Grateful Dead - Alice D. Millionaire (1967)

Coming out of the San Francisco Bay Area in 1965, this band was known for their groundbreaking combinations of folk, rock, bluegrass, and psychedelia, which led to a large group of cult followers, known as Dead Heads, following the band on tour for years at a time. Quite impressively, the core of the band (Jerry Garcia, Bob Weir, Phil Lesh, and Bill Kreutzmann) stayed together recording and performing from 1965 until the band’s end in 1995, when Garcia passed away.

This song was inspired by the headline of the Los Angeles Times, October 5, 1966, “LSD Millionaire Arrested”. It was an article about the brilliant underground chemist, Owsley Stanley, responsible for 1.25 million doses of LSD from 1965 to 1967, being arrested the day before California criminalized the drug. If you haven’t caught the connection, sound out the title of the article and the title of the song: “LSD Millionaire” and “Alice D. Millionaire”.



Grateful Dead - Alice D. Millionaire (1967)

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Lyrics:

You say you're livin’ in a world of trouble
All your schemes have popped like a bubble
Your mother told your sister
And your brother told your friend
Now your secret's out and you don't have to pretend
You can see for yourself; it's really not the end

You're standing there with tears in your eyes
There's too much going on, my my, there's no time to cry

You say the walls are closing in on you, child
All your friends have put you in exile
Bad luck seem to follow you all around the world
You can't seem to find no peace of mind, girl
You will take a chance to seem so bad

You're standing there with tears in your eyes
There's too much going on, my my, no time to cry (no time to cry)

Every minute is a brand new day
And there are some games that are just fun to play
Even bad scenes are for real; there's no time to cry

Since you left your old scene behind you
Go ahead and let the green light find you
It's warm and friendly, girl, and it won't blind you
Come out in the street and the weeds won't grind you
See that love is in the air; you feel it all around you

Standin’ there with tears in your eyes
There's too much going on, my my, no time to cry

Your yesterdays are all left behind
There's a brand new light in your mind
You don't need a key to define
What's written on the magic sign
There's no time to cry

When the season of the magic lantern
Is transformed into a funny pattern
And the wheel of fortune has a flat tire
You can't seem to get any higher
When you go above the baylor machine, you find a horseshoe

You're standing there with tears in your eyes
There's too much going on, my my, there's no time to cry

13th Floor Elevators - Slide Machine (1967)

Formed in 1965 and lasting until 1968, this group is considered one of the first psychedelic bands. ZZ Top, as well as Big Brother and the Holding Company, claim to be largely inspired by their work. Related to this, their work has been said to be paramount to the development of garage and punk rock, distinctly in their first single, “You’re Gonna Miss Me”. Quite uniquely (even by ‘60s standards), the band recorded each album and played each live performance under the influence of LSD.

This song is taken from the group’s most celebrated album, Easter Everywhere, which features their eight-minute fan-favorite “Slip Inside This House” and a cover of Bob Dylan’s “Baby Blue”. If you listen closely, you can hear the group’s famous electric jug, which sounds a bit like a UFO sound effect from an old science fiction movie.



13^th Floor Elevators - Slide Machine (1967)

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Lyrics:

Been down south where they use the slide machine
Where the gods of old are heard but seldom seen
And here I been just stuck up in between
Trying to- trying to- trying to get back to you
Trying to- trying to- trying to get back to you

Well, the slide machine, it sweeps bones right off the road
For the tandem trucks and the moats that they towed
And me, I've just been looking for one going slow
Trying to- trying to- trying to get back to you
Trying to- trying to- trying to get back to you

My woman here, she's got a dozen names
She's sought by soldiers and they try to keep her tame
And her rewards will leave them just the same
Trying to- trying to- trying to get back to you
Trying to- trying to- trying to get back to you

Well I’ve been down south where they use the slide machine
Where the gods of old are heard but seldom seen
And here I been just stuck up in between
Trying to- trying to- trying to get back to you
Trying to- trying to- trying to get back to you

Santo & Johnny - Sleep Walk (1959)

Italian brothers from Brooklyn, New York, Santo and Johnny Farina had their first and biggest hit (heard below) in 1959 and continued milder success through the ‘60s. Their cover of The Beatles’ “And I Love Her” hit number one in Mexico for twenty-one weeks and their version of the theme song to The Godfather went to number one in Italy for twenty-one weeks, as well.

This song was the last instrumental to reach number one in the 1950s and is often tied to the final scene of La Bamba (1987), the Ritchie Valens story. Although it’s instrumental, it originally had lyrics written to accompany it. They never recorded a version using those lyrics, but Betsy Brye did later in 1959.



Santo & Johnny - Sleep Walk (1959)

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Lyrics:

(instrumental)

Bob Dylan - Masters of War (1963)

One of the most influential figures in the history of popular music, this reluctant “voice of a generation” started by writing folk music centered on US civil rights and anti-war themes. His music has evolved numerous times over the past fifty years and has incorporated folk, rock, blues, country, gospel, and much more. He was a large influence on The Beatles, specifically John Lennon, and later helped create the supergroup, The Traveling Wilburys, with George Harrison. This is an artist who cannot be summed up in the space provided here.

This song comes from 1963, a time before he electrified his music and was still writing folk songs for social change. The music is based on the English folk song "Nottamun Town". Though not as popular as “Blowin’ in the Wind” or “The Times They Are A-Changin’,” this song, in a darker sense, fits to the same lyrical theme. Of the lyrics, he said he had never written about hoping anyone dead before, but he felt he “couldn’t help it with this one.”

[Note: this probably isn't the type of song you can play as “background music” and be entertained. Its strong point is its message/lyrics and is suggested to be listened to as if hearing a speech. Enjoy!]



