Introduction
Few songs from the 1960s capture the turbulent spirit of the decade as powerfully as “For What It’s Worth” by Buffalo Springfield. Released in 1966, the track became an instant classic—not just for its haunting melody and poignant lyrics, but for its role as an anthem of protest and social awareness.
Though often associated with anti-Vietnam War sentiment, the song was actually inspired by a different kind of unrest—but its message of tension, resistance, and change resonated with a generation looking for its voice.
Who Were Buffalo Springfield?
Buffalo Springfield was a short-lived but incredibly influential rock band formed in Los Angeles in 1966. The group included future legends like Stephen Stills, Neil Young, and Richie Furay. Though they only lasted a couple of years, their blend of folk rock, psychedelia, and political lyricism helped shape the sound of American rock music.
The Story Behind “For What It’s Worth”
Written by Stephen Stills, “For What It’s Worth” was inspired not by war protests, but by the Sunset Strip curfew riots in Los Angeles in late 1966. Local authorities had imposed a curfew for young people, leading to clashes between police and youth who frequented music clubs in the area. Stills witnessed the events and quickly penned what would become a powerful commentary on social unrest.
Despite its specific inspiration, the song’s lyrics were intentionally vague, allowing it to take on broader meaning. Lines like “There’s something happening here / What it is ain’t exactly clear” speak to a general feeling of unease and disruption—making it applicable to civil rights movements, anti-war demonstrations, and later protests for justice.
Chart Performance and Legacy
“For What It’s Worth” became a top 10 hit, reaching #7 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1967. It helped launch Buffalo Springfield to national prominence, and it remains their most recognized and enduring track.
Over the decades, the song has been featured in films, television, and documentaries about the 1960s. It has been covered and sampled by numerous artists, solidifying its place as a defining anthem of the counterculture era.
Why the Song Still Matters Today
The power of “For What It’s Worth” lies in its timelessness. The song’s themes—civil unrest, generational conflict, political protest—remain deeply relevant. Whether heard at a modern protest or in a retrospective documentary, the song resonates because it captures the tension between authority and free expression.
Musically, its distinctive guitar riff and restrained, eerie tone give it an emotional gravity that still gives listeners chills.
Final Thoughts
Buffalo Springfield’s “For What It’s Worth” is more than just a song—it’s a historical document set to music. It speaks to a moment in time, but its message continues to echo in today’s world. Whether you’re a student of history, a lover of classic rock, or someone seeking meaning through music, this iconic track is essential listening.
Lyrics: For What It’s Worth
There’s something happening here
But what it is ain’t exactly clear
There’s a man with a gun over there
Telling me I got to bewareI think it’s time we stop
Children, what’s that sound?
Everybody look – what’s going down?There’s battle lines being drawn
Nobody’s right if everybody’s wrong
Young people speaking’ their minds
Getting so much resistance from behindIt’s time we stop
Hey, what’s that sound?
Everybody look – what’s going down?What a field day for the heat
A thousand people in the street
Singing songs and carrying signs
Mostly saying, “hooray for our side”It’s time we stop
Hey, what’s that sound?
Everybody look – what’s going down?Paranoia strikes deep
Into your life it will creep
It starts when you’re always afraid
Step out of line, the man come and take you awayWe better stop
Hey, what’s that sound?
Everybody look – what’s going down?We better stop
Hey, what’s that sound?
Everybody look – what’s going down?We better stop
Now, what’s that sound?
Everybody look – what’s going down?We better stop
Children, what’s that sound?
Everybody look – what’s going down?
