8 DECEMBER 1966
Buffalo Springfield’s self-titled debut album was released in the US this week, around the same time that the band recorded the song 'For What It's Worth'. This was not the original album, but the band were not happy with the production of the album and insisted on a remix and re-release, which did feature this song. Which made a lot of sense, because as a single it went to #7 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart, becoming their only Top 40 hit.
The lyrics were inspired by the Sunset Strip curfew riots of November 1966, sparked when protesters - upset about a 10pm curfew on the popular strip - clashed with police. Buffalo Springfield were a house band at the legendary Whisky a Go Go club on the strip. The protests were ongoing but sporadic when this song was recorded.
The lyrics were inspired by the Sunset Strip curfew riots of November 1966, sparked when protesters - upset about a 10pm curfew on the popular strip - clashed with police. Buffalo Springfield were a house band at the legendary Whisky a Go Go club on the strip. The protests were ongoing but sporadic when this song was recorded.
B-side: 'Do I Have to Come Right Out and Say It?'
Recorded: 5 December 1966, Columbia Studios, Hollywood
Released: 9 January 1967
Highest chart position: #7 (US)
Length: 2:37
Label: Atco
Writer: Stephen Stills