Bob Dylan - Masters of War (1963)

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Lyrics:

Come you masters of war
You that build the big guns
You that build the death planes
You that build all the bombs
You that hide behind walls
You that hide behind desks
I just want you to know
I can see through your masks

You that never done nothin’
But build to destroy
You play with my world
Like it’s your little toy
You put a gun in my hand
And you hide from my eyes
And you turn and run farther
When the fast bullets fly

Like Judas of old
You lie and deceive
A world war can be won
You want me to believe
But I see through your eyes
And I see through your brain
Like I see through the water
That runs down my drain

You fasten all the triggers
For the others to fire
And then you set back and watch
While the death count gets higher
You hide in your mansion
While the young people’s blood
Flows out of their bodies
And is buried in the mud

You’ve thrown the worst fear
That can ever be hurled
Fear to bring children
Into the world
For threatening my baby
Unborn and unnamed
You ain’t worth the blood
That runs in your veins

How much do I know
To talk out of turn?
You might say that I’m young
You might say I’m unlearned
But there’s one thing I know
Though I’m younger than you
That even Jesus would never
Forgive what you do

Let me ask you one question
Is your money that good?
Will it buy you forgiveness?
Do you think that it could?
I think you will find
When your death takes its toll
All the money you made
Will never buy back your soul

And I hope that you die
And your death will come soon
I’ll follow your casket
On the pale afternoon
And I’ll watch while you’re lowered
Down to your deathbed
And I’ll stand over your grave
’Til I’m sure that you’re dead

The Fire - Father's Name Was Dad (1968)

Originally going by the name Fryday’s Child, this band was originally signed to Decca and later recorded under The Beatles’ Apple Records. Before they were able to put out their future concept album, The Magic Shoemaker, they were caught up in Apple’s politics. They secured the rights for their songs from Decca and Apple and went on to complete the album independently.

This song, sounding a lot like (the earlier) The Who, was their first single and initially released as a different version until Paul McCartney had it pulled off of the shelves because it “lacked punch.” The band re-recorded the song within days and released it again to everyone’s delight. If you listen closely, you’ll notice the opening of the song is borrowed from “Last Train to Clarksville” by The Monkees.



The Fire - Father's Name Was Dad (1968)

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Lyrics:

From a kid of four, you don’t expect
A supernatural intellect
You need just like the other kids
Live the world of building bricks

My father’s name was ‘dad’
My mother’s name was ‘mom’
How can I take the blame
For anything I’ve done?

So, now at my present age
Which people call the awkward stage
Why should everything be made
To look like insane escapade?

My father’s name was ‘dad’
My mother’s name was ‘mom’
How can I take the blame
For anything I’ve done?

See the horrors of my eyes
Make my career of empty skies
I laugh at it all

So, now at my present age
Which people call the awkward stage
Why should everything be made
To look like insane escapade?

My father’s name was ‘dad’
My mother’s name was ‘mom’
How can I take the blame
For anything I’ve done?

The Chantels - Maybe (1957)

Singing together as early as 1950, the girls of this group got their name from their high school basketball rivals, St. Francis de Chantelle. They were one of the few all-female groups in the 1950s, and one of the even fewer female groups to be writing their own material.

This song has had its writing credits given to a few different people, but most agree that it was probably written by the group’s lead singer, Arlene Smith. You can really hear the emotion she put into the vocals of this song.

Later, a unique cover of the song was recorded in the ‘60s by Janis Joplin.



The Chantels - Maybe (1957)

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Lyrics:

Maybe, if I pray every night
You'll come back to me
And maybe, if I cry every day
You'll come back to stay
Oh, maybe

Maybe, if I hold your hand
You will understand
And maybe, if I kissed your lips
I’d be at your command
Oh, maybe

I've prayed and prayed
To the Lord
To send you back, my love
But, instead, you came to me
Only in my dreams

Maybe, if I pray every night
You'll come back to me
And maybe, if I cry every day
You'll come back to stay
Oh, maybe

(Maybe, maybe, maybe)
Maybe
(Maybe, maybe, maybe)
Maybe
(Maybe, maybe, maybe)
Maybe
(Maybe, maybe, maybe)
Maybe
(Maybe, maybe, maybe)…

The Who - Blue, Red and Grey (1975)

Spanning forty years and still performing to this day, this band, in the minds of many, is considered to be one of the greatest rock bands of all time. From My Generation in 1965 through Who Are You in 1978, this band has put together a monumental catalog of amazing songs. Their album, Tommy (1969), is one of the greatest albums of all time and should be sat and listened to as if you were watching a movie (and, later, was a movie).

This song comes from the album The Who By Numbers, where all synthesizers and overdubbing was left behind. The entire album revolves around the inner demons of Pete Townshend, who penned all but one track, including alcoholism, loneliness, and getting older, among others. This track and “Squeeze Box” stand out as the only rays of sunshine on an otherwise depressing album.

[Update: For a brief period of time, The Who were known as The High Numbers, which you can listen to on this site.]



The Who - Blue, Red and Grey (1975)

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Lyrics:

Some people seem so obsessed with the morning
Get up early just to watch the sun rise
Some people like it more when there's fire in the sky
Worship the sun when it's high
Some people go for those sultry evenings
Sipping cocktails in the blue, red, and gray
But I like every minute of the day

I like every second, so long as you are on my mind
Every moment has its special charm
It's all right when you're around, rain or shine
I know a crowd who only live after midnight
Their faces always seem so pale
And then there's friends of mine who must have sunlight
They say, “a sun tan never fails”
I know a man who works the night shift
He's lucky to get a job and some pay
And I like every minute of the day

I dig every second
I can laugh in the snow and rain
I get a buzz from being cold and wet
The pleasure seems to balance out the pain

And so you see that I'm completely crazy
I even shun the south of France
The people on the hill, they say I'm lazy
But when they sleep, I sing and dance
Some people have to have the sultry evenings
Cocktails in the blue, red, and gray
But I like every minute of the day

I like every minute of the day

Kaleidoscope - Flight from Ashiya (1967)

Not to be confused with the American band of the same name, this British band’s lifespan was technically from 1963 to 2003, as they essentially kept the same lineup, but frequently changed names (The Sidekicks, The Key, Fairfield Parlour, and I Luv Wight). They were only a band under this name from 1967-1968. Their first album released under this moniker, Tangerine Dream (1967), has some great psychedelic songs; and, despite receiving quite a bit of airtime, never really achieved much attention.

This song, like all songs on Tangerine Dream, has wonderful imagery in the lyrics. The entire song is surrounded around the impending crash of the plane that the singer is riding in. There’s a lot for the imagination in each of their songs and this one happens to have a great chorus. I don’t know how the album Tangerine Dream managed to slip by vastly unnoticed in history, but if you like this song, there's a few other great tracks on it to check out.



