The Turtles - It Ain't Me Babe (1965)

Originally a surf-rock group called The Crossfires, this band was one of the most celebrated bands of the 1960s. When they made their shift into folk music to fit in with the increasing trend, they intentionally misspelled their name “The Tyrtles” to fit in with others who misspelled their names such as The Beatles and The Byrds. It didn't last very long. Their largest success came with their 1967 hit “Happy Together,” reaching number one and knocking "Penny Lane" off the top spot.

This song, their first hit, was written in 1964 by Bob Dylan. It was rumored that the lyrics “no, no, no it ain’t me babe” was a direct parody referencing The Beatles’ “She Loves You” (“She loves you, yea, yea, yea”).



The Turtles - It Ain't Me Babe (1965)

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Lyrics:

Go away from my window
Leave at your own chosen speed
I'm not the one you want, babe
I'm not the one you need

You say you're lookin' for someone
Who's never weak but always strong
To protect you and defend you
Whether you are right or wrong
Someone to open each and every door

But it ain't me babe
Ah, no, no, no it ain't me babe
Well, it ain't me you're lookin' for babe

Go lightly from the ledge, babe
Go lightly on the ground
I'm not the one you want, babe
I'll only lead you down

You say you're lookin' for someone
Who'll promise never to part
Someone to close his eyes to you
Someone to close his heart
Someone who will die for you and more

But it ain't me babe
Ah, no, no, no it ain't me babe
Well, it ain't me you're lookin' for babe

No it ain't me you're lookin' for, babe
I said ah no, no, no, it ain't me babe
I said ah no, no, no, it ain't me babe…

Jay and the Americans - This Is It (1962)

Discovered at NYU in the late ‘50s, this group is remembered primarily for their amazing vocals. Having two different singers (John “Jay” Taynor and, later, David Blatt, who went by David Black or Jay Black), both going by the name of “Jay Black” while in the group, they were able to put out multiple hits throughout the 1960s. Their most well known song, “Come A Little Bit Closer,” reached #3 in 1964 and led to the group going on tour with The Beatles and The Righteous Brothers.

This song, from 1962, was sung by the original singer, Jay Taynor. After it failed to chart, Taynor decided to leave the group and pursue a solo career. Although slow, this song has great vocals and harmonies, making it worth remembering/hearing.



Jay and the Americans - This Is It (1962)

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Lyrics:

She doesn't love me anymore
She doesn't want my kisses
I know that this is it for me

She doesn't want me anymore
Somehow my touch just misses
I know that this is it for me

(So turn on the sun) I need the sunlight
Need its glow to make things bright
Without her, every day is black as night

(And bring out the moon) I need the moonlight
Brighter than it's ever shone
She is gone and I am so alone

(But she cried for me) When she cried for me
(Yes she cried for me) Yes she cried for me
(And she) woah woah wooah
(Could've laid down and died for me) woooah

She doesn't love me anymore
She doesn't want my kisses
I know that this is it for me

(This is it) Goodbye
(This is it) And so long, my little girl
(This is it) And I know, I know, I know
(This is it) That this is it for me

The Del Vikings - Come Go With Me (1956)

One of the few racially integrated groups of the 1950s, these guys were able to produce a string of hits throughout the decade. Their history is full of people leaving, joining, reuniting, and lawsuits. What’s important is the music that they created.

This song, which was their second hit, propelled the group to stardom. It reached number four on the Billboard Hot 100 and sold over a million copies, earning itself a gold disc. It was the group’s largest hit and remains one of the most recognizable doo-wop songs of the ‘50s.



The Del Vikings - Come Go With Me (1956)

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Lyrics:

Well, I love- love you darlin’
Come and go with me
Come with me
Way beyond the sea
I need you darlin’
So, come go with me

Come, come, come, come
Come into my heart
Tell me darlin’
We will never part
I need you darlin’
So come go with me

Yes, I need you
Yes, I really need you
Please, say you'll never leave me
Well, say you never
Yes, you really never
(You never give me a chance)(Ohhhh!)

Come, come, come, come
Come into my heart
Tell me darlin’
We will never part
I need you darlin’
So come go with me
Yea!

Yes, I need you
Yes, I really need you
Please, say you'll never leave me
Well, say you never
Yes, you really never
(You never give me a chance) (Ohhhh!)

