"Buckaroo" #60 12/25/1965

We close out 1965 with this week's #1 country tune by Buck Owens and his backing group, the Buckaroos, which made a small dent on the pop charts. It features the sparkling guitar work of the late Don Rich. To my knowledge, this is still the last instrumental to reach #1 on the country charts.

Buck Owens - Buckaroo

"Let's Get Together" #31 12/25/1965

Today's tune was first done by a folk group, the Kingston Trio, in '64. With a slightly altered title and arrangement, it became a Top 5 hit for the Youngbloods in the summer of '69. (Hey, there's an idea for a song title.) This would be the second and last Top 40 record for We Five.

We Five - Let's Get Together

"Puppet On A String" #14 12/25/1965

Elvis had a new movie out at this time but no songs from "Harum Scarum" were deemed single-worthy. They decided to release this track from almost a year earlier. The original master tape sped up at the end; The King almost sounded like he was inhaling helium before it was corrected in the 90's.

Elvis Presley - Puppet On A String

"Don't Think Twice" #12 12/25/1965

The Four Seasons had difficulty recording this Bob Dylan song, so to lighten the mood Frankie Valli started singing it way over the top. The other guys, tongues firmly planted in cheeks, joined in - and it worked. It was released under the assumed name of The Wonder Who? so as not to offend the empty suits at their label.

The Wonder Who? - Don't Think Twice

"Fever" #7 12/25/1965

Peggy Lee had the first hit with this in 1958; Elvis had a very good remake as well in 1960. Today's tune is the McCoys version, with a slightly different arrangement that sounded suspiciously like their previous "Hang On Sloopy." Guess what? I got a fever, and the only prescription is MORE COWBELL!!

McCoys - Fever

"Make The World Go Away" #6 12/25/1965

A textbook "Nashville Sound" record from Eddy Arnold that reached #1 on the country charts. Originally done by Ray Price, it's been covered by everyone from Elvis to Donny and Marie Osmond. This helped define the more pop-sounding "countrypolitan" music in the 60's and 70's.

Eddy Arnold - Make The World Go Away

"Over And Over" #1 12/25/1965

Hope y'all are having a fantastic Christmas - we sure are! This one from the Dave Clark Five held down the #1 spot on Christmas Day of 1965, with a remake of the B-side of "Rockin' Robin" by Bobby Day from '58. It was the DC5's only chart-topper in America.

Dave Clark Five - Over And Over

Merry Christmas!

Years ago I worked weekends and holidays in radio. I would always close out my last show before Christmas with this from Leroy Anderson, one that he was said to have composed in the middle of an August heat wave in New England. Merry Christmas to all!

Leroy Anderson - Sleigh Ride

"O Holy Night" Aaron Neville

The Neville Brothers, from New Orleans, can play just about any style of music and do it exquisitely. First time I heard Aaron Neville sing "Ave Maria" it brought tears to my eyes - and I'm not even Catholic. This is one of the best versions of "O Holy Night" you'll hear anywhere.

Aaron Neville - O Holy Night

"You Won't See Me" Album cut

Here's a song from "Rubber Soul" that was part of an all night marathon 13-hour recording session to complete the album by the deadline. Anne Murray re-did this quite nicely in the mid-70's. Paul said that was his favorite cover of their songs. By now in '65, the Beatles had just wrapped up what proved to be their final UK concert tour.

Beatles - You Won't See Me

"Here It Comes Again" #27 12/18/1965

The followup to "You've Got Your Troubles" from the Fortunes. They wouldn't have another major US hit until the early 70's and "Here Comes That Rainy Day Feeling Again." In about six months, their manager would be murdered over the operations of a pirate radio station.

Fortunes - Here It Comes Again

"Sunday And Me" #18 12/18/1965

We present the first hit record written by Neil Diamond - his tune "I'm A Believer" would soon be huge for the Monkees before his solo career took off. This would also be the last Top 20 single for Jay and the Americans until their remake of the Drifters' "This Magic Moment" in '69.

Jay and the Americans - Sunday And Me

"England Swings" #8 12/18/1965

A Top 5 country record and a Top 10 pop hit from Roger Miller, who turned the word England into three syllables (Eng-uh-lund). Although this came out at the height of Swinging London of the 60's, the song reinforces every stereotype Americans have about the place - bobbies on bicycles and all that.

Roger Miller - England Swings

"I Got You (I Feel Good)" #3 12/18/1965

Bet you can name this in one note. That screaming intro is soooo burned into our collective memory. This was James Brown's highest charting pop record, but he had 99 Top 100 and 17 #1 R&B singles over a six decade career. Yet he only had two gold records because his label(s) were too cheap to have them certified.

James Brown - I Got You (I Feel Good)

"White Christmas" (Drifters)

Yes, Bing Crosby had the definitive version, but this one from 1954 by the Drifters is just classic. Their take features Bill Pinckney on bass vocals and Clyde McPhatter with the high tenor. It was featured in "Home Alone" in the 90's and saw a resurgence. Worth playing any time of the year.

Drifters - White Christmas

"Mystic Eyes" #33 12/11/1965

The last Top 40 record from Them, as their original version of "Gloria" flopped in a few months when the Shadows of Knight had the much bigger hit. Van Morrison left the group soon afterward. The video appears to be from a Dick Clark visit to London for "Where The Action Is."

Them - Mystic Eyes

"I'm A Man" (Yardbirds) #17 12/11/1965

The British Invasion showed that those blokes were way more well-versed in American blues music than we were. The Yardbirds were in the forefront, as they re-did this Bo Diddley tune with their standard rave-up treatment (a double-time section in the middle). A Top 5 UK single with great guitar work from Jeff Beck.

Yardbirds - I'm A Man

"Hang On Sloopy" (Ramsey Lewis Trio) #11 12/11/1965

Boy, today's song made the rounds in the 60's. This jazz-flavored instrumental version by the Ramsey Lewis Trio was recorded at the Lighthouse Café at the foot of the pier in Hermosa Beach, CA. The other two guys left Mr. Lewis to form Young-Holt Unlimited not long afterward.

Ramsey Lewis Trio - Hang On Sloopy

"I Will" #10 12/11/1965

Yesterday would've been Frank Sinatra's 100th birthday. Today we give you fellow Rat Packer Dean Martin and one of his seven Top 10 pop songs. He had 20 Top 10's on the easy listening charts, which only existed since the early 60's. Hard to tell how many more he would've had in that category.

Dean Martin - I Will

Happy 100th, Ol' Blue Eyes!

If anyone had said in my teens and 20's that I would ever get into Sinatra, I would've wanted what they were smoking. Now I can truly appreciate what Frank did, when real singers actually sang instead of using autotune and real musicians played real arrangements, like this one by Nelson Riddle. The trombone solo is out of control.

Frank Sinatra - I've Got You Under My Skin

"I Can Never Go Home Anymore" #6 12/11/1965

The next to last Top 40 record from the Shangri-Las, about not getting the chance to say goodbye. Always important to tell people you love them while you still can. Very poignant.

Shangri-Las - I Can Never Go Home Anymore

"Let's Hang On!" #3 12/11/1965

As described in the "Jersey Boys" musical and film, the Four Seasons were successful and then encountered some lean times. (How it was portrayed in the play and movie differs a tad from reality, but it's poetic license.) This one broke the slump and put them firmly back on top. Absolutely a personal favorite.

Four Seasons - Let's Hang On!

"O Tannenbaum" Merry Christmas!!

Hard to believe "A Charlie Brown Christmas" turned 50 this year. The thought of jazz-inspired music within a cartoon was kind of revolutionary in 1965. Vince Guaraldi was a San Francisco-based pianist who was asked to compose and/or arrange those songs...and it worked.

Vince Guaraldi Trio - O Tannenbaum

"I've Just Seen A Face" Album cut

The Fab Four could play some country music if they wanted to. This one off the UK "Help!" album and the US "Rubber Soul" sounds the way it must have in the beginning with John, Paul and George on acoustics...and Ringo. They also recorded "Act Naturally" and "Yesterday" at the same session.

Beatles - I've Just Seen A Face

"It's Only Love" RIP, John Lennon

It's been 50 years since "Rubber Soul" and 35 years ago today since the senseless death of John Lennon. He thought this was trite album filler, but anyone would've loved to have a tune this strong. It was on the UK "Help!" LP but Capitol held it back over here for "Rubber Soul." One of my favorites. Miss you, John.

Beatles - It's Only Love

"Something About You" #19 12/4/1965

Another one from Motown tunesmiths Holland-Dozier-Holland that became a Top 20 pop hit and a Top 10 R&B hit for the Four Tops. Those guys hardly ever missed with their compositions. Amazing how many peoples' careers H-D-H aided over the years.

