Something a little different this week. Instead of playing the #1 hits from 1964 in chronological order, I’m going to spread them throughout the week. If I didn’t, you’d be listening to four songs by the Beatles today (three of them consecutively).
I will start with the first two #1 songs in 1964, if for other reason than to drive home the difference between what Americans had been listening to and the new sound they were going to get very familiar with.
After that, it’s a selection of songs that were blasting out of car radios in 1964 (with their peak chart positions indicated in parentheses next to the artist name).
So here we go. By the time we get to Friday, there will be twenty-one more #1 hits and an incredible selection of songs that dominated the Top 40 throughout the year!
Play button is on the left … Volume slider is on the right
Vintage 1964 Medley / Part 2
Bobby Vinton (#1) – Beatles (#1)
Dusty Springfield (#12) – Betty Everett (#6) – Animals (#19)
Lesley Gore (#14) – Herman’s Hermits (#13)
Ahh…1964, a lot of memories, some good, some not so good, but always great music. Poor Leslie Gore, always being cheated on, and somehow hearing Herman’s Hermits always makes me smile.
Don’t remember Betty Everett, but certainly remember her song. And from Bobby Vinton to the Beatles was quite a change.
Thanks, Pat.
Herman and the boys were usually very upbeat, plus they had a “safe” image. 🙂
Believe me Ray you are onto something good!! Busy day Ray!! Enjoyed the tunes!! Have a great day!! Stay warm!!
Thnks, Fred.
I may be onto something good but next week I’ll be on something even better … Vacation!
It’s interesting to listen to these and think about the difference between the music of the early 60’s and that after the British invasion – it really was an invasion …. must say as I think about it I like the music of individual entertainers better than that of groups …. never realized that until today … how’s that for reflection!!!!! And I must say it’s really fun to hear these great songs again — Hope you Rocked this Day Ray …. would appreciate a prayer or two tomorrow!
Thank you, Barbara 🙂
While I was definitely a fan of groups over single artists back in the 60s, maybe it was a case of wanting to hear the Beatles, Kinks, Dave Clark Five, Animals, Searchers and the rest of the British groups over American artists such as Bobby Vee, Rick Nelson, Bobby Vinton, Paul Anka, and the rest. The music was so much more vibrant.
Today? I don’t listen to too much from either; groups or single entertainers.
The prayers have been flowing and will continue to flow.
ROCK THE DAY (and may God be with J)
Good job today with the contrast between Bobby Vinson and the Beatles. It nicely illustrates the changes that were afoot in the music industry. The good thing was that for many years there was room for so many different styles. That is something missing in today’s musical landscape. The shift to narrowly defined styles dominating a station’s playlist was looming in the background. Thankfully we have you showing us a golden age of diversity in our musical history.
Only one artist comment today, how come Lesley Gore could sing about being heartbroken & cheated on but still sound upbeat and not maudlin? Go figure.
Thank you, Don.
Radio (the entire entertainment “business” in general) is one heck of a lot different today, and not for the better.
I always find it amusing when a “heartbreak” song is recorded with a rock beat. 🙂
Bobby Vinton so smooth, a crooner. There I said it again…a favorite.
Oh yeah I like all Americans loved this one! So simple but captures how we felt holding hands with a special someone. Made us feel happy inside!
More love from Dusty…love makes you only want to be with that someone whose hand we are holding. No matter what or where.
Yes! It is in his kiss! That’s how you know if he loves you like you love him. ( did not know who sang this but loved the song)
And then Animals with their iconic keyboard. Letting us know how it feels to lose at love, tears everywhere.
Lesley Gore unofficial spokesperson for teenage girls who are experiencing so many painful moments. Always living in denial.
Something Good always happens when Herman and His Hermits sing! More hand holding and a promise of so much more.
Fun songs today!
Very well done, Donna!
You have joined the ranks of Wendy, Fred and Pat! 🙂