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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Great Western rock classics and hit songs of the 1960s (41–50)
Summer in the CityThe Lovin’ Spoonful
The Lovin’ Spoonful, a quintessential American folk-rock band of the 1960s, crafted an urban soundscape that still shines with undiminished brilliance.
Released in July 1966, this track features an innovative arrangement that deftly weaves in car horns and jackhammer noises—symbols of city clamor—and spent three consecutive weeks at No.
1 on the Billboard chart.
Included on the album Hums of the Lovin’ Spoonful, it vividly depicts scenes of a sweltering summer in the city.
Its hard-driving rock sound and organ-fueled, fast-paced melody were also used in the opening scene of the 1995 film Die Hard with a Vengeance, and the song remains beloved for evoking the heat and energy of summer.
Great Western Rock Classics and Hit Songs of the 60s (51–60)
Strawberry Fields ForeverThe Beatles
A dreamlike world of sound from the Beatles, the quintessential British rock band of the 1960s.
Inspired by memories of a Salvation Army orphanage in Liverpool, John Lennon’s finely crafted melody fuses with an otherworldly sonic palette, unfolding in kaleidoscopic color.
In February 1967, it was released as a double A-side single with “Penny Lane,” accompanied by the ethereal tones of the Mellotron played by Paul McCartney.
The track also drew attention for its innovative recording technique, brilliantly combining two takes in different tempos and keys, and it went on to have a profound influence on later psychedelic rock.
It’s a song best enjoyed on a quiet night when you want to set your mind free, inviting you on a dreamy sonic journey steeped in nostalgia.
Won’t Get Fooled AgainThe Who
As a monumental achievement in revolutionary art rock, this song has captivated rock fans around the world.
Created by the British rock band The Who, it’s an over-eight-minute epic distinguished by its majestic synthesizer refrain and powerful guitar sound.
Released as a single in June 1971, it went on to close the album Who’s Next that August.
It achieved the remarkable feat of reaching No.
9 on the UK charts and No.
15 on the US Billboard charts.
Since its debut performance at London’s Young Vic Theatre in February 1971, it has remained a live staple.
Its sweeping soundscape—balancing tension and release—is especially recommended when you’re at a crossroads in life or about to take a bold new step.
I Wanna Be Your DogThe Stooges
This is a signature song by The Stooges, the garage rock band led by vocalist Iggy Pop that epitomized the late 1960s.
Its raw, high-energy sound is quintessential garage rock.
It’s easy to see why it’s said to have had a profound influence on later punk rock.
Wouldn’t It Be NiceThe Beach Boys
A coming-of-age love song by the American band The Beach Boys that sings of the pure wishes of young lovers.
Released in July 1966 as the opening track of the album Pet Sounds, this piece expresses a heartfelt longing to get married and live together through beautiful harmonies and sophisticated arrangements.
The lyrics, filled with anticipation and yearning, poignantly capture the essence of a love unattainable due to youth.
Chosen as the theme song for the 2004 film 50 First Dates, it radiates a charm that transcends generations.
It’s a song you’ll want to listen to on nights when your feelings for your partner grow stronger or when you want to reminisce about someone special.
Bus StopThe Hollies
A heartwarming love story that begins with a chance encounter at a rain-soaked bus stop.
Released by the Hollies in June 1966, it’s a gem of a pop tune woven from gorgeous three-part harmonies and a catchy melody.
Showcasing Graham Gouldman’s exceptional songwriting and the band’s distinctive character in perfect balance, it reached No.
5 on both the UK and US charts.
It was also used as the theme song for the TV Asahi drama “What Day Were You Born?” broadcast from August 2023, capturing the hearts of a new generation.
Gently enveloping the flutter of anticipation and the quickening heartbeat of love that arrives in everyday moments, this track is the very essence of ’60s British pop.
Communication BreakdownLed Zeppelin
Led Zeppelin is one of the quintessential British hard rock bands.
Among the tracks on their 1969 debut album, this one has a very driving, rock ’n’ roll feel and is really satisfying to listen to.