Love, love me darlin’
Come and go with me
Come with me
Way beyond the sea
I need you darlin’
So, come go with me

Come on, go with me
Come on, go with me
Come on, go with me

The Rolling Stones - Lady Jane (1966)

Formed in 1962 by childhood friends, and getting their name from a Muddy Waters song, this group is still together recording, performing, and remaining popular today. After reaching popularity in Europe, they came over in the first wave of the British Invasion hitting it big in the United States. They’re widely considered one of the greatest bands of all time.

I like this song for its classical/haunting sound. Whenever I hear this song, I picture it being sung in the great hall of an ancient castle, echoing off of the stone walls. The unique sound you can hear throughout the song is the dulcimer, being played by Brian Jones. This isn't the Stones you hear on the radio.



The Rolling Stones - Lady Jane (1966)

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Lyrics:

My sweet Lady Jane
When I see you again
Your servant, am I
And will humbly remain

Just heed this plea, my love
On bended knees, my love
I pledge myself to Lady Jane

My dear Lady Anne
I've done what I can
I must take my leave
For promised I am

This play is run, my love
Your time has come, my love
I've pledged my troth to Lady Jane

Oh, my sweet Marie
I wait at your ease
The sands have run out
For your lady and me

Wedlock is nigh, my love
Her station's right, my love
Life is secure with Lady Jane

The Gestures - Run, Run, Run (1964)

Coming from Mankato, Minnesota, this band was one of the many garage bands trying to hit it big in the 1960s. Although they managed to have one song reach #44 on the national Billboard Hot 100, the record company couldn’t meet the record demand and the band folded soon after.

This song, their only big hit, was noted for crisp guitar playing and its quick beat. There isn’t a lot to be found in the lyrics, but the surf rock sound is more than enough to keep you interested.



The Gestures - Run, Run, Run (1964)

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Lyrics:

Now run, run baby
Run, run, run to set you free
Run, run, run, run baby
Run, run, run, run baby, run
I'll just set you free

Now did you know
That I didn't love you?
And did you know
I'd make a fool of you?

Run, run, run, run baby
Run, run, run, run baby, run

There I was all alone
Waiting for you to phone
But you were out with another guy
Why, oh why, oh why?

Run, run baby
Run, run, run to set you free
Run, run, run, run baby
Run, run, run, run baby, run
I'll just set you free

There I was all alone
Waiting for you to phone
But you were out with another guy
Why, oh why, oh why?

Come on and run, run baby
Run, run, run to set you free
Run, run, run, run baby
Run, run, run, run baby
Run, run, run, run baby, run

Booker T. & The M.G's - Green Onions (1962)

One of the first racially integrated rock groups, this band was influential in shaping Memphis soul music. They provided background music for Wilson Pickett and Otis Redding at the beginning of their career and had continued success through the early ‘70s.

This song, completely instrumental, has been a lasting classic making appearances in television shows and films for decades. You may remember it being played in Happy Gilmore, X-Men: First Class, or American Dad!, but for me, it’s always been connected with The Sandlot.



Booker T. & The M.G's - Green Onions (1962)

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Lyrics:

(instrumental)

The Beatles - While My Guitar Gently Weeps [Demo] (1968)

The most critically acclaimed band of all time. The best selling band of all time. My favorite band of all time. These four guys from Liverpool changed everything about the world of music. They led the British Invasion as well as the direction of popular music for nearly a decade. They turned the entire music industry upside-down, led the counter-culture of the 1960s, and even had their own movies, television shows, and video games. They are the most important thing to happen to rock music in its history. If you haven’t listened to their entire discography, you’re missing out.

In 1968, when inner turmoil first started amongst the band, George Harrison’s talent and skill as a songwriter began to shoot skyward. Still seen as “a younger brother” to the older John and Paul, his songs were usually overlooked and underappreciated. Luckily, this song was recognized for the classic it was and became one of the best songs off of The White Album. This somewhat rare version was released in 1996, on Anthology, Vol. 3, and provides an extra verse later omitted in the final version.



The Beatles – While My Guitar Gently Weeps [Demo] (1968)

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Lyrics:

I look at you all, see the love there that's sleeping
While my guitar gently weeps
I look at the floor and I see it needs sweeping
Still my guitar gently weeps

I don't know why nobody told you
How to unfold your love
I don't know how someone controlled you
They bought and sold you

I look at the world and I notice it's turning
While my guitar gently weeps
With every mistake we must surely be learning
Still my guitar gently weeps

I don't know how you were diverted
You were perverted, too
I don't know how you were inverted
No one elected you

I look from the wings at the play you are staging
While my guitar gently weeps
As I'm sitting here doing nothing but aging
Still, my guitar gently weeps

Fairport Convention - Suzanne (1968)

Twenty-six people have been able to claim to be in this band; far too many to start listing. Some members have done work with Jethro Tull, Cat Stephens, and even Led Zeppelin. They’re widely regarded as launching the entire folk rock movement in England and still perform today.

