[Nostalgic Collection] Classic oldies masterpieces. Recommended popular songs
When you think of classic oldies, what songs come to mind?
For those who lived through that era, they’re all songs full of nostalgia.
These days, it seems that young people who didn’t grow up with oldies are being captivated by their classic vibe through various media like commercials and movies.
It’s true that the foundations of most genres—jazz, rock, blues, and more—were laid in that period.
And it’s interesting to see popular bands and singers revive those sounds by incorporating their essence.
This time, we researched some classic oldies hits!
We’ve carefully selected them, so please take a look!
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Nostalgic Collection: Classic Oldies. Recommended Popular Songs (21–30)
Little Darlin’The Diamonds
Released in 1957, this song is one of the signature tracks by the Canadian male doo-wop group The Diamonds.
The polished harmonies of the four members and the lead singer’s distinctive vocal style made a strong impression, and it became a major hit.
RunawayDel Shannon
Del Shannon’s signature song “Runaway,” which reached No.
1 on the Billboard charts.
In Japan, it’s known by the title “Kanashiki Machikado” (“Sad Street Corner”).
It was such a hit in Japan that other works of his started getting “Machikado” added to their titles, and he even ended up being called the “Street-Corner Man”—a bit unfortunate for him, in a funny way.
[Nostalgic Collection] Classic Oldies. Recommended Popular Songs (31–40)
In the MoodGlenn Miller
It’s a classic big band swing jazz piece performed by the Glenn Miller Orchestra, used in many movies, TV dramas, and commercials! The lively saxophone melodies and sparkling trumpet sounds vividly convey the free and glamorous atmosphere of old-time America.
In the Japanese film “Setouchi Shonen Yakyudan,” a version with unique Japanese lyrics by lyricist Akuyu titled “Setouchi March (IN THE MOOD)” was used.
Many of you might have a strong memory of those lyrics, right?
DreaminJohnny Burnette
The Johnny Burnette Trio was one of the most prominent rockabilly bands of the 1950s.
Alongside Elvis Presley, they played a key role in energizing the rockabilly scene.
Their song “Dreamin’” features a bright melody that perfectly matches its lyrics.
It’s a track you’ll want to listen to when you’re feeling down.
I’m Gonna Knock On Your DoorEddie Hodges
In 1961, a then-14-year-old Eddie Hodges covered this song and made his debut.
Its poppy style and lyrics—charmingly depicting a teenager recklessly in love, oblivious to the trouble caused—helped it become a hit, reaching No.
12 on the U.S.
charts.
The Japanese title is “Koi no Uri-komi” (“Love on Offer”), and in Japan it was covered by Yukari Ito.
Be My BabyThe Ronettes
It reached No.
2 in the U.S.
in 1963—surprisingly, it never hit No.
1.
This song is synonymous with producer Phil Spector’s “Wall of Sound,” and is a work that epitomizes that sonic wall.
The lead singer, Veronica Bennett, later married Phil, took the name Ronnie Spector, and launched a solo career.
They divorced five years later.
Save the last dance for meThe Drifters
It’s a song by the vocal group The Drifters, released in 1960.
It reached No.
1 in the United States.
Ben E.
King, who later launched a solo career and scored a huge hit with “Stand By Me,” served as the lead vocalist.
The name of the legendary Japanese comedy group The Drifters is derived from this vocal group.