White Rabbit

Definition

White Rabbit is a song by the American rock band Jefferson Airplane, released in 1967. The song is emblematic of the psychedelic music movement and captures the cultural zeitgeist of the 1960s, serving as both a critique and a reflection of the counterculture's fascination with drugs, particularly hallucinogens, during the time of the British Invasion.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The song 'White Rabbit' was written by Grace Slick and became one of Jefferson Airplane's most recognizable tracks, highlighting themes of drug use and self-discovery.
2. With its haunting melody and surreal lyrics, 'White Rabbit' drew parallels between Alice's adventures in Wonderland and the experiences associated with psychedelic drugs.
3. 'White Rabbit' was part of the soundtrack for the counterculture movement during the 1960s, resonating with the youth's growing interest in exploring altered states through music and hallucinogens.
4. The song was notable for its innovative use of dynamics, starting softly and building to an intense climax that mirrored the emotional journey depicted in its lyrics.
5. Jefferson Airplane’s performance of 'White Rabbit' at iconic music festivals solidified its place in popular music history as a defining anthem of the psychedelic era.

Review Questions

• How does 'White Rabbit' reflect the cultural attitudes towards drug use during the 1960s?
  • 'White Rabbit' encapsulates the 1960s cultural attitudes towards drug use by using surreal imagery to explore themes of self-discovery and altered consciousness. The song’s lyrics suggest a journey into another world, paralleling the experience many sought through hallucinogenic drugs. It served as both an invitation to experiment with these substances and a commentary on their impact on personal identity within the context of a rapidly changing society.
• Analyze how 'White Rabbit' embodies elements of psychedelic rock and its significance in the counterculture movement.
  • 'White Rabbit' embodies elements of psychedelic rock through its experimental soundscapes, innovative structure, and evocative lyrics that transport listeners into an altered state. The song's dynamic shifts create a sense of tension and release, reflective of psychedelic experiences. Its significance in the counterculture movement lies in its ability to articulate the desires and struggles of a generation seeking liberation from societal norms through music and exploration.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of 'White Rabbit' on both popular music and cultural discourse surrounding drug use in America.
  • 'White Rabbit' has had a profound impact on popular music by influencing countless artists within the psychedelic rock genre and beyond. Its exploration of drug use and consciousness expanded the boundaries of lyrical content in mainstream music, prompting discussions about substance use that continue to resonate today. The song remains a touchstone in cultural discourse, often revisited in conversations about freedom, experimentation, and the consequences that accompany such pursuits in society.

Related terms

Psychedelic Rock: A genre of music that emerged in the mid-1960s, characterized by its use of experimental sounds and lyrics that evoke altered states of consciousness.

Counterculture: A social movement that emerged in the 1960s, challenging mainstream societal norms and values, often associated with anti-establishment sentiments and new forms of artistic expression.

The Summer of Love: A social phenomenon in 1967 when thousands of young people converged in San Francisco, promoting peace, love, and psychedelic music as part of the wider counterculture movement.