Buffalo Springfield
For What It's Worth
Buffalo Springfield's "For What It's Worth" is a song that captured the zeitgeist of the 1960s and became an enduring anthem of social unrest and protest. Released in 1967, the song remains a powerful commentary on the turbulent times of the era and continues to resonate with audiences today. In this article, we will delve into the song's meaning, intriguing facts, music video details, pop culture references, notable chart positions, cultural significance, and more.
"For What It's Worth" is often interpreted as an anthem against social injustice and a call for unity and understanding. Written by Stephen Stills, the song was inspired by a series of incidents that occurred on the Sunset Strip in Los Angeles in 1966. The protests and clashes between young people and the police served as a backdrop for the song's lyrics, which express a plea for change and an end to violence. The chorus's repeated line, "Stop, hey, what's that sound? Everybody look what's going down," became a rallying cry for those seeking a better world and greater social awareness.
- "For What It's Worth" was recorded by the folk-rock band Buffalo Springfield, which included Stephen Stills, Neil Young, Richie Furay, Bruce Palmer, and Dewey Martin.
- The song was initially released as a single in 1966 but gained significant attention and airplay in early 1967.
- Although the song was written in response to the Sunset Strip protests, it took on a broader meaning and became associated with the wider countercultural movement of the time.
- Despite its immense popularity and cultural impact, "For What It's Worth" was not included on any of Buffalo Springfield's original studio albums.
There was no official music video for "For What It's Worth" since music videos were not yet a common medium at the time of its release. However, the song's impact was not diminished, as it resonated strongly with the audience through radio airplay and live performances.
The song has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials over the years. Notable appearances include its usage in films such as "Forrest Gump," "Platoon," and "Lords of Dogtown," cementing its association with the era's cultural and political movements.
"For What It's Worth" was solely performed by Buffalo Springfield, with no guest spots or collaborations featured on the original recording. However, the band's lineup included talented musicians who would later find success in their individual careers, such as Stephen Stills and Neil Young.
The opening lines of "For What It's Worth" immediately captivate the listener's attention:
"There's something happening here What it is ain't exactly clear There's a man with a gun over there Telling me I got to beware"
The lyrics, coupled with the song's distinctive guitar riff, convey a sense of urgency and unrest, encapsulating the atmosphere of the era.
Chart-wise, "For What It's Worth" peaked at number seven on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1967, solidifying its commercial success and widespread appeal.
"For What It's Worth" holds immense cultural significance as an enduring protest song that continues to inspire generations. It served as a soundtrack to the civil rights movement, anti-war protests, and other social justice causes of the time.
The song's timeless message of questioning authority, promoting social change, and striving for peace resonates with subsequent generations facing their own social and political challenges. Its enduring popularity and inclusion in numerous "best of" lists have cemented its status as a musical landmark of the 1960s and a powerful symbol of activism.
Buffalo Springfield's "For What It's Worth" stands as a poignant reflection of the social and political climate of the 1960s. Its powerful lyrics, memorable melody, and association with the countercultural movement make it an enduring anthem of protest and a testament to the power of music in inspiring change. The song's timeless relevance continues to remind us that questioning authority and seeking social justice are vital elements in the pursuit of a more equitable world.