Kaleidoscope - Flight from Ashiya (1967)

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Lyrics:

Puffs of white cotton passing the window
Everyone talking, oh, so very loud
And captain sits and seems to be in a daze
One minute high, the next minute low
Nobody knows where we are
Nobody knows where we are

Cigarettes burning faster and faster
Everyone talking about the ever-after
And captain sits and seems to be in a daze
One minute high, the next minute low
Nobody knows where we are
Nobody knows where we are

Nobody will ever know why
Nobody will ever know why

Visions of childhood rush past my eyes
In seat number thirty, somebody cries
And captain sits and seems to be in a daze
One minute high, the next minute low

Nobody knows where we are
Nobody knows where we are
Nobody knows where we are
Nobody knows where we are
Nobody knows where we are
Nobody knows where we are
Nobody knows where we are

The Impressions - People Get Ready (1965)

Formed in 1958 as a doo-wop group, The Roosters, this band eventually evolved into doing more gospel, soul, and R&B music as the years progressed. Their hit songs through the ‘60s served as anthems for the Civil Rights Movement in America. In 1965, their best known song, heard below, was released and would go on to be considered one of the top songs of all time.

This is that song. For as many artists on this site that cannot be summed up in one paragraph, this song cannot be summed up in one either. It has been covered by Alicia Keys, Bob Dylan, Bob Marley, Bruce Springsteen, The Doors, John Denver, Phil Collins, Prince, Rod Stewart, Seal, U2, and many, many others, each with their own unique story. With vocals like this, you don’t need to be religious to enjoy this gospel and soulful song.



The Impressions - People Get Ready (1965)

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Lyrics:

People get ready
There's a train a-comin'
You don't need no baggage
You just get on board
All you need is faith
To hear the diesels hummin'
Don't need no ticket
You just thank the Lord

So, people get ready
For the train to Jordan
Picking up passengers
Coast to coast
Faith is the key
Open the doors and board them
There's hope for all
Among those loved the most

There ain't no room
For the hopeless sinner
Who would hurt all mankind
Just to save his own (believe me now)
Have pity on those
Whose chances grow thinner
For, there’s no hiding place
Against the kingdom’s throne

So people get ready
There's a train a-comin'
You don't need no baggage
You just get on board
All you need is faith
To hear the diesels hummin'
Don't need no ticket
You just thank the Lord

The Allman Brothers Band - Revival (1970)

Formed in 1969 by brothers Duane and Gregg, this band was essential in the development of southern rock. They gathered a large following with their first two albums, but their third album, At Fillmore East, was and still is their best seller. Three months after its release, in 1971, Duane Allman died in a motorcycle accident. He’s widely considered to be "top ten" material in the category of “greatest guitarist ever”. The band called it quits in 1976, but has revived twice since.

This song comes from their second album, Idlewind South. It isn’t as well known as their bigger hits, “Mightnight Rider” or “Ramblin’ Man,” but it still might be recognizable to you. The first minute and a half is instrumental; enjoy!



The Allman Brothers Band - Revival (1970)

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Lyrics:

People can you feel it?
Love is everywhere
People can you hear it?
A song is in the air

We're in a revolution
Oh, you know we're right
Everyone is singing
There'll be no one to fight

People can you feel it?
Love is everywhere
People can you feel it?
Love is everywhere
People can you feel it?
Love is everywhere
People can you feel it?
Love is everywhere
People can you feel it?
Love is everywhere
People can you feel it?
Love is everywhere
Love is everywhere
Love is everywhere
Love is everywhere

(Love is everywhere)
(Love is everywhere)
(Love is everywhere)
(Love is everywhere)

(People can you feel it?)
(Love is everywhere)
(People can you feel it?)
(Love is everywhere)

Oh, it's everywhere
(People can you feel it?)
(Love is everywhere)
Love is here, yes

(People can you feel it?)
(Love is everywhere)
(People can you feel it?)
(Love is everywhere)

Oh, it's everywhere
Oh it’s here

(People can you feel it?)
(Love is everywhere)
(People can you feel it?)
(Love is everywhere)
(People can you feel it?)
(Love is everywhere)

Oh, yeah!

The Easybeats - Friday On My Mind (1966)

The best act to come out of Australia in the ‘60s, this group was composed entirely of members whose families had emigrated from Europe after World War II. They had a string of hit singles from 1965 through 1966 and eventually got a record deal in America. Their farewell to Australia was rather scary and tragic, but after arriving to record in London, they put together their most well-known international hit.

This song, their most well-known international hit was voted the “Best Australian Song” of all time in 2001. It would later be covered by David Bowie, Peter Frampton, Me First and the Gimme Gimmes, and many others.



The Easybeats - Friday On My Mind (1966)

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Lyrics:

Monday morning feels so bad
Everybody seems to nag me
Comin’ Tuesday, I'll feel better
Even my old man looks good
Wednesday just don't go
Thursday goes too slow
I've got Friday on my mind

Gonna have fun in the city
Be with my girl; she's so pretty
She looks fine tonight
She is out of sight to me
(Tonight)
I'll spend my bread
(Tonight)
I'll lose my head
(Tonight)
I've got to get tonight
Monday, I have Friday on my mind

Do the five day grind once more
No one- nothin’ else that bugs me
More than working for the rich man
Hey, I'll change that scene one day
Today I might be mad
Tomorrow I'll be glad
'Cause I've got Friday on my mind

Gonna have fun in the city
Be with my girl; she's so pretty
She looks fine tonight
She is out of sight to me
(Tonight)
I'll spend my bread
(Tonight)
I'll lose my head
(Tonight)
I've got to get tonight
Monday, I have Friday on my mind

Gonna have fun in the city
I'll be with my girl; she's so pretty
I'm gonna have fun in the city
I'll be with my girl; she's so pretty
I'm gonna have fun in my city
I'll be with my girl…

Bo Diddley - Pills (1961)

This man was a large influence on Buddy Holly, The Yardbirds, Eric Clapton, Jimi Hendrix, The Who, The Velvet Underground, The Clash, and countless others. He was nicknamed “The Originator” for transforming blues to rock and roll in the 1950s. He was one of the first artists to include women in his band as well as one of the first to set up a home recording studio. His story is an interesting one that should be read about in a dedication much longer than the one provided on this page.

This song may not be “Mona” or “Before You Accuse Me,” but it’s one of my favorite songs by this legend. It was recorded in 1961, but not released on an album until The Originator in 1966. Like most of his songs, it’s been covered numerous times by various artists.



