8 Classic Rock Songs from the 60s That Are Now Largely Forgotten

The 1960s were a transformative decade for music, giving rise to many iconic songs that have stood the test of time. However, not all tracks from this era have maintained their popularity. Here are eight classic rock songs from the 60s that, despite their initial success, have largely faded from public memory.

1. “Psychotic Reaction” – Count Five

This garage rock classic hit the charts in 1966 and became Count Five’s most notable song. It’s remembered for its raw energy and fuzz-toned guitar riffs, defining the garage band style of the time. Despite its influence, “Psychotic Reaction” is rarely heard today outside of niche music circles.

Count Five disbanded shortly after this song’s success, leaving their brief moment in the spotlight behind. While the track made an impact on the psychedelic rock movement, its absence from mainstream playlists has relegated it to a hidden gem of the 60s.

2. “Green Tambourine” – The Lemon Pipers

This 1967 hit brought a mix of bubblegum pop and psychedelia, earning The Lemon Pipers a number-one spot on the Billboard Hot 100. “Green Tambourine” was loved for its catchy melody and the use of a tambourine that gave it a unique touch.

The Lemon Pipers’ success was short-lived, and the song has since become a rarity on classic rock radio. Though it defined a moment in psychedelic pop, “Green Tambourine” remains a lesser-remembered piece of the 60s music scene.

3. “In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida” – Iron Butterfly

This 17-minute epic was released in 1968 and became a cornerstone of the psychedelic rock genre. The song’s extended instrumental sections, particularly the drum solo, were groundbreaking at the time.

Despite its innovative sound, “In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida” is now seldom played in full. The edited radio version is occasionally heard, but the song’s cultural significance has largely faded compared to other 60s rock anthems.

4. “Time Has Come Today” – The Chambers Brothers

This 1968 track blended rock and soul with a psychedelic twist, making it a unique addition to the decade’s music. Known for its extended runtime and experimental sound effects, it captured the era’s spirit of change.

Though it was influential in its time, “Time Has Come Today” is no longer a staple of classic rock playlists. Its innovative style, however, paved the way for future genre-blending artists.

5. “Shapes of Things” – The Yardbirds

Released in 1966, “Shapes of Things” showcased the Yardbirds’ ability to merge blues rock with psychedelia. The song’s guitar work, featuring Jeff Beck, was revolutionary and inspired countless musicians.

Despite its impact on the development of psychedelic rock, “Shapes of Things” has become overshadowed by other Yardbirds tracks and the solo careers of its members like Beck, Eric Clapton, and Jimmy Page.

6. “You Were on My Mind” – We Five

We Five’s 1965 hit “You Were on My Mind” reached the top of the charts with its folk-rock charm. The song’s heartfelt lyrics and harmonies resonated with listeners during its release.

While it was a major success in the mid-60s, “You Were on My Mind” has since slipped into obscurity. Its influence on folk-rock remains, but the song itself is rarely revisited.

7. “Laugh, Laugh” – The Beau Brummels

As one of the first American bands to embrace the British Invasion sound, The Beau Brummels made waves with their 1965 hit “Laugh, Laugh.” The song combined clever lyrics with a catchy melody that stood out at the time.

Despite its initial popularity, “Laugh, Laugh” is seldom remembered today. The Beau Brummels’ pioneering efforts in merging American and British rock styles have been overshadowed by other acts of the era.

8. “I Had Too Much to Dream (Last Night)” – The Electric Prunes

This 1966 track became a staple of psychedelic rock with its haunting intro and experimental sound. It was a defining moment for The Electric Prunes, showcasing the growing popularity of mind-expanding music.

Over the decades, “I Had Too Much to Dream (Last Night)” has faded from mainstream recognition. Its influence on the psychedelic movement, however, keeps it alive among dedicated 60s music fans.