Step back in time and rediscover the electrifying sounds of a generation! This list of the best songs of the 1960s YouTube has to offer is your ticket to a musical journey through one of history's most influential decades. From the soulful croons of Motown to the rebellious rock 'n' roll anthems that defined a youth movement, the 60s birthed a musical landscape that continues to resonate today. Whether you're a seasoned music aficionado or just beginning to explore this iconic era, you'll find yourself tapping your feet and singing along to these timeless classics. We've curated a collection that captures the dynamism and diversity of the decade, showcasing both well-known hits and hidden gems easily accessible via 'best songs of the 1960s YouTube' searches. Prepare to be transported back to a time of vibrant change, social upheaval, and unforgettable music. Let the nostalgia begin!
| Song | Artist | Album | Listens |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Hotel California | Eagles | Hotel California (2013 Remaster) | 410M+ |
| 2. Imagine | John Lennon | Imagine | 309M+ |
| 3. Stairway to Heaven | Led Zeppelin | Led Zeppelin IV (Deluxe Edition) | 130M+ |
| 4. Dream Lover | Bobby Darin | Sounds Of Silence | 125M+ |
| 5. Close to You | The Carpenters | 51M+ | |
| 6. Like a Rolling Stone | Bob Dylan | Highway 61 Revisited | 48M+ |
| 7. One Way Wind | The Cats | 31M+ |
1. Hotel California - Hotel California (2013 Remaster)
Iconic Guitar Riff: Hotel California boasts one of the most recognizable and instantly captivating guitar riffs in rock history, perfectly fitting the era's focus on instrumental prowess.
Haunting Vocals and Lyrics: The song's memorable melody, layered harmonies, and cryptic lyrics create a mysterious and atmospheric feel that resonates with listeners even today, making it a classic example of 70s storytelling.
Enduring Popularity: Despite not being from the 1960s, its enduring legacy and continued presence on "best of" lists across decades solidify its place in musical history and its appeal to Youtube viewers seeking timeless classics.
2. Imagine
John Lennon's Vocals: Lennon's iconic, vulnerable vocals deliver a message of peace and unity, perfectly capturing the idealistic spirit of the 1960s.
Simple yet Powerful Melody: The song's instantly recognizable melody is both hauntingly beautiful and incredibly easy to sing along to, contributing to its widespread appeal and enduring legacy.
Timeless Message: "Imagine" remains relevant today, making it a perfect fit for any "best of the 60s" YouTube playlist focused on its enduring impact and cultural significance.
3. Stairway to Heaven (1971)
Genre-Defining Sound: Stairway to Heaven's iconic blend of folk, blues, and hard rock, building gradually to a powerful crescendo, perfectly encapsulates the evolving sound of the late 1960s.
Cultural Impact: Its legendary status, cemented by countless radio plays and YouTube views, solidified its place as a cornerstone of classic rock and a must-listen for any 60s music exploration.
YouTube Accessibility: Easily find numerous high-quality live and studio versions on YouTube, allowing you to appreciate its timeless appeal and nuanced musicianship.
4. Dream Lover (1959)
Catchy Melody: "Dream Lover" boasts an instantly memorable melody that perfectly encapsulates the upbeat energy of 1960s pop.
Darin's Vocals: Bobby Darin's smooth yet powerful vocals deliver the lyrics with effortless charm, making the song incredibly engaging for YouTube listeners.
Enduring Appeal: Its timeless quality ensures that "Dream Lover" remains a classic choice for any 1960s music playlist, perfectly fitting the "best songs" theme.
5. Close to You
Sound: The Carpenters' signature lush, layered harmonies and strings create a timeless, instantly recognizable sound perfectly encapsulating the mellow sophistication of the 1960s.
Vocals: Karen Carpenter's uniquely clear and emotionally resonant vocals deliver a performance that remains both vulnerable and powerful, captivating listeners even today.
Emotional Impact: "Close to You" evokes a feeling of tender longing and gentle romance, making it ideal for a nostalgic YouTube playlist celebrating the best of 60s music.
6. Like a Rolling Stone (Bob Dylan)
Sound: Like a Rolling Stone's iconic harmonica riff and driving rhythm section create an instantly recognizable and undeniably powerful sound, perfectly capturing the raw energy of the 1960s.
Vocals: Dylan's sardonic and accusatory vocals deliver a masterclass in storytelling, painting a vivid picture of social upheaval and personal downfall.
Cultural Impact: Its revolutionary sound and pointed lyrics cemented its place as a defining song of a generation, and its YouTube presence reflects its enduring legacy.
7. One Way Wind (The Cats - 1971)
Sound: "One Way Wind" boasts a bright, breezy sound characteristic of 1960s Dutch pop, making it instantly recognizable and upbeat.
Rhythm: The catchy rhythm and memorable melody are perfectly suited for YouTube playlists celebrating the decade's best hits, encouraging listeners to tap their feet.
Vocals: The vocal harmonies are tight and pleasing, a hallmark of The Cats' sound and a key element in their enduring appeal to 60s music fans on YouTube.
8. Only You
Sound: "Only You" features The Platters' signature smooth, close harmonies, a hallmark of 1960s doo-wop that remains instantly recognizable and incredibly pleasing.
Emotional Impact: The song's romantic lyrics and tender delivery create a timeless feeling of longing and devotion, perfectly capturing the era's focus on heartfelt ballads.
YouTube Relevance: Its enduring popularity ensures "Only You" remains widely available and frequently featured on YouTube playlists dedicated to classic 1960s music, making it easy to find and enjoy.
9. Mr. Lonely
Haunting Melody: Bobby Vinton's "Mr. Lonely" features a memorable melody that perfectly captures the song's melancholic mood, making it instantly recognizable even to those unfamiliar with 60s pop.
Classic Vocal Delivery: Vinton's smooth baritone vocals are a hallmark of the track, delivering the lyrics with a sincere vulnerability that resonates deeply.
YouTube Accessibility: Easily find numerous versions and live performances of "Mr. Lonely" on YouTube, allowing you to fully appreciate its timeless quality and discover its enduring impact on popular music.
10. To Love Somebody (Bee Gees - 1967)
Bee Gees' Signature Sound: "To Love Somebody" showcases the Bee Gees' instantly recognizable harmonies, a key element of their 60s sound that captivated audiences and continues to resonate today.
Emotional Depth: The song's heartfelt lyrics and melancholic melody explore the complexities of love and loss, creating a powerful emotional impact that transcends generations.
YouTube Popularity: Its enduring appeal is evident in its continued presence on YouTube playlists dedicated to the best songs of the 1960s, proving its timeless quality.
11Shalala La La
Vengaboys
1999
12Speedy Gonzales
Pat Boone
1962
13Oh Carol
Neil Sedaka
1959
14Nobody's Child
Hank Snow
1949