Bo Diddley - Pills (1961)

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Lyrics:

While I was layin’ in a hospital bed
A rock n' roll nurse went to my head
She says, “Hold out your arm and stick out your tongue”
“I got some pills, boy, I'mma give you one”

She went to my head, to my head
To my head, to my head
She went to my head, to my head
While I was layin' in a hospital bed

She gave me pills for my toes and they didn’t ache
She gave me pills for my love; but a little too late
She gave me pills for my heart, to put me at ease
The rock n' roll nurse shook me dead to my knees

She went to my head, to my head
To my head, to my head
She went to my head, to my head
While I was layin' in a hospital bed

Nurse, nurse, can't you see?
I don't dig this jive you givin' me
You give me a pill; you give me a shot
You got me wonderin' what- what have I got?

She went to my head, through my head
To my head, to my head
To my head, she went to my head
While I was layin' in a hospital bed

Doctor, doctor, run here and see
I don't dig this jive this nurse givin' me
She give me a shot; she give me your pills
I'm takin' this junk against my will

She went to my head, to my head
To my head, to my head
He went to my head, to my head
While I was layin' in that hospital bed

Ow! Look out, man, ow!

Manfred Mann - Fox on the Run (1968)

Coming out of London, England and being named after their South African keyboardist, this band could be found on the charts throughout the 1960s. One of their biggest hits was a Bob Dylan original, Mighty Quinn (Quinn the Eskimo).

This song was written by the very talented Tony Hazzard, who wrote hit songs for The Hollies, The Yardbirds, Herman’s Hermits, and others.



Manfred Mann - Fox on the Run (1968)

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Lyrics:

She walked through the corn leading down to the river
Her hair shone like gold in the hot morning sun
She took all the love that a poor boy could give her
And left me to die like the fox on the run
Like the fox- like the fox- like the fox on the run

Everybody knows the reason for the fall
When woman tempted man down in paradise's hall
This woman tempted me, oh yes, and took me for a ride
But like the weary fox, I need a place to hide

She walked through the corn leading down to the river
Her hair shone like gold in the hot morning sun
She took all the love that a poor boy could give her
And left me to die like the fox on the run
Like the fox- like the fox- like the fox on the run

Come take a glass of wine and fortify your soul
We'll talk about the world and friends we used to know
I'll illustrate a girl who put me on the floor
The game is nearly up; the hounds are at my door

I saw her walk through the corn leading down to the river
Her hair shone like gold in the hot morning sun
She took all the love that a poor boy could give her
And left me to die like the fox on the run

You know she walked through the corn leading down to the river
Her hair shone like gold in the hot morning sun
She took all the love that a poor boy could give her
And left me here to die
Like the fox- like the fox- like the fox on the run

The Cyrkle - Red Rubber Ball (1966)

After hearing them on Labor Day in 1965, Nathan Weiss told his friend, Brian Epstein, about this great band he had heard in Atlantic City, New Jersey. The band was quickly signed and switched their name from The Rhondells to their new name, a unique spelling given to them by John Lennon. They went on to become the opening act for The Beatles at Dodger Stadium and at The Beatles’ last concert performance at Candlestick Park. The band even did a soundtrack for an "x-rated" film, of which you can hear a track. After disbanding in 1967, the founding members, Don Dannemann and Tom Dawes, went their separate ways writing jingles. Dawes wrote the popular “plop, plop, fizz fizz, ahh what a relief it is” for Alka-Seltzer. Dannemann wrote the Uncola Song for 7Up.

This song boosted them to popularity in 1966. It was co-written by Paul Simon, from Simon & Garfunkel, and Bruce Woodley, from The Seekers.



The Cyrkle - Red Rubber Ball (1966)

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Lyrics:

I should have known you'd bid me farewell
There's a lesson to be learned from this and I learned it very well
Now I know you're not the only starfish in the sea
If I never hear your name again, it's all the same to me

And I think it's gonna be alright
Yea, the worst is over now
The morning sun is shining like a red rubber ball

You never care for secrets I confide
For you, I'm just an ornament- something for your pride
Always running, never caring; that's the life you live
Stolen minutes of your time were all you had to give

And I think it's gonna be alright
Yea, the worst is over now
The morning sun is shining like a red rubber ball

The story's in the past with nothing to recall
I've got my life to live and I don't need you at all
The roller coaster ride we took is nearly at an end
I bought my ticket with my tears; that's all I'm gonna spend

And I think it's gonna be alright
Yea, the worst is over now
The morning sun is shining like a red rubber ball

And I think it's gonna be alright
Yea, the worst is over now
The morning sun is shining like a red rubber ball

Joan Baez - The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down (1971)

A singer, songwriter, peace activist, environmental activist, and human rights activist, this artist was a prominent voice for social change in the 1960s. Gaining a following at the Newport Folk Festival in 1959, she began recording in 1960 and achieved immediate success. She helped boost Bob Dylan to national prominence, performed at Woodstock, and has continued performing for over 50 years.

This song sounds like a traditional folk song passed down from family to family from the era of the civil war. In actuality, it was written and first performed by Robbie Robertson with his group, The Band, in 1969. I strongly prefer this emotional and heartfelt version to The Band’s, which I find to be a bit nasally.



Joan Baez - The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down (1971)

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Lyrics:

Virgil Caine is my name and I drove on the Danville train
‘til so much cavalry came and tore up the tracks again
In the winter of ‘65, we were hungry- just barely alive
I took the train to Richmond, that fell – it was a time I remember oh-so well

The night they drove old Dixie down and all the bells were ringing
The night they drove old Dixie down and all the people were singing
They went, "Na, na, na, na, na, na, na, na, na, na, na, na, na, na, na"

Back with my wife in Tennessee, and one day she said to me
"Virgil, quick, come see, there goes the Robert E. Lee"
Now, I don't mind choppin' wood and I don't care if the money's no good
Just take what you need and leave the rest
But they should never have taken the very best

The night they drove old Dixie down and all the bells were ringing
The night they drove old Dixie down and all the people were singing
They went, "Na, na, na, na, na, na, na, na, na, na, na, na, na, na, na"

Like my father before me, I’m a working man
And like my brother before me, I took a rebel stand
Well he was just eighteen- proud and brave; but a Yankee laid him in his grave
I swear by the blood below my feet
You can't raise a Caine back up when it’s in the feed

The night they drove old Dixie down and all the bells were ringing
The night they drove old Dixie down and all the people were singing
They went, "Na, na, na, na, na, na, na, na, na, na, na, na, na, na, na"

Gary Lewis & The Playboys - Face In a Crowd (1966)

Gaining a following by performing at Disneyland to a full house each night, this group is primarily remembered for their hit “This Diamond Ring”. Their front man, Gary Lewis, was the son of famous comedian Jerry Lewis, who got the band to appear on The Ed Sullivan Show through his connections. The band had to fake playing their instruments to pre-recorded tracks because they had sneakily used session musicians in the studio to “maximize their chances for a hit”. The group continued to appear on television shows and have (smaller) hits throughout the ‘60s.

