About the song
Buffalo Springfield’s “For What It’s Worth” is a protest anthem that captured the zeitgeist of the 1960s with its powerful message and infectious melody. Released in 1967 as part of their self-titled debut album, the song remains a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences today.
Written by band member Stephen Stills, “For What It’s Worth” was inspired by the Sunset Strip curfew riots in Los Angeles in 1966. The song’s evocative lyrics reflect the social and political turmoil of the era, addressing themes of youth rebellion, civil unrest, and the quest for social justice.
Despite its initial reception as a regional hit, “For What It’s Worth” quickly gained national attention and became an anthem for the counterculture movement of the 1960s. Its catchy guitar riff and poignant lyrics struck a chord with audiences, earning widespread acclaim and becoming Buffalo Springfield’s most famous song.
Peaking at number seven on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, “For What It’s Worth” solidified Buffalo Springfield’s place in rock history and cemented their legacy as pioneers of the folk-rock genre. The song’s enduring popularity has led to its inclusion in numerous films, television shows, and commercials, further cementing its status as a cultural touchstone.
Decades after its release, “For What It’s Worth” remains a rallying cry for social change and a reminder of the power of music to inspire activism and unity. Its timeless message continues to resonate with audiences of all ages, making it a perennial favorite among fans of classic rock and protest music.
Video
Lyrics
There’s something happening here
But 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
It’s time we stop
Hey, what’s that sound?
Everybody look, what’s going down?
What a field day for the heat (Ooh ooh ooh)
A thousand people in the street (Ooh ooh ooh)
Singing songs and they carrying signs (Ooh ooh ooh)
Mostly say, “Hooray for our side” (Ooh ooh ooh)
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
Step out of line, the men come and take you away
We better stop
Hey, what’s that sound?
Everybody look, what’s going down?
You better stop
Hey, what’s that sound?
Everybody look, what’s going down?
You better stop
Now, what’s that sound?
Everybody look, what’s going down?
You better stop
Children, what’s that sound?
Everybody look, what’s going down?