1. “Different Drum” – Stone Poneys ft. Linda Ronstadt (1967)
The Anthem of Independence: Long before Linda Ronstadt became a household name, she delivered a bold, unforgettable performance in “Different Drum.” The song’s lyrics were a breath of fresh air, empowering listeners to march to the beat of their own drum. With a catchy tune and relatable message, it became an unexpected anthem for anyone unwilling to settle for anything less than what felt right.
2. “Love is All Around” – The Troggs (1967)
Groovy, Gentle, and Pure Love: The Troggs had their biggest hit with “Wild Thing,” but their lesser-known gem, “Love is All Around,” captures a softer side of the ‘60s. With its heartfelt lyrics and gentle melody, this song feels like it’s wrapping you in a warm embrace. It had just the right amount of romantic optimism to lift spirits during an era of change—simple, sweet, and still as feel-good as ever.
3. “Time of the Season” – The Zombies (1968)
Laid-Back Psychedelia: While The Zombies are best remembered for “She’s Not There,” “Time of the Season” brought a dreamy, psychedelic vibe that was hypnotic. With its groovy bassline and breathy vocal delivery, it embodied the free-spirited, exploratory feel of the late ‘60s, making you want to close your eyes and let the music wash over you. It’s that quintessential late-‘60s tune that many of us didn’t appreciate until later.
4. “Along Comes Mary” – The Association (1966)
Playful with a Catchy Hook: With fast-paced lyrics and a catchy chorus, “Along Comes Mary” by The Association was as fun as it was intriguing. While The Association often dabbled in sweet harmonies, this song had a different edge, creating a unique blend of mystery and excitement. It was just quirky enough to stick in your mind, and revisiting it reminds you how fun it was to decipher the meaning behind those elusive lyrics.
5. “It’s a Beautiful Morning” – The Rascals (1968)
Instant Sunshine in a Song: The Rascals had a knack for upbeat, sunny tunes, and “It’s a Beautiful Morning” was their feel-good anthem. Listening to this song feels like waking up to a perfect day. It was the soundtrack to bright mornings, warm breezes, and unbridled optimism—exactly what people needed in the midst of uncertain times. Hearing it now still brings a smile, capturing the optimism of an era that was all about possibilities.
6. “Laugh, Laugh” – The Beau Brummels (1965)
Bittersweet Classic Rock: With its harmonies and catchy riff, “Laugh, Laugh” by The Beau Brummels had the sound of a hit song, and it’s one of those tracks that’s pure ‘60s gold. The lyrics are a bit sad, but they hit just right, capturing that bittersweet feeling everyone’s experienced at least once. This song reminds us of the joys and heartaches of youth, proving that sometimes a little laughter is the best medicine.
7. “Cry Like a Baby” – The Box Tops (1968)
Heartbreak with a Soulful Twist: The Box Tops brought a soulful vibe to this catchy tune that perfectly captured the emotional intensity of a broken heart. Alex Chilton’s raspy voice had a maturity beyond his years, giving the song a depth that made it relatable for anyone who’d loved and lost. Revisiting this track brings back all the feelings that only the best ‘60s pop can evoke.
8. “One Fine Morning” – Lighthouse (1969)
Hopeful and Uplifting: Lighthouse may not be the first band you think of from the ‘60s, but “One Fine Morning” was like a shot of positivity that left a lasting impact. With its uplifting horns and lyrics about looking forward to brighter days, it hit the airwaves like a celebration. It’s one of those songs that’s easy to overlook but incredibly satisfying to rediscover.
9. “A Whiter Shade of Pale” – Procol Harum (1967)
Moody and Mystical: This haunting track from Procol Harum was full of intrigue and mystery, with lyrics that were as poetic as they were puzzling. The song’s melancholy tone and church-like organ paired with its enigmatic story gave it a haunting beauty that was unforgettable. It still transports you to a dreamlike place every time you listen.
10. “Windy” – The Association (1967)
Playful and Catchy as Can Be: Here’s a tune everyone seemed to know back in the day, even if you forgot it’s by The Association. “Windy” had a cheerful, quirky vibe that was simply fun to sing along to. With lyrics that celebrated the carefree and upbeat “Windy,” it was impossible not to get caught up in its contagious cheer.
11. “Grazing in the Grass” – Hugh Masekela (1968)
Summer in a Song: This instrumental gem by South African trumpeter Hugh Masekela radiated pure joy and relaxation. Its vibrant, easygoing beat made it a summer staple and became an unforgettable tune for those days when you just wanted to kick back. Even without lyrics, it spoke to a carefree spirit that was always ready to soak up some sun.
12. “Incense and Peppermints” – Strawberry Alarm Clock (1967)
Psychedelic Perfection: This song is psychedelic music at its finest, with trippy lyrics and a mesmerizing melody that captures the ‘60s vibe. “Incense and Peppermints” is like a time capsule to a moment when people wanted to push boundaries and explore new ways of thinking. It’s both quirky and enchanting—a perfect slice of the flower power era.
13. “You Showed Me” – The Turtles (1968)
Melancholic and Sweet: The Turtles were known for their catchy tunes, and “You Showed Me” has an understated beauty with its smooth harmonies and introspective lyrics. It’s the kind of song that made you reflect on your own experiences with love and heartbreak, providing a soundtrack to tender moments. It’s a slow burn, but one worth rediscovering.
14. “Ride My See-Saw” – The Moody Blues (1968)
A Rocking Anthem of the Times: The Moody Blues crafted a song that felt like a rallying cry for free spirits everywhere. “Ride My See-Saw” had a beat that made you want to move and lyrics that hinted at self-discovery. It was exhilarating, a song you’d blast on the radio that just kept your energy up and spirits high.
15. “The Rain, The Park & Other Things” – The Cowsills (1967)
A Daydream in a Song: With its dreamy melody and sweet lyrics, “The Rain, The Park & Other Things” by The Cowsills is pure ‘60s pop perfection. It’s the kind of song that made you feel as if you were living in a world of flowers and sunshine. It’s impossible to listen to it without feeling transported to another, more carefree time.
16. “Traces” – Classics IV (1969)
Beautifully Melancholic: This soft, sad ballad was an underrated ‘60s gem that captured the ache of lost love. The gentle orchestration and heartfelt lyrics gave it a depth that could bring anyone to tears. “Traces” remains one of those forgotten classics that still tugs at the heartstrings and reminds us how deeply music can make us feel.
17. “Judy in Disguise (With Glasses)” – John Fred and His Playboy Band (1967)
Silly, Funky, and Oh-So Catchy: This cheeky Beatles-inspired tune had just enough funk and humor to make it impossible to forget. With its quirky lyrics and infectious beat, “Judy in Disguise” was like a playful wink to listeners everywhere, proving you didn’t have to take yourself too seriously to make a lasting hit. This song brings out the fun-loving, carefree energy that defined the best parts of the ‘60s.
Finding these hidden gems again is like dusting off an old record and remembering why you loved it. These songs weren’t just hits; they were the soundtrack to unforgettable times, and hearing them now brings back that timeless ‘60s spirit we can never forget.