This song is one of their smaller hits from their 1966 album Hits Again!



Gary Lewis & The Playboys - Face In a Crowd (1966)

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Lyrics:

She doesn't know my name
She couldn't feel the same
Got no fortune, got no fame
But she's not to blame

'Cause I'm a guy who's very commonplace
I was born to be another face in a crowd

I met her yesterday
Couldn't think of what to say
So she turned and walked away
It happens every day

'Cause I'm the kind who'd never find a place
I was born to be another face in a crowd

A guy like me never has- has a chance
'Cause I don't rate a second glance

There's millions just like me
Waitin' for a chance to be
Someone who is worthy of
A young girl's love

And I'm so tired of bein' commonplace
I don't wanna be another face in a crowd
[x4]

Herman's Hermits - Silhouettes (1965)

Coming out of Manchester, England in 1963 as an R&B band, this group was put together as a clean cut and non-threatening band in hopes of gaining the approval of teenagers’ parents. Most of their hits were aimed at American audiences, where Peter Noone, their lead vocalist, intentionally exaggerated his British accent.

This song was originally a doo-wop hit for The Rays in 1957. It’s been a long standing mystery as to who actually played the guitar on this track. Some claim it was Jimmy Page (later of The Yardbirds and Led Zeppelin); others claim it was Vic Flick (who played the famous guitar rift in the James Bond theme); but the original members there that day seem to remember that it was actually Derek Leckenby (the band’s lead guitarist). I guess we’ll never know for sure.



Herman's Hermits - Silhouettes (1965)

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Lyrics:

Took a walk and passed your house late last night
All the shades were pulled and drawn way down tight
From within, the dim light cast two silhouettes on the shade
Oh, what a lovely couple they made

Put his arms around your waist- held you tight
Kisses I could almost taste in the night
Wondered why I'm not the guy who's silhouette's on the shade
I couldn't hide the tears in my eyes

Lost control and rang your bell; I was sore
“Let me in or else I'll beat down your door”
When two strangers who have been two silhouettes on the shade
Said to my shock, "you're on the wrong block"

Rushed out to your house with wings on my feet
Loved you like I'd never loved you, my sweet
Vowed that you and I would be two silhouettes on the shade
All of our days, two silhouettes on the shade

The Move - Fire Brigade (1968)

This is one of the most successful musical groups from Britain that didn’t find any success in the United States. They had nine Top 20 UK singles in only five years. The band’s name came from the constant changes they were making in group members. One of the group’s last lineups featured Jeff Lynne, who later transitioned the group into what would be called Electric Light Orchestra (or, ELO). A famous ELO song, “Do Ya,” was originally recorded by this band.

The first ten seconds of this song has a fire engine noise which I find slightly annoying; but after it's over the rest of the song is great. The guitar in this song was a major influence on the song “God Save the Queen” by The Sex Pistols, as admitted by Glen Matlock, as well as “Firehouse” by KISS.



The Move - Fire Brigade (1968)

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Lyrics:

Cast your mind back ten years to the girl who's next to me in school
If I put my hand upon her leg, she'd hit me with a rule
Though tomorrow won't be long, you're gonna have to play it cool
You'd been fascinated by her; she could set the place on fire

Run and get the fire brigade; get the fire brigade
See the buildings start to really burn
Get the fire brigade; get the fire brigade
If you jump, you've got to wait your turn

Friends all seem to laugh; I feel I have to make a compromise
Try to reassure myself my head must need some exercise
Half past ten in the morning, she just took me by surprise
True, she set the place on fire; you'd been fascinated by her

Run and get the fire brigade; get the fire brigade
See the buildings start to really burn
Get the fire brigade; get the fire brigade
If you jump, you've got to wait your turn

The lights across the street throw a rainbow in her hair
I'd love you all to meet her; I'll be there, I'll be there
Notice that my eyes have been a misty place since Saturday
Brings a feeling we might need the fire engines anyway
Though tomorrow won't be long, we're gonna have to play it cool
You'd been fascinated by her; she could set the place on fire

Run and get the fire brigade; get the fire brigade
See the buildings start to really burn
Get the fire brigade; get the fire brigade
If you jump, you've got to wait your turn

Cream - Tales of Brave Ulysses (1967)

The first commercially successful supergroup, these guys were pioneers for fusing blues, jazz, and psychedelic sounds. They consisted of Jack Bruce (of Blues Incorporated, The Bluesbreakers, and Manfredd Mann), Eric Clapton (of The Yardbirds and The Bluesbreakers), and Ginger Baker (of Graham Bond Organisation). They had huge hits, such as “Sunshine of Your Love,” “White Room,” and “I Feel Free”.

This song is the first release in rock history to use the wah wah pedal. Its lyrics were written in the form of a poem by Martin Sharp (inspired by the Odyssey by Homer) and reconfigured into a song by Eric Clapton, who was looking to create a song based on riffs inspired by “Summer in the City” by The Lovin’ Spoonful. It was never one of the band’s biggest hits, but with my love for ancient Greek/Roman mythology, I absolutely love it.



Cream - Tales of Brave Ulysses (1967)

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Lyrics:

You thought the leaden winter would bring you down forever
But you rode upon a steamer to the violence of the sun

And the colors of the sea blind your eyes with trembling mermaids
And you touch the distant beaches with tales of brave Ulysses
How his naked ears were tortured by the sirens sweetly singing
For the sparkling waves are calling you to kiss their white-laced lips

And you see a girl's brown body dancing through the turquoise
And her footprints make you follow where the sky loves the sea
And when your fingers find her, she drowns you in her body
Carving deep blue ripples in the tissues of your mind

The tiny purple fishes run laughing through your fingers
And you want to take her with you to the hard land of the winter

Her name is Aphrodite and she rides a crimson shell
And you know you cannot leave her
For you touched the distant sands with tales of brave Ulysses
How his naked ears were tortured by the sirens sweetly singing

The tiny purple fishes run laughing through your fingers
And you want to take her with you to the hard land of the winter

The Left Banke - Walk Away Renée (1966)

This group produced two big hits, the song below in mid-1966, and the other, “Pretty Ballerina,” in late 1966. Afterward, the band struggled creating their new album, The Left Banke Too, when members kept quitting, rejoining, and boycotting one another’s work. The final product had multiple people playing throughout the album; one noteworthy individual was Steven Tyler (of future Aerosmith fame) who provided backing vocals on three tracks.