Four Tops - Something About You

"Make It Easy On Yourself" #16 12/4/1965

These guys were the British Invasion in reverse - Americans who had more success over there than here. They were the Walker Brothers, none of them named Walker and who weren't brothers. Jerry Butler had a hit with this Bacharach/David song in '62 (a not-yet-famous Dionne Warwick did the demo). A #1 record in the UK.

Walker Brothers - Make It Easy On Yourself

"May The Bird Of Paradise Fly Up Your Nose" #15 12/4/1965

A phrase uttered by Johnny Carson on "The Tonight Show" became the subject of a #1 country and Top 20 pop record. It happened for Little Jimmy Dickens, who was 4'11" and came from near Beckley, WV, played a guitar bigger than he was, and who was believed to have introduced the rhinestone suit to country music.

Little Jimmy Dickens - May The Bird Of Paradise Fly Up Your Nose

"Run Baby Run" #12 12/4/1965

The last Top 40 record from the Newbeats, where three white singers from Nashville sounded like they were doing a Motown arrangement - and they pulled it off. Sadly, Larry Henley (the falsetto dude) passed away just over a year ago.

Newbeats - Run Baby Run

"Turn! Turn! Turn!" #1 12/4/1965

Adapted from the Book of Ecclesiastes. Maybe King Solomon should've gotten a composing credit, as he was generally acknowledged to have written that biblical passage. Trivia: In recording "Mr. Tambourine Man" the Wrecking Crew did most all the music, the Byrds supplied the vocals, and it was completed in a couple of takes. The Byrds did the whole thing this time, and needed 78 takes.

Byrds - Turn! Turn! Turn!

"Norwegian Wood (This Bird Has Flown)" Album cut

The Beatles didn't just break the rules - they wrote new ones for everyone else to follow. The "Rubber Soul" LP, released 50 years ago today in Britain and three days later in America, was light years beyond anything else out there at the time. Plus, it was only three years removed from their "yeah, yeah, yeah" mop-top beginnings. Groundbreaking stuff.

Beatles - Norwegian Wood (This Bird Has Flown)

"Take Me" Bonus

A Top 10 country hit from the legendary George Jones that surprisingly wasn't all that twangy. George re-did this in the early 70's with his then-new wife Tammy Wynette and made the Top 10 all over again. Quite the accomplishment, because a great song always rises to the top.

George Jones - Take Me

"The Pied Piper" #87 11/27/1965

The hit version came along a few months later by Crispian St. Peter, but here's the original by the Changin' Times. Half of the duo, Artie Kornfeld, would become famous as the chief promoter of the Woodstock festival in 1969. He and Mama Cass Elliot attended American University in DC together.

The Changin' Times - The Pied Piper

"My Girl Has Gone" #14 11/27/1965

Here's the follow-up to "The Tracks Of My Tears" by the Miracles. In '67, Smokey Robinson would get billing in front of the group. He became a VP of the Motown conglomerate, and took on a bigger role after the company moved from Detroit to L.A. as he scaled back his music career.

Miracles - My Baby Has Gone

"My Baby" #13 11/27/1965

Another hit co-written by Smokey Robinson that was a little more up-tempo than the last few singles for the Temptations. That approach seemed to work rather nicely. They worked mostly with Smokey and his crew for the next couple of years.

Temptations - My Baby

"You've Got To Hide Your Love Away" (The Silkie) #10 11/27/1965

A true one-hit wonder from The Silkie, who re-did this Beatles tune from the "Help!" LP with a little help from their friends. Paul McCartney played guitar, George Harrison tapped on an acoustic to keep time, and John Lennon produced the session.

The Silkie - You've Got To Hide Your Love Away

"A Taste Of Honey" #7 11/27/1965

One of my all-time favorite instrumentals, performed by what should've been called Herb Alpert and the Wrecking Crew. The Tijuana Brass didn't really exist until demand for concert dates sorta forced Herb into putting together a road band. The Beatles did a vocal version of this on their first album. Video is from a BBC programme. (Dig the British spelling there.)

Herb Alpert and the Tijuana Brass - A Taste Of Honey

Happy Turkey Day!

"Ring Dang Doo" #33 11/20/1965

Another goofy novelty record from Sam the Sham and the Pharaohs. Thanks to their label, they just weren't allowed to do anything else but off-the-wall material. Eventually it would run its course.

Sam the Sham and the Pharaohs - Ring Dang Doo

"I Found A Girl" #30 11/20/1965

Ths would be the next to last Top 40 record from Jan and Dean. In a few months, Jan Berry would be involved in an accident near the real Dead Man's Curve on Sunset Boulevard in L.A. and never fully recovered, as his lingering injuries and paralysis led to his passing away in 2004.

Jan and Dean - I Found A Girl

"Ain't That Peculiar" #8 11/20/1965

A Top 10 record for Marvin Gaye, and another #1 R&B tune for him as well. By now he had  established himself as one of Motown's most consistent hitmakers. Duets with Kim Weston and later, with Tammi Terrell would expand his stardom over the next few years.

Marvin Gaye - Ain't That Peculiar

"Rescue Me" #4 11/20/1965

The only Top 10 pop hit for Fontella Bass - she had several other R&B records which charted highly, though. Not sure where this clip is from, but she rocks the houndstooth look in a way that would make Bear Bryant proud. Fashion in the 60's was...interesting.

Fontella Bass - Rescue Me

"1-2-3" #2 11/20/1965

Today's math lesson is from Philly's own Len Barry, former lead singer of the Dovells, a hit-making early 60's vocal group ("Bristol Stomp" and "You Can't Sit Down"). He had a few more chart records in him, but wouldn't reach the Top 20 again.

Len Barry - 1-2-3

"I Hear A Symphony" #1 11/20/1965

The Supremes had a run of five straight #1's interrupted by their last single, which only reached #11. Berry Gordy was quite distressed, which caused the Holland-Dozier-Holland songwriting team at Motown to alter their approach. The group's next planned single was cancelled and replaced by this, which put everyone involved back on top. As good as it gets.

Supremes - I Hear A Symphony

"Roses And Rainbows" #73 11/13/1965

Another record more notable for who sang it than the song itself. Long before Three Dog Night was formed, Danny Hutton was a scuffling solo performer. He eventually sang lead on such hits as "Black And White," "Liar," and the first verses of "Celebrate" and "The Family Of Man" among others.

Danny Hutton - Roses And Rainbows

"Take Me In Your Arms (Rock Me A Little While)" #50 11/13/1965

The Doobie Brothers had a huge hit in the 70's with this one. We give you the original by Motown's Kim Weston, who would be known more in a few months for her duet with Marvin Gaye "It Takes Two" than for her solo work. Written by Holland-Dozier-Holland.

Kim Weston - Take Me In Your Arms (Rock Me A Little While)

"Where Have All The Flowers Gone" #26 11/13/1965

One of the most popular anti-war political commentary songs of the 60's was recorded by dozens, including this version by Johnny Rivers. The original from the 50's by Pete Seeger only contained the first three verses - the rest were added years later, bringing the lyrics full circle.

Johnny Rivers - Where Have All The Flowers Gone

"Say Something Funny" #22 11/13/1965

Apologies for the tardiness of today's post - been on the road since 5:30 this morning. Here's another effort from Patty Duke all about teen angst. She recorded six LP's, but this would be her last single to reach the Top 40.

Patty Duke - Say Something Funny

"Round Every Corner" #21 11/13/1965

After the worldwide success of "Downtown," Petula Clark's subsequent records were relative disappointments. She'd already been a star in Europe and her native UK, but the press openly wondered if she would be a flash in the pan in the US. With help from the Wrecking Crew, her follow-up to this would erase those doubts. Happy birthday, Petula!

Petula Clark - Round Every Corner

"But You're Mine" #15 11/13/1965

Sonny and Cher continued the theme of "hippie couple not fitting in" with this one. Their label kept pushing the product out there, and the hits just kept on coming - you could say the beat goes on. *snort*

Sonny and Cher - But You're Mine

"You're The One" #4 11/13/1965

The first hit for the Vogues was co-written by Petula Clark, who recorded it first. This was the only English-language song Petula had a hand in writing. The Vogues came from Turtle Creek, PA, in the East Hills of Pittsburgh.

Vogues - You're The One

"Love Bug" Bonus

IMHO, Hank Williams Sr. and George Jones were the two greatest country singers that ever lived. The Possum had a career of over 50 years and reached the country charts almost 150 times, either solo or with others, with 13 of those being #1. Today's tune hit the Top 10, as did a remake in the 90's by George Strait.

George Jones - Love Bug

"Respect" (Otis Redding) #35 11/6/1965

Aretha Franklin's version of "Respect" in '67 was one for the ages - here's the slightly different arrangement by its writer, the great Otis Redding. His version was a Top 5 R&B record. Otis was such an influence on everybody in that genre, and left us way too soon.

