Thanks to everyone who commented on my original Boomer 100 list. I promised that I would include suggested changes, and here's the new list.
Changes are noted with a *
Changes are noted with a *
1
In The Still of The Night
The Five Satins
1956
Considered by many to be the best doo wop song of the fifties.
2
Earth Angel
The Penguins
1954
If not “In The Still of The Night”, then this song is the best doo wop song ever.
3
Rock Around The Clock
Bill Haley and the Comets
1955
Considered by many (probably incorrectly) to be the first Rock and Roll song. Featured in the movie “Blackboard Jungle”, then again in “Rock Around the Clock”.
4
*Sweet Caroline
Neil Diamond
1969
A dominant voice in the late sixties and seventies, still going strong today. Suggested by Deirdre.
5
At The Hop
Danny and The Juniors
1957
The band members were only 15 when the song was released. Although the original Danny was a Self Destructive Artist who committed suicide, some of the group is still performing today.
6
Bye Bye Love
The Everly Brothers
1957
Crossed over from country to rock charts. Simon and Garfunkel imitated their style in the sixties.
7
She Loves You
The Beatles
1963
Early Beatles. The world didn’t know what was coming.
8
Blueberry Hill
Fats Domino
1956
N’awlins jazz song crossed over to the rock charts. Fats Domino was rescued from the second floor of his house/recording studio during Hurricane Katrina years later.
9
Great Balls of Fire
Jerry Lee Lewis
1957
Some say that he would have been bigger than Elvis, but then he married his 13 year old first cousin, and he was ostracized.
10
Come Go With Me
The Del Vikings
1957
Claimed to be the first integrated rock group.
11
16 Candles
Johnny Maestro and the Crests
1959
The doo wop start of Johnny’s career, still going strong today. Did any 16 year old girl not play this song at her birthday party?
12
Crazy
Patsy Cline
1961
Tragic Artist, died in a plane crash in 1963 at 30 years old. Boomers usually don’t do Country, but Patsy Cline had the purest female voice in any genre during the fifties and sixties, and crossed over to pop.
13
*Born in the USA
Bruce Springsteen
1984
Theresa reminded me that “The Boss” couldn’t be left off the list.
14
*(They Long to Be) Close to You
The Carpenters
1970
Typical of the light rock era. Karen Carpenter was a Tragic Artist. Suggested by Theresa and Liz.
15
Where Have All the Flowers Gone?
Pete Seeger
1956
The simplest, but most eloquent, anti-war song written by one of the most prolific folk song writers of our time. Sung by many artists during the Viet Nam War. Seeger was blacklisted during the McCarthy era, due to his activist beliefs.
16
Will You Love Me Tomorrow?
The Shirelles
1961
The lyrics were suggestive for the time, and the song was banned on some radio stations. Girl groups owned the Top 40 charts. Written by Carole King.
17
Be My Baby
The Ronettes
1963
The best example of producer Phil Spector’s “Wall of Sound”, with layers of background music and singers, heavy with strings. Spector married the lead singer, Ronnie.
18
*The Twist
Hank Ballard and the Midnighters
1958
Reen suggested that the original group replace Chubby Checker, who had the more popular version, but not the best! Ballard wrote the song.
19
House of the Rising Sun
The Animals
1964
One of the first “bad boy” songs of the sixties, by another band from Liverpool.
20
Surfin’ Safari
The Beach Boys
1962
One of the few successful American groups during The British Invasion. They created the surfer genre.
21
Crying
Roy Orbison
1961
One of the most influential singers/writers of the 60’s. Moved from Country and Rockabilly to rock ballads, with impressive vocal range. Admired (and copied) by The Beatles, Bruce Springsteen, Bob Dylan, and many others.
22
*Hound Dog
Elvis Presley
1958
Dolly suggested this as a better Elvis song than “Viva Las Vegas”, but I didn’t have the heart to delete Ann Margret from the list.
23
Sherry
Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons
1962
Greatest falsetto sound of the sixties. Started an amazing string of # 1 hit songs. Their music lives on in the jukebox musical, “Jersey Boys”, one of the biggest hits on Broadway today.
24
You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feeling
The Righteous Brothers
1964
A hit song when released, but immortalized by Tom Cruise in “Top Gun”. Many radio listeners thought they were black, due to their “blue-eyed soul” style. Bobby Hatfield was a Self Destructive Artist; died of a cocaine overdose.