This song, written and recorded by Leonard Cohen, has been covered by many artists. It’s said to be about the wife of a sculptor in Montreal, whom Cohen knew.



Fairport Convention – Suzanne (1968)

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Lyrics:

Suzanne takes you down to the place by the river
You can hear the boats go by
You can spend the night forever
But you know that she's half crazy
That's why you want to be there
And she feeds you tea and oranges
That come all the way from China
And just when you want to tell her
That you have no love to give her
She gets you on her wavelength
She lets the river answer
That you've always been her lover

And you want to travel with her
And you want to travel blind
And you think that maybe you'll trust her
For she's touched your perfect body with her mind

And Jesus was a sailor
When he walked upon the water
He spent a long time watching
From his lonely wooden tower
And when he knew for certain
Only drowning men could see him
He said "All men shall be sailors then
Until the sea shall free them"
But he himself was broken
Long before the sky would open
Forsaken, almost human
He sank beneath your wisdom like a stone

And you want to travel with him
And you want to travel blind
And you think you'll maybe trust him
For he's touched your perfect body with his mind

Suzanne takes you down to a place by the river
You can hear the boats go by
You can spend the night forever
And the sun pours down like honey
On our lady of the harbor
And she shows you where to look
Amid the garbage and the flowers
There are heroes in the seaweed
There are children in the morning
And they’re leaning out for love
And they will lean that way forever
While Suzanne holds the mirror

And you want to travel with her
And you want to travel blind
And you think you'll maybe trust her
For you've touched her perfect body with your mind

The Choir - It's Cold Outside (1966)

Hitting it big for a brief time in Cleveland, this garage rock band is primarily remembered for their one hit song, heard below, included on multiple ‘60s compilation albums. Originally known as The Mods, they officially broke up for the final time in 1970. Jim Bonfanti, Dave Smalley, and Wally Bryson went on to be in the successful band, Raspberries, with Eric Carmen.

This song was recorded under the bands first name, The Mods, in 1966. Before '66 was over, however, the group learned that a Chicago group calling themselves The Modernaires shortened their name to The Mods and this group quickly changed their name to The Choir to avoid confusion. I'm not sure if any records with this song were released with 'The Mods' name, but the song became a big local hit for the group under their new name in 1967.



The Choir - It's Cold Outside (1966)

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Lyrics:

Well, my world used to be sunny
And jokes used to be funny
But now you're gone and everything's turned all 'round

Well, my world used to be warm
And there never was a storm
But now you're gone and everything's turned upside down

And now it's cold outside (it's cold outside)
And the rain is pouring down
And the leaves are turning brown
Can you see?
That now it's cold outside (it’s cold outside)
And it's all because of you
‘cause there's nothing I can do
To make you love me

Well, my world used to be sunny
And jokes used to be funny
But now you're gone and everything's turned all 'round

Well, my world used to be warm
And there never was a storm
But now you're gone and everything's turned upside down

And now it's cold outside (it's cold outside)
And the rain is pouring down
And the leaves are turning brown
Can you see?
That now it's cold outside (it’s cold outside)
And it's all because of you
‘cause there's nothing I can do
To make you love me

And now it's cold outside (it's cold outside)
And the rain is pouring down
And the leaves are turning brown
Can you see?
That now it's cold outside (it’s cold outside)
And it's all because of you
‘cause there's nothing I can do
To make you love me
To make you love me
To make you love me
To make you love me
Me

The Grass Roots - Let's Live For Today (1967)

Formed in 1966, this band has gone through multiple members and still continues to perform today. They’ve managed to obtain fourteen Top 40 hits over the years.

This top ten hit, coming in the Summer of Love, is heavily associated with the “sound of the '60s.” It was originally an Italian hit in 1966 for the band “The Rokes.” P.F. Sloan played lead guitar.



The Grass Roots - Let's Live For Today (1967)

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Lyrics:

When I think of all the worries
That people seem to find
And how they're in a hurry
To complicate their minds
By chasing after money
And dreams that can't come true
I'm glad that we are different
We've better things to do
May others plan their future
I'm busy loving you

(One, two, three, four!)

