Picture this: You're scrolling through playlists, craving that nostalgic buzz from the swinging 1960s, only to realize some of the era's most electrifying tunes have vanished into the mists of time. These forgotten gems from 1966 aren't just relics—they're reminders of how fleeting fame can be in the music world. If you're a die-hard fan of '60s vibes, you might recognize them, but for everyone else, they're like hidden treasures waiting to be unearthed. And trust me, they're worth a fresh listen to recapture that magic. But here's where it gets intriguing: Why do some hits soar into eternity while others fade away? Let's dive in and explore three overlooked classics from that pivotal year, unpacking their stories with a bit more context to help you appreciate their place in music history.
First up, let's groove with Wilson Pickett's “634-5789 (Soulsville, U.S.A.)”, a track that burst onto the scene in the early months of 1966. This isn't just any R&B soul number—it's a powerhouse anthem that perfectly captured the soulful energy of the time, blending gritty vocals with infectious rhythms that made listeners want to dance all night. As part of Pickett's album The Exciting Wilson Pickett, this song stands out, and sharp-eared fans might catch the unmistakable harmonies of Patti LaBelle lending her voice to the backing tracks on several cuts. Why is this a big deal? Well, it wasn't just a fluke; “634-5789 (Soulsville, U.S.A.)” climbed to an impressive No. 13 on the Billboard Hot 100, proving its staying power. And this is the part most people miss: The catchy phone number in the title isn't random—it's a clever nod to the Marvelettes' 1962 smash hit, adding a layer of musical history that connects eras. For beginners diving into soul music, think of it as a bridge between Motown's polished pop and the raw emotion of Southern R&B, with Pickett's raspy delivery turning a simple concept into something timeless. But here's where it gets controversial: In an age where remixes and samples dominate, does borrowing elements from past hits feel like innovation or lazy homage? What do you make of it?
Shifting gears to something more upbeat, “Green Grass” by Gary Lewis & The Playboys dropped in 1966 and quickly became a radio staple back then, though it's sadly rare on airwaves today. This pop-rock delight, penned by songwriting duo Roger Greenaway and Roger Cook, was transformed into a chart-topping sensation by Lewis and his band, who infused it with youthful energy and catchy hooks that mirrored the optimism of the mid-'60s. It soared to No. 8 on the Hot 100 and even hit No. 1 in Canada, showcasing how American bands could cross borders with the right tune. For those new to the genre, imagine it as a lighthearted escape—a tune about longing for simpler times, much like how today's hits often romanticize nostalgia. Yet, its obscurity begs a question: In a world obsessed with viral trends, do these feel-good pop tracks get overshadowed by edgier sounds? This is the angle that sparks debate—some argue they're too wholesome for modern tastes, while others believe they deserve revival for their pure fun factor.
Rounding out our trio is Lou Rawls' “Love Is A Hurtin’ Thing”, released in October 1966 as a deep, soul-stirring R&B ballad that marked a turning point for the artist. It was only Rawls' second entry on the R&B Singles chart, but it catapulted him to his first Top 40 hit on the Hot 100, peaking at No. 13 and dominating the Hot R&B Singles chart. Over the years, its emotional depth has inspired covers by artists like J.J. Jackson, Buddy Greco, and Marcia Hines, proving its enduring appeal. Beginners, picture this as a masterclass in vulnerability: Rawls' smooth, velvety voice lays bare the pain of heartache, contrasting with the decade's more upbeat hits and offering a raw look at love's darker side. Fun fact? Its theme of love's turmoil feels universal, echoing through generations. But here's the twist that might ruffle feathers: In today's era of empowerment anthems, does a song about love's hurt come across as outdated, or is it a timeless truth that still resonates? And this is where opinions diverge—does reinterpreting such classics through new voices keep them alive, or does it dilute their original impact?
These three tracks from 1966 remind us that music history is packed with buried treasures just waiting for rediscovery. They highlight the diversity of the era—from soulful grooves to pop-rock escapism and heartfelt ballads—showing how 1960s charts were a melting pot of styles that shaped everything that followed. But as we revisit them, it raises bigger questions: What really makes a song 'forgotten'—corporate playlists, shifting tastes, or something more arbitrary? Do you agree that these deserve a spot in today's rotations, or should we let the past stay buried? What forgotten hits from the '60s (or any era) would you resurrect, and why? Drop your thoughts in the comments—let's spark a conversation about what music truly lasts!
