Buffalo Springfield was a Canadian-American rock band that emerged in the 1960s and made a significant impact on the folk rock and psychedelic rock scenes. Formed in Los Angeles in 1966, the band featured a talented lineup that included Stephen Stills, Neil Young, Richie Furay, Bruce Palmer, and Dewey Martin.
Buffalo Springfield’s music incorporated elements of folk, rock, country, and blues, creating a distinctive sound that blended introspective songwriting with intricate instrumentation. Their self-titled debut album, released in 1966, featured the timeless protest anthem “For What It’s Worth,” which became a symbol of the social unrest of the era.
Despite their relatively short existence, Buffalo Springfield released three albums that showcased their collective talent and diverse musical influences. Hits like “Mr. Soul,” “Rock and Roll Woman,” and “Bluebird” solidified their reputation as one of the pioneering bands of the folk rock movement.
The band’s members, particularly Stephen Stills and Neil Young, went on to achieve success in their subsequent solo careers and with other influential groups. Their contributions to rock and roll and their impact on the development of the California sound cannot be overstated.
Buffalo Springfield’s legacy lies in their ability to fuse different musical styles and push the boundaries of rock music. Their brief but impactful career laid the foundation for the folk rock and country rock genres, and their influence can be heard in the work of countless artists who followed in their footsteps. Buffalo Springfield’s music remains a testament to their talent and the lasting impact they made on the landscape of rock music.
1. Four Days Gone
The soulful ballad, with intricate guitar work and harmonies that defined Buffalo Springfield's 1967 masterpiece 'Again,' is encapsulated by the track, '1. Four Days Gone'. Stephen Stills' haunting vocals complement the tranquil melody over an electric guitar strumming. The song revisits a recurring theme of lost love that takes hold over listeners with its wistful mood and smooth orchestration. It stands as a testament to the group's impressive catalogue, even though they disbanded shortly after releasing it.
Keeping up with the standard set by this record's other tracks, Neil Young's wayfaring classic "Four Days Gone" hits all the right notes. The arrangement holds subtle drumming topped with delicate acoustic guitar picking, reminiscent of Young's early solo career. The lyrics revolve around a nomadistic lifestyle without a tangible sense of home while maintaining an exceptional musicality throughout.
Despite being one of their lesser-known tracks in comparison to their string of well-famed protestations, '1.Four Days Gone' still maintains a significant place in music history. Its profound impact on contemporary pop-rock music can be traced down; as bands such as Pearl Jam have cited it as one of their principal influences.
If you haven't heard Buffalo Springfield use their "lorde-like existence," listen to Four Days Gone and engulf yourself into irrevocable aestheticism before it reaches too late!
Clancy may not be able to sing these days, but luckily we still have 10 amazing Buffalo Springfield songs to listen to.
2. Nowadays Clancy Can’t Even Sing
This Buffalo Springfield classic explores a lost love and the pain that follows, as evidenced by the heartbreaking hook: "Nowadays Clancy can't even sing / He's talked about a loser and he's played it for so long." The song is representative of the band's early sound, with Stephen Stills' acoustic guitar driving the melody while Richie Furay harmonizes with Crosby, Stills & Nash-style vocals. Even without Neil Young's distinctive presence, "Nowadays Clancy Can't Even Sing" remains one of Buffalo Springfield's most beloved tracks.
Buckle up, because 'Expecting to Fly' will take you on a musical journey like no other – just make sure you don't have any turbulence along the way.
3. Expecting To Fly
Expecting To Fly, a haunting masterpiece by Buffalo Springfield, showcases their impeccable ability to blend poetic verses with striking melodies. The song, released in 1967, features ethereal strings and soaring harmonies that transport the listener to another world. The haunting vocals by Neil Young create a dreamlike atmosphere that is hard to forget.
As the track progresses, it builds up into an explosion of orchestral beauty. The unique arrangement of instruments creates an otherworldly sound that is difficult to replicate. Expecting To Fly has become a classic among fans of psychedelic rock and continues to enchant new generations.
Interestingly, the song was initially intended for inclusion in the 'Buffalo Springfield Again' album but was eventually released as a single. Despite its commercial failure, it remains one of Buffalo Springfield's most celebrated works.
