Buffalo Springfield may have only graced the music scene for a fleeting three years, but their impact on rock and folk music is eternal. Rising to fame in the late 1960s, this legendary band—comprised of icons like Stephen Stills, Neil Young, Richie Furay, and others—crafted a sound that perfectly captured the turbulent spirit of the times. With their signature blend of sharp lyrics, lush harmonies, and innovative instrumentation, Buffalo Springfield became the voice of a generation navigating political unrest, cultural revolution, and personal introspection.
From their politically charged anthem “For What It’s Worth,” which became a rallying cry for social change, to deeply introspective tracks like “Expecting to Fly,” Buffalo Springfield’s music remains as poignant and relevant today as it was over half a century ago. Their catalog is a treasure chest of timeless classics that effortlessly blur the lines between folk, rock, and country, laying the foundation for the singer-songwriter movement of the 1970s.
In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 most popular Buffalo Springfield songs of all time—tracks that not only defined their short-lived but illustrious career but also continue to inspire listeners across generations. Get ready to rediscover the enduring magic of Buffalo Springfield!
1. “For What It’s Worth” (1967)
Released in 1967, “For What It’s Worth” became Buffalo Springfield’s signature song, resonating deeply with the political and social climate of the time. Written by Stephen Stills, the track was inspired by the Sunset Strip riots, a series of protests in Los Angeles sparked by curfew laws and club closures that clashed with the countercultural youth. Stills, however, wrote the song in a way that transcends the specific event, with its lyrics tapping into the general feeling of unease and activism that defined the 1960s. The opening line, “Stop, children, what’s that sound?” quickly became iconic, symbolizing the dissonance between the youth and the older generation, and calling for awareness amidst a turbulent time.
Musically, the song stands out for its haunting simplicity. The minimalistic arrangement—dominated by a sharp guitar riff and a subtle rhythm section—lets the lyrics take center stage, enhancing their message of societal unrest. The band’s harmonized vocals and steady percussion create a meditative space that allows the song’s meaning to resonate deeply. Despite its sparse instrumentation, “For What It’s Worth” manages to convey a sense of urgency, making it an anthem for protest movements that followed.
The song’s impact extended far beyond its initial release. Its ability to capture the essence of the time made it an enduring classic, often featured in documentaries and media about the 1960s. While it is undeniably a product of its era, its themes of social awareness, change, and the quest for peace remain relevant, making it one of Buffalo Springfield’s most influential tracks. Its lasting power is a testament to the way music can not only reflect but also shape the cultural landscape.
2. “Mr. Soul” (1967)
“Mr. Soul”, written by Neil Young and released in 1967, is a raw, electric anthem that captures the internal battle Young faced as he navigated the pressures of fame and the pursuit of artistic authenticity. With its powerful, distorted guitar riffs and fierce rhythm, the track is one of the band’s most aggressive and electrifying. The lyrics, though cryptic, reflect Young’s frustration with the music industry and his desire to break free from external expectations. “Mr. Soul” explores the contrast between the public’s image of a rock star and the personal doubts and struggles that accompany fame.
Young’s guitar work is the song’s driving force, with its fuzzed-out riffs and energetic solos propelling the track forward. The layered vocals and rhythmic intricacies reflect Buffalo Springfield’s ability to blend rock with experimental sounds, creating a psychedelic atmosphere that enhances the song’s mood of alienation. Young’s vocal delivery is defiant yet introspective, capturing the conflicted emotions that make the track feel deeply personal. The song’s urgent energy hints at the musical direction Young would later pursue in his solo career, showcasing his talent for blending raw emotion with innovative sounds.
Despite its initially subdued chart success, “Mr. Soul” has become a defining track for Buffalo Springfield and a key moment in Young’s evolution as an artist. It’s a track that speaks to anyone struggling to reconcile their public persona with their true self, and its rebellious spirit remains a quintessential example of the power of rock music to address personal and societal issues. In its boldness, “Mr. Soul” stands as one of the band’s most important and forward-thinking songs.