Otis Redding - Respect

"Everyone's Gone To The Moon" #17 11/6/1965

Jonathan King was a one-hit wonder in the US, but his biggest musical impact was behind the scenes. He gave 10cc and Genesis their earliest record deals, produced the Bay City Rollers' first UK hit, and was a ground floor investor in "The Rocky Horror Picture Show." He later was sentenced to seven years in prison for improper diddling of young boys. Yikes.

Jonathan King - Everyone's Gone To The Moon

"I Knew You When" #14 11/6/1965

Giving you tomorrow's post early as I will undergo routine medical tests all day Monday. Like his first hit "Down In The Boondocks," Billy Joe Royal succeeded with another song written by Atlanta rocker Joe South. Sadly, Billy Joe passed away about a month ago. RIP, brother.

Billy Joe Royal - I Knew You When

"Positively 4th Street" #7 11/6/1965

It's rare that a hit record would contain such spiteful and downright nasty lyrics, but Dylan pulled it off. Lots of bile directed at what was believed to be a combination of people in his life at the time. The title was never mentioned in the song, but 4th Street ran through the heart of Greenwich Village in the NYC, where he got started.

Bob Dylan - Positively 4th Street

"Everybody Loves A Clown" #4 11/6/1965

Gary Lewis and the Playboys had quite a run to begin their musical career, with each of their first seven singles reaching the Top 10. Another Wrecking Crew record, like so many others. Not sure what show the video is from, but Gary's famous dad introduces the band.

Gary Lewis and the Playboys - Everybody Loves A Clown

"Get Off Of My Cloud" #1 11/6/1965

The Stones' previous single "Satisfaction" had maybe the most recognizable guitar intro in rock history - this could be the most recognizable drum intro. The second #1 single in the States and the fifth #1 in the UK for Mick and the boys. Suffice it to say this is a 60's signature song.

Rolling Stones - Get Off Of My Cloud

"Steppin' Out" #46 10/30/1965

Paul Revere and the Raiders had a few regional hits, but this was their breakout record nationally. They would be quite successful for the rest of the 60's. Today's video from "Hullabaloo" is a hoot - Michael Landon hosting, go-go dancers, goofiness from the band, ad voiceovers by DC radio legend Johnny Holliday and the animated NBC "snake" logo.

Paul Revere and the Raiders - Steppin' Out

"Universal Soldier" #45 and #53 10/30/1965

We have two versions of the same song (neither one the original by Buffy Sainte-Marie) that peaked in the same week. Glen Campbell recorded this in between his sessions with the Wrecking Crew and reached #45, while Donovan made it to #53 over here and got a Top 5 UK single. Definite anti-war message with this one.

Glen Campbell - Universal Soldier

Donovan - Universal Soldier

"Hungry For Love" #27 10/30/1965

Today's Top 5 easy listening tune is by the San Remo Golden Strings, moonlighting Detroit Symphony Orchestra members plus the string section of the Funk Brothers, Motown's house band. When Berry Gordy found out, he fined his Motown employees appearing on the record $1,000 each. Hopefully they made it up in royalties.

San Remo Golden Strings - Hungry For Love

"Not The Lovin' Kind" #25 10/30/1965

The second and last Top 40 tune from teenagers Dino, Desi and Billy. Two of them were sons of Dean Martin and Desi Arnaz. Billy Hinsche eventually became the brother-in-law of Al Jardine of the Beach Boys. Easy to tell from this video they came from big bucks, as they played Beatles-model guitar and bass. I learned guitar on a cheap Sears and Roebuck Silvertone. A Wrecking Crew record.

Dino, Desi and Billy - Not The Lovin' Kind

"Make Me Your Baby" #11 10/30/1965

Patti Labelle and the Bluebelles were supposed to record this one, but they were in the process of changing labels and contractural issues got in the way. Thus, it was offered to Barbara Lewis as the follow-up to "Baby, I'm Yours."

Barbara Lewis - Make Me Your Baby

"Keep On Dancing" #4 10/30/1965

A one-hit wonder straight outta Memphis that was so short the producer tacked the song's intro onto the end, just to make it two minutes long. The lead singer (but not on their one hit) was pro wrestling's Jimmy Hart - yes, The Mouth Of The South was in a rock band first. Today's clip is a montage of dance scenes from 60's sitcoms.

Gentrys - Keep On Dancing

"A Lover's Concerto" #2 10/30/1965

A true rarity - a pop record based on Bach's Minuet in G Major, except this is in 4/4 time and Bach did it in 3/4 time. The Toys were a girl group from the Jamaica section of Queens, NYC who recorded for a label owned by Bob Crewe, the Four Seasons' producer.

Toys - A Lover's Concerto

"Hello Vietnam" #1 Country 10/23/1965

The pop charts reflected an anti-war sentiment all throughout the 60's, which fed into an anti-troop sentiment as well. Hopefully we've learned from that. The country charts had a very different take. This one from Johnny Wright, married to legend Kitty Wells, was included on the "Full Metal Jacket" soundtrack.

Johnny Wright - Hello Vietnam

"Autumn Leaves '65" #92 10/23/1965

One of the standards from the Great American Songbook, this has been recorded many, many times. Surprisingly, Roger Williams still has the only piano instrumental to ever reach #1 on the pop charts. He re-did it in '65 but I can't find that anywhere on YouTube, so here's his 1955 version.

Roger Williams - Autumn Leaves '65

"Early Morning Rain" #91 10/23/1965

Recorded by dozens ranging from Bob Dylan to Elvis to Jerry Reed, this composition helped put Gordon Lightfoot on the map as a songwriter. It wasn't that big of a chart record for Peter, Paul and Mary, but it became one of their signature tunes.

Peter, Paul and Mary - Early Morning Rain

"I Live For The Sun" #51 10/23/1965

It's well documented how Murry Wilson was incredibly domineering and psychologically abusive toward his sons Brian, Dennis and Carl Wilson - so much that the Beach Boys fired him as their manager. Murry then hired a total ripoff group called the Sunrays, right down to them wearing striped shirts on stage. Their one "hit" didn't even crack the Top 50.

Sunrays - I Live For The Sun

"Act Naturally" #47 10/23/1965

A country #1 by Buck Owens in '63, it was the intended A-side of the current Beatles single with Ringo's vocals, but radio stations flipped it over and "Yesterday" became the hit. Written by Moorhead, Mississippi's Johnny Russell, who also did "Rednecks, White Socks And Blue Ribbon Beer" in the 70's and wrote "Let's Fall To Pieces Together" for George Strait in the 80's.

Beatles - Act Naturally

"Cara-Lin" #39 10/23/1965

As mentioned here previously, these guys wanted to release "Hang On Sloopy" as their next single, but that honor (and a #1 record) went to their hired group, the McCoys. This became the next chart record instead. One of the Strangeloves went on to produce Marshall Crenshaw's first album.

Strangeloves - Cara-Lin

"Liar Liar" #12 10/23/1965

The easiest thing to do in show business is to make a hit record. The hardest is to come up with a second hit and beyond. Tom Hanks made a movie about that. We give you the Castaways from Minneapolis, who never had that second hit after this one. The video today is sooooo 60's.

Castaways - Liar Liar

"What Color (Is A Man)" #38 10/16/1965

More social commentary in song, this time from Bobby Vinton. He was one of the first non-country music performers to headline in Branson, Missouri. The theory behind opening a theater in Branson was why beat your brains out going on the road constantly, when the fans could come to you?

Bobby Vinton - What Color (Is A Man)

"The Dawn Of Correction" #36 10/16/1965

The patriotic answer record to "Eve Of Destruction" was done by the Spokesmen, made up of two songwriters and a DJ from one of the great Top 40 stations ever, WIBG ("Wibbage") in Philadelphia. The others wrote hits such as "1-2-3," "You Don't Own Me" and "At The Hop." Quite the resume.

Spokesman - The Dawn Of Correction

"Home Of The Brave" #25 10/16/1965

We'll delve into some socially conscious 60's music over the next few days. This one by Jody Miller dealt with a high schooler sent home from class because he didn't conform. Jody had a great deal of success in the country field in the 70's, and eventually got into Christian music.

Jody Miller - Home Of The Brave

"Mohair Sam" #21 10/16/1965

Charlie Rich started out in the late 50's as a session musician at Sun Records in Memphis and made a few records back then. He became one of the biggest stars in country music in the 70's with nine chart-toppers, as well as a Top 40 #1 with "The Most Beautiful Girl."

Charlie Rich - Mohair Sam

"Do You Believe In Magic" #9 10/16/1965

It's like trying to tell a stranger about rock and roll. The first hit for the Lovin' Spoonful had an electrified autoharp, played by lead vocalist John Sebastian. They matched Gary Lewis and the Playboys in that their first seven singles all made the Top 10 - remember, the first three Beatles singles released in America all flopped in '63.

