15 Golden Classic Rock Songs That Took the #1 Spot in 1962

In 1962, rock and pop music were going through big changes. The Billboard Hot 100 saw a mix of doo-wop, early rock, and R&B reach the top spot. Some artists broke through for the first time, while others continued their streak of success. Each of these #1 hits helped shape the sound of the early ’60s.

1. I Can’t Stop Loving You – Ray Charles

Ray Charles took a country ballad and turned it into a soulful hit. “I Can’t Stop Loving You” came from his album Modern Sounds in Country and Western Music, which blended genres in a new way.

The song spent five weeks at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100. It also topped the R&B and Adult Contemporary charts. Charles’s emotional voice made the lyrics feel personal. It became one of his biggest crossover hits.

2. Big Girls Don’t Cry – The Four Seasons

The Four Seasons returned to the charts with “Big Girls Don’t Cry” just weeks after their first #1. The song featured Frankie Valli’s high vocals and strong harmonies from the group.

It stayed at #1 for five weeks in late 1962. Bob Gaudio wrote the song, reportedly inspired by a line from a movie. The sound became a model for many doo-wop songs that followed.

3. Sherry – The Four Seasons

“Sherry” was the first #1 hit for The Four Seasons. It was released in August 1962 and climbed the charts quickly, staying at the top for five weeks.

Bob Gaudio wrote the song in just 15 minutes. Frankie Valli’s falsetto gave it a unique style that stood out on the radio. This song helped launch the group’s long career.

4. Roses Are Red (My Love) – Bobby Vinton

Bobby Vinton recorded “Roses Are Red (My Love)” after his label nearly dropped him. The song became his first major success, spending four weeks at #1 in the summer of 1962.

It started as a spoken-word track before Vinton turned it into a romantic ballad. Its soft melody and heartfelt lyrics made it popular with a wide audience.

5. Peppermint Twist – Joey Dee and the Starliters

“Peppermint Twist” was recorded live at the Peppermint Lounge in New York City. The band was a regular act there, and the dance craze helped push the song to the top of the charts.

It hit #1 in early 1962 and stayed there for three weeks. The song had a fast beat and simple lyrics that made it perfect for dancing.

6. Telstar – The Tornadoes

“Telstar” was a British instrumental track by The Tornadoes. It made history as the first UK song to reach #1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

Produced by Joe Meek, it had a space-age sound inspired by the Telstar communications satellite. The track stood out thanks to its use of electronic effects and organ.

7. Soldier Boy – The Shirelles

The Shirelles’ “Soldier Boy” topped the charts for three weeks in the spring of 1962. It was one of the first girl group hits to reach #1.

The song was written by Florence Greenberg and Luther Dixon. Its lyrics about love and loyalty connected with listeners, especially during the Cold War era.

8. Hey! Baby – Bruce Channel

Bruce Channel’s “Hey! Baby” featured a catchy harmonica riff played by Delbert McClinton. The song reached #1 in March 1962 and stayed there for three weeks.

Its upbeat style made it a radio favorite. The harmonica part later influenced John Lennon during early Beatles shows.

9. Duke of Earl – Gene Chandler

“Duke of Earl” started as a vocal warm-up for Gene Chandler’s group. When he recorded it solo, the song became a #1 hit and sold over a million copies.

Its catchy “duke, duke, duke” refrain helped it stand out. It topped the Billboard chart for three weeks in early 1962.

10. The Twist – Chubby Checker

Though first released in 1960, “The Twist” returned to #1 in 1962, making it the only song to reach #1 in two separate runs.

The song’s comeback happened after adults started dancing to it on TV. Its influence lasted for years, helping launch other dance hits.

11. Johnny Angel – Shelley Fabares

Shelley Fabares, known for her acting role on The Donna Reed Show, had a surprise hit with “Johnny Angel.” It went to #1 in April 1962.

The soft, dreamy song reflected teenage love themes of the time. Even though she didn’t focus on a singing career, it became her signature hit.

12. He’s a Rebel – The Crystals

“He’s a Rebel” hit #1 in late 1962, though it was actually recorded by Darlene Love and The Blossoms. Producer Phil Spector released it under The Crystals’ name.

The song’s story about loving a tough guy struck a chord with listeners. It was an early success in Spector’s Wall of Sound style.

13. Breaking Up Is Hard to Do – Neil Sedaka

Neil Sedaka co-wrote and performed “Breaking Up Is Hard to Do,” which became his first #1 hit. It was released in July 1962.

Its upbeat tone masked the sad lyrics about a breakup. The catchy piano opening and backing vocals helped it stay on the radio for weeks.

14. Monster Mash – Bobby “Boris” Pickett

Released just before Halloween, “Monster Mash” became a seasonal favorite. It reached #1 in October 1962 and stayed there for two weeks.

The novelty song featured Pickett’s voice imitating Boris Karloff. It included sound effects and silly lyrics that made it a hit at parties.

15. Good Luck Charm – Elvis Presley

Elvis Presley scored another #1 with “Good Luck Charm” in April 1962. The song stayed at the top for two weeks and was one of his last big hits of the decade.

It featured simple lyrics and a light rhythm. Backing vocals came from The Jordanaires, who often performed with Presley.