Great Western rock classics and hit songs of the '60s
The era when the foundations of rock music were forged: the 1960s.
Today’s rock music includes many subgenres that blend a variety of musical styles.
Of course, every genre is rooted in rock, but if you trace many of them back to their origins, you end up in the 1960s.
This time, we’ve selected classic songs that had a tremendous impact on the rock scene of the 1960s.
Many famous artists and bands appear, so even if you’re not well-versed in rock, be sure to check them out!
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Great Western Rock Classics and Hit Songs of the '60s (21–30)
(Don’t Fear) The ReaperBlue Oyster Cult
Released in 1976, this work is a classic song by Blue Öyster Cult themed around death and eternal love.
Its gothic storytelling and distinctive guitar lines are captivating, carrying a message that death should be accepted rather than feared.
Included on the album Agents of Fortune, it reached No.
12 on the Billboard Hot 100 and received high acclaim, including a spot on Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.
The song also inspired Stephen King’s novel The Stand.
It’s perfect for times when you want to reflect deeply on life or are seeking music that truly resonates.
St. StephenGrateful Dead
The Grateful Dead, a band that epitomizes psychedelic rock culture.
Many people will recognize their skull-and-rose-themed artwork and the bear character commonly known as the “Dancing Bears.” This is a classic song by a band that influenced countless musicians, with hints of country woven into its sound.
(I Can’t Get No) SatisfactionThe Rolling Stones
This is the song that can be said to have sparked The Rolling Stones’ worldwide popularity.
Frequently featured in TV commercials and other tie-ins, it’s especially memorable for its guitar riff in the intro—many people will likely recognize it as soon as they hear that guitar.
You Really Got MeThe Kinks
Rock in the 1960s didn’t often have the intensity we associate with it today.
One band that had a major impact on 1960s rock was The Kinks.
Their gritty, distortion-heavy sound—unusual for the time—connects strongly to modern rock.
One of their classic songs is “You Really Got Me,” a memorable track marked by its distorted guitar and just-right level of intensity.
Be sure to give it a listen.
Born to Be WildSteppenwolf
Steppenwolf is a band that still commands overwhelming support from rock maniacs today.
They’ve sold over 25 million records worldwide, and their intense sound—unusual for the time—had a major influence on the bands that followed.
Their classic hit here is “Born to Be Wild.” It’s a famous song that’s been used in many media in Japan, so even younger listeners will likely recognize it.
Pay attention to its stylish arrangement, where a rugged coolness blends with a rebellious vibe!
Train Kept On RollinYardbirds
The Yardbirds are a rock band from England.
They were the group that became the foundation for Led Zeppelin, and they reunited in 1992.
Their musical style is very diverse, excelling in blues rock, folk rock, psychedelic rock, and progressive rock.
One of their classic songs is Train Kept A-Rollin’.
It strongly reflects the characteristics of the blues, blending a lively rock sound with a gritty blues essence.
21st Century Schizoid ManKing Crimson
Among the progressive rock genre, this is a signature song by King Crimson, a quintessential prog band that is especially popular in Japan.
Above all, its grand, large-scale composition—including a horn section—remains absolutely overwhelming even today.