According to Rolling Stone magazine, Expecting To Fly ranks as one of the "500 Greatest Songs Of All Time". This recognition speaks volumes about the enduring power of this mesmerizing track and its impact on popular music culture.
Take Buffalo Springfield's advice, don't try flying on the ground. It's both unwise and hilarious to watch.
4. Flying On The Ground Is Wrong
This notable single uncovers the thoughtful musicianship of Buffalo Springfield's Norman Stephens. "Flying On The Ground Is Wrong" highlights his soft-toned and introspective vocals, alongside fellow bandmates' delicate string instrumentals creating a mesmerizing and reflective tune. The lyrics depict the struggle of existence in a complex world where nothing is quite right, yet everything carries on regardless.
The song was written by Stephen Stills and including himself, all members of Buffalo Springfield provided harmonious backing vocals throughout its recording. "Flying On The Ground Is Wrong" has been revered as one of the darkest pieces in their discography while simultaneously demonstrating the band's versatility to jump between genres effortlessly, from country folk to distorted rock in a matter of minutes.
One significant aspect that stood out in this hit was the flawless execution of their complex time signature changes; a characteristic they became well known for within their music career.
Pro Tip: To truly appreciate the intricacy behind their works, listen to it multiple times and let yourself be lost in their intricate layers of sound engineering mastery.
If only everyone's childhood claim to fame could be as cool as being featured in a Buffalo Springfield song.
5. A Child’s Claim To Fame
This track showcases Buffalo Springfield at their imaginative best. '5. A Child's Claim To Fame' resonates with both fans and critics alike for its inventiveness and ability to capture the innocence of childhood. The lyrical content perfectly aligns with the easygoing feel that runs throughout the song – Something that makes it an absolute gem in their discography.
As you delve deeper, you notice the production qualities are top-notch as well. The guitars and harmonica sound fantastic, and every instrument plays a crucial role in moving the song forward. It's a perfect example of how interesting pieces can blend effortlessly to create something truly special.
It's worth noting that even though '5. A Child’s Claim To Fame' doesn't generate much attention outside music circles, it remains a favorite among die-hard fans. This is mainly because it's such an effortless composition that hits different spots for everyone who listens carefully.
For those wanting to understand Buffalo Springfield's musical depth better, '5. A Child’s Claim To Fame' is sure to captivate them with its genuine representation of youth and legacy.
For those looking to get more enjoyment out of this tune, I suggest dedicating time to understanding all the layers present within it fully. You could also listen to other tunes by Buffalo Springfield like 'Mr. Soul', which adopts a similar style while still retaining uniqueness in lyrics and soundscape. Creating a playlist around these styles is always highly recommended – It allows you to appreciate individual qualities better while showcasing how each piece draws inspiration from others around it.
Ultimately, if you firmly believe that great music changes lives, this entry will not disappoint!
Fly high with Buffalo Springfield's 'Bluebird', but make sure to bring a helmet to protect your mind from being blown.
6. Bluebird
Bluebird, one of the top 10 songs by Buffalo Springfield, is a must-listen track for fans. It has a distinct blend of guitar riffs and vocal harmonies that has established it as a classic in the genre.
The following Table showcases the details of the song 'Bluebird':
| Song | Album | Year Released |
|---|---|---|
| Bluebird | Buffalo Springfield Again | 1967 |
Interestingly, 'Bluebird' was not initially planned to be included in the album 'Buffalo Springfield Again', but eventually made it to the final cut due to its popularity among fans.
This song's history dates back to 1965 when guitarist Stephen Stills composed it. However, Stills did not record a version of it until much later. In contrast, Neil Young also recorded his interpretation of Bluebird for his solo career. The resulting popularity made it an iconic tune for both artists and their band.
Broken Arrow may be a song about a failed military operation, but it's definitely a victorious hit for Buffalo Springfield.
7. Broken Arrow
Exploring the seventh iconic piece, the track that follows a foreboding beginning with ominous drum rolls layered beneath Neil Young's eerie guitar work is a highlight of Buffalo Springfield's repertoire.
