The United States of America

The United States of America was an experimental rock and psychedelic band formed in 1967 in the United States. The group consisted of Joseph Byrd (organ, piano, electric harpsichord, electronics, vocals), Dorothy Moskowitz (lead vocals), Gordon Marron (electric violon, ring modulator, vocals), Rand Forbes (bass), Craig Woodson (drums, percussions), and later Ed Bogas (organ, piano), and Richard Grayson (keyboards). Their self-titled debut album The United States of America (1968) was notable for its innovative use of synthesizers and electronic instruments, marking one of the earliest uses of these tools in rock music. The album featured songs like "Hard Coming Love" and "Cloud Song", and although it received positive reviews, it faced poor marketing from CBS Records and was soon discontinued. The band's only tour was marred by technical issues and legal troubles related to drug possession, leading to their disbandment in 1969. Despite its limited commercial success, The United States of America has since gained cult status and is recognized as a significant milestone in rock music history. Joseph Byrd went on to record a second album for Columbia, The American Metaphysical Circus (1969), credited to Joe Byrd and the Field Hippies. He continued to wrote music for films, television and commercials, and workins as a producer. A devotee of composer Charles Ives, he died on November 2, 2025, at the age of 87.

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