The 1960s was a legendary decade for music, with an explosion of creative energy that produced hit after hit. From surf rock to soul, the airwaves were filled with iconic tunes that are still celebrated today. But with so many songs dominating the charts back then, some fantastic hits have been overshadowed by the likes of The Beatles and The Rolling Stones. These tracks may have slipped from the forefront of memory, but they’re still as awesome as ever. Let’s dive into 10 forgotten gems from the swinging ’60s that deserve a comeback!
1. These Boots Are Made for Walkin’ – Nancy Sinatra (1966)
Nancy Sinatra stomped into music history with this sassy anthem in 1966. Written by her longtime collaborator Lee Hazlewood, the song’s catchy bass line and tambourine accompaniment gave it an undeniable groove. Originally intended for Hazlewood himself, Sinatra’s version is far more powerful, sending a warning to anyone who dares cross her. While its cultural impact lingers, especially in movies like Austin Powers, the song deserves to be on more playlists today.
2. Happy Together – The Turtles (1967)
The Turtles may not have the same name recognition as some of their contemporaries, but their 1967 hit Happy Together is pop perfection. The song blends folk and psychedelia with a catchy chorus that’s hard to forget once it’s stuck in your head. Despite its massive success, the band’s time at the top was brief, making this one-hit wonder a perfect example of a forgotten ‘60s classic.
3. Crimson and Clover – Tommy James and the Shondells (1968)
This dreamy, psychedelic track was born from a vision Tommy James had after waking up with the words “Crimson and Clover” in his head. The song’s innovative tremolo effect and experimental sound catapulted it to the top of the charts in 1968. The unique fusion of rock and psychedelia makes it a timeless tune that deserves a replay.
4. House of the Rising Sun – The Animals (1964)
This haunting ballad is an old folk tune that gained new life when The Animals recorded it in 1964. With a raw, emotional vocal performance by Eric Burdon and Alan Price’s signature organ riff, House of the Rising Sun became an instant hit. Despite being a staple in classic rock, this brooding, bluesy track often gets overlooked in the shuffle of ‘60s music history.
5. You’ll Never Walk Alone – Gerry and the Pacemakers (1963)
Though not as globally famous as The Beatles, Gerry and the Pacemakers were a prominent part of the British Invasion. Their rendition of You’ll Never Walk Alone became the unofficial anthem of Liverpool Football Club, cementing its status in British culture. Outside of the UK, though, this uplifting song has fallen into obscurity, despite its powerful message of resilience.
6. Aquarius/Let the Sun Shine In – The 5th Dimension (1969)
This medley, taken from the hit musical Hair, encapsulates the optimism and counterculture spirit of the late ’60s. Its fusion of folk, pop, and gospel makes it an infectious anthem for peace and love. The Fifth Dimension’s seamless blend of two distinct songs into one unforgettable hit remains an underappreciated masterpiece of the era.
7. 96 Tears – ? and the Mysterians (1966)
Garage rock pioneers ? and the Mysterians delivered one of the decade’s catchiest hits with 96 Tears. Fueled by a relentless organ riff and a hypnotic melody, the song helped pave the way for punk rock. Despite its impact on future rock genres, 96 Tears is often overshadowed by other hits of the decade, but its raw energy still holds up today.
8. Sugar, Sugar – The Archies (1969)
The Archies may have been a fictional band, but Sugar, Sugar became one of the best-selling singles of the decade. This bubblegum pop hit dominated the charts and even though it was sung by cartoon characters, it’s a sweet reminder of how fun and carefree the music of the ‘60s could be. Though a guilty pleasure for some, it’s a gem that deserves more love.
9. Spirit in the Sky – Norman Greenbaum (1969)
Combining gospel with fuzzed-out guitars, Norman Greenbaum’s Spirit in the Sky was a genre-blending triumph. The song’s hopeful lyrics about the afterlife, paired with its infectious riff, made it a massive hit. Though Greenbaum never replicated the success of this track, Spirit in the Sky remains an awesome reminder of how diverse and experimental music in the ’60s could be.
10. In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida – Iron Butterfly (1968)
Known as one of the first heavy metal songs to reach the Billboard charts, In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida by Iron Butterfly is a 17-minute epic that defined the late ‘60s. The song’s eerie organ, fuzzy guitar riffs, and hypnotic drums make it a landmark in rock history. Though the radio edit shortened it to under three minutes, the full version is a psychedelic journey worth revisiting.
These tracks may not be the first songs that come to mind when you think of the ‘60s, but they’re all incredible examples of the decade’s musical diversity and creativity. So, next time you’re in a nostalgic mood, dust off these forgotten gems and let them transport you back to a time when music was truly revolutionary.
Which forgotten ’60s hit do you think should have made the list? Let us know in the comments!