25
I Heard It Through the Grapevine
Marvin Gaye
1967
Copied by many artists, but this Motown version was the biggest. A Tragic Artist, killed by his own father.
26
The Times They Are A-Changin’
Bob Dylan
1964
The times WERE changing, and the poet of the sixties captured the mood. What Dylan lacked in singing ability, he made up for it in his lyrics.
27
Twist & Shout
The Isley Brothers
1961
Covered later by the Beatles. Reborn in “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off”.
28
Peggy Sue
Buddy Holly
1957
Tragic Artist. One of the most influential singers in early rock. Only recorded from 1957 until 1959 (“The Day The Music Died”), but his style was copied by many later artists. He sang this song solo, without The Cricketts.
29
Stop! In The Name of Love
The Supremes
1965
Biggest girl group of the sixties.
30
Little Darlin’
The Gladiolas
1957
Song released by this black group, but covered by the white group, The Diamonds . A sad commentary on the fifties’ practice of not playing “colored” songs on “white” radio stations. Guess who earned the royalties? Pat Boone would never have been popular without covering “R&B” songs.
31
Johnny B. Goode
Chuck Berry
1958
Major artist of the fifties, still performing today. Known for his guitar playing and raunchy lyrics, he was imitated by many artists, including The Beatles, The Beach Boys and virtually ever group with a guitarist.
32
Bo Diddley
Bo Diddley
1955
He had to be great to name a song after himself. He was, until he died in 2008. A major influence on Buddy Holly, Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, and many others.
33
Tutti Frutti
Little Richard
1954
One of the more flamboyant (euphemism for “gay”) performers of the fifties. Became a minister in 1957, before returning to perform in 1963, to perform with the Beatles, who imitated his style.
34
*A Change is Gonna Come
Sam Cooke
1963
Representative of the civil rights movement of the sixties. Not released until after the Tragic Artist’s death. Suggested by Andy.
35
Gloria
The Cadillacs
1954
Possibly sung by more doo wop groups than any song in history, with corny and almost impossible lyrics, usually sung out of tune.
36
Diana
Paul Anka
1956
He was 15 years old at the time. Prolific song writer and singer, still active after 50 years.
37
Donna
Ritchie Valens
1959
Tragic Artist – died at 17 with the Big Bopper and Buddy Holly in Clear Lake, Iowa, with his career just beginning. The next generation learned his story in the movie “La Bamba”.
38
Blue Suede Shoes
Carl Perkins
1955
Elvis is usually credited with this song, but this version was first (and probably better!).
39
*Annie’s Song
John Denver
1974
This tragic artist crossed over from country to the rock charts. Suggested by Sue.
40
Georgia (On My Mind)
Ray Charles
1960
Outcast by many in his own generation. Revered by a later generation, especially following the movie, “Ray”.
41
*Cat’s in the Cradle
Harry Chapin
1974
A sad commentary on inter-generational strife. Suggested by Sue.
42
Viva Las Vegas
Elvis Presley
1961
The best of his movie period. We got to see Ann-Margret undulate, while we watched Elvis singing!
43
California Dreamin’
The Mamas and the Papas
1966
Weren’t we all dreaming of California then? Mama Cass was a Self Destructive Artist. Others in the group were just dysfunctional. Only Michelle Phillips is alive today.
44
River Deep Mountain High
Ike and Tina Turner
1966
Producer Phil Spector expected this song to be the biggest “Wall of Sound” song ever. When the tune flopped, his career went into a tailspin. He’s a convicted murderer, now in prison in California. (The song finally became a success in England, when Tina sung it solo.)
45
Good Lovin’
The Young Rascals
1966
Best keyboard song of the sixties.
46
Goldfinger
Shirley Bassey
1964
Regardless of which 007 actor you preferred, James Bond was part of Boomers’ lives.
47
The Sound of Silence
Simon and Garfunkel
1965
Most prolific folk artists of the sixties. Best friends as kids; despised one another as adults.
48
Baby, I Need Your Loving
The Four Tops
1964
Motown classic
49
Blowin’ in the Wind
Peter, Paul and Mary
1963
Written by Bob Dylan. These folk singers were everywhere in the sixties. (Although Peter was indisposed for a time in the seventies, while in jail for some personal indiscretions.)