A TABLE OF THE BEST FEATURES FOR '7. Broken Arrow':
| No. | Best Features |
|---|---|
| 1 | Neil Young's haunting solo |
| 2 | Intriguing drum cues at the beginning |
| 3 | Overall eerie vibe that keeps building up |
With its metaphoric lyrics and contrasting instrumentation, Broken Arrow is a vivid account of unrest and discomfort. The song features an intense vocal delivery by Richie Furray combined with Young's screeching guitar chords that gradually escalate to an otherworldly climax.
For all those who love to immerse themselves in music that conveys emotions through instrumentation, Broken Arrow shouldn't be missed.
Mr. Soul proves that even buffalos can have soul, and that Neil Young is not just a great musician, but also a master of puns.
8. Mr. Soul
This song, performed by Buffalo Springfield, is an epitome of their remarkable musical prowess. 'Mr. Soul' captivates listeners with its jazzy and cosmic vibe. The powerful guitar riffs by Neil Young and Stephen Stills compliment the vibrant melody, making it a profound listening experience.
The song lyrics embody the struggles that accompany fame and success. It's an escapist's serenade that encourages one to hold on to their identity while going through life's challenges. There is no doubt that 'Mr. Soul' deserves to be in this list of ten best Buffalo Springfield songs of all time.
Apart from its impressive instrumentalism and relatable message, what makes 'Mr. Soul' unique is how it steers away from typical structures often seen in popular music during that era. Buffalo Springfield's avant-garde stardom propagated new horizons for the emerging genre of folk-rock which had quite restricted imagination before their arrival.
With clever melodies, charged performances, and meaningful messages like this one, you won't be disappointed following up on the rest of their discography.
To get the most out of 'Mr. Soul', try listening to it in a quiet space with good headphones or speakers that can enhance intricate sounds profoundly present throughout this piece.
If you're not standing up and singing 'Stop, hey, what's that sound?' by the end of 'For What It's Worth', you're doing it wrong.
9. For What It’s Worth
This iconic track is undoubtedly one of Buffalo Springfield's most celebrated songs. Its lyrics, which were written by Stephen Stills, resonate with the counterculture movement of the late 1960s. The song serves as a powerful protest anthem against war and police violence. It features distinctive guitar riffs, melodic harmonies and a memorable chorus that have stood the test of time.
'For What It's Worth' became one of the defining tracks of the era and remains a cultural touchstone for many people today. The song gained even more popularity after it was used in several classic films, including 'Forrest Gump', 'The Big Chill' and 'Almost Famous'. It has been covered by countless artists and continues to inspire new generations.
Its significance lies in how it captures the mood of a generation during a turbulent period in American history. The Vietnam War had created widespread dissent and protests across the country, while incidents such as the Watts riots highlighted tensions between African Americans and law enforcement. Against this backdrop, 'For What It's Worth' offered a message of hope and unity that still resonates today.
Listening to 'On The Way Home' is like hitchhiking through a musical journey with Buffalo Springfield as your guide.
10. On The Way Home
As one of the 10 best songs by Buffalo Springfield, 'On The Way Home' is a masterpiece in terms of its songwriting and instrumentation. It captures the essence of early 70s rock with its memorable chorus, guitar riffs, and vocal harmonies. The song was written by Neil Young and features his signature guitar style that combines intricate fingerpicking patterns with distorted power chords. The lyrics describe the feeling of coming home after a long journey and reflect on the bittersweet emotions associated with leaving loved ones behind.
'On The Way Home' is a must-listen for fans of folk-rock and classic rock music alike. The track showcases the incredible musicianship and songwriting abilities of Buffalo Springfield, which has inspired countless artists since its release in 1968. Its timeless quality is what makes it such a beloved song to this day.
For those unfamiliar with Buffalo Springfield's music, 'On The Way Home' is an excellent introduction to their unique sound. Its blend of acoustic and electric guitars, coupled with Young's distinct vocals, create a rich tapestry of sound that is both hauntingly beautiful and deeply moving.
In summary, 'On The Way Home' is a classic rock song that stands the test of time. It is a shining example of what made Buffalo Springfield such an influential band during their heyday. For anyone looking to explore their music further or simply enjoy some great rock tunes from the past, this track should definitely be on your playlist.
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.
