostalgia and reflection. The song has been praised for its memorable melody and heartfelt lyrics, and it remains a favorite among fans of Buffalo Springfield.
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.
