1. “White Rabbit” by the Jefferson Airplane is an example of the numerous influences by the musicians during the psychedelic era. What is the musical rhythm derived from? How does the double-entendre lyrics help to expand the atmosphere of the song?
2. “Sunshine of Your Love” is one of the best-known songs by Cream. What is the basis of this song? What influences can be heard in this piece? Does the band’s technical prowess add or detract from the performance?
3. “Purple Haze” is possibly the most popular song by The Jimi Hendrix Experience, rising to #5 on the Billboard charts. Hendrix is considered to be one of the (if not the) most influential electric guitarists in rock music. What about his style set him apart from his contemporaries (including Clapton and Beck)? What is your opinion of his influence?
4. Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band has historically been considered “the most important album in rock music”. What about this album is so remarkable to warrant this claim? How does it affect the work that follows for the remainder of the Beatles career?
5. The rise of “counter culture” in the mid to late 60’s is seen as one of the most significant movements in American history. What factors lead to this fraction from mainstream America? How did art reflect this upheaval in society?
max 500 words
