# 4 Unforgettable Hard Rock Hits From 1966 That Take Baby Boomers Back in Time

- URL: https://talkfuse.com/story/4-unforgettable-hard-rock-hits-from-1966-that-take-baby-boomers-back-in-time/
- Published: 2026-10-31T09:00:00+00:00
- Updated: 2026-10-31T09:48:59+00:00
- Original publisher: American Songwriter
- Original article: https://americansongwriter.com/4-unforgettable-hard-rock-hits-from-1966-that-take-baby-boomers-back-in-time/
- Topics: Business, Entertainment, Markets, Music

## Key points

- “Wild Thing” topped charts in the US and UK.
- “Paint It Black” was a worldwide chart-topper.
- Cream’s “I Feel Free” reached No. 11 in the UK.

## Summary

Hard rock was taking shape in 1966, blending with garage, R&B, psychedelic and other styles as bands reached large audiences. Four songs from that year illustrate the sound’s range and its growing chart appeal.

The Troggs’ “Wild Thing” topped US and UK charts, while the Young Rascals’ “You Better Run” reached No. 20 on the US Billboard Hot 100. The Rolling Stones’ “Paint It Black” topped charts across the US, UK, Canada and much of Europe; Cream’s “I Feel Free” peaked at No. 11 in the UK.

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