Top 10 Stoneground Songs

Stoneground Songs

Feature Photo: almgren / Shutterstock

Stoneground, a band born in Concord, California, in 1970, emerged as a distinctive voice in the American rock scene with their blend of rock, blues, and folk influences. This unique group was initially envisioned as part of a broader multimedia project spearheaded by radio DJ and music entrepreneur Tom Donahue. Comprised of an eclectic lineup of musicians, the band quickly gained recognition for their multi-vocalist approach, blending male and female voices to create rich harmonies that stood out against the backdrop of early 1970s rock.

The original lineup of Stoneground was as diverse as their sound. It included Tim Barnes on guitar, bassist John Blakeley, and Michael Mau on drums, with a vocal lineup featuring Annie Sampson, Lynne Hughes, and Deirdre LaPorte. Sal Valentino, formerly of The Beau Brummels, added his distinctive voice and experience to the mix, while Cory Lerios and David Jenkins contributed on keyboards and guitar, respectively. This dynamic group of musicians brought their individual talents together to create a sound that was both timeless and innovative.

The band’s inception was intertwined with Donahue’s vision of a traveling rock revue, and Stoneground soon became part of the “Medicine Ball Caravan” tour, a countercultural project akin to the famous Woodstock film. Their participation in this tour, which included performances across the United States and Europe, provided the band with valuable exposure and helped them hone their craft on the road. The Medicine Ball Caravan experience was captured in a 1971 documentary, solidifying Stoneground’s place in the annals of rock history.

Over the years, Stoneground experienced several lineup changes, which brought fresh perspectives and new dimensions to their music. Members like Cory Lerios and David Jenkins departed to form Pablo Cruise, while others joined and left in a revolving-door fashion that was common among bands of the era. Despite these changes, Stoneground managed to maintain their core identity, built around their powerful vocal arrangements and diverse instrumentation.

Stoneground released their self-titled debut album in 1971, followed by several others, including Stoneground 3 (1972) and Family Album (1972). These records showcased their ability to blend genres, incorporating elements of country rock, gospel, and blues into their repertoire. Songs like “Passion Flower,” “Rainy Day in June,” and their covers of classic tracks demonstrated their versatility and artistic ambition. Although they did not achieve significant commercial success, their music resonated deeply with a dedicated fan base, earning them a cult following that persists to this day.

One of Stoneground’s most notable contributions to music was their emphasis on collaborative artistry and community. The band’s multi-vocalist approach not only set them apart but also highlighted the importance of collective creativity. Their performances were marked by an infectious energy and a sense of inclusivity that drew audiences into their world, creating a shared musical experience that transcended individual egos.

Beyond their music, members of Stoneground contributed to the broader cultural landscape of the 1970s. Their involvement in projects like the Medicine Ball Caravan highlighted their commitment to the countercultural ideals of the era, emphasizing themes of unity, peace, and artistic freedom. While awards and chart-topping hits eluded them, the band’s legacy lies in their ability to capture the spirit of their time and translate it into music that remains relevant and inspiring.

Today, Stoneground is remembered as a band that defied conventions and embraced the communal spirit of rock music. Their innovative sound, diverse lineup, and commitment to artistic exploration have cemented their place in the history of American rock. While they may not have achieved widespread commercial acclaim, their influence on the genre and their dedication to creative authenticity continue to inspire musicians and fans alike.

# 10 – Dancin’

This is a great track to introduce the music of Stoneground to anyone who has never heard of this band. Dancin was the opening track on the band’s third album. It would be the band’s final record before most of the original group left the band.

# 9 – Total Destruction to Your Mind

Now, that’s what you call a rock and roll title. “Total Destruction to Your Mind” was released on the band’s classic double LP Family Affair. I love the photograph on the album cover; it just perfectly captures early 70s rock and roll culture, as does this stunning, grooving tune. This one will not destroy your mind, but it will totally blow it away. This band really jams on this track. There’s even a drum solo.

# 8 – Prove It

“Prove It” stands as one of the defining tracks from Hearts of Stone, the 1978 album that marked Stoneground’s return to a major label after a tumultuous period of lineup changes and independent releases. Produced by Bob Gaudio, the track was recorded at Record Plant in Sausalito, California, and served as the album’s lead single.

The song features a tight, driving groove, propelled by Sammy Piazza’s crisp drumming and Terry Davis’ pulsing bass work. The addition of Lenny Lee Goldsmith on vocals and keyboards added a new dimension to the band’s sound, complementing the powerhouse lead vocals of Jo Baker and Annie Sampson. The interplay between Tim Barnes’ guitar licks and Fred Webb’s keyboard textures creates a rich sonic backdrop, with Jerry Peterson’s saxophone injecting an extra layer of intensity. As a single, “Prove It” was meant to reintroduce Stoneground to a wider audience, blending their signature roots-rock sensibility with a more polished, radio-friendly production.

Despite the strength of the track and the band’s ambitious return to the mainstream, Hearts of Stone struggled commercially, leading Warner Bros.

# 7 – Added Attraction (Come And See Me)

Once you get past the annoying announcer in this video below, the following musical performance stands as a great musical presentation of what this band was all about. Don’t miss this one, take a few minutes and watch it. The song was released on the band’s debut album.

# 6 – Down to the Bottom

Released on the band’s third album, Stoneground 3, this one is a lot of fun. I love the backing vocals on this track.

# 5 – Looking For You

Simply smoking stuff from the band’s debut album. Listen to that guitar work at the song’s start. The song lands a little differently from what you’re expecting, but still eventually takes off again.

# 4 – You Must Be One of Us

From the wonderful Family Affair album released in 1971.The album was produced by Tom Donahue, Sal Valentino, and Ron Elliott, with recording sessions taking place in San Francisco. The lineup on this track includes Sal Valentino on vocals, Tim Barnes and Luther Bildt on guitars, Mike Mau on drums, John Blakeley on bass, and vocalists Lynne Hughes, Annie Sampson, Lydia Moreno, and Deirdre LaPorte.

# 3 – Passion Flower

Just listen to the great blues piano opening on this killer track. Lynne Hughes’ vocal performance takes it to another level. The song was featured on the band’s double album Family Affair.

# 2 – Queen Sweet Dreams

“Queen Sweet Dreams” is another standout track from Stoneground’s 1971 album, Family Album.

# 1 – Colonel Chicken Fry

Featured on their self-titled debut album released in 1971.