The 1960s was a golden era for popular music, with each year producing hit after hit across a variety of genres. From rock and roll to Motown, and from country to pop, the decade’s soundscape was as vibrant as its culture. Let’s delve into a set of ten classic trivia questions about some of the most memorable songs from the 60s. We’ll explore not only who sang them, but also the stories behind each track and its lasting influence.
Yellow Submarine is one of the most whimsical and recognizable songs from the 1960s, and it was performed by none other than The Beatles. Released in 1966 on the album Revolver and also as a single, Yellow Submarine became an anthem of sorts for both children and adults. The song was primarily sung by Ringo Starr, the Beatles’ drummer, whose distinct voice brought a playful charm to the track.
The Beatles were already cultural icons by the time Yellow Submarine came out, and the song’s playful lyrics and catchy chorus made it instantly popular. The song's success led to an animated film of the same name, further embedding the phrase Yellow Submarine into popular culture. The Beatles’ ability to cross generational and genre boundaries is clearly evident in songs like this, proving their versatility.
Good Vibrations is credited to The Beach Boys, specifically released in 1966. This song is often hailed as a masterpiece of pop innovation, due to its complex structure and groundbreaking use of the theremin, an electronic instrument. Brian Wilson, the band’s creative leader, spent months perfecting the track, which eventually became a chart-topping hit.
The Beach Boys were synonymous with the surf rock sound of the early 60s, but Good Vibrations marked their evolution into more experimental territory. The song’s layered harmonies, intricate production, and uplifting lyrics made it a standout, and it’s frequently cited as one of the greatest singles of all time. The phrase “good vibrations” remains associated with positive feelings and the sunny California lifestyle the Beach Boys embodied.
The iconic girl group The Supremes brought Stop! In The Name Of Love to life in 1965. The Supremes, led by Diana Ross, were one of Motown’s biggest acts, and their polished performances, catchy songs, and glamorous style made them international superstars. This particular track is known for its unforgettable chorus and the signature hand gesture the group performed during live shows.
Stop! In The Name Of Love was written and produced by the legendary team of Holland-Dozier-Holland. The song became a number one hit on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains an enduring symbol of 60s Motown. The Supremes' success paved the way for countless other girl groups and demonstrated the power of female performers in pop music.
The powerhouse vocalist Aretha Franklin is behind the unforgettable hit Think, released in 1968. Known as the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin brought energy, emotion, and a demand for respect to every performance. Think is both a danceable anthem and a song with a message, encouraging listeners to consider their actions and fight for freedom.
Aretha’s version of Think became an instant classic, and her performance in the movie The Blues Brothers in 1980 introduced the song to new generations. The song’s punchy horns, driving rhythm, and Franklin’s powerful vocals make it a staple of soul music and a testament to her enduring influence.
This heart-tugging ballad was performed by Brenda Lee. Released in 1962, Everybody Loves Me But You showcases Lee’s unique ability to blend country and pop influences. Brenda Lee, sometimes known as Little Miss Dynamite due to her petite stature and big voice, was a major star during the early 60s.
Her emotional delivery and relatable lyrics made this song a favorite among teenagers dealing with the trials of young love. Brenda Lee’s career spanned many decades, but her early-60s hits like this one cemented her place in pop history.
The witty and narrative-driven Harper Valley P.T.A. was sung by Jeannie C. Riley. Released in 1968, the song tells the story of a single mother standing up to the local parent-teacher association’s hypocrisy. Its catchy tune and clever lyrics quickly turned it into a crossover hit, topping both the country and pop charts.
Harper Valley P.T.A. remains a classic example of country storytelling, and Jeannie C. Riley’s spirited performance gave the song its edge. The song inspired a movie and a television series, reflecting its broad appeal and cultural resonance.
Born Free is most closely associated with Matt Monro, whose smooth vocals brought the song to life in 1966. The song served as the theme for the movie of the same name, about an orphaned lion cub in Africa, and quickly became an inspirational anthem.
Matt Monro, often called The Man with the Golden Voice, was a British singer with a string of hits in the 60s. Born Free won the Academy Award for Best Original Song and remains a popular standard, symbolizing hope and the beauty of nature.
The song Lonely Weekends is a notable hit by Charlie Rich. Released in 1960, it was one of Rich’s first successes and showcased his unique blend of rockabilly, soul, and country influences. Charlie Rich would go on to have many more hits in the 70s, but Lonely Weekends remains a classic of the early 60s era.
The track’s upbeat tempo belies its melancholy lyrics, a contrast that made it appealing to a broad audience. Charlie Rich’s smooth vocals and piano skills set him apart from many of his contemporaries.
Two Faces Have I was a hit for Lou Christie in 1963. Known for his falsetto voice and dramatic delivery, Lou Christie brought a unique flair to the pop charts of the era. The song is a tale of romantic conflict, with Christie’s soaring vocals expressing the emotional highs and lows of young love.
Lou Christie’s influence can still be heard in modern pop music, particularly in artists who use falsetto as a key part of their vocal style. Two Faces Have I remains one of his signature songs.
This timeless ballad was beautifully rendered by The Everly Brothers in 1960. Let It Be Me was originally a French song (Je t’appartiens) but became a major hit in the English-speaking world thanks to the Everly Brothers’ harmonious vocals and heartfelt delivery.
The song’s gentle melody and romantic lyrics have made it a perennial favorite for weddings and special occasions. The Everly Brothers’ influence on the development of close harmony singing in pop and rock cannot be overstated, and Let It Be Me stands as a testament to their musical legacy.
These ten songs represent just a small slice of the 1960s’ musical landscape, but each one tells a story of its own. From the British Invasion to Motown, country crossovers to pop ballads, the decade’s diversity is on full display. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just discovering these classics, the 60s continue to inspire and entertain listeners worldwide.