Dive into the psychedelic soundscapes and soaring vocals of one of rock's most influential bands: Jefferson Airplane. For fans and newcomers alike, the question remains: what are the best songs of Jefferson Airplane? This isn't just a list; it's a journey through a pivotal era of rock music, exploring the anthems that defined a generation and continue to resonate today. From the raw energy of their early hits to the more experimental and introspective works of their later years, Jefferson Airplane's music offers a rich tapestry of sounds and stories. Whether you're a seasoned aficionado searching for a definitive ranking or a curious listener just discovering their groundbreaking legacy, this curated list of their top tracks will ignite your passion for this iconic band and their enduring impact on music history. Get ready to rediscover the magic of Jefferson Airplane—and maybe find a new favorite song in the process.
| Song | Album | Listens |
|---|---|---|
| 1. White Rabbit | Let It Bleed | 72M+ |
| 2. Somebody to Love | Dusty In Memphis [Deluxe Edition] | 21M+ |
| 3. Today | 848K+ | |
| 4. Volunteers | 832K+ | |
| 5. We Can Be Together | 810K+ | |
| 6. Lather | 805K+ | |
| 7. Good Shepherd | 710K+ |
1. White Rabbit (Let It Bleed - 1967)
Psychedelic Masterpiece: Jefferson Airplane's "White Rabbit" exemplifies the band's signature psychedelic sound, a swirling blend of Grace Slick's ethereal vocals and a hypnotic instrumental arrangement.
Haunting Melody: The song's memorable melody and lyrics, referencing Lewis Carroll's "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland," create a lasting, almost dreamlike impression.
Enduring Legacy: Its impact extends beyond its era, remaining a quintessential example of 1960s counterculture and a cornerstone of psychedelic rock.
2. Somebody to Love (Jefferson Airplane)
Anthemic Power: "Somebody to Love" showcases Jefferson Airplane's signature blend of soaring vocals and powerful instrumentation, creating an unforgettable anthem of longing and connection.
Grace Slick's Vocals: Grace Slick's phenomenal vocal performance is a defining characteristic, her powerful delivery conveying both vulnerability and strength.
Enduring Legacy: This track remains a testament to the band's innovative spirit and continues to resonate with listeners decades later, solidifying its place among their best.
3. Today (Jefferson Airplane)
Catchy Melody: Jefferson Airplane's "Today" boasts an instantly memorable melody that hooks you from the first note, a hallmark of their signature sound.
Grace Slick's Vocals: Grace Slick's powerful and distinctive vocals are front and center, delivering a performance that is both captivating and emotionally resonant.
Psychedelic Vibe: The song's psychedelic undertones and driving rhythm create an immersive listening experience, perfectly capturing the energy of the era and solidifying its place among Jefferson Airplane's best.
4. Volunteers
Anthemic Power: "Volunteers" showcases Jefferson Airplane's signature blend of soaring vocals and driving rhythms, creating an unforgettable, uplifting experience that perfectly captures the spirit of the era.
Grace Slick's Vocals: Slick's powerful and emotive delivery elevates the song beyond a simple protest anthem, imbuing it with a raw intensity and a timeless quality.
Enduring Relevance: Its message of community and collective action continues to resonate, making "Volunteers" a vital and enduring track in Jefferson Airplane's discography and a testament to their musical legacy.
5. We Can Be Together (1969)
Essential Listening: "We Can Be Together" showcases Jefferson Airplane's signature blend of psychedelic rock and soaring vocals, a perfect example of their early experimental sound.
Catchy Melody: The song's memorable melody and Grace Slick's powerful delivery make it instantly engaging and unforgettable, even for those unfamiliar with their broader discography.
Underrated Gem: While not always their most celebrated track, "We Can Be Together" deserves a spot on any playlist exploring the band's diverse and influential output.
6. Lather (Jefferson Airplane)
Intense Vocals: Grace Slick's powerful and distinctive vocals are a highlight of "Lather" showcasing her incredible range and emotional depth.
Psychedelic Sound: The song's swirling psychedelic soundscape, with its prominent organ and distorted guitars, creates a truly immersive and captivating listening experience, characteristic of Jefferson Airplane's signature sound.
Unforgettable Melody: The memorable melody and driving rhythm make "Lather" a standout track, instantly recognizable and guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.
7. Good Shepherd (Jefferson Airplane - 1969)
A Jefferson Airplane Classic: "Good Shepherd" showcases the band's signature blend of psychedelic rock and folk influences, creating a captivating soundscape.
Grace Slick's Vocal Prowess: Slick's distinctive vocals are a highlight, delivering both ethereal beauty and raw power.
Unforgettable Melody: The memorable melody and captivating instrumentation make "Good Shepherd" a truly unforgettable track within Jefferson Airplane's impressive discography.
8. Pretty as You Feel - 1971
A Jefferson Airplane Classic: "Pretty as You Feel" showcases the band's signature psychedelic sound with Grace Slick's powerful vocals taking center stage.
Unforgettable Vocals: Slick's delivery is both haunting and captivating, adding to the song's overall intensity and emotional depth.
Essential Listening: For fans exploring the best of Jefferson Airplane's catalog, this track is an absolute must-listen, demonstrating their musical range and innovation.
9. The Other Side of This Life (1966)
Catchy Melody: "The Other Side of This Life" boasts a memorable melody that perfectly encapsulates Jefferson Airplane's signature psychedelic sound, making it instantly recognizable and highly replayable.
Grace Slick's Vocals: Grace Slick's powerful and distinctive vocals are at their best here, delivering a captivating performance that adds depth and emotional resonance to the song.
Psychedelic Vibe: This track perfectly embodies the spirit of the 60s psychedelic rock scene, offering a vibrant and immersive listening experience that remains relevant even today. A must-listen for any Jefferson Airplane aficionado.
10. Eskimo Blue Day (Jefferson Airplane - 1969)
Catchy Melody: "Eskimo Blue Day" boasts a memorable melody that perfectly encapsulates Jefferson Airplane's psychedelic folk-rock sound, making it instantly recognizable and highly replayable.
Grace Slick's Vocals: Grace Slick's distinctive vocals are at their captivating best here, delivering a powerful and emotional performance that elevates the song beyond a simple psychedelic track.
Underrated Gem: While perhaps overshadowed by some of their more famous hits, "Eskimo Blue Day" showcases the band's versatility and deserves a prominent place in any Jefferson Airplane enthusiast's playlist.
11Crown of Creation
Jefferson Airplane
1968
12It's No Secret
Jefferson Airplane
1966
13Ballad of You & Me & Pooneil
Jefferson Airplane
1967
14She Has Funny Cars
Jefferson Airplane
1967
15Have You Seen the Saucers?
Jefferson Airplane
1970
16Greasy Heart
Jefferson Airplane
1968
17Wooden Ships
Jefferson Airplane
1969
18If You Feel
Jefferson Airplane
1968
- 19
Martha
Jefferson Airplane
1967
- 20
Young Girl Sunday Blues
Jefferson Airplane
1967
- 21
Watch Her Ride
Jefferson Airplane
1967
223/5 of a Mile in 10 Seconds
Jefferson Airplane
1967
- 23
Come Up the Years
Jefferson Airplane
1966
24Plastic Fantastic Lover
Jefferson Airplane
1967
25Blues From an Airplane
Jefferson Airplane
1966
26Wild Tyme
Jefferson Airplane
1967