50
San Francisco (Wear Some Flowers In Your Hair)
Scott McKenzie
1967
Hippie anthem. I wore a flower in my hair at Woodstock. That would not be physically possible today!
51
My Girl
The Temptations
1965
It’s hard to mention the Tops, without the Temps. This song was written for Smokey Robinson, but Berry Gordy gave it to The Temptations.
52
When a Man Loves A Woman
Percy Sledge
1966
Now played on the few remaining oldies stations an average of once every 18 minutes.
53
*We Didn’t Start the Fire
Billy Joel
1989
Although the release date was past the time period for this list, does any song explain the Boomer generation than this? Great suggestion by Mike.
54
(Sitting On) The Dock of the Bay
Otis Redding
1968
One of the most successful soul artists of the sixties. Tragic Artist – killed in a plane crash, five months before this song hit # 1.
55
Monterey
The Animals
1968
The 1967 Monterey Pop Festival was a predecessor of Woodstock. Great stars, but more laid back.
56
Louie, Louie
The Kingsmen
1964
The original garage band. Earned $50 for this song. Played at every high school dance during the sixties and seventies, and sung by John Belushi in “Animal House”. Lyrics continue to be analyzed for hidden meaning.
57
Respect
Aretha Franklin
1967
We R-E-S-P-E-C-T the Queen of Soul.
58
*God Bless America
Kate Smith
1938
Released before the Boomers were born, but still played to this day. The Philadelphia Flyers popularized it again in 1969. The Yankees play it at all home games. A younger generation was introduced to this classic after 9/11. Suggested by Uncle Dave, the most senior commenter on the list!
59
Good Vibrations
The Beach Boys
1966
This song broke them out of their surfer music, and showed their complex harmonies. Brian Wilson was already going bonkers, and soon fell into a long-lasting hibernation “In My Room”.
60
I Got You Babe
Sonny & Cher
1965
They deserved each other. Sonny was a Tragic Artist. Cher may be at her plastic surgeon’s office today, but is still going strong..
61
I Got You (I Feel Good)
James Brown
1965
The Godfather of Soul. Brought the R&B genre to the rock charts.
62
Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band
The Beatles
1967
The group changed their whole persona mid-career (which was way too short, wasn’t it?)
63
Woodstock
Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young
1970
This super-group’s song memorializes the biggest event in rock history. (I still have the unique claim of being the only person of the 500,000 in attendance who bought a ticket and carried a suitcase to Woodstock.)
64
Proud Mary
Creedence Clearwater Revival
1969
This group had the distinction of producing the greatest number of top ten songs, without ever reaching # 1.
65
A Whiter Shade of Pale
Procul Harum
1967
If you were alive in 1967, you’ll remember the haunting melodies of this song. You’ll probably never recall the words, since the group mumbled the meaningless lyrics.
66
Soul Sacrifice
Santana
1969
The greatest Latin rock guitarist of our time. Played this at Woodstock, as a chant for the rain to stop.
67
Purple Haze
Jimi Hendrix
1967
Best rock guitarist of all times, period! Self Destructive Artist – he barely made it into the seventies, after groundbreaking guitar performances in the late sixties. He was only 27 when he died of an overdose, after recording only for four years. His songs have survived ten times longer than that.
68
Pinball Wizard
The Who
1969
A new musical genre is introduced – the rock opera.
69
Ball and Chain
Big Brother & The Holding Company
1968
Janis Joplin still is the best female blues singer ever. Self Destructive Artist – too much Southern Comfort and hard living killed her at an early age.
70
Spoonful
Cream
1968
The super group’s ode to the hard drug culture of the late sixties. Who would have thought that Eric Clapton would survive to be the best blues guitarist 40 years later?
71
Nights in White Satin
The Moody Blues
1967
Rock added the backup orchestra, and it worked!
72
Abraham, Martin and John
Dion (DiMucci)
1968
It’s still hard to believe today that assassination of a president, a civil rights leader and a presidential candidate could have happened in one decade? Dion’s career has included doo wop (with the Belmonts), rock, folk, Country and Christian music.
73
You’re So Vain
Carly Simon
1971
And who was she singing about?
74
American Pie
Don McLean
1971
There was a lot of truth in this song. American music did hit a dry spell after “The Day the Music Died.”
