Top Psychedelic Songs: 70s, 80s, 90s International Hits

Hey guys! Ready to take a far-out trip down memory lane? We're diving deep into the world of psychedelic music from the 70s, 80s, and 90s, focusing on those mind-bending international hits that still sound amazing today. Get your headphones ready, because this is going to be one wild ride!

Psychedelic Rock in the 1970s: A Mind-Expanding Decade

The 1970s were a time of massive change and experimentation, and that definitely showed in the music scene. Psychedelic rock, which had its roots in the late 60s, continued to evolve, blending with other genres like progressive rock, funk, and even early hints of electronic music. This era was all about pushing boundaries and creating soundscapes that could transport listeners to another dimension. Think swirling guitars, echo-laden vocals, and lyrics that explored everything from cosmic consciousness to social commentary. One of the defining characteristics of psychedelic music in the 70s was its emphasis on extended instrumental jams. Bands weren't afraid to let loose and explore musical ideas in real-time, creating improvisational sections that could last for several minutes. This made live performances particularly special, as each show could offer a unique and unpredictable experience.

Artists like Pink Floyd continued to be pioneers, releasing landmark albums such as "The Dark Side of the Moon" (1973) and "Wish You Were Here" (1975). These albums weren't just collections of songs; they were carefully crafted sonic journeys that took listeners on an emotional and intellectual voyage. The use of sound effects, complex arrangements, and thought-provoking lyrics made these albums cornerstones of the psychedelic rock genre. Meanwhile, bands like Electric Light Orchestra (ELO) blended psychedelic elements with orchestral arrangements and pop sensibilities, creating a unique and commercially successful sound. Their songs often featured lush harmonies, soaring melodies, and a sense of grandeur that set them apart from their contemporaries. Kraftwerk, although more associated with electronic music, also incorporated psychedelic elements into their early work, experimenting with synthesizers and creating hypnotic, repetitive soundscapes. Their influence on later psychedelic and electronic artists cannot be overstated.

On the international stage, artists from Germany (Krautrock) like Can and Amon Düül II were pushing the boundaries of psychedelic music with their experimental and avant-garde approach. These bands often incorporated elements of free jazz, electronic music, and world music into their sound, creating a truly unique and challenging listening experience. Italian progressive rock bands like Premiata Forneria Marconi (PFM) also embraced psychedelic elements, blending them with classical influences and creating complex and dynamic compositions. Even in countries like Nigeria, artists like Fela Kuti incorporated psychedelic elements into their Afrobeat sound, creating a politically charged and musically innovative blend of genres. The 1970s truly were a golden age for psychedelic music, with artists from all over the world pushing the boundaries of creativity and experimentation. The legacy of this era continues to inspire musicians today, and the music remains as captivating and mind-expanding as ever.

The 1980s: A New Wave of Psychedelia

The 1980s saw a resurgence of psychedelic influences, but this time it was often blended with the sounds of new wave, synth-pop, and post-punk. While the long, sprawling jams of the 70s became less common, the spirit of experimentation and the desire to create immersive sonic experiences remained strong. This decade was all about incorporating new technologies, such as synthesizers and drum machines, into the psychedelic soundscape. The result was a diverse and exciting range of music that both paid homage to the past and looked towards the future.

One of the key figures in the 80s psychedelic revival was Prince. While he wasn't strictly a psychedelic artist, his music often incorporated elements of psychedelia, such as swirling guitars, distorted vocals, and surreal lyrics. Albums like "Purple Rain" (1984) and "Around the World in a Day" (1985) showcased his willingness to experiment with different sounds and textures, creating a unique and highly influential style. The Paisley Underground scene in Los Angeles also played a significant role in the 80s psychedelic revival. Bands like The Dream Syndicate, The Rain Parade, and Green on Red drew heavily from the sounds of the 60s psychedelic bands like The Velvet Underground and The Doors, but they also added their own unique twist, incorporating elements of punk rock and new wave. These bands helped to create a vibrant and thriving music scene that celebrated the spirit of experimentation and creativity.

Internationally, bands like The Stone Roses from the UK blended psychedelic influences with indie rock and dance music, creating a sound that would become known as Madchester. Their debut album, "The Stone Roses" (1989), is considered a classic of the era, and its swirling guitars, hypnotic rhythms, and dreamy vocals helped to define the sound of the Madchester scene. In Australia, bands like The Church incorporated psychedelic elements into their atmospheric and melodic rock sound. Their song "Under the Milky Way" (1988) became an international hit, showcasing the band's ability to blend catchy melodies with lush instrumentation and introspective lyrics. The 1980s were a time of great change and innovation in music, and the psychedelic revival was just one part of this larger trend. By incorporating new technologies and blending psychedelic elements with other genres, artists created a diverse and exciting range of music that continues to influence musicians today.

Psychedelic Music in the 1990s: A Diverse Landscape

The 1990s brought even more diversity to the psychedelic music scene. With the rise of alternative rock, electronica, and various subgenres, psychedelic influences found their way into a wide range of musical styles. This decade was all about experimentation and pushing the boundaries of what psychedelic music could be. From the neo-psychedelia of bands like The Brian Jonestown Massacre to the electronic explorations of The Chemical Brothers, the 90s offered a diverse and exciting landscape for psychedelic music fans. The emphasis shifted from recreating the sounds of the past to incorporating psychedelic elements into new and innovative musical forms.

One of the key trends of the 90s was the rise of neo-psychedelia, which saw bands drawing heavily from the sounds of the 60s psychedelic era but adding their own unique twist. The Brian Jonestown Massacre, led by the enigmatic Anton Newcombe, became one of the most prominent bands in this genre, releasing a prolific string of albums that showcased their love of vintage instruments, swirling guitars, and hypnotic rhythms. Another important trend was the incorporation of psychedelic elements into electronic music. Artists like The Chemical Brothers and The Crystal Method blended psychedelic textures and soundscapes with the driving beats of techno and house music, creating a new and exciting form of dance music that was both mind-expanding and body-moving.

On the international stage, bands like Super Furry Animals from Wales blended psychedelic influences with pop melodies and experimental arrangements, creating a sound that was both catchy and challenging. Their albums, such as "Radiator" (1997), showcased their ability to blend different genres and create a unique and highly influential style. In Japan, bands like Boris incorporated psychedelic elements into their heavy and experimental rock sound. Their music often featured long, droning passages, distorted guitars, and a sense of overwhelming sonic power. The 1990s were a time of great experimentation and innovation in music, and the psychedelic scene was no exception. By incorporating psychedelic elements into a wide range of musical styles, artists created a diverse and exciting landscape that continues to influence musicians today.

Notable International Psychedelic Songs

Let's highlight some standout international psychedelic tracks from each era:

• 1970s: "Astronomy Domine" – Pink Floyd (UK), "Hallogallo" - Neu! (Germany), "Supper's Ready" - Genesis (UK).
• 1980s: "Under the Milky Way" – The Church (Australia), "Elephant Stone" – The Stone Roses (UK), "Just Like Heaven" - The Cure (UK).
• 1990s: "Tomorrow Never Knows" - The Chemical Brothers (UK), "Smells Like Teen Spirit" - Nirvana (USA), "Northern Star" - Primal Scream (UK).

Conclusion

From the sprawling jams of the 70s to the electronic explorations of the 90s, psychedelic music has continued to evolve and inspire artists around the world. Whether you're a seasoned psychonaut or a curious newcomer, there's a whole universe of sounds waiting to be explored. So crank up the volume, close your eyes, and let the music take you on a trip!