Billboard's Top 26 Songs of the 60s: A Blast from the Past

The 1960s: a decade that redefined music. This era birthed iconic artists and unforgettable sounds, leaving an indelible mark on popular culture. To celebrate this legacy and introduce a new generation to the vibrant sounds of the Billboard charts, we've compiled a list of the best songs from this revolutionary period. This journey through the decade's top hits reveals a remarkable diversity, from the infectious energy of early rock and roll anthems to the soulful harmonies that defined a generation. You'll find yourself swept away by the sheer power of these tunes, each telling a story and evoking emotions that transcend time. Prepare to rediscover the raw talent and undeniable charm that made these songs timeless classics.

From heart-wrenching ballads that capture the essence of longing to upbeat tracks guaranteed to get your feet tapping, the list showcases the incredible range of musical styles prevalent during this transformative era. Whether you're already familiar with the soulful crooning of some artists or discovering the infectious melodies of others for the first time, this collection offers a fascinating glimpse into the musical landscape of the sixties. The songs themselves, with their infectious rhythms and emotional depth, remain as captivating today as they were decades ago – a testament to the enduring power of great music. Dive in and experience the magic for yourself.

Billboard's Top 26 Songs of the 60s: A Blast from the Past
SongArtistAlbumListens
1. Hey Jude The Beatles With The Beatles (Remastered) 394M+
2. I Want To Hold Your Hand The Beatles Please Please Me (Remastered) 104M+
3. The Twist Chubby Checker 47M+
4. Save the Last Dance for Me The Drifters 37M+
5. Beyond the Sea Bobby Darin 25M+
6. I'm Sorry Brenda Lee 16M+
7. Are You Lonesome Tonight? Elvis Presley Platinum - A Life In Music 15M+

1. Hey Jude (The Beatles)

Immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of "Hey Jude" by The Beatles. Originally titled "Hey Jules," this iconic track was penned by Paul McCartney to comfort Julian Lennon amidst his parents' separation. Released in 1968, it soared to the top of charts worldwide, becoming a symbol of enduring hope and resilience. Its uplifting melody and extended outro, coupled with a powerful orchestral arrangement, resonate deeply with listeners, offering comfort and encouragement. The song's enduring popularity, evident in its continued streams and countless heartfelt tributes online, cements its place as a legendary piece of musical history, proving the Beatles' timeless appeal.

Hey Jude - The Beatles

2. I Want To Hold Your Hand (1963)

In the 1960s, a seismic shift occurred in popular music. The Beatles' "I Want to Hold Your Hand" a seemingly simple song about youthful longing, became a cultural phenomenon. Its release in the US sparked Beatlemania, catapulting the band to unprecedented fame. Written in a basement at Jane Asher's London home, the song's infectious melody and relatable lyrics resonated deeply with audiences, creating a shared experience across generations. The song's enduring popularity is evident in its continued streaming and its ability to transcend time, even evoking powerful emotional responses decades later, as evidenced by its ability to connect with listeners grappling with Alzheimer's disease and create heartwarming memories. The youthful energy of Lennon and McCartney, aged just 23 and 21 respectively at the time, infused the song with an irresistible charm that continues to captivate.

I Want To Hold Your Hand - The Beatles

3. The Twist - 1960

Released in 1960, Chubby Checker's "The Twist" is a quintessential example of 1960s pop music. This infectious track, with its simple yet captivating beat, reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 twice – a remarkable feat achieved only once before by another song. Its enduring popularity stemmed not only from its catchy tune but also from the dance craze it ignited, becoming a symbol of a generation's joyful energy and a groundbreaking social phenomenon. The song's lasting cultural impact solidifies its place among the best songs of the 60s Billboard charts.

The Twist - Chubby Checker

4. Save the Last Dance for Me (The Drifters - 1960)

Released in 1964, The Drifters' "Save the Last Dance for Me" ascended to the top of the Billboard Hot 100, enjoying a prolonged stay on the charts. This classic of 60s pop showcases the group's signature smooth vocals and timeless romantic lyrics. The song's enduring appeal stems from its evocative storytelling of a poignant devotion, resonating deeply with listeners across generations. Its simple yet powerful melody and relatable theme of love and longing cemented its place as a staple of the era's music landscape, continuing to evoke nostalgia and cherished memories. The emotional depth, coupled with its undeniable catchiness, ensures its continued relevance and status as one of the best songs of the 1960s.

Save the Last Dance for Me - The Drifters

5. Beyond the Sea - 2025

Bobby Darin's "Beyond the Sea" released in 1960, is a classic example of 1960s pop. This timeless ballad, with its smooth vocals and romantic melody, resonated deeply with audiences and secured a spot on the Billboard charts. Though precise chart data on its peak position and duration varies depending on the chart used (Hot 100 or other Billboard charts at the time), its enduring popularity cemented its place as a 60s favorite. The song's enduring appeal stems from its effortlessly romantic atmosphere and Darin's powerful yet sensitive delivery, making it a truly unforgettable piece of musical history. Its use in films like Goodfellas and Finding Nemo further showcases its transgenerational appeal and lasting cultural impact.

Beyond the Sea - Bobby Darin
  • I'm Sorry
    6

    I'm Sorry

    Brenda Lee

    1960

  • Are You Lonesome Tonight?
    7

    Are You Lonesome Tonight?

    Elvis Presley

    1960

    Platinum - A Life In Music

  • Walk, Don't Run
    8

    Walk, Don't Run

    The Ventures

    1960

    Walk Don't Run

  • The Theme From 'A Summer Place'
    9

    The Theme From 'A Summer Place'

    Percy Faith

    1960

  • Chain Gang
    10

    Chain Gang

    Sam Cooke

    1960

    Swing Low

  • I Can't Stop Loving You
    11

    I Can't Stop Loving You

    Ray Charles

    1962

    Modern Sounds in Country and Western Music, Vols 1 & 2

  • I Heard It Through The Grapevine
    12

    I Heard It Through The Grapevine

    Marvin Gaye

    1968

    In The Groove

  • Sugar, Sugar
    13

    Sugar, Sugar

    The Archies

    1969

  • Pretty Blue Eyes
    14

    Pretty Blue Eyes

    Steve Lawrence

    1960

  • I'm a Believer
    15

    I'm a Believer

    The Monkees

    1966

    More of The Monkees (Deluxe Edition)

  • Lonely Blue Boy
    16

    Lonely Blue Boy

    Conway Twitty

    1960

  • Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In
    17

    Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In

    The 5th Dimension

    1969

  • Paper Roses
    18

    Paper Roses

    Anita Bryant

    1960

  • Burning Bridges
    19

    Burning Bridges

    Jack Scott

    1960

  • Way Down Yonder in New Orleans
    20

    Way Down Yonder in New Orleans

    Freddy Cannon

    1960

  • Tossin' and Turnin'
    21

    Tossin' and Turnin'

    Bobby Lewis

    1961

  • Mule Skinner Blues
    22

    Mule Skinner Blues

    The Fendermen

    1960

  • Night
    23

    Night

    Jackie Wilson

    1960

  • Cradle of Love
    24

    Cradle of Love

    Johnny Preston

    1960

  • I Want to Be Wanted
    25

    I Want to Be Wanted

    Brenda Lee

    1960

  • Mr. Custer
    26

    Mr. Custer

    Larry Verne

    1960