1. “Everybody’s Somebody’s Fool” – Connie Francis
Connie Francis was one of the biggest female pop stars of the early ’60s, and “Everybody’s Somebody’s Fool” gave her a number one hit in 1960. With her soaring vocals and heartbreak delivery, it became an anthem for teenage love. It was everywhere that summer and cemented her status as America’s sweetheart.
Today, though, Francis is remembered more for “Where the Boys Are,” while this chart-topper often gets overlooked. It’s surprising, given how dominant it was at the time. Hearing it now feels like stepping back into a sock hop dance floor.
2. “Travelin’ Man” – Ricky Nelson
Ricky Nelson was already a teen idol by the time he released “Travelin’ Man” in 1961, and it quickly went to number one. Its globe-trotting lyrics and Nelson’s smooth delivery made it a hit with young fans. Nelson was one of the rare stars who successfully balanced acting on The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet with a thriving music career.
Yet, when people think of Nelson today, they usually recall “Hello Mary Lou” or his later classic “Garden Party.” “Travelin’ Man” doesn’t get the same recognition even though it was one of his biggest. It’s a reminder of how much early ’60s pop could dominate radio.
3. “Crying in the Chapel” – Elvis Presley
Elvis Presley had plenty of massive hits, but “Crying in the Chapel” was a special one. Released in 1965, it showed off his gospel side and went all the way to number three on the charts. Fans loved the sincerity in his voice, and it stood out in an era dominated by the British Invasion.
But when people think of Elvis today, it’s usually “Hound Dog,” “Suspicious Minds,” or “Can’t Help Falling in Love.” “Crying in the Chapel” rarely makes the list even though it was a huge commercial success. It deserves to be remembered as one of his quiet triumphs.
4. “Where Did Our Love Go” – The Supremes
Before Diana Ross and The Supremes became household names, “Where Did Our Love Go” put them on the map in 1964. The simple beat and Ross’s pleading vocals turned it into a number one hit, launching a streak of success for Motown’s biggest girl group. It was the first of five consecutive number ones for them.
Even though it was the song that made them stars, it doesn’t get the same modern attention as “Stop! In the Name of Love” or “You Can’t Hurry Love.” Still, without it, The Supremes might not have become the icons they are today.
5. “Fun, Fun, Fun” – The Beach Boys
The Beach Boys are remembered for “Good Vibrations” and “California Girls,” but “Fun, Fun, Fun” was one of their early signature songs. Released in 1964, it captured the carefree vibe of surf culture with its story about a girl who takes her dad’s T-Bird out for a joyride. It shot into the Top 5 and became a summer staple.
Strangely, it doesn’t always make the playlist when people talk about their biggest hits. Maybe it got overshadowed by later, more experimental work. Still, it’s pure ’60s sunshine rock at its best.
6. “Can’t You Hear My Heartbeat” – Herman’s Hermits
Herman’s Hermits were British Invasion darlings, and “Can’t You Hear My Heartbeat” gave them a smash hit in 1965. It went all the way to number two in America, carried by Peter Noone’s youthful charm. For a while, the Hermits were giving The Beatles a run for their money in terms of popularity.
Yet, most people today only recall “I’m Into Something Good” or “Mrs. Brown, You’ve Got a Lovely Daughter.” This song, despite being a huge seller, isn’t often remembered. It’s one of those tracks that instantly brings back that mid-’60s teen pop excitement.
7. “Someday We’ll Be Together” – Diana Ross & The Supremes
In 1969, Diana Ross & The Supremes closed out the decade with “Someday We’ll Be Together.” It was a poignant farewell single before Ross launched her solo career, and it became another number one hit. Fans connected with its heartfelt message, and it became one of Motown’s biggest singles of the year.
Yet, it doesn’t get the same spotlight as their mid-’60s string of chart-toppers. With Ross’s solo hits taking over the ’70s, this one has slipped into the background. Still, it’s an important piece of music history as the last official Supremes single with Diana.
8. “It’s Now or Never” – Elvis Presley
Elvis was unstoppable in 1960, and “It’s Now or Never” was one of his biggest post-army comeback hits. Adapted from the Italian song “O Sole Mio,” it had a dramatic, operatic flair that showed a different side of him. The single sold over 20 million copies worldwide, making it one of his most successful ever.
Despite those numbers, it doesn’t get the same cultural recognition as his early rock ’n’ roll hits. Fans today are more likely to hear “Jailhouse Rock” or “Love Me Tender” played on the radio. But “It’s Now or Never” proved Elvis could take risks and still dominate the charts.
9. “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” – The Tokens
In 1961, The Tokens’ version of “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” became a worldwide sensation. Its soaring falsetto and African-inspired rhythms made it unique and unforgettable. The song hit number one in the U.S. and has been covered countless times since.
But oddly enough, people tend to remember it more from later appearances in movies like The Lion King than from its original release. The Tokens themselves didn’t maintain a long string of hits, which is why their version often gets overlooked. Still, it was one of the defining songs of the early ’60s.
10. “Monday, Monday” – The Mamas & The Papas
The Mamas & The Papas are remembered for “California Dreamin’,” but “Monday, Monday” was actually their only number one hit. Released in 1966, it captured the mix of folk and pop that made them so distinctive. The harmonies were rich and unforgettable, and the song even won a Grammy.
Yet, in modern times, “Monday, Monday” doesn’t get played as often as their other work. It’s surprising, given that it was such a massive hit at the time. It’s a great reminder of how their sound defined the decade.
11. “Turn! Turn! Turn!” – The Byrds
The Byrds had multiple classics, but “Turn! Turn! Turn!” was one of their biggest. Released in 1965, it was adapted from a Bible passage and set to Roger McGuinn’s jangly 12-string guitar. The song went to number one and became an anthem for peace and reflection.
However, when people think of The Byrds today, “Mr. Tambourine Man” tends to be the first song mentioned. “Turn! Turn! Turn!” sometimes gets lost in the shuffle, even though it was a cultural milestone. It still holds up as one of the era’s most meaningful hits.
12. “You Don’t Own Me” – Lesley Gore
Lesley Gore became a teen idol with “It’s My Party,” but in 1964 she delivered a more serious anthem with “You Don’t Own Me.” The song was bold for its time, telling women they had independence and didn’t belong to anyone. It hit number two and became one of her most memorable recordings.
Still, when her career is discussed, “It’s My Party” usually takes center stage. “You Don’t Own Me” was huge in its moment but doesn’t always get credit as a groundbreaking pop hit. It deserves a lot more attention for how ahead of its time it really was.