Michael Brown, the bands keyboardist, wrote this song when he was 16 years old. The Renée in the lyrics was his bassist’s, Tom Finn's, girlfriend, whom he was infatuated with. When Renée was in the control room for the song to be recorded, Brown’s hands shook uncontrollably and he had to come back to record it later.

Update: We received a story from Tom Finn of The Left Banke! You can read it and listen to "Pretty Ballerina" here.



The Left Banke - Walk Away Renée (1966)

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Lyrics:

And when I see the sign that points one way
The lot we used to pass by every day

Just walk away, Renée
You won't see me follow you back home
The empty sidewalks on my block are not the same
You’re not to blame

From deep inside the tears that I'm forced to cry
From deep inside the pain I- I chose to hide

Just walk away, Renée
You won't see me follow you back home
Now as the rain beats down upon my weary eyes
For me, it cries

Just walk away, Renée
You won't see me follow you back home
Now as the rain beats down upon my weary eyes
For me, it cries

Your name and mine inside a heart up on a wall
Still finds a way to haunt me, though they're so small

Just walk away, Renée
You won't see me follow you back home
The empty sidewalks on my block are not the same
You’re not to blame

Buddy Holly - Smokey Joe's Cafe [Undubbed] (1959)

A pioneer of rock and roll, this man was one of the biggest artists of the ’50s rock scene and incredibly influential on The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, Eric Clapton, and all other rock musicians. The Beatles came up with their name by mimicking the insect name of Holly’s backing group, The Crickets. His popularity only lasted for one and a half years before The Day the Music Died, a plane crash which claimed his life, as well as the lives of The Big Bopper and Ritchie Valens.

This song was recorded in January of 1959, mere days/weeks before his death. This is the undubbed version which leaves out the session musicians and backup singer. I think this version is much, much better.

Also, in my opinion, the lyrics from “Come a Little Bit Closer” by Jay and The Americans must have been inspired by this song, as it’s nearly the same event occurring in both songs.



Buddy Holly - Smokey Joe's Cafe [Undubbed] (1959)

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Lyrics:

One day, while I was eatin' down at Smokey Joe's Café
a-sittin' there, eatin’, down at Smokey Joe's Café
A chicken walked in through the door
That I had never seen before
At least I never saw her down at Smokey Joe's Café
And it scared me when she sat right down next to me

Her knees were almost touching mine at Smokey Joe's Café
A chill was runnin' down my spine at Smokey Joe's Café
I could smell her sweet perfume
She smiled and made my heart go ‘boom’
And everybody in the room at Smokey Joe's Café
They said, "be careful, that chick belongs to Smokey Joe"
And from behind the counter, I saw a man
A chef's hat on his head and knife in his hand
He grabbed me by the collar and began to shout
"You better eat up all your beans, boy, and clear right on out"

Well, I know I'll never eat again at Smokey Joe's Café
And so, I'll never see ‘er again at Smokey Joe's Café
I'd rather eat my chili beans
At Jim's or Jack's or John's or Jean’s
Than take my chances eating down at Smokey Joe's Café
I risked my life when- that Smokey Joe's a crazy fool

Dion - Abraham, Martin and John (1968)

Originally a doo-wop and rock and roll singer backed by The Belmonts (and later The Del-Satins), this artist had huge success with hits such as “Runaround Sue” and “The Wanderer” just before the British Invasion. He lost popularity in the early ‘60s and was dismissed as a “teen idol” until he took a more serious approach to his songs in the late ‘60s and early ‘70s.

This poignant song comes from 1968, just months after the assassinations of Martin Luther King, Jr. and Robert Kennedy.



Dion - Abraham, Martin and John (1968)

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Lyrics:

Anybody here seen my old friend Abraham?
Can you tell me where he's gone?
He freed a lot of people
But it seem the good, they die young
You know, I just looked around and he's gone

Anybody here seen my old friend John?
Can you tell me where he's gone?
He freed a lot of people
But it seem the good, they die young
I just looked around and he's gone

Anybody here seen my old friend Martin?
Can you tell me where he's gone?
He freed a lot of people
But it seem the good, they die young
I just looked around and he's gone

Didn't you love the things that they stood for?
Didn't they try to find some good for you and me?
And we'll be free someday soon
It's gonna be one day

Anybody here seen my old friend Bobby?
Can you tell me where he's gone?
I thought I saw him walkin' up over the hill
With Abraham, and Martin, and John

John Lennon - Watching the Wheels [Demo] (1980)

This is the man that started The Beatles, whose writing partnership with Paul McCartney resulted in the greatest and most successful songs of the 20^th century, and who, as a solo artist, wrote iconic rallying songs such as “Give Peace a Chance” and “Imagine,” in hopes of creating a better world. Like all of The Beatles and other top artists of the ‘60s and ‘70s, there isn’t enough space on this page to give him the credit and respect that he earned.

From 1975 until 1980, Lennon and his wife, Yoko Ono, put their musical careers on hold to raise their newborn son, Sean. This song is the acoustic demo of what was meant to be a response to those who questioned Lennon’s brief retirement to become a “househusband”. The finalized recording would later appear on his album, Double Fantasy, in 1980, and again as a posthumous single in 1981.



