For What It's Worth

Definition

'For What It's Worth' is a song by Buffalo Springfield, released in 1966, that became an anthem for the counterculture movement and the American Folk Revival. The song's lyrics reflect social unrest and protest against the political climate of the time, capturing the essence of the era's struggles for civil rights and anti-war sentiments. Its haunting melody and poignant message resonate with themes of disillusionment, making it a significant piece within the folk music genre during a time of transformative change in American society.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'For What It's Worth' was inspired by the Sunset Strip curfew riots in Los Angeles, reflecting the broader civil unrest occurring across the United States during the 1960s.
2. The song was written by Stephen Stills, who later became a member of Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, and it features a distinctive blend of folk-rock instrumentation.
3. Despite its commercial success, 'For What It's Worth' was not originally intended as a protest song; instead, it emerged organically from the tensions of the time.
4. The song's chorus contains a memorable line that emphasizes vigilance and awareness: 'There's something happening here, what it is ain't exactly clear.'
5. 'For What It's Worth' has been covered by numerous artists over the decades, solidifying its status as a timeless anthem for various social movements.

Review Questions

• How does 'For What It's Worth' reflect the cultural and social dynamics of the 1960s in America?
  • 'For What It's Worth' embodies the cultural and social dynamics of the 1960s by addressing themes of unrest and activism. The song emerged during a period marked by significant civil rights movements and anti-war protests, capturing the spirit of disillusionment felt by many Americans. Its lyrics resonate with listeners who were experiencing the turmoil of societal changes, making it a poignant commentary on the era's struggles for justice and equality.
• Discuss the impact of 'For What It's Worth' on the American Folk Revival Movement and its role in protest music.
  • 'For What It's Worth' played a crucial role in shaping the American Folk Revival Movement by blending traditional folk elements with contemporary rock sounds. Its emergence during a time of heightened political awareness positioned it as a key protest song, inspiring other artists to address social issues through their music. The song's success illustrated how folk music could serve as both an artistic expression and a tool for mobilizing people around critical societal challenges.
• Evaluate how 'For What It's Worth' has remained relevant over time and its influence on modern protest music.
  • 'For What It's Worth' has maintained its relevance through its universal themes of awareness and resistance to injustice. As new generations face their own struggles, the song continues to be a touchstone for modern protest music, influencing artists across genres to tackle contemporary issues such as systemic racism and climate change. Its ability to resonate with varied audiences underscores its importance as an enduring anthem that unites voices against oppression, making it a vital part of America's musical legacy.

Related terms

Buffalo Springfield: An American rock band formed in 1966, known for their pioneering blend of folk and rock music, and for producing socially conscious songs like 'For What It's Worth.'

Counterculture Movement: A social and cultural movement that emerged in the 1960s, characterized by a rejection of mainstream values, advocating for peace, love, and social justice.

Protest Song: A genre of music that seeks to highlight social issues and injustices, often serving as a rallying cry for activism and change during times of political turmoil.