Psychedelic Jukebox: [1966] Jefferson Airplane - And I Like It

When people think of Jefferson Airplane, iconic tracks like White Rabbit or Somebody to Love often come to mind—songs that defined the psychedelic spirit of the 1960s. Yet hidden beneath the surface of their discography lies a quieter, more introspective treasure: And I Like It, a deeply emotional track from their 1966 debut album Jefferson Airplane Takes Off.

The song was co-written by two of the band’s founding members, Marty Balin and Jorma Kaukonen. In a rare turn, Kaukonen takes the lead on vocals, lending the song a raw and bluesy authenticity that stands apart from the more flamboyant soundscapes Jefferson Airplane would later become known for. Balin contributes subtle harmony vocals, complementing the emotional depth of the performance without overpowering it.

Musically, And I Like It is striking in its restraint. Built around fingerpicked acoustic guitar, melodic bass lines from Jack Casady, and a slow, swaying 6/8 shuffle rhythm, the song exudes intimacy. There are no direct psychedelic flourishes here—just a quiet, heartfelt statement carried by Kaukonen’s gentle voice and honest playing.

Lyrically, the song centers on themes of self-acceptance and personal freedom. Lines like “This is my life, this is my way—and I like it” express a kind of quiet defiance, a resolve to live life on one’s own terms. In contrast to the political and socially charged lyrics that would later define Jefferson Airplane’s output, this track remains grounded in individual reflection.

Released on August 15, 1966, as the closing track on Jefferson Airplane Takes Off, the song captures the band in a formative moment—before Grace Slick joined and catapulted them into the psychedelic limelight. Interestingly, there exists a rougher, longer blues version of the track, which appeared as a bonus on later CD reissues. That alternate take hints at the untapped potential within the song and reveals how fluid and evolving the band's early sessions were.

Though And I Like It has not inspired many cover versions, it continues to resonate with fans and critics who appreciate the band’s quieter, more vulnerable side. Its place as a deep cut means it’s often overlooked, but those who discover it are rewarded with a glimpse into the musical sensitivity of Jefferson Airplane’s earliest incarnation.

Sources:

1. https://hitparade.ch/song/Jefferson-Airplane/And-I-Like-It-344925
2. https://momentstransition.wordpress.com/2022/08/31/jefferson-airplane-1966-69-a-bluffers-guide/
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7. https://momentstransition.wordpress.com/2022/08/31/jefferson-airplane-1966-69-a-bluffers-guide/
8. https://www.poprockbands.com/jefferson-airplane/albums/prj-ipC490702.html
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10. https://www.toppermost.co.uk/jefferson-airplane/
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12. https://www.antimusic.com/morley/16/MartyBalin.shtml