Top ten bands in the 1960's

The Temptations, another cornerstone of the Motown sound, are famous for their soulful harmonies and synchronized dance moves. Hits like "My Girl” "Ain't Too Proud to Beg” and "Just My Imagination" defined their career. Known for their intricate vocal arrangements and smooth choreography, they were most popular in the 1960s and 1970s. The group continues to perform with a rotating lineup, keeping their rich musical heritage alive.

The Doors, fronted by the enigmatic Jim Morrison, became one of the most iconic and controversial rock bands of the 1960s. Known for their psychedelic rock and blues-influenced sound, their hits include "Light My Fire” "Riders on the Storm” and "Break On Through (To the Other Side)”. Their dark, poetic lyrics and Morrison's charismatic stage presence defined an era. Following Morrison's death in 1971, the band disbanded shortly after, but their music continues to inspire and resonate with new audiences.

The Funk Brothers were the backbone of the legendary Motown Records, providing the instrumental foundation for countless hits throughout the 1960s and 1970s

The Wrecking Crew was a loose collective of session musicians based in Los Angeles who played on thousands of recordings in the 1960s and early 1970s. Renowned for their versatility, these musicians contributed to numerous hit records across various genres, making them one of the most influential groups in the history of popular music. Although they were largely uncredited at the time, their work helped shape the sound of an era.

The Kinks, formed in 1963 by brothers Ray and Dave Davies in London, are one of the most influential four-piece rock bands of the British Invasion era. Known for their distinctive sound, combining rock with elements of British music hall, their clever, often satirical lyrics, and their pioneering role in the development of hard rock and punk rock, The Kinks have left an indelible mark on popular music.

Songs:

1. Waterloo Sunset
2. Autumn almanac

The Isley Brothers, formed in the 1950s, are an iconic American musical family group known for their enduring influence on R&B, soul, and funk. With a career spanning over six decades, the Isleys have continually reinvented their sound, blending genres and pioneering new musical styles.

Songs:

1. Summer Breeze
2. Harvest for the World

Surf’s Up! The Beach Boys, the quintessential American rock band, captured the essence of California's surf culture with their harmonious and innovative sound. Known for classics like "Good Vibrations” "Surfin' USA” and "Wouldn't It Be Nice” they became pioneers of the "California Sound”. Formed in the early 1960s, their music evolved from surf rock to more complex and symphonic pieces. Despite internal strife and lineup changes, The Beach Boys continue to perform, with Brian Wilson and Mike Love often leading separate tours, celebrating their enduring impact on popular music.

Cream, formed in 1966, was a British rock three-piece supergroup (if not the first supergroup) comprising Eric Clapton, Jack Bruce, and Ginger Baker. Known for their powerful blend of blues, rock, and psychedelia, Cream produced some of rock's most enduring anthems, including "Sunshine of Your Love” "White Room” and "Crossroads”. Their innovative sound and musical prowess set them apart, despite internal conflicts and a brief career span. The band's legacy was cemented with their 1993 induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2006. Cream's reunion concerts in 2005 were a testament to their lasting impact on the music world. Despite personal struggles and a tumultuous relationship among members, Cream remains one of the most influential bands in rock history.

The Rolling Stones need little introduction, being one of the most iconic Rock bands of all time with a six-decade long career. The perennial bad boys of rock have scandalized and entertained us with effete Mick Jagger as frontman and human cockroach Keith Richards on guitar.

Songs:

1. "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction"
2. "Paint It Black"
3. "Sympathy for the Devil"
4. "Gimme Shelter"
5. "Angie"
6. "Start Me Up"

The Beatles, AKA "the Fab Four", started in Liverpool in the 1960’s, originally as a skiffle group Lennon that formed called the Quarrymen. Paul McCartney and his school-friend George Harrison joined along with bassist Stuart Sutcliffe and Pete Best on drums, who was later replaced by Ringo Starr in 1962. The band initially built their reputation in Liverpool’s Cavern Club and honed their craft in the nightclubs of Hamburg playing often ten hours a night.

Songs:

1. I want to hold your hand
2. Helter Skelter
3. Get Back

Gear:

• Gretsch guitars