Lovin' Spoonful - Do You Believe In Magic

"Just A Little Bit Better" #7 10/16/1965

Herman's Hermits had six US singles chart in 1965, and at #7 this was the lowest ranked of the lot. The others all made the Top 5, with two of them reaching the top. Pretty amazing run there for Peter Noone and the blokes.

Herman's Hermits - Just A Little Bit Better

"Treat Her Right" #2 10/16/1965

An early example of blue-eyed soul by Roy Head, from southwest Texas. I couldn't find a suitable quality video that showed off his moves, but trust me, the dude could almost dance like James Brown. He was all over the stage. Produced by swamp music legend Huey Meaux.

Roy Head and the Traits - Treat Her Right

"Are You A Boy Or Are You A Girl" #55 10/9/1965

The Sixties saw quite the cultural upheaval. People were shocked, shocked (!!) the Beatles and Stones had hair that TOUCHED THEIR COLLARS! The Barbarians, rockers from Cape Cod, had the whole long haired look along with pirate outfits and poofy Seinfeld-type pirate shirts...and yet they put out this very reactionary record. Amazing.

Barbarians - Are You A Boy Or Are You A Girl

"Kansas City Star" #31 10/9/1965

A Top 10 country tune from the somewhat squirrely Roger Miller about a kiddie TV star in Kansas City who resisted the lure of moving up to a bigger gig...in Omaha. He was capable of more meaningful material, but hey, you need a little goofiness once in a while.

Roger Miller - Kansas City Star

"Ride Away" #25 10/9/1965

Whoever is in charge of picking music for the Geico ads is a genius. This was Roy Orbison's first release after changing record labels. He would have a couple more 45's that just reached the Top 40, and other than a Top 10 country duet with Emmylou Harris, that was it, until "You Got It" in '88.

Roy Orbison - Ride Away

"Just You" #20 10/9/1965

It seemed to be a thing in the 60's that once an act succeeded, their label would flood the market with more and more of their product. Sonny and Cher had two singles in the Top 20 this week, "Baby Don't Go" plus today's selection.

Sonny and Cher - Just You

"Some Enchanted Evening" #13 10/9/1965

Here's Jay and the Americans with one from the famous 1949 musical "South Pacific," a #1 hit that year for Perry Como. It's been recorded by everyone from Frank Sinatra to Bob Dylan. A song for the ages, no matter who sings it.

Jay and the Americans - Some Enchanted Evening

"I'm Yours" #11 10/9/1965

Other than movie soundtracks, from '64-'68 Elvis hardly recorded any new material. Sometimes the songs in the films were even recycled, like this one from his flick "Tickle Me" originally recorded in 1961 and first appearing on his "Pot Luck" LP in 1962. It still just missed the Top 10.

Elvis Presley - I'm Yours

"Baby Don't Go" #8 10/9/1965

Here's one that was originally released in the fall of 1964, and totally bombed (except in L.A.) but when Sonny and Cher broke through with "I Got You Babe," this was re-released and made the Top 10. Trivia: They billed themselves early on as Caesar and Cleo. Ackkkk.

Sonny and Cher - Baby Don't Go

"You've Got Your Troubles" #7 10/9/1965

The first hit from the Fortunes was heard extensively on legendary offshore English pirate station Radio Caroline. Whenever the ship needed supplies or other assistance, the DJ would play this record to signal their onshore pals to send out some help. Radio is a wonderful medium. It was Top 10 on both sides of the pond.

Fortunes - You've Got Your Troubles

"The 'In' Crowd" #5 10/9/1965

The Ramsey Lewis Trio appeared in '65 at the Bohemian Caverns jazz club in Washington, DC. Supposedly, they had never played the song before, but by request they learned the Dobie Gray version off a jukebox during a break. A very impromptu recording that made the Top 5.

Ramsey Lewis Trio - The "In" Crowd

"Yesterday" #1 10/9/1965

The Guinness Book of World Records said with over 2,200 known versions, this was the most recorded song of the 20th century - and it was the intended B-side of the 45! Consideration was given to issue this as a Paul McCartney solo record, since he and a string quartet were the only performers. Their manager, Brian Epstein, nixed that idea - it would be the Beatles or nothing on the label.

Beatles - Yesterday

"3rd Man Theme" #47 10/2/1965

If you've ever seen the classic flick "The Third Man" starring Orson Welles, you recognize the very distinctive music score, performed on a zither. Herb Alpert adapted the theme for himself and the Tijuana Brass with this interesting arrangement.

Herb Alpert and the Tijuana Brass - 3rd Man Theme

"With These Hands" #27 10/2/1965

Tom Jones was in a bit of a dilemma regarding his career by 1965. His management couldn't decide whether he should do up-tempo stuff or if he was a crooner. This one has a pre-Beatles British light pop arrangement, and was a UK Top 20 record.

Tom Jones - With These Hands

"Agent Double-0 Soul" #21 10/2/1965

The first chart record for Edwin Starr just missed the pop music Top 20 but was a Top 10 R&B hit. The song's title tried to capitalize on the James Bond-type secret agent fad of the day. So did "Get Smart" but it was funnier.

Edwin Starr - Agent Double-0 Soul

"Hang On Sloopy" #1 10/2/1965

One of the weirder stories behind a chart topper. The Strangeloves (actually three writer/producers) needed a follow-up to "I Want Candy" and laid down the basic tracks to their version of "My Girl Sloopy" mentioned here last week. They found out the Dave Clark Five was planning to do the same arrangement as their next single. The Strangeloves weren't available to rush-release the song, so they hired an unknown band from Indiana, Rick and the Raiders, to finish the record. To summarize, the band became the McCoys, their first 45 hit #1, their front man Rick Zehringer changed his name to Rick Derringer, and a definitive 60's record came to pass. The second verse was cut from the single - I used the unedited version.

McCoys - Hang On Sloopy

"I'm A Happy Man" #36 9/25/1965

The Jive Five started out as a doo-wop group and had a huge hit in '61 with "My True Story." They reinvented themselves as a R&B outfit when doo-wop faded away. This was their last Top 40 record.

Jive Five - I'm A Happy Man

"We Gotta Get Out Of This Place" #13 9/25/1965

Lots of angst in this record from the Animals. Written by Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil, who also wrote several big hits for the Righteous Brothers among others. It was said to be the all-time #1 request on Armed Forces radio by soldiers during the Vietnam War. I think this is right at the top of Eric Burdon's vocal range.

Animals - We Gotta Get Out Of This Place

"Laugh At Me" #10 9/25/1965

The only Top 10 solo effort for Sonny Bono. He figured Cher used one name on their records, so he would try it, too. Trivia: With "I Got You Babe" Sonny remains the only member of Congress to have a #1 record. He encountered red tape opening a restaurant in Palm Springs, so he ran for mayor and won, then served in the US House of Representatives until his passing. Video is from the German "Beat Club" TV show.

Sonny - Laugh At Me

"Heart Full Of Soul" #9 9/25/1965

The second single from the Yardbirds featured their influential lead guitarist Jeff Beck. There's a widely available video with his replacement, Jimmy Page, miming Jeff's solo, but I went with a B&W clip showing Mr. Beck instead. Written by future 10cc member Graham Gouldman.

Yardbirds - Heart Full Of Soul

"Catch Us If You Can" #4 9/25/1965

I previously mentioned in this space that some British Invasion acts flamed out rather quickly. The Dave Clark Five was not one of those. They kept having hits in the US up into '67 and stayed on the UK charts into the early 70's.

Dave Clark Five - Catch Us If You Can

"You Were On My Mind" #3 9/25/1965

A Top 5 record from We Five, written by Sylvia Tyson of Canadian folk duo Ian and Sylvia. The group's next single, which was covered with greater success in a few years, would just sneak into the Top 40. Pretty sure today's video is from "Hollywood A Go-Go."

We Five - You Were On My Mind

"Eve Of Destruction" #1 9/25/1965

One of the all-time one-hit wonders, this was a very controversial record and perhaps divisive. In other words, it pissed people off. Barry McGuire started out with the New Christy Minstrels - later members included Kenny Rogers, Kim Carnes and actress Karen Black. A later release of his involved the future Mamas and Papas. These days he's a Christian music performer.

Barry McGuire - Eve Of Destruction

"Colours" #61 9/18/1965

The second single from Donovan, while becoming a Top 5 record in the UK, didn't fare nearly as well over here. He wouldn't score a Top 10 in America until '66.

