The ’60s Songs Gen Z Can’t Stop Listening To

Some songs from the 1960s have proven remarkably timeless, continuing to resonate with listeners decades after their release. Many fans today weren’t even alive when these tracks first hit the airwaves, yet younger generations—Gen Z in particular—are beginning to embrace them. Here’s a look at a few iconic 1960s songs that are likely to capture the hearts of today’s music fans.

“Come Together” – The Beatles

It’s hard to pick a single Beatles song from the 1960s that stands out, given the band’s enduring influence. Yet “Come Together” remains one of their most iconic and lasting tracks. Released in 1969 as part of Abbey Road, the song topped the Billboard Hot 100 upon its debut and continues to be celebrated as a quintessential Beatles anthem. With Gen Z already discovering the band’s legacy, “Come Together” is poised to remain a favorite for years to come.

“Purple Haze” – Jimi Hendrix

While rock may no longer dominate mainstream charts, the power of early-era rock still captivates when discovered. Few artists exemplify this better than Jimi Hendrix, and “Purple Haze” showcases his genius on the electric guitar. Released in 1967 by The Jimi Hendrix Experience, the track was a No. 3 hit in the UK and has consistently appeared on lists of the greatest songs of all time. For younger listeners exploring the roots of rock, “Purple Haze” is likely to leave a lasting impression.

“California Dreamin’” – The Mamas & The Papas

Few songs transport listeners to another era quite like The Mamas & The Papas’ 1965 hit “California Dreamin’.” This sunshine-infused, psychedelic pop track captured the essence of the pre–Summer of Love 1960s and became emblematic of the counterculture movement. Its timeless melody and evocative lyrics make it a song that younger generations are bound to embrace as they explore the defining music of the decade.