75
White Rabbit
Jefferson Airplane
1967
Rock participates in the psychedelic period. Grace Slick’s vocals made this group.
76
In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida
Iron Butterfly
1968
I happen to dislike this song, but it represents an important benchmark in hard rock music. 17 minute length kept it off the AM stations. Only the heavy FM stations would play this acid rock classic.
77
Whole Lotta Love
Led Zeppelin
1969
This song had a great, driving beat from Jimmy Page’s guitar. “Erotic rock” that you wouldn’t play when Mom was around.
78
The End
The Doors
1967
Less successful commercially than “Light My Fire”, but the brooding melodies and dark lyrics make it the most representative Doors song. Amended lyrics and Jim’s exhibitionism caused the arrest of Morrison and began “the end” of this group in 1969. Self Destructive Artist – Jim didn’t last much longer until his early demise in 1971.
79
Born to be Wild
Steppenwolf
1968
Bad boy biker anthem from “Easy Rider”.
80
Shaft
Isaac Hayes
1971
First R&B Oscar-winning song. An early rap song, even if we didn’t know it then. The best baritone voice of the era.
81
Sympathy for the Devil
The Rolling Stones
1968
“Satisfaction” may have been a bigger hit, but this song better represents the hard edge of the long-lasting Stones. Will they still be performing when they’re 80? (Oh, they’re already 80 years old?)
82
Ohio
Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young
1970
This song memorialized the killing of four student protesters at Kent State, that helped turn the tide of American sentiment against the Viet Nam War. Even for the violence of the period, this event shocked every American, perhaps except Richard Nixon.
83
Brown Eyed Girl
Van Morrison
1967
Has any song from this era been played more often on oldies stations? Signature song from the singer from Northern Ireland.
84
Hey Jude
The Beatles
1970
The final Beatles’ anthem. Did they really create so many songs in less than a decade? Even AM stations played this seven minute classic.
85
Maybe I’m Amazed
Paul McCartney and Wings
1970
There was life after the Beatles.
86
Garden Party
Rick Nelson
1972
He was “Rick” in the seventies, but his fans wanted Ricky of the fifties.
87
Copacabana
Barry Manilow
1978
Funny, nobody admitting liking Barry, but he sold millions of records. This one had a good beat, and you could dance to it, Mr. Clark.
88
Stayin’ Alive
The Bee Gees
1977
The top song of the disco era. Didn’t all Boomer guys think they could boogie better than Travolta?
89
Carolina on My Mind
James Taylor
1968
North or South? Paul McCartney played bass on this song.
90
Margaritaville
Jimmy Buffet
1977
He’s responsible for the sale of 18,000,000 ugly shirts, baggy shorts and flip flops to middle-aged bald men every year.
91
Thriller
Michael Jackson
1982
OK, he was weird, but you have to admit that this was one of the biggest songs of the Boomers’ period.
92
Conga
Gloria Estefan & The Miami Sound Machine
1986
Introduced Latin music to the mainline rock charts.
93
Imagine
John Lennon
1971
Tragic Artist. Yes, the spirit of the Beatles continued, although Lennon couldn’t survive a madman’s bullet.
94
Sweet Home Alabama
Lynryd Sknyrd
1974
Even if you don’t live in Alabama, you probably like this Southern rock song.
95
*Tiny Dancer
Elton John
1971
Cary suggested this over “Your Song”, and it is the #1 downloaded Sir Elton song on iTunes. Theresa agreed with Cary.
96
Hotel California
The Eagles
1977
Is there a better straight-out rock band of the era?
97
Layla
Eric Clapton (Derek & The Dominoes)
1970
He somehow survived his hard living to be one of the best guitarists ever. (# 2 in my opinion, only behind Jimi.) Played with The Yardbirds, Cream, Blind Faith, etc.
98
*Twelfth of Never
Johnny Mathis
1957
Johnny’s Greatest Hits album broke a record for the longest consecutive time on the Billboard charts – 9 ½ years! Suggested by Wanda and June. Our wedding song!
99
Piano Man
Billy Joel
1973
Self-descriptive song. Billy has had as many car wrecks (and wives) as he’s had hits, but his music is Boomer-centric.
100
Bohemian Rhapsody
Queen
1975
Was there a better rock showman than Tragic Artist Freddie Mercury? His songs were made into a jukebox musical, “We Will Rock You”.