Donovan - Colours

"My Girl Sloopy" #50 9/18/1965

This song, with a slightly altered arrangement and title and different performers, would soon be #1, but that's another convoluted story. We have a two-fer; the '65 version by Canadian act Little Caesar and the Consuls, and the original from '64 by the Vibrations, who were once the Marathons ("Peanut Butter") and before that were the Jay Hawks (not the indie band) who did "Stranded In The Jungle" first. This qualifies as a hot mess.

Little Caesar and the Consuls - My Girl Sloopy

Vibrations - My Girl Sloopy

"It's Going To Take A Miracle" #41 9/18/1965

This one was meant for Little Anthony and the Imperials, but they were in a dispute with their label and management over royalties. Therefore, this song was given to a girl group from Baltimore (the same area of town where the riots recently took place) and became their one hit. Deniece Williams had a decent remake in the 80's as well.

Royalettes - It's Going To Take A Miracle

"You've Been In Love Too Long" #36 9/18/1965

The follow-up to "Nowhere To Run" from Martha and the Vandellas likely would've done better if radio stations had figured out which side of the 45 to play. The other side, "Love (Makes Me Do Foolish Things)" only got to #70, but it was enough to impact the success of the record.

Martha and the Vandellas - You've Been In Love Too Long

"Who'll Be The Next In Line" #34 9/18/1965

A forgotten oldie from the Kinks, and one you really don't hear much on the radio any more. But then, radio plays the same 200 or so oldies over and over. Playing it safe, they say. Can't take risks to alleviate the boring format. Maybe that's why I don't program a station.

Kinks - Who'll Be The Next In Line

"Action" #13 9/18/1965

Dick Clark revived the "American Bandstand" weekday afternoon concept of a rock music show in '65, calling it "Where The Action Is" and filming acts all over the country, usually on the beach at Malibu and at Big Bear ski lodge in Southern California. This was the show theme, performed by Freddy "Boom Boom" Cannon. I never missed it - or "Dark Shadows" either!

Freddy Cannon - Action (from "Where The Action Is")

"It Ain't Me Babe" #8 9/18/1965

The first album from the Turtles contained three Bob Dylan songs, of which this was one. Johnny Cash recorded this as well. After the band broke up, the front men, Howard Kaylan and Mark Volman, provided backing vocals on "Bang A Gong (Get It On)" in the 70's for T. Rex. Video is from "Shindig."

Turtles - It Ain't Me Babe

"You're Going To Lose That Girl" Album cut

Also from the "Help!" soundtrack, this one showed how Beatles songs were evolving way beyond the "yeah, yeah, yeah" stuff from the early days. The structure and complexity of their material was becoming more evident. Turned out we hadn't seen or heard anything yet.

Beatles - You're Going To Lose That Girl

"Another Girl" Album cut

From the "Help!" soundtrack, this is another tune where Paul played lead guitar plus his bass part and lead vocals. Apparently, he never performed it live until a few months ago at the famous Budokan hall in Tokyo.

Beatles - Another Girl

"Get Smart" TV Theme

The pitch meeting: Inept secret agent saves the world every week. It's been said this was James Bond meets Mel Brooks. Mel co-created the show with Buck Henry. Wonder if Maxwell Smart's shoe phone was the original SMART PHONE...*snicker*

Theme - Get Smart

"I Dream Of Jeannie" TV theme

The pitch meeting: Marooned astronaut finds blonde 2,000 year old genie. Makes you wonder what they were smoking in the 60's...oh, yeah, they WERE smoking wacky stuff. This version from the second season forward was composed by Hugo Montenegro, who scored those Clint Eastwood spaghetti westerns.

Theme - I Dream Of Jeannie

"Hogan's Heroes" TV theme

The pitch meeting: Allied POW's outsmart bumbling Nazis in a WWII prison camp. I was 9 when this premiered, and even then I knew it was a stupid plot for a TV show. Still, it lasted for six seasons, longer than America was in the war. Go figure.

Theme - Hogan's Heroes

"Green Acres" TV theme

Remember when TV seasons began the same week every September and had actual show themes? We'll look at '65 sitcom debuts with some of the most ridiculous premises ever. Today's pitch meeting: Socialite couple moves to a farm with goofy neighbors, including Arnold the pig.

Theme - "Green Acres"

"Is It Really Over?" #79 (#1 country) 9/11/1965

Gentleman Jim Reeves had eleven #1 country tunes, of which six of those were posthumous, including this. His estate and his label, RCA, kept releasing stuff from the vault into the early 80's. One of the first electronically created duets on record featured Jim along with Patsy Cline.

Jim Reeves - Is It Really Over?

"Houston" #21 9/11/1965

Today's selection was written for Dean Martin by Lee Hazlewood, who would soon collaborate with Nancy Sinatra on her hits. Video is from Dino's TV variety show, which was a rather loosey-goosey operation. Dean plays air harmonica on this one.

Dean Martin - Houston

"Sugar Dumpling" #32 9/4/1965

This was the last posthumous hit for the great Sam Cooke. A single several years later would only reach #97. His legacy in American popular music cannot be overstated.

Sam Cooke - Sugar Dumpling

"In The Midnight Hour" #21 9/4/1965

I was quite surprised to find out the first big record from "Wicked" Wilson Pickett just missed the Top 20, being that it's so identified with him. This was a #1 in R&B, though. He worked for Atlantic, but oddly, his first few hits were recorded at the competing Stax Records studio in Memphis.

Wilson Pickett - In The Midnight Hour

"The Tracks Of My Tears" #16 9/4/1965

A #2 R&B and Top 20 pop tune for the Miracles, co-written by front man Smokey Robinson. One of those rare instances where a couple of the remakes were virtually on par with the original, with big hits by Johnny Rivers in '67 and Linda Ronstadt in '75. Nothing beats Smokey, though.

Miracles - The Tracks Of My Tears

"Nothing But Heartaches" #11 9/4/1965

The last five Supremes singles all reached #1, but this one just missed the Top 10. Its relative lack of success caused Motown to somewhat alter their practice of acts putting out records that sounded so much like their previous releases. Motown canceled the group's next planned single as a result.

Supremes - Nothing But Heartaches

"Papa's Got A Brand New Bag" #8 9/4/1965

The Godfather Of Soul. The Hardest Working Man In Show Business. Soul Brother #1. There was nobody - NOBODY - more electrifying on stage than James Brown. That is all.

James Brown - Papa's Got A Brand New Bag

"Like A Rolling Stone" #2 9/4/1965

Hey, I was 9 when Bob Dylan entered our national consciousness, so at the time I didn't understand the whole social and political thing with him. It's only been in the last five or six years that I could truly appreciate what he did. His label (Columbia) didn't want to release this as a single, as it ran well over six minutes. Dylan was adamant about not editing the song. Looks like things worked out.

Bob Dylan - Like A Rolling Stone

"Help!" #1 9/4/1965

The title track to the Beatles' second movie, which pioneered the styles for every music video made since. The flick was filmed through a haze of pot by all accounts - no matter. It's still fabulous. Today's video is from an appearance on English TV about the time the movie premiered.

Beatles - Help!

"Ju Ju Hand" #26 8/28/1965

The follow-up to "Wooly Bully" sounds quite a bit like the previous record. For that reason, Sam the Sham and the Pharaohs kinda got trapped in the novelty genre, since everything they did since then wound up having to be sorta goofy. They would have one more huge hit in them from 1966.

Sam the Sham and the Pharaohs - Ju Ju Hand

"Since I Lost My Baby" #17 8/28/1965

More smooth Motown music from the Temptations, co-written and produced by Smokey Robinson. I could easily hear Smokey and the Miracles doing this one. Outstanding R&B from the Motor City.

Temptations - Since I Lost My Baby

"Down In The Boondocks" #9 8/28/1965

The first Top 10 hit for Billy Joe Royal. He came out of the same Georgia music scene that produced Tommy Roe, Ray Stevens, the Classics IV and eventually the Atlanta Rhythm Section. Billy Joe succeeded in country music in the 80's, even though his first big hit in that genre, "Burned Like A Rocket," has the misfortune of making its chart run during the Challenger space shuttle disaster.

Billy Joe Royal - Down In The Boondocks

"Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me" #8 8/28/1965

A #1 easy listening hit, this was Mel Carter's only pop Top 10 record. He would have two more 45's that barely cracked the Top 40, and that would be it. The song dates from the early 50's. Just a great ballad.

Mel Carter - Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me

"It's The Same Old Song" #5 8/28/1965

The Four Tops' former label tried to cash in on their new-found Motown success by issuing one of their older songs as a single. Berry Gordy, the head of Motown, thus ordered that a new Tops record be released within 24 hours, so under pressure, the team of Holland-Dozier-Holland took "I Can't Help Myself," turned the chord structure inside out and voila! -  the group had another hit.