Sha la la la la la live for today (hey)
Sha la la la la la live for today
And don't worry 'bout tomorrow, hey
Sha la la la la la live for today
Live for today

We were never meant to worry
The way that people do
And I don't mean to hurry
As long as I'm with you
We'll take it nice and easy
And use my simple plan
You'll be my lovin' woman
I'll be your lovin' man
We'll take the most from living
Have pleasure while we can

(Two, three, four!)

Sha la la la la la live for today (hey)
Sha la la la la la live for today
And don't worry 'bout tomorrow, hey
Sha la la la la la live for today
Live for today

Baby, I need to feel you inside of me
I got to feel you deep inside of me
Baby, please come close to me
I got to have you now, please (please)
Please (please) to gimme some a-lovin'
(To gimme some a-lovin’)
To gimme some a-lovin’
(To gimme some a-lovin’)
Baby, gimme some a-lovin'
(To gimme some a-lovin’)
(Got to have all your lovin’)
(Gimme some a-lovin')
(I need all your lovin')
(Gimme some a-lovin')
(Now I need all your lovin’)

Sha la la la la la live for today
Sha la la la la la live for today
And don't worry 'bout tomorrow, hey

Sha la la la la la live for today
(Oh, no, no, no, no, no)
Sha la la la la la live for today…

The Byrds - My Back Pages (1967)

One of the most influential bands of the 1960s, they were able to merge folk rock with the sounds of the British Invasion. A combination of their incredible harmony singing and their unique jangly guitar made them one of the top bands from 1965 to 1966. They were also responsible for directly influencing The Beatles during their (arguably) best album, Rubber Soul. You can particularly hear the influence in the song “If I Needed Someone,” where the guitar riff is almost exactly the same as their “The Bells of Rhymney.”

This song, originally written and performed by Bob Dylan, tells of how Dylan was rejecting his earlier political idealism and was now going in a new direction. The Byrds version, released in 1967, would be the last Top 40 hit for them in the US.



The Byrds - My Back Pages (1967)

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Lyrics:

Crimson flames tied through my ears
Rollin' high and mighty trapped
Countless fire and flaming road
Using ideas as my maps
"We'll meet on edges, soon," said I
Proud 'neath heated brow
Ah, but I was so much older then
I'm younger than that now

Half-wracked prejudice leaped forth
"Rip down all hate," I screamed
Lies that life is black and white
Spoke from my skull, I dreamed
Romantic flanks of musketeers
Foundationed deep, somehow
Ah, but I was so much older then
I'm younger than that now

In a soldier's stance, I aimed my hand
At the mongrel dogs who teach
Fearing not I'd become my enemy
In the instant that I preached
Sisters led by confusion boats
Mutiny from stern to bow
Ah, but I was so much older then
I'm younger than that now

Ah, but I was so much older then
I'm younger than that now

My guard stood hard when abstract threats
Too noble to neglect
Deceived me into thinking
I had something to protect
Good and bad, I defined these terms
Quite clear, no doubt, somehow
Ah, but I was so much older then
I'm younger than that now

Roy Orbison - Yo Te Amo Maria (1964)

The Beatles once gave credit to this man for showing them you didn’t have to write a song as “verse, chorus, verse, chorus.” Elvis Presley and Bono claimed that he had the greatest voice they had ever heard. He was known to wear all black, including sunglasses, and stand motionless as he sang each song. One of the most critically acclaimed singers and songwriters of all time, this small paragraph cannot do him justice. Unfortunately, he passed away at the height of his comeback in 1988.

This song is frequently heard by my poor girlfriend, whom I serenade with it at every embarrassing chance I get. Originally, the B-side to his best known song, "Oh, Pretty Woman," it has never been held in the upper echelon of his song catalog.



Roy Orbison - Yo Te Amo Maria (1964)

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Lyrics:

I'm a poor peasant boy, I'm a dirt farmer's son
And I feel like a king when I know that my work is all done
For at twilight I know, there's a place I must go
And sing my song of love for one who waits all alone

Yo te amo Maria, Maria amor
Yo te amo Maria, Maria mi amor

Oh, the beautiful sights of the great city lights
Where most people must run to try to have fun, not for me
For this woman of mine is much sweeter than wine
And I spend all the time I can find with my Marie

Yo te amo Maria, Maria amor
Yo te amo Maria, Maria mi amor

Oh, the joy of my life will one day be my wife
And we'll spend all our days watching the world roll on by
When her time comes to fly to that home in the sky
I pray the angels above will love her as much as I

Yo te amo Maria, Maria amor
Yo te amo Maria, Maria mi amor

Grin - Outlaw (1971)

When Nils Lofgren and his bandmates were invited to stay with Neil Young in California, they had yet to release an album. Neil Young was so impressed with the young Lofgren that he invited him to play on his solo album, After the Gold Rush. This commercial exposure led to Lofgren getting his own group a record deal that would lead to them releasing four albums.