3. “Bluebird” (1967)
“Bluebird” is one of Buffalo Springfield’s most ambitious and creative tracks, blending folk and rock into a dynamic sound that epitomizes the band’s musical versatility. Written by Stephen Stills, the song’s structure is anything but conventional. It begins with a soft, folk-inspired melody, built around Stills’ intricate acoustic guitar work and reflective lyrics. As the song progresses, however, it transforms into an energetic, full-band explosion, shifting between softer moments and a frenetic rock section, before closing with an extended, soulful outro.
The song’s lyrics are poetic and filled with imagery, with Stills singing about a fleeting love, using the metaphor of a “bluebird” to symbolize both the freedom and fragility of love. The contrast between the melancholy verses and the high-energy rock sections creates a sense of emotional tension, as if the fleeting joy of love is constantly in motion and slipping away. This dynamic structure is what makes “Bluebird” such a standout track—its ability to move seamlessly from calm to chaos mirrors the emotional experience of love itself, with all its ups and downs.
The song’s experimental arrangement was groundbreaking for its time, pushing the boundaries of what rock music could achieve. The extended outro, filled with energetic guitar solos and harmonies, allows the band to showcase their musical prowess, while Stills’ vocals convey the depth of emotion behind the lyrics. “Bluebird” remains a fan favorite and a key moment in Buffalo Springfield’s catalog, showcasing their ability to blend folk, rock, and experimentation into a cohesive and innovative sound.
4. “Rock & Roll Woman” (1967)
“Rock & Roll Woman” is a shining example of Buffalo Springfield’s folk-rock sound, released in 1967. Co-written by Stephen Stills and David Crosby, the song reflects the growing influence of women in the rock and roll scene and celebrates the spirit of freedom and independence that defined the era. The song’s upbeat tempo, jangly guitars, and soaring harmonies evoke the energy of the 1960s, making it a timeless anthem for rock enthusiasts.
The track begins with a catchy, infectious guitar riff that immediately sets the tone for the rest of the song. Stills’ vocals, paired with harmonies from the rest of the band, perfectly capture the feeling of admiration and respect for the women who were becoming key figures in the rock world. The song’s lyrics, while simple, celebrate the free-spirited women who were at the forefront of the counterculture, pushing boundaries and challenging traditional gender roles.
In addition to its catchy melody, “Rock & Roll Woman” also features one of the band’s most polished arrangements. The production is crisp, with tight drumming, shimmering guitars, and vocal harmonies that weave in and out of the track. The song’s infectious rhythm and feel-good vibes make it a perfect representation of the youthful exuberance of the 1960s. It’s a track that not only celebrates rock and roll but also pays tribute to the women who helped shape its evolution.
As one of the standout tracks on Buffalo Springfield Again, “Rock & Roll Woman” helped solidify the band’s reputation as innovators in the folk-rock genre. Its joyful energy, harmonies, and timeless message of empowerment continue to resonate, making it a beloved song among fans of the band and of the rock genre in general.
5. “Expecting to Fly” (1967)
Neil Young’s “Expecting to Fly” is a hauntingly beautiful ballad from 1967 that marks a departure from Buffalo Springfield’s typical sound, offering a more introspective and experimental composition. With lush orchestral arrangements, the track feels cinematic in scope, creating an ethereal atmosphere that complements Young’s tender, soulful vocals. The orchestration, which includes strings and brass, gives the song a dramatic, almost operatic quality, setting it apart from the rest of the band’s catalog.
The song’s lyrics are filled with melancholy and longing, expressing a sense of vulnerability and emotional openness. It’s a deeply personal track for Young, exploring themes of love, loss, and the feeling of being unmoored in a relationship. His voice is delicate yet powerful, carrying the weight of the lyrics with every note. The lush orchestral backing elevates the emotional intensity, making “Expecting to Fly” one of the band’s most poignant and timeless songs.
What makes “Expecting to Fly” so unique is its blend of rock, folk, and orchestral elements. The production is meticulous, with each layer of instrumentation carefully crafted to build a sense of anticipation and yearning. As the song progresses, it moves from a subdued melancholy to a sweeping, emotional crescendo, mimicking the rise and fall of hope in the face of uncertainty. The result is a track that feels expansive and deeply introspective, capturing the essence of Young’s songwriting while offering a glimpse of the artistic direction he would explore in his solo career.