Four Tops - It's The Same Old Song

"Unchained Melody" #4 8/28/1965

The Righteous Brothers probably had the most well-known of the over 500 recorded versions of this song from a forgettable 50's movie. Four versions were in the Top 30 the same week in 1955. It was meant to be the B-side of their latest single. Oh, snap. Produced by Bill Medley, since Phil Spector only concerned himself with their A-sides. It's just Bobby Hatfield singing because each Brother got one solo effort per album.

Righteous Brothers - Unchained Melody

"California Girls" #3 8/28/1965

The quintessential summer song, this Beach Boys classic just oozes California and good times on the sand and bikinis and...well, you know. Brian Wilson made liberal use of the Wrecking Crew studio musicians on this and most everything the group recorded for the rest of the 60's. David Lee Roth's remake in the 80's stayed very true to the original, and also peaked at #3.

Beach Boys - California Girls

"What Are We Going To Do?" #93 8/21/1965

This is notable solely for the artist. David Jones started in theater and was in "Oliver!" on Broadway as the Artful Dodger. The cast was on Ed Sullivan the same night as the Beatles' first appearance. David saw the hysteria from backstage and decided he wanted to be a rocker. He became Davy Jones and, of course, wound up in the Monkees. Today's tune is in the Herman's Hermits "Mrs. Brown" vein. Trivia: Davy's success caused another guy with the same name to call himself David Bowie.

"Hung On You" #47 8/21/1965

This was the intended A-side of the current Righteous Brothers single, but as often happened, the B-side became the hit. That one will appear in this space in a few days. Today's side was written by Carole King, Gerry Goffin and Phil Spector. Soon thereafter the Brothers would have a messy business split from Phil.

Righteous Brothers - Hung On You

"I'll Always Love You" #35 8/21/1965

The Spinners worked for Motown throughout the 60's as everything from chauffeurs to shipping clerks. Occasionally they'd make a record or two. This was their last Motown hit until 1970 and "It's A Shame" (written by Stevie Wonder) whereupon they left for Atlantic and had their biggest success. Outside the US they were billed as the Detroit Spinners to avoid confusion with a similarly named English group.

Spinners - I'll Always Love You

"You'd Better Come Home" #22 8/21/1965

This one gets lost in the Petula Clark hits category. It just missed the US Top 20 but barely made the UK Top 50. She had already done very well in England and on the continent, but by this point her career took off in America, where she would find success throughout the 60's.

Petula Clark - You'd Better Come Home

"All I Really Want To Do" #15 & #40 8/21/1965

Here's one of those rarities where competing versions of the same song each peaked on the Hot 100 in the same week. Cher's label, Imperial, planned to release this Bob Dylan tune as her first solo single, so Columbia Records rush-released a version by the Byrds as well. Theirs only got as far as #40, while she made it to #15.

Cher - All I Really Want To Do

Byrds - All I Really Want To Do

"Baby, I'm Yours" #11 8/21/1965

Written by DC's own Van McCoy, who had recently written a Top 20 tune for Chad and Jeremy ("Before and After") and, of course, did the Hustle - he wrote it and presumably could dance it, too. I understand Barbara Lewis is still around and occasionally performing.

Barbara Lewis - Baby, I'm Yours

"Save Your Heart For Me" #2 8/21/1965

The third big hit out of the chute for Gary Lewis and the Playboys. Their first seven singles all made the Top 10. Like before, this was a Wrecking Crew production - those folks were responsible for so many hits recorded in L.A. in the 60's. Radio loved this record, as it clocked in at under two minutes.

Gary Lewis and the Playboys - Save Your Heart For Me

"One Dyin' And A Buryin' " #34 8/14/1965

A Top 10 country hit for Roger Miller, who showed he was capable of something besides all those goofy, screwball songs he was known for. One of Roger's earliest musical partnerships was with Donny Little, who would become a country star in the 70's as Johnny Paycheck.

Roger Miller - One Dyin' And A Buryin'

"I'm A Fool" #17 8/14/1965

This one pretty much falls into the novelty category because of the famous fathers of two group members. The sons of Dean Martin and Desi Arnaz along with their buddy Billy Hinsche made up the band. Truth be told, these teenagers couldn't play their way out of a wet paper bag and had a lot of help from the Wrecking Crew studio musicians.

Dino, Desi and Billy - I'm A Fool

"Take Me Back" #16 8/14/1965

This would be the last release of any consequence for Little Anthony and the Imperials. Their next record barely made the Top 40 - and that was it for one of the last hit-making doo-wop groups. The times, they are a-changin'...

Little Anthony and the Imperials - Take Me Back

"I Want Candy" #11 8/14/1965

The Strangeloves were a group of behind-the-scenes studio guys who were responsible for the Angels' "My Boyfriend's Back." They tried, tongue firmly in cheek, to pass themselves off as brothers who were ex-sheepherders from Australia. Bow Wow Wow re-did it in the 80's. This song is what you hear incessantly in those Candy Crush TV ads.

Strangeloves - I Want Candy

"Don't Just Stand There" #8 8/14/1965

Patty Duke was another of those preyed-upon child stars - abandoned by her parents, abused financially and psychologically by managers, etc. Despite that, she won acclaim for playing a young Helen Keller in "The Miracle Worker" on Broadway and as identical cousins (huh?) on her own TV show. She even made a few records - but boy, does this one sound suspiciously like Lesley Gore's "You Don't Own Me."

Patty Duke - Don't Just Stand There

"I'm Down" (Live)

The Beatles had their legendary Shea Stadium concert 50 years ago tonight, drawing a then-record crowd of 55,000+ which gave us today's video. They had taped their last in-studio Ed Sullivan appearance the previous night before starting a short US swing. The studio version was the B-side of the "Help!" 45, and became the show closer on that tour. Watch John play the organ with his elbows!

Beatles - I'm Down (Live)

"I Got You Babe" #1 8/14/1965

Nobody could've known in 1965 that Cher would be a mega-actress or that Sonny would become a politician. Sonny started out as Phil Spector's right-hand man in the studio and Cher was one of Phil's group of backup singers. Their first few records bombed and suddenly they had a #1 hit, forever immortalized in "Groundhog Day." They had one of the most successful TV shows of the 1970's.

Sonny and Cher - I Got You Babe

"I Need You" (Beatles) Album cut

Not to be confused with the similarly titled song by America, this was a George Harrison contribution to the "Help!" soundtrack. He was certainly getting better as a songwriter, and this manifested itself on their final few albums. Clip is from the movie, and was also filmed on Salisbury Plain in England.

Beatles - I Need You

"You've Got To Hide Your Love Away" Album cut

The second Fab Four movie "Help!" like their first, showed the world how to make a music video way before MTV. There's a definite Bob Dylan influence in this song, which might just be in my all-time Beatles Top 10. Absolutely brilliant.

Beatles - You've Got To Hide Your Love Away

"To Know You Is To Love You" #24 8/7/1965

Here's a remake by Peter and Gordon of a #1 hit from 1958 by the Teddy Bears, the only vocal group that Phil Spector, the song's writer, was a part of. There was a country version of this in the 80's by Dolly Parton, Linda Ronstadt and Emmylou Harris that went to #1 on that chart as well.

Peter and Gordon - To Know You Is To Love You

"Theme From 'A Summer Place' " #16 8/7/1965

Brian Wilson said many times the vocal harmonies of the Beach Boys were influenced mightily by the Lettermen. Kind of a forgettable movie, but the 1960 version of this by Percy Faith still holds the Hot 100 instrumental record of being at #1 for nine straight weeks.

Lettermen - Theme From "A Summer Place"

"Sunshine, Lollipops And Rainbows" #13 8/7/1965

Arguably the first bubblegum record, this was co-written by Marvin Hamlisch, who later composed the score for "The Sting" and "The Way We Were" among others. This was featured in a movie titled "Ski Party," a beach blanket-type flick set on the slopes. It was notable for an all-black ski patrol led by James Brown - one of his songs was featured as well, and will appear here in a few weeks.

Lesley Gore - Sunshine, Lollipops and Rainbows

"I Like It Like That" #7 8/7/1965

Originally a hit for New Orleans' own Chris Kenner in 1961, this one found new life a few years later for the Dave Clark Five. Kind of an interesting name for the business, once you think about it.

Dave Clark Five - I Like It Like That

"I'm Henry VIII, I Am" #1 8/7/1965

At the time, this was said to be the fastest-selling single in rock history. It's an English dance hall song dating from before World War I that supposedly had over 20 verses. Herman's Hermits rocked it up, added a Cockney accent from Peter Noone, stretched the name Henry into three syllables, repeated the first verse three times (second verse, same as the first!) and scored another #1 hit.