Neil Young assisted in providing backing vocals for this track, as well as Danny Whitten and Ralph Molina.

Some of the lyrics are indecipherable to me, so please let me know if you can figure them out.



Grin - Outlaw (1971)

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Lyrics:

Now if it – if it’s good and I say “do it over,” you gotta be a judge because this is so much fun I – I would just say do it over and over just for fun, and like, I realize we have other things to do.

I woke up a-shiverin’ in my blanket
The cold wind whistlin’ through the open door
I heard a stranger cursin’ on my sister
I said, “Oh Lord, what is this bad man for?”

I jumped up a-stumblin’ for my sister
I feel the laugh as she fell to the floor
The wind was whistlin’ like a train in station
And that outlaw had just run out the door

Please, mister, don’t ya kill my sister
Would ya take the only life I have?
The outlaw said, “Son, stand in the corner”
“If I kill your sister, well, that’s too bad”

(Sing a song; make it easy)

Now I can hear a sick dog through a blizzard
And I can feel the springline on a tree
But when that outlaw struck down pretty sister
Don’cha know Heaven walked out, why, I could not see

I rest here every night with kin, family
We talk about the day and lows to be
Well I come terrified of these discussion
When I become the only soul who's seeked

Please, mister, don’t ya kill my sister
(Don’tcha do it)
Would ya take the only life I have?
The outlaw said, “Son, stand in the corner”
“If I kill your sister, well that’s too bad”

(Please Sheriff, hang the outlaw)

Please, mister, don’t ya kill my sister

Rupert's People - Reflections of Charles Brown (1967)

Originally being compared to The Kinks when formed in 1967, this band had far too many lineups for having only released three singles. One of their members, Peter Solley, went on to play with Procol Harum. Another member, Steve Brendell, played the maracas on John Lennon’s Imagine album.

This song is the band’s best known hit under this name. They also performed under the name Les Fleur de Lys. This song was released at the same time of Procol Harum’s “A Whiter Shade of Pale” and has also been said to have a very similar sound. As it turned out, “A Whiter Shade of Pale” was a huge success and overshadowed the marginal success of this release. I think that if you enjoy one, you’ll enjoy the other.



Rupert's People - Reflections of Charles Brown (1967)

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Lyrics:

Charlie Brown works hard all day
Doesn't get home ‘til the sky’s gray
Sees his children tucked in bed
He's the man that gets them fed

Sits down by the fireside
The tears fill his eyes
The winds blowing
And the storms a-growing
Aren't you glad you're inside?

What a quiet life he's had
Don't you think it's very sad?

Stays in bed ‘til 10 o'clock
On his weekly one day off
Takes his kids down to the park
‘Til the sky starts getting dark

What a quiet life he's had
Don't you think it's very sad?

Monday morning comes so fast
Makes him wonder
How the time goes past
Another week of grunt and grind
Another week's HP to find

What a quiet life he's had
Don't you think it's very sad?

The Doors - Spanish Caravan (1968)

Formed in 1965, this band is one of the most celebrated groups of the 20th century. Jim Morrison, their singer, had a phenomenal voice, wrote poetic lyrics, and had an unpredictable stage presence. Between inducing riots, exposing himself to the audience, and getting banned from The Ed Sullivan Show, Jim Morrison and his band were frequently in the headlines for more than just their great music.

Although not one of their many well known hits, this song is a pleasure to listen to. The first 1:45 sounds like a Spanish flamenco piece; whereas, the last 1:15 sounds like a Spanish flamenco piece on LSD at the circus.