John Lennon - Watching the Wheels [Demo] (1980)

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Lyrics:

People say I'm crazy doin’ what I'm doin’
They give me all kinds of warnings to save me from ruin
And when I say that I'm okay, well, they look at me kind of strange
“Surely, you're not happy now; you no longer play the game”

Ah, people say I'm lazy dreamin’ my life away
Well, they give me all kinds of advice designed to enlighten me
I tell ‘em that I'm doin’ fine watchin’ shadows on the wall
“Well, don't you miss the big time, boy? You're no longer on the ball”

I'm just sittin’ here makin’ the wheels go ‘round and ‘round
I love to watch them roll
No longer ridin’ on the merry-go-round
I just had to let it go

People asking questions, lost in confusion
Well, I tell them there's no problem, only solutions
Well, they shake their heads and they look at me as if I've lost my mind
I tell them there's no hurry, I'm just sittin’ here doin’ time

I'm just sittin’ here watching the wheels go ‘round and ‘round
I really love to watch them roll
No longer riding on the merry-go-round
I just had to let it go

I just had to let it go

George Harrison - Red Lady Too (1968)

The lead guitarist of The Beatles, George Harrison is often credited for introducing the Western world to the music of the east, and is the primary force of the sitar being used in popular music in the '60s. He is also credited as holding the first-ever charity concert, The Concert for Bangladesh, in 1971. He reached major success with The Beatles, but also as a solo artist as well as with the supergroup he formed, The Traveling Wilburys, with Bob Dylan, Roy Orbison, Tom Petty, and Jeff Lynne.

This song is taken from Wonderwall Music, the soundtrack to the film Wonderwall. The album was entirely composed by Harrison, who used pseudonyms, and only gave himself credit by name as the producer, arranger, and writer. It marks the first time a Beatle released solo work and was almost entirely instrumental. It was also the very first release by the newly formed Apple Records.



George Harrison - Red Lady Too (1968)

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Lyrics:

(instrumental)

Sam Cooke - A Change Is Gonna Come (1964)

The original King of Soul, he was an amazing singer who indirectly led to the rise of Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Otis Redding, and James Brown by propelling soul music into the mainstream music scene. He had many hit songs in the height of his popularity between 1957 and 1964. Tragically, he was killed by gunshot in a bizarre hotel shooting surrounded in mystery.

In 1963, after hearing “Blowin’ in the Wind” by Bob Dylan, he was so moved that somebody who wasn’t black could write such a poignant song about racism in America, he felt he needed to address more serious topics in his own songs. This song was the result that is now widely considered his masterpiece. Unfortunately, he was killed before he could see its success.



Sam Cooke - A Change Is Gonna Come (1964)

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Lyrics:

I was born by the river in a little tent
Oh, and just like the river, I've been running ever since
It's been a long- a long time comin’
But I know a change gonna come
Oh, yes it will

It's been too hard living, but I'm afraid to die
‘cause I don't know what's up there beyond the sky
It's been a long- a long time comin’
But I know a change gonna come
Oh, yes it will

I go to the movie and I go downtown
Somebody keep tellin’ me “Don't hang around”
It's been a long- a long time comin’
But I know a change gonna come
Oh, yes it will

Then, I go to my brother
And I say, “Brother, help me please”
But he winds up knockin’ me
Back down on my knees

Ohh, there’ been times that I thought I couldn't last for long
But now I think I'm able to carry on
It's been a long- a long time comin’
But I know a change gonna come
Oh, yes it will

The Zombies - Care of Cell 44 (1967)

Formed in 1961 while the members were still enrolled in school, this band first reached success with their 1964 single “She’s Not There.” Like other British groups at the time, they took their success and turned it into a US tour, becoming a part of the British Invasion. Ironically, their future hits did well in the US, but not in their homeland UK.

Their last album, Odessey and Oracle, was released in 1968 after the band had already split up and featured their largest hit, “Time of the Season”. When they refused to get back together to cash in on the album’s success, numerous other groups started touring under their name in attempt to fool people. Now, Odessey and Oracle is considered one of the greatest albums in rock history. I highly recommend listening to the entire album from start to finish.

This song, originally released as a single, is the very first track on “Odessey and Oracle.” The lyrics are quite unique in that they tell the story of someone looking forward to their love returning home from prison.



The Zombies - Care of Cell 44 (1967)

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Lyrics:

Good morning to you; I hope you're feeling better, baby
Thinking of me while you are far away
Counting the days until they set you free again
Writing this letter, hoping you're okay

Saved you the room you used to stay in every Sunday
The one that is warmed by sunshine every day
And we'll get to know each other for a second time
And then you can tell me ‘bout your prison stay

Feels so good
You're coming home soon

It's gonna be good to have you back again with me
Watching the laughter play around your eyes
Come up and fetch you, saved up for the train fare money
Kiss and make up and it will be so nice

Feels so good
You're coming home soon

We're walkin’ the way we used to walk
And it could be so nice
We're talkin’ the way we used to talk
And it could be so nice

It's gonna be good to have you back again with me
Watching the laughter play around your eyes
Come up and fetch you, saved up for the train fare money
Kiss and make up and it will be so nice

Feels so good
You're coming home soon

Feels so good
You're coming home soon

The Human Beinz - Nobody But Me (1967)

Originally called The Premiers in 1962, this band eventually changed their name to fit in with the “feel of the late ‘60s.” They achieved moderate success covering other groups, such as Them, The Yardbirds, and Bob Dylan. Joe “Ting” Markulin still performs (with new members) to this day.

This song, released in 1967, was originally released by The Isley Brothers in 1962. This version has become a lasting hit labeling them a one-hit wonder. It has been featured on The Office (US), The Departed, and Kill Bill Vol. 1. It’s definitely a great, high-energy song!



The Human Beinz - Nobody But Me (1967)

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Lyrics:

No no no no no no no no no
No no no no no no no no
No no no no no no no no
No no no no no

Nobody can do the (shing-a-ling!)
Like I do
Nobody can do the (skate!)
Like I do
Nobody can do the (boogaloo!)
Like I do
Nobody can do the (philly!)
Like I do

Well don't you know I'm gonna skate; I do
Ain't nobody doin' but me
(Nobody but me)

Yep I’m gonna philly; I do
Ain't nobody doin' but me, babe
(Nobody but me)

Well, let me tell you nobody
Well, nobody but me

Let me tell you
Nobody (nobody) [x8]

No no no no no no no no no
No no no no no no no no
No no no no no no no no
No no no no no

Nobody can do the (shing-a-ling!)
Like I do
Nobody can do the (skate!)
Like I do
Nobody can do the (boogaloo!)
Like I do
Nobody can do the (philly!)
Like I do

Ohh girl
(Nobody, nobody…)
No no no no no no no no no…

Jefferson Airplane - Come Up The Years (1966)

Rooted in folk and blues music, this psychedelic group was the first (and largest) band to come out of the San Francisco movement in the mid to late ‘60s. They’re mostly remembered for their biggest commercial hits “White Rabbit” and “Somebody to Love.” Both of these psychedelic songs were sung by their second female vocalist, Grace Slick (a former model), who had replaced Signe Toly Anderson and boosted the band into stardom.

