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!
- Explore the innovative sounds and iconic songs that shaped the history of 60s bands
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- [50s–60s] A Collection of Rock ’n’ Roll Classics
- The 1970s were the golden age of Western rock! Recommended classics and hit songs
- [Masterpiece Selection] A Compilation of Classic Western Rock Songs
- [A Collection of Classics] Nostalgic 70s Western Hit Songs
- Top Western Music Rankings Popular with People in Their 60s (By Generation)
- Timeless Western pop ballads that colored the 1960s—masterpieces whose brilliance never fades.
- [Revival among the youth?] Rockabilly classics and recommended popular songs
- Recommended Western music for women in their 60s: world classics and popular songs
- [Oldies] A collection of nostalgic hit songs from Western music of the 1950s
- A roundup of popular Western blues bands—also recommended for rock fans!
- A classic blues rock masterpiece. A highly recommended album you should listen to at least once.
Great Western Rock Classics and Hit Songs of the '60s (21–30)
(Don’t Fear) The ReaperBlue Oyster Cult
Released in 1976, this work is a classic song by Blue Öyster Cult themed around death and eternal love.
Its gothic storytelling and distinctive guitar lines are captivating, carrying a message that death should be accepted rather than feared.
Included on the album Agents of Fortune, it reached No.
12 on the Billboard Hot 100 and received high acclaim, including a spot on Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.
The song also inspired Stephen King’s novel The Stand.
It’s perfect for times when you want to reflect deeply on life or are seeking music that truly resonates.
Born to Be WildSteppenwolf
Steppenwolf is a band that still commands overwhelming support from rock maniacs today.
They’ve sold over 25 million records worldwide, and their intense sound—unusual for the time—had a major influence on the bands that followed.
Their classic hit here is “Born to Be Wild.” It’s a famous song that’s been used in many media in Japan, so even younger listeners will likely recognize it.
Pay attention to its stylish arrangement, where a rugged coolness blends with a rebellious vibe!
Happy TogetherThe Turtles
This is a quintessential sunshine pop classic from the 1960s that refreshingly sings of innocent first love.
Released in February 1967 by The Turtles, who were active in the United States, the song expresses sweet, aching feelings with a bright and lavish sound.
It opens with an oboe solo, and its sophisticated structure shines with a memorable key change in the chorus.
The track spent three consecutive weeks at No.
1 on the U.
S.
charts and became the band’s signature song.
It has also been featured in films such as Imagine Me & You and Minions, and its universal appeal continues to win support across generations.
Perfectly balancing breezy cheerfulness and bittersweet romance, it’s an ideal choice for spring or summer driving music.
Daydream BelieverThe Monkees
Many of you may know this song from the Japanese cover by The Timers, led by Kiyoshiro Imawano.
The Monkees were marketed as a pop-rock band with idol-like appeal, but this hit song likely cemented their place in music history.
St. StephenGrateful Dead
The Grateful Dead, a band that epitomizes psychedelic rock culture.
Many people will recognize their skull-and-rose-themed artwork and the bear character commonly known as the “Dancing Bears.” This is a classic song by a band that influenced countless musicians, with hints of country woven into its sound.
Gimme Some Lovin’The Spencer Davis Group
An R&B number by the Spencer Davis Group that epitomizes the 1960s British music scene, packed with the exuberance of youth.
The immense vocal power of the prodigiously talented Steve Winwood merges with a soaring, exhilarating organ performance to create a grand, stirring sound.
Released in October 1966, the track became a major hit, reaching No.
2 in the UK and No.
7 in the US.
Its use in the film The Blues Brothers brought it renewed attention, and it was selected for Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.
A powerful, uplifting classic that’s perfect for driving, clearing your head, or firing yourself up, it has remained beloved for generations.
Surfin’ USAThe Beach Boys
When summer comes, a melody wafts in from who knows where—it’s a classic by The Beach Boys.
Even if you don’t know the title, some younger people might recognize the tune.
This song, which opens the album of the same name, “Surfin’ U.
S.
A.
,” became a huge hit and one of the band’s signature tracks.