Herman's Hermits - I'm Henry VIII, I Am

"The Night Before" Album cut

The second Beatles movie "Help!" was released on July 29, 1965. The accompanying album came out 50 years ago today in Britain, and one week later in America. Today's video is a scene filmed on Salisbury Plain, just down the road from Stonehenge. There's a Spinal Tap reference to playing Stonehenge that I won't use. The audio is synced from their final in-studio BBC Radio appearance.

Beatles - The Night Before

"Nobody Knows What's Goin' On (In My Mind But Me)" #49 7/31/1965

The Chiffons helped define the girl group sound of the pre-Beatles early 60's with "One Fine Day" and so forth.  This was a minor hit, as they would have one more big record in 1966, which was pretty much the end of the line for them.

Chiffons - Nobody Knows What's Goin' On (In My Mind But Me)

"Trains And Boats And Planes" #47 7/31/1965

This Burt Bacharach/Hal David tune was the last chart record for Billy J. Kramer and the Dakotas in both England and America. Turned out a lot of British Invasion acts flamed out rather quickly. Gene Pitney turned this down first, but Dionne Warwick had better results with her version in '66.

Billy J. Kramer and the Dakotas - Trains and Boats and Planes

"Too Many Rivers" #13 7/31/1965

They called Brenda Lee "Little Miss Dynamite" because she was 4' 9" and had such a powerful voice.  This was recorded 18 months prior to its topping out this week in 1965 on the Hot 100. Like many other 60's pop stars, she would find success in country music in the 70's and early 80's.

Brenda Lee - Too Many Rivers

"Yes, I'm Ready" #5 7/31/1965

Here's an early example of Philadelphia soul, which would be a very successful genre of pop music throughout the 60's and 70's. It was Barbara Mason's biggest Top 40 hit; she would continue charting on the R&B side for a number of years. Kenny Gamble, one of the developers of the Philly Sound and who was married to DeeDee Sharp ("The Mashed Potato") for a time, sang backup on this.

Barbara Mason - Yes, I'm Ready

"Cara Mia" #4 7/31/1965

The third Top 10 record for Jay and the Americans featured lead singer Jay Black holding a ridiculous note for sixteen beats in the middle. I can picture him turning blue and his clothes unraveling, singing that painfully high note like the tenor in that Bugs Bunny opera cartoon "Long-Haired Hare." That's all, folks!

Jay and the Americans - Cara Mia

"What's New Pussycat?" #3 7/31/1965

The title song from the current Woody Allen-written movie was composed by Burt Bacharach and Hal David. Of course, this was before all the weirdness started happening with Woody, we think. I'm almost positive the video today is from the Tom Jones TV show in the late 60's/early 70's. One of my favorite karaoke songs!

Tom Jones - What's New Pussycat?

"Tell Me What You See" Album cut

Another Beatles VI track that was released in America two months ahead of its first British appearance. This one has Paul on electric piano as well as bass - more proof of them evolving as a group into doing things in the studio they couldn't do in concert in 1965.

Beatles - Tell Me What You See

"You Like Me Too Much" Album cut

This and tomorrow's song were from the American album "Beatles VI" and weren't released in the UK until the "Help!" LP two months later. Just another instance of Capitol Records juggling content for the US market. George Harrison wrote and sang this one, which has three distinct piano parts. Sir George Martin and Paul played the intro, while John was on electric piano elsewhere.

Beatles - You Like Me Too Much

"It's Just A Little Bit Too Late" #45 7/24/1965

The follow-up to the #1 record "Game Of Love" and the last charting 45 in America for Wayne Fontana. He and the Mindbenders would split shortly afterward. Wayne and the group had a few more hits apiece in their native Britain, plus the band had one more huge US hit in '66.

Wayne Fontana and the Mindbenders - It's Just A Little Bit Too Late

"Set Me Free" #23 7/24/1965

The first few Kinks singles were pretty much slam-bang, loud rock and roll all the way. Today's tune was a tad more mellow. It seemed to work for them, as this one made the UK Top 10.

Kinks - Set Me Free

"Marie" #15 7/24/1965

The Bachelors were a vocal group with a folkie sound who had a string of hits, particularly in the UK and their native Ireland. A few months later in those countries, they scored with "The Sound Of Silence" way before Simon and Garfunkel did.

Bachelors - Marie

"(Such An) Easy Question" #11 7/24/1965

We had the B-side of this record from Elvis a few days ago. Here's the A-side, both from his current movie "Tickle Me." All nine songs in the film were on previous albums - this one was from "Pot Luck" in 1962. Not using any new music kept the movie's costs way down and it made an 8x return on investment, enough to keep the Allied Artists studio out of bankruptcy. The King saved the day.

Elvis Presley - (Such An) Easy Question

"What The World Needs Now Is Love" #7 7/24/1965

A Bacharach/David hit that was originally offered to, and turned down by, Dionne Warwick. Jackie DeShannon wrote songs for the Searchers and Marianne Faithfull among others, plus she co-wrote "Bette Davis Eyes" - Jackie's demo contained an odd beer barrel polka sort of piano part. Today's tune was forever immortalized in the first Austin Powers movie. Groovy, baby.

Jackie DeShannon - What The World Needs Now Is Love

"Boot-Leg" #58 7/17/1965

One from Booker T. and the MG's - except Booker T. Jones didn't play on this. According to Wikipedia, Steve Cropper said this studio jam was supposed to be credited to the Mar-Keys (another name the Stax house band went by besides the MG's), who did "Last Night" a few years earlier. The MG's sold more records at the time, so it went out under their name. Isaac Hayes actually played organ on this one.

Booker T. and the MG's - Boot-Leg

"It Feels So Right" #55 7/17/1965

We present the B-side of the current single from Elvis and his latest movie, "Tickle Me." The picture was made so cheaply that none of the songs were new - they all came from previous albums. This one was a throwaway from the first LP the King recorded after leaving the Army five years earlier. Check out how Elvis plays an electric guitar intro on an acoustic!

Elvis Presley - It Feels So Right

"Little Lonely One" #42 7/17/1965

The US follow-up to "It's Not Unusual" didn't do quite as well for Tom Jones. His next release would return him to chart success, though. Turns out Tom would hang out quite a bit with Elvis from this point until the King's passing over a decade later.

Tom Jones - Little Lonely One

"Girl Come Running" #30 7/17/1965

Not everything the Four Seasons released in the 60's was a huge hit. If you saw "The Jersey Boys," you know they had some (mostly) self-induced lean times. This one falls into that category. Good song, not great.

Four Seasons - Girl Come Running

"Here Comes The Night" #24 7/17/1965

Them was considered part of the British Invasion though they hailed from Belfast, Northern Ireland. They (or, "Them") had some serious attitude, way more than the Sex Pistols or the Ramones did in the punk rock movement in the 70's. This was their biggest US hit with Van Morrison as lead singer. He went solo about a year later and went on to much greater critical and public acclaim.

Them - Here Comes The Night

"A Little Bit Of Heaven" #16 7/17/1965

The fourth of eleven Top 40 hits in the 60's for Ronnie Dove. Not sure how popular he was in the rest of the country, but he was wildly successful in the Mid-Atlantic (DC and Baltimore) area. Most would be envious of that kind of a career.

Ronnie Dove - A Little Bit Of Heaven

"You Turn Me On" #8 7/17/1965

Here's a one-hit wonder, Englishman Ian Whitcomb. His brother Robin played tambourine on "I Got You Babe" which will show up in a few weeks in this space. I believe our video today is from the syndicated "Hollywood A Go-Go" and it's a textbook example of incredibly bad lip-synching, perhaps on purpose.

Ian Whitcomb - You Turn Me On

"Dizzy Miss Lizzy" Album cut

Another Beatles VI track that, like yesterday's feature, was originally done by Larry Williams. It showed up across the pond on the Help! album to be released in August '65. That version had 14 songs, as opposed to seven plus movie score filler in the US. The practice of Capitol radically altering the content and running order of the Fab Four's albums would end after Revolver in '66.

Beatles - Dizzy Miss Lizzy

"Bad Boy" Album cut

The Beatles recorded two songs as a thank you intended solely for the North American market in 1965. One of those, however, made it onto the UK "Help!" album. This is the other track, from Beatles VI in the States, originally done by New Orleans' own Larry Williams. It appeared eventually in Britain on a greatest hits LP for Christmas '66.

Beatles - Bad Boy

"A World Of Our Own" #19 7/10/1965

The second hit for the Seekers, like their first, was written by Dusty Springfield's brother Tom and made the Top Five in the UK and their native Australia. Yes, I gush like a real fan-boy, but I absolutely love Judith Durham's voice. What can I say?

Seekers - A World Of Our Own

"Laurie (Strange Things Happen)" #14 7/10/1965

Here's one from the teen tragedy genre, done by Dickey Lee. It's a variation on the "vanishing hitchhiker" theme, of which the country songs "Phantom 309" or the bluegrass tune "Bringing Mary Home" are examples. Dickey would have success in the country music field in the 70's. He also wrote the hits "She Thinks I Still Care" for George Jones and "Keeper Of The Stars" for Tracy Byrd.