This song comes from their first album, Jefferson Airplane Takes Off, before Grace Slick, The Acid Queen, had joined the band.



Jefferson Airplane - Come Up The Years (1966)

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Lyrics:

I oughta get goin'
I shouldn't stay here and love you
More than I do
'cause you're so much younger than I am
Come up the years
Come up the years
And love me, love me, love me

A younger girl keeps hangin' around
One of the loveliest I've ever found
Blows my mind; stealin' my heart
Somebody help me 'fore I fall apart

I oughta get goin'
I shouldn't stay here and love you
More than I do
'cause you're so much younger than I am
Come up the years
Come up the years
And love me, love me, love me

The things she's doin' keep turnin' me on
And I've been happy to go right along
I know it's time that I said goodbye
I know I can't leave no matter how hard I try

I oughta get goin'
I shouldn't stay here and love you
More than I do
'cause you're so much younger than I am
Come up the years
Come up the years
And love me, love me, love me
Love me, love me, won’t you love me?

The Jimi Hendrix Experience - Castles Made of Sand (1967)

Credited for the development of hard rock and metal, this group was only active from 1966-1970. Each of their three studio albums was critically acclaimed and continues to be influential today. The band’s front man, Jimi Hendrix, frequently tops the rankings as “the greatest guitar player of all time.”

This song was released on their group’s second studio album, Axis: Bold as Love. It was claimed by Jimi’s brother, Leon, to be about Jimi himself and his family. Regardless of whether or not this is true, the song’s lyrics can still be enjoyed between the intricate backward guitar solos.



The Jimi Hendrix Experience - Castles Made of Sand (1967)

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Lyrics:

Down the street you can hear her scream “You're a disgrace”
As she slams the door in his drunken face
And now he stands outside
And all the neighbors start to gossip and drool
He cries “Oh, girl you must be mad”
“What happened to the sweet love you and me had?”
Against the door he leans and starts a scene
And his tears fall and burn the garden green

And so castles made of sand
Fall in the sea
Eventually

A little Indian brave who before he was ten
Played war games in the woods with his Indian friends
And he built a dream that when he grew up
He would be a fearless warrior, an Indian chief
Many moons past and more the dream grew strong until
Tomorrow he would sing his first war song and fight his first battle
But something went wrong; surprise attack killed him in his sleep that night

And so castles made of sand
Melts into the sea
Eventually

There was a young girl, whose heart was a frown
'cause she was crippled for life and she couldn't speak a sound
And she wished and prayed she could stop living; so she decided to die
She drew her wheelchair to the edge of the shore
And to her legs she smiled “You won’t hurt me no more”
But then a sight she'd never seen made her jump and say
“Look, a golden winged ship is passing my way”
And it really didn't have to stop, it just kept on going

And so castles made of sand
Slips into the sea
Eventually

The Outsiders - Time Won't Let Me (1966)

For having such a short-lived existence (1965-1968), this group was able to put together four hit singles in 1966. They never toured outside of the United States, but within the US, they hit the road alongside Paul Revere and The Raiders, Chad and Jeremy, The McCoys, ? and The Mysterians, and others. Jimmy Fox, their drummer, would later go on to form James Gang, playing alongside Joe Walsh.

This song, their first and largest claim to fame, stayed on the charts for 15 weeks.



The Outsiders - Time Won't Let Me (1966)

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Lyrics:

I can't wait forever
Even though you want me to
I can't wait forever
To know if you'll be true

Time won't let me (oh no)
Time won't let me (oh no)
Time won't let me wait that long

Can't you see I've waited too long
To love you? To hold you in my arms?

Time won't let me (oh no)
Time won't let me (oh no)
Time won't let me

I can't wait forever
Even though you want me to
I can't wait forever
To know if you'll be true

Time won't let me (oh no)
Time won't let me (oh no)
Time won't let me wait that long

Hear me baby, waitin' that long
Take me back, I'm comin' back right now
Hear me baby sayin' “I'm comin' home”
“I'm comin' home,” oh hear me talkin', pretty baby
Don't you know I'm comin' back to you, oh!
Oh pretty baby, take me back, I'm comin' back
Open up your arms and take me back, a-here I come…

Zager & Evans - In The Year 2525 (Exordium & Terminus) (1968)

This duo, from Lincoln, Nebraska, was a one hit-wonder reaching popularity in the summer of 1969. RCA put a lot of faith into them being their next big group, but their subsequent releases were considered failures after failing to gain the attention of the public.

This song, their big hit, was at the top of the charts for six weeks. Although the singing and music resembles that of a novelty song, its lyrics tell of a dystopian future in which mankind is ruined by its own technologies. Akin to Bob Dylan’s work, the song’s message is more important than its melody.



Zager & Evans - In The Year 2525 (Exordium & Terminus) (1968)

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Lyrics:

In the year 2525
If man is still alive
If woman can survive, they may find…

In the year 3535
Ain't gonna need to tell the truth; tell no lies
Everything you think, do, and say
Is in the pill you took today

In the year 4545
Ain't gonna need your teeth; won't need your eyes
You won't find a thing to chew
Nobody's gonna look at you

In the year 5555
Your arms hanging limp at your sides
Your legs got nothing to do
Some machine doing that for you

In the year 6565
Ain't gonna need no husband; won't need no wife
You'll pick your son, pick your daughter too
From the bottom of a long glass tube, whoa-oh-oh

In the year 7510
If God's a-comin', he oughta make it by then
Maybe he'll look around himself and say
“Guess it's time for the judgment day”

In the year 8510
God is gonna shake his mighty head
He'll either say “I'm pleased where man has been”
Or tear it down and start again, whoa-oh-oh

In the year 9595
I'm kinda wonderin' if man is gonna be alive
He's taken everything this old Earth can give
And he ain't put back nothin', whoa-oh-oh

Now it's been ten thousand years
Man has cried a billion tears
For what he never knew
Now man's reign is through

But through eternal night
The twinkling of starlight
So very far away
Maybe it's only yesterday

In the year 2525
If man is still alive
If woman can survive, they may find

In the year 3535
Ain’t gonna need…