15 Legendary Songs That Topped Charts in 1967

The year 1967 was a pivotal time in music, with artists exploring new sounds and pushing creative boundaries. From soulful anthems to psychedelic rock, these chart-topping hits reflect the diverse musical landscape of the era.

1. “Daydream Believer” – The Monkees

Released in October 1967, “Daydream Believer” by The Monkees quickly climbed the charts, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in December and staying there for four weeks. The song’s catchy melody and relatable lyrics resonated with a wide audience, solidifying its place as one of the band’s most beloved tracks.

Written by John Stewart of the Kingston Trio, the song showcases The Monkees’ ability to blend pop sensibilities with thoughtful songwriting. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the group’s impact on 1960s pop culture.

2. “Windy” – The Association

“Windy,” penned by Ruthann Friedman, became The Association’s second U.S. No. 1 hit in July 1967. The song’s upbeat tempo and harmonious vocals captured the essence of the sunshine pop genre, making it a summer favorite.

Lead vocals by Larry Ramos and Russ Giguere added depth to the track, contributing to its widespread appeal. “Windy” remains a quintessential example of 1960s pop music.

3. “Groovin'” – The Young Rascals

Released in April 1967, “Groovin'” by The Young Rascals reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in May, holding the position for two weeks. The song’s relaxed rhythm and soulful melody offered a contrast to the more energetic tracks of the time.

Its lyrics, celebrating the simple pleasures of a Sunday afternoon, resonated with listeners seeking a laid-back vibe. “Groovin'” remains one of The Young Rascals’ most enduring hits.

4. “The Letter” – The Box Tops

At just under two minutes, “The Letter” by The Box Tops became a surprise hit, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in September 1967 and staying there for four weeks. The song’s concise structure and Alex Chilton’s gritty vocals made it stand out.

Its success marked the beginning of a promising career for the band, with “The Letter” becoming one of the defining songs of the late 1960s.

5. “Light My Fire” – The Doors

“Light My Fire,” released in April 1967, became The Doors’ first No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 in July, holding the top spot for three weeks. The song’s psychedelic sound and provocative lyrics captured the spirit of the era.

Its extended instrumental sections showcased the band’s musical prowess, making it a staple of classic rock radio. “Light My Fire” remains one of The Doors’ most iconic tracks.

6. “Happy Together” – The Turtles

Released in February 1967, “Happy Together” by The Turtles reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in March, staying there for three weeks. The song’s cheerful melody and harmonious vocals made it an instant hit.

Its optimistic lyrics resonated with audiences during a time of social change, cementing its status as a classic of the 1960s.

7. “Hello, Goodbye” – The Beatles

“Hello, Goodbye,” released in November 1967, became The Beatles’ 15th No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100, topping the chart in December. The song’s contrasting lyrics and upbeat tempo exemplified the band’s experimental approach during this period.

Its commercial success further solidified The Beatles’ dominance in the music industry during the late 1960s.

8. “Respect” – Aretha Franklin

Aretha Franklin’s rendition of “Respect,” released in April 1967, reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in June. Her powerful vocals and the song’s empowering message resonated with the civil rights and feminist movements.

“Respect” became Franklin’s signature song, earning her two Grammy Awards and solidifying her status as the “Queen of Soul.”

9. “Kind of a Drag” – The Buckinghams

“Kind of a Drag,” released in December 1966, climbed to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in February 1967. The song’s catchy horn arrangements and upbeat tempo made it a standout track of the era.

Its success helped establish The Buckinghams as a prominent band in the Chicago music scene during the late 1960s.

10. “Incense and Peppermints” – Strawberry Alarm Clock

“Incense and Peppermints,” released in May 1967, reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in November. The song’s psychedelic sound and abstract lyrics captured the counterculture movement’s essence.

Its unique style made it a defining track of the psychedelic rock genre, with continued recognition in popular culture.

11. “Love Is Here and Now You’re Gone” – The Supremes

Released in January 1967, “Love Is Here and Now You’re Gone” became The Supremes’ seventh No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 in March. The song’s dramatic orchestration and Diana Ross’s emotive vocals highlighted the group’s versatility.

Its success reinforced The Supremes’ position as Motown’s leading female group during the 1960s.

12. “Ruby Tuesday” – The Rolling Stones

“Ruby Tuesday,” released in January 1967, reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in March. The song’s melancholic melody and reflective lyrics showcased a softer side of The Rolling Stones.

Its departure from the band’s typical rock sound demonstrated their musical range and contributed to their enduring popularity.

13. “All You Need Is Love” – The Beatles

“All You Need Is Love,” released in July 1967, reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in August. The song’s simple message and sing-along chorus resonated globally, becoming an anthem for peace and love.

Its live broadcast during the “Our World” program marked a significant moment in television and music history.

14. “Penny Lane” – The Beatles

Released in February 1967, “Penny Lane” reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in March. The song’s vivid imagery and melodic structure painted a nostalgic picture of Paul McCartney’s Liverpool upbringing.

Its innovative use of classical instruments showcased The Beatles’ evolving musical experimentation during this period.

15. “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” – Gladys Knight & the Pips

Released in September 1967, “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” by Gladys Knight & the Pips reached No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 in December. The song’s soulful delivery and compelling narrative captivated audiences.

Though Marvin Gaye’s later version became more famous, Knight’s rendition was the first to chart, showcasing the group’s vocal prowess and contributing to Motown’s success.