6. “Sit Down I Think I Love You” (1966)
“Sit Down I Think I Love You” is a bright and infectious track that captures the optimistic and carefree spirit of the 1960s. Released in 1966, the song, written by Stephen Stills, features a catchy melody, lighthearted rhythm, and an overall sense of youthful exuberance. The song’s upbeat nature and simple, yet earnest, lyrics convey the excitement of a newfound love, with the narrator nervously confessing his feelings. The song’s energetic tempo and Stills’ signature harmony-filled vocals create an irresistible charm that remains timeless, embodying the essence of the folk-rock movement at the time.
The arrangement is polished yet feels spontaneous, with jangly guitars, lively percussion, and subtle keyboard flourishes. The harmonies, which became a hallmark of Buffalo Springfield’s sound, are in full force here, blending seamlessly to create a rich, layered effect. There’s a playfulness to the track, with its uncomplicated structure and straightforward emotional expression, which allows the joy of the moment to shine through.
Although the song was one of the band’s earliest hits, “Sit Down I Think I Love You” became a defining piece of Buffalo Springfield’s early catalog, highlighting their ability to balance catchy pop elements with deeper, more reflective musical qualities. The track’s success not only helped establish the band’s place in the burgeoning folk-rock movement but also introduced the world to their unique sound and songwriting talent. It remains a feel-good favorite for fans of the band and a reminder of the innocence and optimism that characterized the 1960s.
With its infectious charm and timeless appeal, “Sit Down I Think I Love You” continues to be one of the tracks that fans point to when reminiscing about the early days of Buffalo Springfield’s influential career.
7. “Nowadays Clancy Can’t Even Sing” (1966)
“Nowadays Clancy Can’t Even Sing” is one of Buffalo Springfield’s most introspective and thought-provoking tracks, showcasing Neil Young’s lyrical depth and the band’s ability to create emotionally resonant music. Released in 1966, this song captures the band’s emerging sound, blending folk and rock in a way that would later influence many of the genre’s greats. Written by Young, the track’s lyrics are cryptic and poetic, expressing themes of alienation, personal reflection, and the struggles of coming to terms with a changing world.
Young’s vocal delivery is haunting, with a rawness that perfectly complements the track’s somber tone. The song’s arrangement is understated yet powerful, with the band’s harmonies and subtle instrumentation providing a gentle backdrop to the melancholy lyrics. The emotional weight of the track is carried not only by the lyrics but also by the simple, yet poignant, musical choices that allow the song’s melancholy nature to unfold.
“Nowadays Clancy Can’t Even Sing” stands out not only for its introspective lyricism but also for its complex musical structure. The band’s ability to shift between delicate verses and more energetic rock sections reflects the internal turmoil and emotional highs and lows expressed in the song. There’s a sense of longing throughout, a desire for connection in a world that feels increasingly distant and disconnected. The track’s themes of alienation and self-discovery resonate deeply, making it one of Buffalo Springfield’s most poignant songs.
As one of their earliest masterpieces, “Nowadays Clancy Can’t Even Sing” is a song that continues to captivate listeners, with its timeless themes and innovative musical style offering a window into the early stages of both Neil Young’s career and the folk-rock movement as a whole.
8. “On the Way Home” (1968)
“On the Way Home” is a beautiful, reflective track from Buffalo Springfield’s final album, Last Time Around, released in 1968. Written by Neil Young, this song captures a sense of introspection and longing, exploring themes of self-discovery, nostalgia, and the journey of life. Sung by Richie Furay, the track is a tender ballad that balances melancholy with a sense of hope, making it a perfect farewell to the band’s storied career.
The song’s lyrics are filled with personal reflection, with the narrator contemplating their path in life and what lies ahead. The melody is soft and introspective, with an underlying sense of optimism that contrasts with the bittersweet tone of the lyrics. Furay’s vocals are rich and emotional, perfectly conveying the song’s sense of yearning and resolution. The harmonies that Buffalo Springfield is known for are at their finest here, adding depth to the track and making it feel both intimate and expansive.
