14 forgotten hit songs of the 1960s that are still fantastic

As someone who grew up in the heart of the 60s revolution, I can wholeheartedly attest to the explosive energy and creativity that defined this decade. From the British Invasion to the counterculture movement, there was an incredible fusion of music, art, and social change that still resonates today.

The ’60s are commonly referred as the era when popular culture burst forth in myriad ways – a period marked by a surge of creativity, societal transformation, and rapid technological progress.

During that period, particularly towards the end of the decade, there was an astonishing proliferation of hits – some of which continue to resonate with us today and are still played frequently, yet a comparable number seemed to fade into obscurity for various reasons. However, these lesser-known tracks remain musically and historically significant and warrant rediscovery by both longtime fans who initially cherished them, as well as new listeners who may not have encountered them before.

14 tunes from the ’60s, although they may have slipped into obscurity, continue to resonate with a fresh, captivating appeal today.

14 songs from the 1960s that still sound terrifically great

The Byrds – “I’ll Feel I Whole Lot Better” (1965)

Here’s where dedicated fans of folk music transform their affection for the British Invasion sound into a fantastic blend of folk and pop-rock, creating a great, chiming tune. Gene Clark is highlighted as an exceptional songwriter of his time within this composition. It’s no surprise that this B-side became a hit in its own right and played a significant role in shaping the genre later known as “jangle pop.

The Who – “Substitute” (1966)

Despite not making it to the top spot on the charts (peaking at number five instead), this particular hit underscored Pete Townshend’s growing talent as a songwriter and demonstrated the impressive cohesion the band was achieving, with Entwistle and Moon’s rhythm section playing a pivotal role in shaping the song.

The Count Five – “Psychotic Reaction” (1966)

This lesser-known band, The Count Five, didn’t create garage rock on their own, but their debut single played a significant role in shaping it into a unique rock subgenre. By employing a distinctive fuzz pedal effect and an unrelenting rhythm, they contributed to its distinct identity.

The Yardbirds – “Happenings Ten Years Ago” (1966)

The Yardbirds’ albums may have been somewhat inconsistent, but their singles, penned and performed by an exceptional rotating crew that included Jimmy Page and Jeff Beck, were typically outstanding, with this particular one being particularly noteworthy. Many consider it a precursor to the finest in progressive rock.

The Electric Prunes – “I Had Too Much To Dream” (1966)

Among the top contenders for an outstanding psychedelic pop song, Annette Tucker and Nancie Mantz’s gem is undoubtedly a strong candidate. Notably, this tune was one of the Electric Prunes’ successful second singles, reaching number 11 on the charts, thanks to its captivating blend of catchy melodies, psych-influenced guitars, and oscillators.

The Beatles – “Rain” (1966)

Is it possible that there exists an uncommon Beatles tune? It’s unlikely, but this hidden gem, a true psych masterpiece, didn’t debut on an album initially. Instead, it was merely the B-side to the equally iconic “Paperback Writer.” However, even as a B-side, The Beatles and John Lennon delivered their psychedelic magic at its finest.

Stone Poneys – “Different Drum” (1967)

When Mike Nesmith initially penned this song, he hadn’t yet joined the Monkees. However, when Linda Ronstadt and her band, the Stone Poneys, picked it up (with Linda’s voice being especially captivating), they transformed it into something truly unique. Despite only achieving modest success in the U.S. (and nowhere else) at the time, it was still quite special.

Procol Harum – “Homburg” (1967)

In various nations, this subsequent single to their iconic “A Whiter Shade of Pale” peaked at number one, but it only reached number six in the U.K. and number 34 in the US. Despite sharing themes with their previous smash hit, it was an outstanding song in its own right, potentially contributing significantly to the recognition of baroque pop as a unique sub-genre.

The Rolling Stones – “We Love You” (1967)

Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, who penned this tune, aren’t big fans of the Rolling Stones’ psychedelic era, but this song stands out as one of their finest from that time, despite not performing exceptionally well according to their usual standards (reaching number eight in Britain and number 50 in the US). The catchy, rotating piano melody is particularly memorable and tends to linger in your mind.

Jefferson Airplane – “Coming Back To Me” (1967)

Marty Balin didn’t sing as many lead vocals with Jefferson Airplane, and one of his compositions never became a single. However, it was a significant song on their album “Surrealistic Pillow” and was later featured in various film soundtracks from 1990 to 2015. This ballad was highly regarded during its time.

Captain Beefheart – “Abba Zaba” (1967)

How can you compose a song about your preferred sweet treat and make it a fantastic tune, sung by one of the most unique voices in rock music? Captain Beefheart, also known as Don Van Vliet, was seldom associated with popular music charts, but this particular song managed to garner some success.

The Monkees – “The Porpoise Song” (1968)

Initially, The Monkees may not have been viewed as a genuinely serious band because they were originally created for a popular teen TV show. However, over time, the band’s commitment and dedication deepened, which was mirrored in their music. A clear demonstration of this can be found in the title song for their film “Head,” penned by Gerry Goffin and Carole King, indicating that The Monkees had the ability to effortlessly create a superb psych-rock tune.

James Taylor – “Carolina In My Mind” (1968)

Back in my early days as an admirer, I found myself marveling at James Taylor’s beginnings. He was laying down tracks for the Beatles’ Apple Records in the UK, and this very song served as his second single. At that moment, it didn’t create much of a stir, but it later became one of Taylor’s signature tunes, gradually resonating with audiences as time went on.

Mothers of Invention – “Take Your Clothes When You Dance” (1968)

During the period when Frank Zappa was primarily known as the leader of Mothers of Invention, he wasn’t particularly a fan of dating women or being a part of the hippie culture, as suggested by the song and the album it originated from (“We’re Only In It For The Money”). Zappa remained as catchy and acidic as ever in his pop style during this time.

2024-12-08 14:00