* Changes from original Boomer 100 list.
Hugh Shaw
September 22, 2009
Updated
In The Still of The Night
The Five Satins
1956
Considered by many to be the best doo wop song of the fifties.
2
Earth Angel
The Penguins
1954
If not “In The Still of The Night”, then this song is the best doo wop song ever.
3
Rock Around The Clock
Bill Haley and the Comets
1955
Considered by many (probably incorrectly) to be the first Rock and Roll song. Featured in the movie “Blackboard Jungle”, then again in “Rock Around the Clock”.
4
*Sweet Caroline
Neil Diamond
1969
A dominant voice in the late sixties and seventies, still going strong today. Suggested by Deirdre.
5
At The Hop
Danny and The Juniors
1957
The band members were only 15 when the song was released. Although the original Danny was a Self Destructive Artist who committed suicide, some of the group is still performing today.
6
Bye Bye Love
The Everly Brothers
1957
Crossed over from country to rock charts. Simon and Garfunkel imitated their style in the sixties.
7
She Loves You
The Beatles
1963
Early Beatles. The world didn’t know what was coming.
8
Blueberry Hill
Fats Domino
1956
N’awlins jazz song crossed over to the rock charts. Fats Domino was rescued from the second floor of his house/recording studio during Hurricane Katrina years later.
9
Great Balls of Fire
Jerry Lee Lewis
1957
Some say that he would have been bigger than Elvis, but then he married his 13 year old first cousin, and he was ostracized.
10
Come Go With Me
The Del Vikings
1957
Claimed to be the first integrated rock group.
11
16 Candles
Johnny Maestro and the Crests
1959
The doo wop start of Johnny’s career, still going strong today. Did any 16 year old girl not play this song at her birthday party?
12
Crazy
Patsy Cline
1961
Tragic Artist, died in a plane crash in 1963 at 30 years old. Boomers usually don’t do Country, but Patsy Cline had the purest female voice in any genre during the fifties and sixties, and crossed over to pop.
13
*Born in the USA
Bruce Springsteen
1984
Theresa reminded me that “The Boss” couldn’t be left off the list.
14
*(They Long to Be) Close to You
The Carpenters
1970
Typical of the light rock era. Karen Carpenter was a Tragic Artist. Suggested by Theresa and Liz.
15
Where Have All the Flowers Gone?
Pete Seeger
1956
The simplest, but most eloquent, anti-war song written by one of the most prolific folk song writers of our time. Sung by many artists during the Viet Nam War. Seeger was blacklisted during the McCarthy era, due to his activist beliefs.
16
Will You Love Me Tomorrow?
The Shirelles
1961
The lyrics were suggestive for the time, and the song was banned on some radio stations. Girl groups owned the Top 40 charts. Written by Carole King.
17
Be My Baby
The Ronettes
1963
The best example of producer Phil Spector’s “Wall of Sound”, with layers of background music and singers, heavy with strings. Spector married the lead singer, Ronnie.
18
*The Twist
Hank Ballard and the Midnighters
1958
Reen suggested that the original group replace Chubby Checker, who had the more popular version, but not the best! Ballard wrote the song.
19
House of the Rising Sun
The Animals
1964
One of the first “bad boy” songs of the sixties, by another band from Liverpool.
20
Surfin’ Safari
The Beach Boys
1962
One of the few successful American groups during The British Invasion. They created the surfer genre.
21
Crying
Roy Orbison
1961
One of the most influential singers/writers of the 60’s. Moved from Country and Rockabilly to rock ballads, with impressive vocal range. Admired (and copied) by The Beatles, Bruce Springsteen, Bob Dylan, and many others.
22
*Hound Dog
Elvis Presley
1958
Dolly suggested this as a better Elvis song than “Viva Las Vegas”, but I didn’t have the heart to delete Ann Margret from the list.
23
Sherry
Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons
1962
Greatest falsetto sound of the sixties. Started an amazing string of # 1 hit songs. Their music lives on in the jukebox musical, “Jersey Boys”, one of the biggest hits on Broadway today.
24
You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feeling
The Righteous Brothers
1964
A hit song when released, but immortalized by Tom Cruise in “Top Gun”. Many radio listeners thought they were black, due to their “blue-eyed soul” style. Bobby Hatfield was a Self Destructive Artist; died of a cocaine overdose.