Musically, “On the Way Home” is more restrained than many of the band’s earlier, more energetic tracks. The arrangement is sparse, with gentle instrumentation that allows the lyrics and vocals to take center stage. The sense of journey—both literal and metaphorical—is underscored by the soft, rolling rhythm and the yearning quality of Furay’s voice. The track serves as a fitting conclusion to Buffalo Springfield’s catalog, encapsulating the feeling of looking back while still moving forward, much like the band itself.
With its reflective mood and beautifully crafted melodies, “On the Way Home” stands as a testament to Buffalo Springfield’s creative spirit and ability to evolve musically. As the final track on their last album, it encapsulates the bittersweet nature of saying goodbye, both to the band and to the era that it helped define.
9. “Broken Arrow” (1967)
Neil Young’s “Broken Arrow” is one of Buffalo Springfield’s most ambitious and experimental songs, a sprawling multi-section track that pushes the boundaries of conventional song structure. Released in 1967, “Broken Arrow” is a departure from the band’s typical folk-rock sound, incorporating elements of psychedelia, rock, and experimental music. The song is fragmented, with various sections that shift in mood and texture, creating a sense of disorientation and emotional tension.
The lyrics of “Broken Arrow” are surreal and dreamlike, with Young weaving abstract imagery and cryptic statements that leave much to the listener’s interpretation. The track’s surreal nature is enhanced by its unconventional arrangement, which features everything from lush orchestration to snippets of live recordings, creating a layered, multi-dimensional listening experience. The song’s production is bold and innovative, reflecting Young’s willingness to experiment with sound and form, as well as his ability to push the boundaries of what was possible in rock music at the time.
The emotional impact of “Broken Arrow” is felt not only through its lyrics but also through the music itself. The haunting melodies and fluctuating dynamics create a sense of searching and disconnection, echoing the themes of the song. The track’s final section, with its soaring guitars and swirling harmonies, feels almost cathartic, providing a sense of release after the tension of the previous sections.
“Broken Arrow” is a true standout in Buffalo Springfield’s catalog, showcasing the band’s willingness to take risks and experiment with new sounds. It is a song that defies categorization, offering a glimpse into the future of Neil Young’s solo work and the evolution of rock music in the late 1960s.
10. “Go and Say Goodbye” (1966)
“Go and Say Goodbye” is one of Buffalo Springfield’s earliest recordings, yet it already demonstrates the band’s mastery of blending folk and rock elements into a distinctive sound. Written by Stephen Stills, this song, released in 1966, is a lively, twangy country-rock track with a strong emphasis on rhythm and harmony. With its catchy melody, upbeat tempo, and infectious energy, it captures the spirit of the 1960s and solidifies the band’s place in the emerging folk-rock movement.
The song’s lyrical content revolves around the end of a relationship, with the narrator urging their partner to leave and face the consequences of their actions. The lyrics, while straightforward, are delivered with emotional intensity, creating a sense of urgency and finality. Stills’ vocals, along with Richie Furay’s harmonies, lend the song a heartfelt quality that complements the emotional weight of the lyrics.
Musically, “Go and Say Goodbye” is upbeat and driving, with jangly guitars and a steady rhythm section that provides a perfect backdrop for the song’s energetic mood. The arrangement is simple but effective, highlighting the band’s ability to craft memorable melodies and compelling harmonies. The song’s blend of country influences with rock and folk elements makes it a standout track in Buffalo Springfield’s early catalog, offering a glimpse of the band’s versatility and creativity.
While “Go and Say Goodbye” is often overshadowed by some of the band’s later, more experimental tracks, it remains a beloved part of their legacy. The song exemplifies the band’s ability to combine infectious melodies with emotional storytelling, and it continues to resonate with fans for its lively spirit and relatable theme of heartache and closure. As one of Buffalo Springfield’s earliest hits, “Go and Say Goodbye” remains a timeless classic that showcases the band’s enduring appeal.
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.
