Buffalo Springfield – For What It’s Worth & Mr. Soul – Medley

About the song

“Mr. Soul,” a haunting reflection on the burdens of fame and the struggles of personal identity, stands as a testament to Neil Young’s introspective songwriting during his time with Buffalo Springfield. Released in 1967 as the B-side to “Bluebird,” the song found its place on the band’s second album, *Buffalo Springfield Again*, marking a pivotal moment in Young’s early career.

The genesis of “Mr. Soul” stemmed from a deeply personal experience Young had following an epilepsy attack after a Buffalo Springfield show in San Francisco. This incident, where audience members mistook his seizure for part of the performance, left a profound impact on Young, influencing the song’s introspective lyrics and somber tone. Written during his recovery at UCLA Medical Center, the song captures Young grappling with the pressures of fame and the existential questions it raises.

Musically, “Mr. Soul” is characterized by its dark, moody atmosphere and distinctive double drop D tuning on acoustic twelve-string guitar—a technique Young employed in other notable songs like “Ohio” and “Cinnamon Girl.” The song’s main riff, reminiscent of the Rolling Stones’ “Satisfaction,” adds a gritty edge that complements Young’s introspective lyrics.

Over the years, “Mr. Soul” has evolved through various interpretations and covers. Neil Young himself revisited the song in different styles, from its original folk rock roots to a synthrock version on his 1982 album *Trans*. His live performances, including notable renditions at Canterbury House in 1968 and during the Bridge School Benefit concerts, showcase the song’s enduring relevance and emotional depth.

Beyond Young’s renditions, “Mr. Soul” has been covered by a diverse range of artists, reflecting its universal appeal and influence across musical genres. Cher, Rush, and Iron & Wine are among those who have offered their interpretations, each bringing their own unique flair while honoring the song’s poignant themes.

In essence, “Mr. Soul” remains a timeless exploration of fame, identity, and the existential struggles faced by artists. Its enduring legacy lies not only in Neil Young’s introspective lyrics and distinctive musical style but also in its ability to resonate with listeners across generations, making it a standout in the annals of rock and folk rock history.

Video

Lyrics

For What It’s Worth / Mr. Soul
Tác giả : Neil Young

Người đăng : administrator, 13 năm trước

buffalo springfield

For what it’s worth
Stephen stills, 1966

There’s something happening here
What it is ain’t exactly clear
There’s a man with a gun over there
Telling me i got to beware

I 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 behind

I think it’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 say, 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
You step out of line, the man come and take you away

We better stop, hey, what’s that sound
Everybody look what’s going down
Stop, hey, what’s that sound
Everybody look what’s going down
Stop, now, what’s that sound
Everybody look what’s going down
Stop, children, what’s that sound
Everybody look what’s going down