25
I Heard It Through the Grapevine
Marvin Gaye
1967
Copied by many artists, but this Motown version was the biggest. A Tragic Artist, killed by his own father.
26
The Times They Are A-Changin’
Bob Dylan
1964
The times WERE changing, and the poet of the sixties captured the mood. What Dylan lacked in singing ability, he made up for it in his lyrics.
27
Twist & Shout
The Isley Brothers
1961
Covered later by the Beatles. Reborn in “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off”.
28
Peggy Sue
Buddy Holly
1957
Tragic Artist. One of the most influential singers in early rock. Only recorded from 1957 until 1959 (“The Day The Music Died”), but his style was copied by many later artists. He sang this song solo, without The Cricketts.
29
Stop! In The Name of Love
The Supremes
1965
Biggest girl group of the sixties.
30
Little Darlin’
The Gladiolas
1957
Song released by this black group, but covered by the white group, The Diamonds . A sad commentary on the fifties’ practice of not playing “colored” songs on “white” radio stations. Guess who earned the royalties? Pat Boone would never have been popular without covering “R&B” songs.
31
Johnny B. Goode
Chuck Berry
1958
Major artist of the fifties, still performing today. Known for his guitar playing and raunchy lyrics, he was imitated by many artists, including The Beatles, The Beach Boys and virtually ever group with a guitarist.
32
Bo Diddley
Bo Diddley
1955
He had to be great to name a song after himself. He was, until he died in 2008. A major influence on Buddy Holly, Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, and many others.
33
Tutti Frutti
Little Richard
1954
One of the more flamboyant (euphemism for “gay”) performers of the fifties. Became a minister in 1957, before returning to perform in 1963, to perform with the Beatles, who imitated his style.
34
*A Change is Gonna Come
Sam Cooke
1963
Representative of the civil rights movement of the sixties. Not released until after the Tragic Artist’s death. Suggested by Andy.
35
Gloria
The Cadillacs
1954
Possibly sung by more doo wop groups than any song in history, with corny and almost impossible lyrics, usually sung out of tune.
36
Diana
Paul Anka
1956
He was 15 years old at the time. Prolific song writer and singer, still active after 50 years.
37
Donna
Ritchie Valens
1959
Tragic Artist – died at 17 with the Big Bopper and Buddy Holly in Clear Lake, Iowa, with his career just beginning. The next generation learned his story in the movie “La Bamba”.
38
Blue Suede Shoes
Carl Perkins
1955
Elvis is usually credited with this song, but this version was first (and probably better!).
39
*Annie’s Song
John Denver
1974
This tragic artist crossed over from country to the rock charts. Suggested by Sue.
40
Georgia (On My Mind)
Ray Charles
1960
Outcast by many in his own generation. Revered by a later generation, especially following the movie, “Ray”.
41
*Cat’s in the Cradle
Harry Chapin
1974
A sad commentary on inter-generational strife. Suggested by Sue.
42
Viva Las Vegas
Elvis Presley
1961
The best of his movie period. We got to see Ann-Margret undulate, while we watched Elvis singing!
43
California Dreamin’
The Mamas and the Papas
1966
Weren’t we all dreaming of California then? Mama Cass was a Self Destructive Artist. Others in the group were just dysfunctional. Only Michelle Phillips is alive today.
44
River Deep Mountain High
Ike and Tina Turner
1966
Producer Phil Spector expected this song to be the biggest “Wall of Sound” song ever. When the tune flopped, his career went into a tailspin. He’s a convicted murderer, now in prison in California. (The song finally became a success in England, when Tina sung it solo.)
45
Good Lovin’
The Young Rascals
1966
Best keyboard song of the sixties.
46
Goldfinger
Shirley Bassey
1964
Regardless of which 007 actor you preferred, James Bond was part of Boomers’ lives.
47
The Sound of Silence
Simon and Garfunkel
1965
Most prolific folk artists of the sixties. Best friends as kids; despised one another as adults.
48
Baby, I Need Your Loving
The Four Tops
1964
Motown classic
49
Blowin’ in the Wind
Peter, Paul and Mary
1963
Written by Bob Dylan. These folk singers were everywhere in the sixties. (Although Peter was indisposed for a time in the seventies, while in jail for some personal indiscretions.)
