The ABC's of the 60's Part II

Previously I did a series of some great 60’s songs — one for each letter of the alphabet. You can find part 1 A — M here.

Nights in White Satin (1967) — The Moody Blues

This is such a powerful and moving song! It starts out slow then builds up. The tempo throughout is soothing and graceful. It reaches it most dramatic during the “And I love you” part. For the longest time, I thought this song was called “Knights in White Satin” and even now, I still imagine noble knights riding on horseback maybe wrapped in a sheet of white satin.

One (1969) — Three Dog Night

One of those songs about loneliness, this one has upbeat music behind some little depressing lyrics. This song has a steady tempo then builds up gradually and becomes more upbeat as the song goes on.

The song also reminds me that one can even feel lonely in a crowd.

The song hit number 5 on the U.S. charts.

Paint it Black (1966) The Rolling Stones

This has to be, by far, my favorite Rolling Stones song.

It’s from the viewpoint of someone who’s depressed and they want the world to be just as gloomy and black as the soul within them. To just reflect what they’re feeling. No colors or anything that reminds them of anything joyful.

I can also see it being about someone who has lost a loved one to death. Especially when they mention the line of black cars, which sounds very much like a funeral procession!

The song sounds depressing by the lyrics alone. Despite this, it’s incredibly catchy and moving.

It hit number 1 on the U.S. charts.

Quarter to Three (1961) — Gary U.S. Bonds

This early 60’s song is energetic and has some good dance vibes. It builds up momentum from the start and immediately shifts into a fast paced dance tune. It’s about staying up until a quarter to 3 am dancing.

Reach Out I’ll Be There (1966) — The Four Tops

Here’s a motivating song when you’re feeling lonely or down. This song is about loyalty, mainly in a relationship but can be applied to friendship as well. The song has quite a diverse range with plenty of highs and lows throughout.

She Loves You — The Beatles

This is both a comforting and very upbeat song by the Beatles. It’s about someone getting reassurance that even though they might have had a fight with their love and have come to their disagreements, in the end, she still loves him.

The Twist (1960) — Chubby Checker

This iconic song was one of the many that kicked off the 60’s decade. This was one of the many 60’s songs that I was introduced to as a kid. It proves to be a memorable dance tune right from the start.

It reached number 1 on the U.S. charts.

Unhappy Girl — The Doors

This is the first time hearing this Doors song. While not as well known as their other hits like “People are Strange” or “Light My Fire”, I’d still consider this one a hidden gem.

The music grabs your attention right from the go. The tone is somewhat somber and maybe a little quirky.

Valleri (1968) — The Monkees

Here’s a really moving song from the 60’s about a girl named Valleri. This song has a great easygoing flow to it all while having some rock elements at the same time.

It hit number 3 on the U.S. charts.

Where Did Our Love Go? — The Supremes

I wasn’t going to end this list without adding at least one song from the Supremes. Finding just what song was the hardest part. The Supremes had quite a few chart topping hits with more than one reaching the number one spot.

Here’s one of their moving and emotional love songs. The fast paced tune also it a great 60’s dance tune!

X I Got Nothing!

No really!

X has always been one of if not the most elusive letter of the alphabet. I couldn’t find any 60’s song for X.

You Didn’t Have To Be So Nice (1965) — The Lovin’ Spoonful

The tune to this song is so lighthearted and free. As the song goes on, it picks up the pace, slightly while still keeping its chill vibe. It’s another great easygoing song to listen to.

Zorba the Greek (1965) Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass

This song is way different from the rest in this series in many ways. First off, it’s completely instrumental. And second, the music is that of another culture — Greek!

I like it! It’s very energetic throughout and has some great Greek dance elements