8 60s Rock Songs That Were Huge at the Time But Are Forgotten Today

The 1960s produced numerous rock hits that once dominated the airwaves but have since faded from popular memory. Here are eight notable examples:

1. “You Were on My Mind” – We Five (1965)

We Five’s “You Were on My Mind” reached the top of the charts in 1965 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.

2. “Laugh, Laugh” – The Beau Brummels (1965)

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’ contribution to the ’60s rock scene has been largely overshadowed by other acts.

3. “Green Tambourine” – The Lemon Pipers (1967)

With its psychedelic vibe and use of a real tambourine, “Green Tambourine” became a major hit during the late ’60s. It reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and helped define the “bubblegum pop” genre. Despite its success, the song has faded from public consciousness, rarely receiving airplay today. The Lemon Pipers’ brief moment in the spotlight has been largely forgotten.

4. “Winchester Cathedral” – The New Vaudeville Band (1966)

“Winchester Cathedral” was a fun and lighthearted hit in 1966, reflecting a brief novelty trend. The song’s retro style and catchy melody made it stand out during its release. However, it now feels like a forgotten relic, seldom heard or referenced in modern times. The New Vaudeville Band’s unique sound has not endured in popular memory.

5. “Psychotic Reaction” – Count Five (1966)

Count Five’s “Psychotic Reaction” is considered a garage rock classic, known for its distinct use of fuzz pedal and driving rhythm. The song was influential in shaping the garage rock genre. Despite its impact, “Psychotic Reaction” has become somewhat obscure, with Count Five now counting as a lesser-known band.

6. “Happenings Ten Years Time Ago” – The Yardbirds (1966)

The Yardbirds’ “Happenings Ten Years Time Ago” showcased the band’s innovative approach to rock music in the ’60s. Despite its significance, the song has faded from mainstream recognition. The Yardbirds’ legacy is often overshadowed by the later success of its members, such as Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, and Jimmy Page.

7. “In the Year 2525” – Zager and Evans (1969)

Zager and Evans’ “In the Year 2525” was a groundbreaking track in the 1960s, reflecting the era’s revolutionary spirit. Despite its initial impact, the song has not aged gracefully and now feels outdated. It is rarely heard today, having lost its connection with modern audiences.

8. “Rock My Soul” – Elvin Bishop (1969)

Elvin Bishop’s “Rock My Soul” is a standout track from his 1969 album of the same name. Despite Bishop’s talent as a singer, songwriter, and guitarist, the song did not maintain its place in popular memory. “Rock My Soul” is a forgotten classic that showcases Bishop’s early work before his more widely known hits.