The Doors - Spanish Caravan (1968)

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Lyrics:

Carry me caravan, take me away
Take me to Portugal; take me to Spain
Andalusia with fields full of grain
I have to see you again and again

Take me Spanish caravan
Yes, I know you can

Trade winds find galleons lost in the sea
I know where treasure is waiting for me
Silver and gold in the mountains of Spain
I have to see you again and again

Take me Spanish caravan
Yes, I know you can

Emerson, Lake & Palmer - Lucky Man (1970)

This supergroup, formed in 1969 and usually referred to as ELP, consisted of Keith Emerson (formerly of The Nice), Greg Lake (formerly of King Crimson), and Carl Palmer (formerly of The Crazy World of Arthur Brown). They were almost known as HELP when Jimi Hendrix had interest in joining the band. Unfortunately, Hendrix died 26 days after having planned their first jam session.

This song was written by Greg Lake when he was only 12 years old. It was also one of the first to have a solo done with a Moog synthesizer.



Emerson, Lake & Palmer - Lucky Man (1970)

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Lyrics:

He had white horses
And ladies by the score
All dressed in satin
And waiting by the door

Ooh, what a lucky man he was
Ooh, what a lucky man he was

White lace and feathers
They made up his bed
A gold covered mattress
On which he was led

Ooh, what a lucky man he was
Ooh, what a lucky man he was

He went to fight wars
For his country and his king
Of his honor and his glory
The people would sing

Ooh, what a lucky man he was
Ooh, what a lucky man he was

A bullet had found him
His blood ran as he cried
No money could save him
So he laid down and he died

Ooh, what a lucky man he was
Ooh, what a lucky man he was

The Dave Clark Five - 'Til the Right One Comes Along (1965)

The band that knocked The Beatles "I Want to Hold Your Hand" out of the number one spot in 1964 with "Glad All Over," this group was also the first group to appear on The Ed Sullivan Show after The Fab Four. Being known as the second group to come over in the British Invasion, they had a handful of lasting hits such as "Sha-Na-Na Hey Hey Kiss Him Goodbye," "Put a Little Love in Your Heart," and "Everybody Get Together."

This song wasn't one of their big hits. It's a somber song that has a great echoing effect on the vocals making the singer seem as the lyrics imply: totally alone.



The Dave Clark Five - 'Til the Right One Comes Along (1965)

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Lyrics:

It's not the first time it's happened to me
‘Cause every girl I seem to get leaves me
But I'll keep on trying
‘Til the right one comes along
Oh, oh, oh

Every time I think "this is the one"
All she'll do is get up and run
But I'll keep on trying
‘Til the right one comes along

I've tried so hard but it seems no use
‘Cause every time I get to like somebody
They just get up and leave
And it gives me the blues

It's not the first time it's happened to me
Every girl I seem to get leaves me
But I'll keep on trying
‘Til the right one comes along
Oh, oh, oh

I've tried so hard but it seems no use
‘Cause every time I get to like somebody
They just get up and leave
And it gives me the blues

Every time I think "this is the one"
All she'll do is get up and run
But I'll keep on trying
‘Til the right one comes along
Oh, oh, oh
I'll keep on trying
‘Til the right one comes along
Oh, oh, oh
I'll keep on trying
‘Til the right one comes along

Traffic - Coloured Rain (1967)

Steve Winwood left The Spencer Davis Group with whom he had been singing with as early as fifteen years old. After quitting, he formed a new band with Dave Mason. Mason would have a great future ahead of him playing and recording with many world-renowned artists.

This song, although never one of their singles or big hits, is a great psychedelic song. The psychedelic nature of the song is exactly where Dave Mason wanted to take the group stylistically; however, the rest of the band wanted to head toward blues and folk, so Mason parted ways.

Luckily this song, and the others on the album Mr. Fantasy, were created and released before the band made their stride toward a new sound without Dave Mason.



Traffic - Coloured Rain (1967)

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Lyrics:

Yesterday I was a young boy
Searching for my way
Not knowing what I wanted
Living life from day to day
'til you came along
There was nothing but an empty space and a pain

Feels like coloured rain
Tastes like coloured rain
Bring on coloured rain
Yeah!

I can see the sail of changing
Filling with surprise
United with a feeling
Bringing love into my eyes
‘til you came along
There was nothing but an empty space and a pain

Feels like coloured rain
Tastes like coloured rain
Bring on coloured rain
Yeah!

The Mindbenders - Um Um Um Um Um Um (1964)

Another band to get their name from a movie, this 1960s band was originally the backing group for Wayne Fontana and had a few hits in their short lifespan. Their biggest hit, "A Groovy Kind of Love," hit #2 in the UK in 1965 and was their first release after Wayne Fontana deserted the group mid-concert.

This song, however, comes from when Fontana was still in the group. It's a cover of an original song performed by Major Lance. The first fifteen seconds of the song are great. This version reached number five in the UK.



