Great Western rock classics and hit songs of the '60s
The era when the foundations of rock music were forged: the 1960s.
Today’s rock music includes many subgenres that blend a variety of musical styles.
Of course, every genre is rooted in rock, but if you trace many of them back to their origins, you end up in the 1960s.
This time, we’ve selected classic songs that had a tremendous impact on the rock scene of the 1960s.
Many famous artists and bands appear, so even if you’re not well-versed in rock, be sure to check them out!
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- A roundup of popular Western blues bands—also recommended for rock fans!
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Great Western rock classics and hit songs of the 60s (1–10)
Love StreetThe Doors
The Doors, led by vocalist Jim Morrison, released the single “Love Street” in 1968.
It was issued as a single from the album “Waiting for the Sun,” which was also released that same year.
Both the single and the album reached No.
1 on the U.
S.
Billboard charts.
While The Doors are often associated with their distinctive sound featuring the VOX Continental organ, “Love Street” features a poppy, melodious sound built around acoustic guitar and piano.
Lookin’ Out My Back DoorCreedence Clearwater Revival
Creedence Clearwater Revival embodies the essence of American rock.
Released in July 1970, this song appears on the album Cosmo’s Factory.
The lyrics, which unfold a fantastical world, were reportedly written by John Fogerty for his three-year-old son.
Images like elephants, tambourines, and a flying spoon are said to have been inspired by Dr.
Seuss’s stories.
Another appeal is its optimistic message, which contrasts with the social unrest of the time.
With its poppy melody and whimsical lyrics, it remains beloved by many to this day.
It’s a perfect pick when you want a change of pace or a little boost of energy.
Gimme ShelterThe Rolling Stones
“Gimme Shelter” is a masterpiece by the legendary rock band the Rolling Stones, created under the influence of the Vietnam War and the turmoil in American society.
It opens their 1969 album Let It Bleed and is memorable for Keith Richards’s wistful guitar intro.
American soul singer Merry Clayton appears as a guest, sharing lead vocals with Mick Jagger.
In 1993, a charity album featuring covers of “Gimme Shelter” was also released, so why not give it a listen and compare the versions?
Great Western rock classics and hit songs of the '60s (11–20)
Walk on the Wild SideLou Reed
If there’s one song that epitomizes the counterculture of the 1970s, it’s this one.
It appears on Lou Reed’s Transformer, released in December 1972.
Its lyrics, depicting people living in New York’s underworld, were bold for the time.
Produced by David Bowie and Mick Ronson, the track is notable for its striking twin bass lines.
The song became a global hit, reaching No.
16 on the Billboard Hot 100.
The lyrics, modeled on real figures who gathered at artist Andy Warhol’s The Factory, portray the lives of those on society’s margins.
It’s a track that conveys a strong respect for diversity.
Don’t Let Me DownThe Beatles
This is a classic song by The Beatles, one of the defining rock bands of the 1960s.
John Lennon wrote it as an expression of love for Yoko Ono, and it was released in April 1969 as the B-side to the single “Get Back.” It also achieved commercial success, reaching No.
35 on the Billboard Hot 100.
The lyrics convey deep gratitude to a loved one and a wish for eternal love.
It’s a recommended track not only for Beatles fans but for anyone who wants to feel pure love.
The song was performed during their final live rooftop concert in London, and it’s a work filled with the essence of The Beatles.
House of the Rising SunThe Animals
The Animals, a legendary band from the United Kingdom.
Released in 1964, this song is known as one of their signature works.
Eric Burdon’s deep vocals and Alan Price’s organ playing are particularly striking.
The piece tells a tragic story about a young man whose life is ruined in the city of New Orleans.
Following in the footsteps of his father, who was consumed by gambling and alcohol, the protagonist ends up going down the same path, conveying a message of regret and warning.
The Animals recorded the song in a single take, and it reached number one on the charts in both the UK and the US.
A pioneering work of folk rock, it has continued to be covered by many artists, including Naomi Chiaki.
RevolutionThe Beatles
This song was born amid the political and social turmoil of the late 1960s.
Based on an idea John Lennon had during meditation, it was shaped into a message calling for nonviolent social change.
Released in 1968 as the B-side to “Hey Jude,” it reached No.
12 on the US Billboard chart and hit No.
1 in Australia and New Zealand.
There are three versions: a slower arrangement on the White Album, a hard rock single version, and an experimental sound collage—offering a range of expressions to enjoy.
It’s a recommended track for those who are socially conscious and hope for peaceful solutions.