Complete List of Buffalo Springfield Songs From A to Z

Feature Photo: Atlantic Records, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Buffalo Springfield emerged in 1966 as a groundbreaking force in the Los Angeles music scene, uniting Canadian musicians Neil Young, Bruce Palmer, and Dewey Martin with American artists Stephen Stills and Richie Furay. This eclectic assembly blended diverse backgrounds and musical influences, forging a distinctive sound that seamlessly integrated folk, country, and rock elements. Their innovative approach not only captivated audiences but also laid the foundation for the burgeoning folk-rock movement of the late 1960s.

The band’s inception is the stuff of rock legend. After a chance meeting between Stills and Young in 1965, fate intervened when the two crossed paths again in a Los Angeles traffic jam in early 1966. Recognizing each other, they decided to join forces, recruiting Palmer, Furay, and Martin to complete the lineup. Taking their name from a steamroller parked outside their residence, Buffalo Springfield quickly became a staple in the local club circuit, earning a reputation for their dynamic performances and harmonious vocals.

In their brief yet prolific existence, Buffalo Springfield released three studio albums: their self-titled debut Buffalo Springfield (1966), the critically acclaimed Buffalo Springfield Again (1967), and Last Time Around (1968). These records showcased the band’s evolution, with each member contributing distinct songwriting and vocal talents. Their music resonated with the socio-political climate of the era, addressing themes of love, protest, and introspection.

The band’s most iconic single, “For What It’s Worth,” penned by Stephen Stills, became an anthem for a generation. Released in 1967, the song captured the tension and unrest of the times, peaking at number seven on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Its enduring legacy has seen it featured in numerous films, television shows, and protest movements, solidifying Buffalo Springfield’s place in musical history. Other notable songs include “Mr. Soul,” “Bluebird,” “Rock & Roll Woman,” and “Expecting to Fly,” each contributing to the band’s reputation as one of the most influential acts of the late 1960s.

Despite internal conflicts and lineup changes, the individual members of Buffalo Springfield continued to shape the musical landscape after the band’s dissolution in 1968. Stephen Stills co-founded the supergroup Crosby, Stills & Nash (and later Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young), while Neil Young embarked on a prolific solo career, occasionally reuniting with his former bandmates. Richie Furay and Jim Messina went on to form the country-rock band Poco, further influencing the genre’s development.

Buffalo Springfield’s influence extended beyond their music. Their fusion of genres and innovative sound paved the way for future artists, and their commitment to addressing social issues through their lyrics inspired countless musicians to use their platforms for advocacy. In recognition of their contributions, the band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1997, a testament to their lasting impact on the industry.

While the members pursued separate paths, the legacy of Buffalo Springfield remained a touchstone in their careers. In 2010, surviving members Neil Young, Stephen Stills, and Richie Furay reunited for a series of performances, rekindling the spirit of their early collaborations and introducing their timeless sound to new audiences.

Beyond their musical achievements, the members of Buffalo Springfield have engaged in various philanthropic endeavors. Neil Young, for instance, co-founded the Bridge School Benefit concerts, supporting children with severe physical impairments and complex communication needs. Their collective efforts reflect a commitment to leveraging their artistry for the greater good, underscoring the profound and multifaceted legacy of Buffalo Springfield.