Buffalo Springfield’s ‘For What It’s Worth’: An Anthem of Protest and Change | World News

Released in 1966, Buffalo Springfield’s “For What It’s Worth,” with its haunting guitar riff and Stephen Stills’ soulful vocals, captured the essence of a decade fraught with protest and social upheaval, becoming a poignant reflection of the political and social turbulence of the era.


Coming out of a turbulent decade marked by the civil rights struggle and widespread antiwar sentiment, “For What It’s Worth” quickly established itself as a powerful anthem for change. Its resounding opening line, “Something’s going on here, it’s not exactly clear what it is,” encapsulates the confusion and turmoil of the era, serving as a clarion call to those disenchanted with the existing order and yearning for justice and reform.


As we celebrate “For What It’s Worth,” it’s important to acknowledge the broader tradition of antiwar music to which it belongs. From 1960s protest songs to contemporary tracks addressing modern conflict, music has always played a vital role in advocating for peace. Here’s a playlist of the 60 best antiwar songs (Click) that highlights that legacy, showing how artists across generations have used their platforms to speak out against injustice and inspire change.