4 Rock Songs That Define the Classic Sound of the Mid-1960s
American Songwriter selects four songs it says capture the defining sound of mid-1960s rock.
– The Kinks’ “Where Have All The Good Times Gone” (1965), cited for its British Invasion character and experimental edge.
– The Beach Boys’ “Wouldn’t It Be Nice” (1966), presented as part of the influential Pet Sounds album.
– The Beatles’ “Help!” (1965), chosen as an example of the group at their mid-decade peak.
– Bob Dylan’s “Subterranean Homesick Blues” (1965), highlighted for combining poetic lyrics with rock instrumentation.
- Four tracks are presented as mid-1960s rock essentials.
- The list spans British Invasion, harmony pop and folk rock.
- All selections were released in 1965 or 1966.