Classic Rock Songs That Will Take You on a Psychedelic Journey

Looking for some classic rock songs that will take you on a psychedelic journey? We’ve got you covered. Check out our list of the best psychedelic rock songs of all time.

The Doors – “Riders on the Storm”

“Riders on the Storm” is a classic rock song by The Doors that was released in 1971. The song is about a group of cowboys who are riding through a storm, and the lyrics are full of imagery that makes the listener feel as if they are riding along with the cowboys. The song is known for its psychedelic sound, which was created by using a variety of different instruments, including a theremin.

Pink Floyd – “Another Brick in the Wall, Part 2”

Many people consider Pink Floyd’s “Another Brick in the Wall, Part 2” to be one of the most influential classic rock songs of all time. The song was released in 1979 as part of the album “The Wall” and quickly rose to popularity. “Another Brick in the Wall, Part 2” is a prime example of what made Pink Floyd so popular: their ability to create catchy, melodic songs with dark and complex lyrics.

The lyrics of “Another Brick in the Wall, Part 2” deal with the issue of conformity and education. The song’s protagonist is a young boy who is tired of being controlled by the education system. He dreams of escaping from the school and breaking free from the constrictions that have been placed on him. The song’s chorus (“We don’t need no education/We don’t need no thought control”) is an anthem for anyone who has ever felt trapped by society’s expectations.

While “Another Brick in the Wall, Part 2” is definitely a classic rock song, it also has a distinctly psychedelic feel to it. The song’s driving bassline and rhythm create a sense of unease, while the repeated use of the word “drugs” in the lyrics creates a trippy atmosphere. Pink Floyd was known for their experimental approach to music, and “Another Brick in the Wall, Part 2” is a perfect example of their innovative style.

Led Zeppelin – “Kashmir”

“Kashmir” is one of Led Zeppelin’s most iconic songs, and with good reason. The Zeppelin boys took Psychedelic Rock to a whole new level with this eight-and-a-half minute opus, complete with Robert Plant’s wailing vocals and Jimmy Page’s signature guitar work.

The Jimi Hendrix Experience – “All Along the Watchtower”

“All Along the Watchtower” is a song written and recorded by American singer-songwriter Bob Dylan. The song initially appeared on his 1967 album John Wesley Harding, and it has been included on most of Dylan’s subsequent greatest hits compilations. Since the late 1970s, “All Along the Watchtower” has been adapted into a rock standard by many different performers.

The song is about a post-apocalyptic world where two riders are warning people about the coming of the “golden age”. Hendrix’s cover version transformative, with its sped up tempo, wah-wah guitar work and furious solos.

Cream – “Crossroads”

This song is from the 1968 album Wheels of Fire. It was written by Cream bassist Jack Bruce with assistance from lyricist Pete Brown.

“Crossroads” is a classic example of the power trio format, with each member of the band playing to their strengths. The song features some of Eric Clapton’s most inventive and moving guitar work, Bruce’s soulful vocals and powerful bass playing, and Ginger Baker’s dynamic drumming.

The lyrics tell the story of a man who has reached the end of his rope and is contemplating suicide. He recalls meeting the devil at the crossroads, and how the devil offered him fame and fortune in exchange for his soul. The man ultimately decides against making the deal, but the experience has left him shaken.

“Crossroads” is a blues-rock classic that has been covered by many artists over the years. It is a staple of Classic Rock radio, and continues to be one of Cream’s most popular songs.

The Beatles – “A Day in the Life”

Labeled by many as the greatest song ever written, “A Day in the Life” is the final track on The Beatles’ Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band album. The song is epic in length, clocking in at just over five minutes, and features two distinct sections which were stitched together from Lennon and McCartney’s separate recordings. The first half of the song is a slow and dreamy build-up, featuring electric piano and Mellotron strings, that eventually crescendos into one of the most iconic orchestral climaxes in popular music history. The second half consists of a playful piano outro based around a single chord, with John Lennon frantically repeating the words “I’d love to turn you on.” While there are many interpretations of the song’s lyrics, they are generally thought to be referencing the news cycle of the time, with lines like “4,000 holes in Blackburn Lancashire” being a reference to a local newspaper headline. Whatever the case may be, “A Day in the Life” is a classic example of The Beatles at their psychedelic best.

The Rolling Stones – “Gimme Shelter”

The Rolling Stones’ 1969 classic “Gimme Shelter” is a dark and stormy journey into the heart of the band’s unique brand of blues-infused rock and roll. With its driving rhythm and soulful vocals, “Gimme Shelter” is a perfect example of the Stones at their best.

The Who – “Won’t Get Fooled Again”

The Who are one of the most iconic classic rock bands of all time, and “Won’t Get Fooled Again” is one of their most popular and well-known songs. The song is an anthem for the disenchanted and jaded, with its catchy chorus of “Meet the new boss/ Same as the old boss.” The Who’s signature sound of hard-hitting guitars and Keith Moon’s powerful drumming makes “Won’t Get Fooled Again” a song that is sure to get your blood pumping.

King Crimson – “Starless”

With its droning guitars and Robert Fripp’s hauntingly feedback-drenched solos, “Starless” is the quintessential King Crimson track, and one of the most psychedelic songs in classic rock history. The song builds from a slow, hypnotic groove into a frenzy of activity, with percussionist Bill Bruford anchoring the chaotic energy with his militaristic drumming. The result is an intense, mind-bending journey that is sure to leave you in a state of transcendental bliss.

Yes – “Roundabout”

Yes’s “Roundabout” is a prog rock classic that would go on to become one of the band’s signature songs. It was the lead single from their 1971 album Fragile, and reached number 13 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song was written by Jon Anderson and Steve Howe, and is loosely based on a 17th century English folk song called “She loves fairies, elves, and hobgoblins.”

The song starts with a simple guitar melody that sets the stage for the rest of the band to come in and jam out. The verses are sung by Anderson in a low register, while the chorus features some high-pitched vocals from harmonies by Howe and Chris Squire. The middle section of the song is where things really take off, with an extended jam featuring some solos from Howe and keyboardist Rick Wakeman.

If you’re looking for a classic rock song that will take you on a psychedelic journey, “Roundabout” is definitely worth a listen.