The Mindbenders - Um Um Um Um Um Um (1964)

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Lyrics:

Walking through the park, it wasn't quite dark
There was a man sittin’ on a bench
Out of the crowd, had his head lowly bowed
He just moaned and it made no sense

And he'd just go
Um, um, um, um, um
Um, um, um, um, um, um
Um, um, um, um, um
Um, um, um, um, um, um

I just couldn't help myself
I was born with a curious mind
I asked this man just what did he mean
When he moaned if he'd be so kind

And he'd just go
Um, um, um, um, um
Um, um, um, um, um, um
Um, um, um, um, um
Um, um, um, um, um, um

(Ahhh Ahhh Ahhh Ahhh…)
Now that I got up
And the woman I love she has gone
Now that I'm a man, I think I understand
Just why everyone should sing this song

So listen to me now
Um, um, um, um, um
Um, um, um, um, um, um
Um, um, um, um, um
Um, um, um, um, um, um

Come on now
Um, um, um, um, um
Um, um, um, um, um, um

Everybody
Um, um, um, um, um
Um, um, um, um, um, um

The Yardbirds - White Summer (1967)

Another short-lived band that left a major impression in music. This group's lineup switched multiple times over their five year span and always consisted of major talent. Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, and Jimmy Page were all, at one time or another, lead guitarists.

This song, coming from the Jimmy Page era of the group, had the guitar tuned like a sitar to get its unique sound. A few years after its release, the lineup of the band was once again changed and no original members were left. Jimmy Page and his new band-mates Robert Plant, John Bonham, and John Paul Jones decided they needed a name change and Led Zeppelin was born. This song became a staple at their live shows.

The future sound of Led Zeppelin can definitely be heard throughout this song.



The Yardbirds - White Summer (1967)

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Lyrics:

(instrumental)

Marmalade - I See the Rain (1967)

Coming out of Scotland, and originally going by the name of The Gaylords, they decided to change their name in 1967, along with their image.

The band opened for Pink Floyd, The Who, Joe Cocker, and Traffic. The song heard below, which Jimi Hendrix called "the best cut of 1967," featured Graham Nash helping to contribute to the sessions of this song.



Marmalade - I See the Rain (1967)

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Lyrics:

Beautiful day I'd like to lie on the green lawn
The ducks are congregating ‘round and ‘round the lily pond
And the cows have all gone
Running home to put their coats on
Stay indoors while it pours ‘til tomorrow

I see the rain again
I must complain again
Why does the rain let me down?
Will you try and make it sunny in the morning?

Five to ten, now it's time for the weather
The sun will shine and in its time get better
But it won't last for long
Clouds are spreading over London town
Stay indoors while it pours ‘til tomorrow

I see the rain again
I'll take the blame again
I see the rain lets you down
But I'm gonna make it sunny in the morning

Stay indoors while it pours ‘til tomorrow
I see the rain again
I’ll take the blame again
I see the rain lets you down
But I’m gonna make it sunny in the morning

Buffalo Springfield - Out of My Mind [Demo] (1966)

This group is primarily remembered for their song "For What It's Worth". Despite that song being a contender for my all time personal favorite, they had a slew of other great songs.

Being composed of two future twice-inducted members of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, they were destined for greatness. Unfortunately, internal conflicts led the group to split up after releasing only three albums. Stephen Stills went on to great success in Crosby, Stills, & Nash (and sometimes Young), whereas Neil Young went on to have a wonderful solo career and success in CSNY.

This song in particular is not the initial release. This version, the acoustic version recorded in 1966, comes from the Buffalo Springfield Box Set released in 2001. A big difference between the two versions is that this one consists of an entire extra verse where Neil Young just sings "da da da da da da da..."



Buffalo Springfield - Out of My Mind [Demo] (1966)

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Lyrics:

"Out of My Mind"

Out of my mind
And I just can't take it anymore
Left behind
By myself and what I'm living for
All I hear is screams
From outside the limousines
That are taking me

Out of my mind
Through the keyhole in an open door
Happy to find
That I don't know what I'm smiling for
Tired of hanging on
If you've missed me, I've just gone
Cause they're taking me

Out of my mind
Da da da da da da da da da
Da da da da
Da da da da da da da da da
Da da da da da
Da da da da da da da
Da da da da da da da

Out of my mind
And I just can't take it anymore
Left behind
By myself and what I'm living for
All I hear is screams
From outside the limousines
That are taking me
Out of my mind

The Searchers - Take Me For What I'm Worth (1965)

Formed in 1959 and getting their name from a John Wayne film, this group was the second act out of Liverpool (the first being The Beatles) to have a hit in the United States. You may be familiar with their most well-known song "Needles and Pins."