50
San Francisco (Wear Some Flowers In Your Hair)
Scott McKenzie
1967
Hippie anthem. I wore a flower in my hair at Woodstock. That would not be physically possible today!
51
My Girl
The Temptations
1965
It’s hard to mention the Tops, without the Temps. This song was written for Smokey Robinson, but Berry Gordy gave it to The Temptations.
52
When a Man Loves A Woman
Percy Sledge
1966
Now played on the few remaining oldies stations an average of once every 18 minutes.
53
*We Didn’t Start the Fire
Billy Joel
1989
Although the release date was past the time period for this list, does any song explain the Boomer generation than this? Great suggestion by Mike.
54
(Sitting On) The Dock of the Bay
Otis Redding
1968
One of the most successful soul artists of the sixties. Tragic Artist – killed in a plane crash, five months before this song hit # 1.
55
Monterey
The Animals
1968
The 1967 Monterey Pop Festival was a predecessor of Woodstock. Great stars, but more laid back.
56
Louie, Louie
The Kingsmen
1964
The original garage band. Earned $50 for this song. Played at every high school dance during the sixties and seventies, and sung by John Belushi in “Animal House”. Lyrics continue to be analyzed for hidden meaning.
57
Respect
Aretha Franklin
1967
We R-E-S-P-E-C-T the Queen of Soul.
58
*God Bless America
Kate Smith
1938
Released before the Boomers were born, but still played to this day. The Philadelphia Flyers popularized it again in 1969. The Yankees play it at all home games. A younger generation was introduced to this classic after 9/11. Suggested by Uncle Dave, the most senior commenter on the list!
59
Good Vibrations
The Beach Boys
1966
This song broke them out of their surfer music, and showed their complex harmonies. Brian Wilson was already going bonkers, and soon fell into a long-lasting hibernation “In My Room”.
60
I Got You Babe
Sonny & Cher
1965
They deserved each other. Sonny was a Tragic Artist. Cher may be at her plastic surgeon’s office today, but is still going strong..
61
I Got You (I Feel Good)
James Brown
1965
The Godfather of Soul. Brought the R&B genre to the rock charts.
62
Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band
The Beatles
1967
The group changed their whole persona mid-career (which was way too short, wasn’t it?)
63
Woodstock
Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young
1970
This super-group’s song memorializes the biggest event in rock history. (I still have the unique claim of being the only person of the 500,000 in attendance who bought a ticket and carried a suitcase to Woodstock.)
64
Proud Mary
Creedence Clearwater Revival
1969
This group had the distinction of producing the greatest number of top ten songs, without ever reaching # 1.
65
A Whiter Shade of Pale
Procul Harum
1967
If you were alive in 1967, you’ll remember the haunting melodies of this song. You’ll probably never recall the words, since the group mumbled the meaningless lyrics.
66
Soul Sacrifice
Santana
1969
The greatest Latin rock guitarist of our time. Played this at Woodstock, as a chant for the rain to stop.
67
Purple Haze
Jimi Hendrix
1967
Best rock guitarist of all times, period! Self Destructive Artist – he barely made it into the seventies, after groundbreaking guitar performances in the late sixties. He was only 27 when he died of an overdose, after recording only for four years. His songs have survived ten times longer than that.
68
Pinball Wizard
The Who
1969
A new musical genre is introduced – the rock opera.
69
Ball and Chain
Big Brother & The Holding Company
1968
Janis Joplin still is the best female blues singer ever. Self Destructive Artist – too much Southern Comfort and hard living killed her at an early age.
70
Spoonful
Cream
1968
The super group’s ode to the hard drug culture of the late sixties. Who would have thought that Eric Clapton would survive to be the best blues guitarist 40 years later?
71
Nights in White Satin
The Moody Blues
1967
Rock added the backup orchestra, and it worked!
72
Abraham, Martin and John
Dion (DiMucci)
1968
It’s still hard to believe today that assassination of a president, a civil rights leader and a presidential candidate could have happened in one decade? Dion’s career has included doo wop (with the Belmonts), rock, folk, Country and Christian music.
73
You’re So Vain
Carly Simon
1971
And who was she singing about?
74
American Pie
Don McLean
1971
There was a lot of truth in this song. American music did hit a dry spell after “The Day the Music Died.”
75
White Rabbit
Jefferson Airplane
1967
Rock participates in the psychedelic period. Grace Slick’s vocals made this group.
