1. Home
  2. Entertainment
  3. Classic Rock

Psychedelic Rock

By , About.com Guide

Jefferson Airplane personified Psych Rock with their lyrics, wardrobes, stage sets and album cover art. (© 2003 PhotoFlashbacks - The Doug Hartley Collection)

Definition: Psychedlic Rock emerged in the mid-60s along with the frequent use of drugs like marijuana and LSD among rock artists and their fans. Psych Rock is characterized by lyrics, melodies and audio effects that attempt to duplicate the drug experience. The Beatles' Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band propelled the genre into the mainstream in 1967, but earlier practitioners included 13th Floor Elevators and Holy Modal Rounders. Grateful Dead and Pink Floyd also experimented with Psych Rock.
Also Known As: Psych Rock, Flower Power Music, Acid Rock
Examples:
Jefferson Airplane, Donovan, Amboy Dukes, Doors, Incredible String Band

Explore Classic Rock

About.com Special Features

Holiday Central

What to eat, where to go, fun things to do and how to save money on the perfect gifts. More >

The Best Top 40 Pop Songs

Is your favorite song on our list? More >

  1. Home
  2. Entertainment
  3. Classic Rock
  4. Glossary
  5. O - Z
  6. About Classic Rock Glossary Psychedelic Rock>

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.