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Psychedelic Rock

By Dave White, About.com

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

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