Musical heavyweights from the UK and the US contributed to many timeless classics which still show their influence in the music of many modern artists. The introduction of rock ‘n’ roll on the music scene in the 60s led to a plethora of talent and countless songs which contributed to an era which defines music.

My playlist tries to bring some of the most popular bands and artists of the 60s and let the music speak for itself. What better place to start than with one of the biggest bands of all time;

1.      
     The Beatles – Get Back:  Not only is this a great track but it also has one iconic video to accompany it. Playing on the rooftop of Apple HQ, the band play to a confused looking public below in a hugely successful publicity stunt. An up- tempo song which is aided by the jangling guitars and vocals of Paul McCartney.


No Beatles on Spotify (sort it out) but here's that vid

2.      

Small Faces – All Or Nothing:  A delightful opening which slowly builds the song up to the glorious chorus. A band who may not have hit the heights of some of their contemporaries but still produced some of the most recognisable hits of the time.

3.  
 The Kinks – Waterloo Sunset:  From the intro to the closing beat, this tune from Ray Davies et al is pure gold. It has a genuine Britishness to it and is a stand out song from a band which produced hit after hit.

4.      
Rolling Stones – Gimme Shelter: At the time you were either a Beatles or Rolling Stones fan, fortunately these days you’re allowed to like both and for good reason too. ‘Gimme Shelter’ is a powerful mid-tempo song and has the added bonus of guest vocalist Merry Clayton whose vocals complement Sir Mick’s.

5.      
Beach Boys – God Only Knows: An almost haunting song that with lyrics to match the wistful tune create an epic feel.

6.      
Jeff Beck – Hi Ho Silver Lining:  A feel-good track which cannot fail to bring a smile to your face, makes it feel like summer even when it isn’t. A bit of a guilty pleasure.

7.      
The Who – Won’t Get Fooled Again: With so many to choose from, it was difficult to come to a decision from a legendary British band. ‘Won’t Get Fooled Again’ got the nod for it’s fantastic intro and great guitar riffs.

8.      
The Byrds – Turn! Turn! Turn!: The sound of the track epitomises the era and has a nostalgic feel to it. Maybe not built to last but one to look back on fondly.

9.     
Bob Dylan – Like A Rolling Stone: A great songwriter who has defied logic and continues to make quality music to this day. This is one of his earliest efforts and with harmonicas and distinctive vocals makes for a delightful track.

10 
The Mamas and the Papas – California Dreaming: Vocal harmonies and clever arrangement helps make this into a memorable track.

11 
The Animals – We’ve Gotta Get Out Of This Place: A proper rock ‘n’ roll song that once again well and truly has distinctive 60s origins and is all the better for it. Fantastic lead vocals and with a chorus which is recognisable to most, a top tune.

12
  Cream – White Room: One which is a particular favourite, delicately moves from aggressive to tender vocals and with a great guitar solo, has a psychedelic feel to it.

13
Jimi Hendrix – Purple Haze: To conclude one of the best riffs of all time from arguably the best guitarist.


GO PLAY- RICH'S CLASSIC 60'S PLAYLIST


1:   The Beatles- Get Back
2:   Small Faces – All Or Nothing
3:   The Kinks – Waterloo Sunse
4:   Rolling Stones – Gimme Shelter
5:   Beach Boys – God Only Knows
6:   Jeff Beck – Hi Ho Silver Lining
7:   The Who – Won’t Get Fooled Again
8:   The Byrds- Turn! Turn! Turn!
9:   Bob Dylan – Like A Rolling Stone
10: The Mamas and the Papas – California Dreaming
11: The Animals – We’ve Gotta Get Out Of This Place
12: Cream – White Room
13:  Jimi Hendrix – Purple Haze

Posted In Gobify, Apr 05 2010. Words - Richard