60’s Rock

Musicians in Greenwich Village in NYC were writing music in the tradition of Woody Guthrie’s folk music.

Bob Dylan- Song Blowin’ in the Wind. Played guitar and harmonica and sang. He was a poet, and redefined the role of lead singer.

In Los Angeles, surf rock was a big hit. It was about surfing, girls, and fast cars.

Beach Boys- Song Surfin’ USA. Came onto the US rock scene in 1962, playing dance tunes and other novelty songs. They filled a void in the rock and roll industry.

Motown was a record company located in Detroit. Their records had a unified sound because of their studio musicians. One bassist, for example, James Jameson played on almost every recording.

Supremes- Song Can’t Hurry Love. Led by Diana Ross. Group of three female vocalists.

Temptations- Song My Girl. Group of five male vocalists. They were all singers as well as dancers.

Ray Charles- Song Hit the Road Jack. A blind pianist who combined R&B with Gospel to create a new type of soul.

Aretha Franklin- Song Respect. Didn’t record with Motown. Her title is Lady Soul. She was one of the most famous international stars of the 60’s.

James Brown- Song I Feel Good. His title was The Godfather of Soul. His music provided the basis for funk.

Beatles- Song I Wanna Hold Your Hand. Most influential rock band of all time. Set many Billboard records. Name the four Beatles: John Lennon, Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, and George Harrison

Rolling Stones- Song Satisfaction. Took their name from a song by Muddy Waters. The lead singer is Mick Jagger.

The Who- Song Pinball Wizard. The song is from an opera called Tommy. Guitarist Pete Townshend was the first to smash his guitar.

The Byrds- Song Mr. Tambourine Man. Played style called folk rock, or urban folk.

Simon and Garfunkel- Song Mrs. Robinson. Used in the soundtrack of The Graduate. Considered to be folk rock as well.

Jimi Hendrix- Song Purple Haze. Most important guitarist in rock history. Developed the style of hard rock.

Grateful Dead- Song Friend of the Devil. Lead singer Jerry Garcia. They had a tremendously loyal following of people called Deadheads.