76
In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida
Iron Butterfly
1968
I happen to dislike this song, but it represents an important benchmark in hard rock music. 17 minute length kept it off the AM stations. Only the heavy FM stations would play this acid rock classic.
77
Whole Lotta Love
Led Zeppelin
1969
This song had a great, driving beat from Jimmy Page’s guitar. “Erotic rock” that you wouldn’t play when Mom was around.
78
The End
The Doors
1967
Less successful commercially than “Light My Fire”, but the brooding melodies and dark lyrics make it the most representative Doors song. Amended lyrics and Jim’s exhibitionism caused the arrest of Morrison and began “the end” of this group in 1969. Self Destructive Artist – Jim didn’t last much longer until his early demise in 1971.
79
Born to be Wild
Steppenwolf
1968
Bad boy biker anthem from “Easy Rider”.
80
Shaft
Isaac Hayes
1971
First R&B Oscar-winning song. An early rap song, even if we didn’t know it then. The best baritone voice of the era.
81
Sympathy for the Devil
The Rolling Stones
1968
“Satisfaction” may have been a bigger hit, but this song better represents the hard edge of the long-lasting Stones. Will they still be performing when they’re 80? (Oh, they’re already 80 years old?)
82
Ohio
Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young
1970
This song memorialized the killing of four student protesters at Kent State, that helped turn the tide of American sentiment against the Viet Nam War. Even for the violence of the period, this event shocked every American, perhaps except Richard Nixon.
83
Brown Eyed Girl
Van Morrison
1967
Has any song from this era been played more often on oldies stations? Signature song from the singer from Northern Ireland.
84
Hey Jude
The Beatles
1970
The final Beatles’ anthem. Did they really create so many songs in less than a decade? Even AM stations played this seven minute classic.
85
Maybe I’m Amazed
Paul McCartney and Wings
1970
There was life after the Beatles.
86
Garden Party
Rick Nelson
1972
He was “Rick” in the seventies, but his fans wanted Ricky of the fifties.
87
Copacabana
Barry Manilow
1978
Funny, nobody admitting liking Barry, but he sold millions of records. This one had a good beat, and you could dance to it, Mr. Clark.
88
Stayin’ Alive
The Bee Gees
1977
The top song of the disco era. Didn’t all Boomer guys think they could boogie better than Travolta?
89
Carolina on My Mind
James Taylor
1968
North or South? Paul McCartney played bass on this song.
90
Margaritaville
Jimmy Buffet
1977
He’s responsible for the sale of 18,000,000 ugly shirts, baggy shorts and flip flops to middle-aged bald men every year.
91
Thriller
Michael Jackson
1982
OK, he was weird, but you have to admit that this was one of the biggest songs of the Boomers’ period.
92
Conga
Gloria Estefan & The Miami Sound Machine
1986
Introduced Latin music to the mainline rock charts.
93
Imagine
John Lennon
1971
Tragic Artist. Yes, the spirit of the Beatles continued, although Lennon couldn’t survive a madman’s bullet.
94
Sweet Home Alabama
Lynryd Sknyrd
1974
Even if you don’t live in Alabama, you probably like this Southern rock song.
95
*Tiny Dancer
Elton John
1971
Cary suggested this over “Your Song”, and it is the #1 downloaded Sir Elton song on iTunes. Theresa agreed with Cary.
96
Hotel California
The Eagles
1977
Is there a better straight-out rock band of the era?
97
Layla
Eric Clapton (Derek & The Dominoes)
1970
He somehow survived his hard living to be one of the best guitarists ever. (# 2 in my opinion, only behind Jimi.) Played with The Yardbirds, Cream, Blind Faith, etc.
98
*Twelfth of Never
Johnny Mathis
1957
Johnny’s Greatest Hits album broke a record for the longest consecutive time on the Billboard charts – 9 ½ years! Suggested by Wanda and June. Our wedding song!
99
Piano Man
Billy Joel
1973
Self-descriptive song. Billy has had as many car wrecks (and wives) as he’s had hits, but his music is Boomer-centric.
100
Bohemian Rhapsody
Queen
1975
Was there a better rock showman than Tragic Artist Freddie Mercury? His songs were made into a jukebox musical, “We Will Rock You”.
* Changes from original Boomer 100 list.
Hugh Shaw
September 22, 2009
Updated
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