About the song
Jefferson Airplane’s “White Rabbit” is a psychedelic rock classic that became one of the defining songs of the 1960s counterculture movement. Released in 1967 on their groundbreaking album Surrealistic Pillow, “White Rabbit” is a vivid and surreal exploration of altered states of consciousness, drawing heavily on literary references to “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” by Lewis Carroll.
Written by Grace Slick, who also provided the song’s haunting lead vocals, “White Rabbit” stands out for its evocative lyrics and hypnotic, marching rhythm. The song cleverly uses the imagery of Alice’s journey through Wonderland as a metaphor for the mind-expanding experiences associated with the psychedelic era. Phrases like “feed your head” became emblematic of the era’s embrace of experimentation and pushing the boundaries of perception.
Musically, “White Rabbit” is influenced by Ravel’s Boléro, with its crescendo that builds in intensity throughout the song, reflecting the escalating journey of the lyrics. The song’s unique structure, with no chorus and a single, continuous build, sets it apart from the typical rock songs of the time. The track’s instrumentation, particularly the driving bassline and the eerie, Spanish-inflected guitar work, complements Slick’s powerful vocal delivery.
Upon its release as a single, “White Rabbit” became a significant commercial success, peaking at number 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Its success helped to cement Jefferson Airplane’s place as one of the leading bands of the San Francisco music scene and a major voice in the 1960s counterculture.
“White Rabbit” remains a timeless anthem, celebrated not only for its musical innovation but also for its cultural impact. The song captures the spirit of a generation that sought to break free from societal constraints and explore new frontiers of consciousness, making it an enduring symbol of the psychedelic era. Jefferson Airplane’s ability to blend thought-provoking lyrics with innovative music ensures that “White Rabbit” continues to resonate with listeners across generations.