Strawberry Alarm Clock Sit With The Guru
Strawberry Alarm Clock was one of the most successful bands of the psychedelic era, and their hit song "Sit With The Guru" remains a classic of the genre. Released in 1968, the song captured the spirit of the counterculture movement and became an anthem for those seeking spiritual enlightenment and a break from the conformity of mainstream society.
The Origins of Strawberry Alarm Clock
Strawberry Alarm Clock was formed in 1966 in Los Angeles, California. The band consisted of Ed King (guitar), Mark Weitz (keyboards), Lee Freeman (guitar), Randy Seol (drums), George Bunnell (bass), and Greg Munford (vocals). Their name was inspired by a dream that Munford had, in which he saw a strawberry-shaped alarm clock ringing out psychedelic colors.
The band's sound was heavily influenced by the psychedelic rock movement that was emerging in San Francisco at the time. They were signed to the Uni Records label, a subsidiary of MCA, and released their debut album, "Incense and Peppermints", in 1967. The title track became a hit single and reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
The Making of "Sit With The Guru"
"Sit With The Guru" was recorded for Strawberry Alarm Clock's second album, "Wake Up...It's Tomorrow", which was released in 1968. The song was written by Ed King and George Bunnell, who were inspired by the teachings of Indian guru Paramahansa Yogananda.
The song features a dreamy, psychedelic sound, with swirling organ and guitar riffs and Greg Munford's ethereal vocals. The lyrics are a call to seek enlightenment and a deeper understanding of the world, with lines like "Open your mind and you'll find that you're free" and "If you want to see the truth, you must open up your heart."
The Legacy of "Sit With The Guru"
"Sit With The Guru" remains one of the most beloved songs of the psychedelic era. Its message of spiritual seeking and individuality struck a chord with listeners who were looking for an alternative to the conformity and materialism of mainstream society.
The song has been featured in numerous films and TV shows, including "Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery", "The Simpsons", and "Mad Men". It has also been covered by several artists, including The Brian Jonestown Massacre and The Lemonheads.
Despite personnel changes and a decline in popularity in the 1970s, Strawberry Alarm Clock continued to perform and record throughout the years. In 2012, they were inducted into the San Diego Music Hall of Fame.
Conclusion
"Sit With The Guru" is a psychedelic classic that captured the spirit of the 60s and remains a beloved song to this day. Its message of spiritual seeking and individuality continues to resonate with listeners who are looking for meaning and purpose in their lives. Strawberry Alarm Clock may have been a product of their time, but their music and legacy continue to inspire and entertain new generations of fans.