This song was written and originally recorded by P.F. Sloan.



The Searchers - Take Me For What I'm Worth (1965)

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Lyrics:

Don't try and understand me, you never could do that
Aw, and in the end you'd wind up being hurt
I'm a man with too many problems that keep pounding on my brain

So if you want me you'll take me for what I'm worth
(If you want me you'll take me for what I'm worth)

I don't pretend to be a saint, my sins they are many
But there's no-one perfect in this universe
And though you think I'm weird, don't try and change me dear

'Cause if you want me you'll take me for what I'm worth
(If you want me you'll take me for what I'm worth)

Hear a howlin’ wind outside my door, there's restlessness within
Oh, I'm like a raincloud that one day may burst
We both know I'll be leavin' and if one little tear you grieve

Aw, it's alright 'cause that's all I'm really worth
(It's alright 'cause that's all I'm really worth)

And if you think about me in your lonesome hours
Aw, and on your lips there's a sweet word and not a curse
Aw, then I'll be comin' back one day when my wandering’s over

Aw, if you want me you'll take me for what I'm worth
(If you want me you'll take me for what I'm worth)
Aw, if you want me you'll take me for what I'm worth
(If you want me you'll take me for what I'm worth)

The Hollies - Carrie Anne (1967)

Written by Graham Nash, Allan Clarke, and Tony Hicks, this song was inspired by the then-girlfriend of Mick Jagger, Marianne Faithfull. It was recorded in the beginning of May 1967, reached number three in the UK, and number nine in the US. It was backed with the B-Side "Signs That Will Never Change."



The Hollies - Carrie Anne (1967)

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Lyrics:

Doo doo doo-doo doo doo doo-doo doo
Doo doo doo-doo doo doo doo-doo doo
Hey, Carrie Anne
Hey, Carrie Anne

When we were at school our games were simple
I played a janitor, you played a monitor
Then you played with older boys and prefects
What's the attraction in what they're doing?

Hey Carrie Anne
What's your game now, can anybody play?
Hey Carrie Anne
What's your game now, can anybody play?

You were always something special to me
Quite independent, never caring
You lost your charm as you were aging
Where is your magic disappearing?

Hey Carrie Anne
What's your game now, can anybody play?
Hey Carrie Anne
What's your game now, can anybody play?

You're so, so like a woman to me
(So like a woman to me)
So, so like a woman to me
(Like a woman to me)

Hey Carrie Anne
What's your game now, can anybody play?
Hey Carrie Anne
What's your game now, can anybody play?

People live and learn but you're still learning
You use my mind and I'll be your teacher
When the lesson's over you'll be with me
Then I'll hear the other people saying:

Hey Carrie Anne
What's your game now, can anybody play?
Hey Carrie Anne
What's your game now, can anybody play?

Carrie Anne
(Carrie Anne, Carrie Anne...)

The Gants - I Wonder (1967)

This group was originally called The Kingsmen, though not to be confused with the same The Kingsmen that released "Louie, Louie." They came from Greenwood, Mississippi.

You'll notice the melody of this song is very similar to the piano solo from "In My Life" by The Beatles. That was intentional. A lot of the songs by them, such as "My Baby Don't Care" (which you can hear here) had something to do with their idols, The Beatles.

[Update: Sid Herring of The Gants provided us with an exclusive story! You can read it here.]



The Gants - I Wonder (1967)

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Lyrics:

I don’t know why I’m shy
When she’s around
But I know when she leaves
My head hangs down

Is it her looks, her ways
That makes me care?
I always seem to see her
Everywhere

My how I wonder
What makes me feel
The way I feel
When I’m ‘round her, oh yeah

When I see her
I feel funny inside
Should I look? Should I talk?
Or should I hide?

I should go up to her
And ask her her name
But she might take me wrong
And I’ll feel ashamed

My how I wonder
What makes me feel
The way I feel
When I’m ‘round her, oh yeah

(Ooh, ooh, ooh...ooh, ooh, ooh…)
I wonder…
(Ooh, ooh, ooh...ooh, ooh, ooh…)
I wonder…
(Ooh, ooh, ooh...ooh, ooh, ooh…)
I wonder…