Dickey Lee - Laurie (Strange Things Happen)

"A Walk In The Black Forest" #12 7/10/1965

I'm a sucker for the instrumentals of the 50's and 60's. This made it to #1 on the Billboard easy listening charts for German composer Horst Jankowski.  The un-translated title was "Eine  Schwarzwaldfahrt" - say that three times fast.

Horst Jankowski - A Walk In The Black Forest

"Wonderful World" #4 7/10/1965

Peter Noone and Herman's Hermits covered this one as a tribute to the great Sam Cooke, who co-wrote it along with big-time record producer Lou Adler and Herb Alpert. Sam's version plays in the background during John Belushi's famous cafeteria line scene in "Animal House" - ruined the song for me forever. Almost.

Herman's Hermits - Wonderful World

"(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction" #1 7/10/1965

Bet you can name this in two notes - or less. It and "Sweet Home Alabama" are likely the most recognizable guitar intros in rock history. A good radio DJ will talk over a song intro right up to where the vocal starts - a better DJ won't talk over this one at all. The first #1 in the States for Mick and the boys, and a record as iconic of the 60's as can be. Hey hey hey, that's what I say...

Rolling Stones - (I Can't Get No) Satisfaction

"You'll Never Walk Alone" #48 7/3/1965

Today's tune is from the 1945 musical "Carousel" and is the third time Gerry and the Pacemakers released it in America. The first time was in late December back in '63 (no, seriously!) and went to #1 in the UK while doing zilch here before Beatlemania. The second time, six months later, it was the US B-side of "How Do You Do It?" The song has become an anthem for soccer clubs worldwide, especially for the band's hometown Liverpool FC team.

Gerry and the Pacemakers - You'll Never Walk Alone

"Give Us Your Blessings" #29 7/3/1965

The girl group sound was on the decline by the summer of 1965. The Shangri-Las did their part to keep it going with this one, originally recorded in '63 by Ray Peterson. He also was the first to do "The Wonder Of You" which became one of Elvis's most recognizable songs, as well as a shining example of death rock, "Tell Laura I Love Her."

Shangri-Las - Give Us Your Blessings

Happy Birthday, Ringo!

Here's a solo effort from Ringo Starr that was released in between "It Don't Come Easy" and "Photograph" and also made the Top 10 for today's birthday boy. The phrase came from a friend, Marc Bolen of T. Rex. George Harrison produced the record and also played slide guitar. The piano was by Mr. "Dream Weaver" himself, Gary Wright.

Ringo Starr - Back Off Boogaloo

"Catch The Wind" #23 7/3/1965

The first single and first hit for Donovan, who was sort of the British version of Bob Dylan. He was 19 when this made the UK Top 5 and the US Top 30.

Donovan - Catch The Wind

"Shakin' All Over" #22 7/3/1965

No doubt, a personal favorite. The first hit for the Guess Who, except it sorta wasn't them. Chad Allan and the Expressions recorded this in their native Winnipeg, but some wiseass at the label printed the band name as "Guess Who?" to fool people into thinking it was a mystery act, possibly English. It went to #1 in Canada, almost made the Top 20 in America, the name stuck, Burton Cummings joined, Chad Allan left, they dropped the ?, succeeded in the Great White North and made it big in the US in '69 with "These Eyes." First concert I ever attended in 1971 was this group. A 1960 British hit for Johnny Kidd and the Pirates - best band name EVER!

Guess Who? - Shakin' All Over

"I've Been Loving You Too Long" #21 7/3/1965

Otis Redding had some success by 1965 on the R&B charts, but this was his first Top 40 record, which he co-wrote with the great Jerry Butler. It's believed Isaac Hayes played keyboards on this version; a later version had Booker T. Jones (of the legendary Memphis studio group the MG's) doing the same. I could keep dropping famous names, but Otis just plain rules with this one.

Otis Redding - I've Been Loving You Too Long

"Seventh Son" #7 7/3/1965

This one was written by blues great Willie Dixon. Johnny Rivers took it to #7 (I know, right?) in the seventh month of 1965 (1 + 9+ 6 + 5 = 21 divided by 3 = 7!!). Cosmic, man.

Johnny Rivers - Seventh Son

"For Your Love" #6 7/3/1965

Written by future 10cc member Graham Gouldman, this would be the last appearance with the Yardbirds by Eric Clapton. It was their first hit, but Clapton felt the band had gotten too commercialized. He would go on to other things (duh!!) and was replaced by Jeff Beck, who in turn was succeeded by Jimmy Page. The Yardbirds were the band of the guitar gods, and were one of the most influential groups in rock history.

Yardbirds - For Your Love

"Every Little Thing" Album cut

Another Beatles For Sale UK track that finally showed up in America on Beatles VI, this is one of those rarities where Paul wrote the song, but John sang it. Very much in the "No Reply" or "I'll Be Back" vein, and very much overlooked in their catalog. Plus, Ringo also got to play tympani!

Beatles - Every Little Thing

"Girl On The Billboard" #96 (#1 Country) 6/26/1965

A #1 country hit in May '65 that just cracked the Hot 100 by Del Reeves. It's a tale of highway lust about a trucker slogging down old US 66 each day between Chicago and St. Louis. Alas, the interstate put an end to those days. I kinda like getting off the interstate once in a while...

Del Reeves - Girl On The Billboard

"What's He Doing In My World" #60 6/26/1965

This one reached the lower half of the Hot 100, but it was the 20th #1 country record for Eddy Arnold. It was his first #1 country hit in 10 years, though. Trivia: Eddy's first manager in the '40s was Col. Tom Parker, who then went on to manage an unknown kid from Memphis named Elvis Presley.

Eddy Arnold - What's He Doing In My World

"When A Boy Falls In Love" #52 6/26/1965

Over the next few days we'll explore the lower half of this week's Hot 100 from 1965. Today's tune was another posthumous Sam Cooke release, who died about six months earlier under very mysterious circumstances. It would be the next-to-last charting single for him.

Sam Cooke - When A Boy Falls In Love

"Voodoo Woman" #27 6/26/1965

Bobby Goldsboro grew up in Marianna, FL. His aunt was a florist up the road in Dothan, AL; when she passed away, Bobby's parents moved the family there to take over the shop. He later joined Roy Orbison's band, where they not only toured with the Beatles in the UK, but they had some gigs opening for the Rolling Stones on their first US tour just before he went solo.

Bobby Goldsboro - Voodoo Woman

"Hush, Hush Sweet Charlotte" #8 6/26/1965

Patti Page was the top-selling female recording artist of the 50's, but her career had tailed off by '58 when rock and roll had established itself. This would be her last big pop hit, then she had some success on the country charts in the early '70s. Today's song was based on the movie of the same name, starring Bette Davis and her eyes. *snickering over here*

Patti Page - Hush, Hush Sweet Charlotte

"Mr. Tambourine Man" #1 6/26/1965

Continuing yesterday's post, the Byrds recorded this five days after its writer (Bob Dylan) did; their version borrowed heavily from the Beatles, most likely "What You're Doing." They did the vocals, but only Roger McGuinn played his 12-string Rickenbacker on the finished product - the rest was done by L.A.'s famed Wrecking Crew. The Byrds only used Dylan's chorus-second verse-chorus. The video from "Hullabaloo" has some lip-sync issues.

Byrds - Mr. Tambourine Man

"What You're Doing" Album cut

Boy, does the intro to "Mr. Tambourine Man" ever sound like the main riff of this Beatles VI track. The Fabs released it on Beatles For Sale in the UK on 12/4/1964. Since the cut wasn't released in America until 6/14/65, my spidey sense tells me the Byrds obtained an import and copied the lick. We report, you decide. More tomorrow...

Beatles - What You're Doing

"Kansas City/Hey-Hey-Hey-Hey!" Album cut

This track featuring Paul combined two Little Richard tunes; a very different version of "Kansas City" than Wilbert Harrison's '59 hit, and "Hey-Hey-Hey-Hey!", the b-side of "Good Golly Miss Molly." This was a mainstay of their concerts, one of which was in KC on what was to be an off day after a show in New Orleans on their '64 tour. Charlie O. Finley (owner of the Kansas City Athletics baseball team) paid the Fab Four a then unheard-of sum of $150,000 for the show. Money talks.

Beatles - Kansas City/Hey-Hey-Hey-Hey!

"(Remember Me) I'm The One Who Loves You" #32 6/19/1965

Here's a Top 10 adult contemporary hit that made the Top 40 for Dean Martin, the King of Cool. His TV show in the 60's was legendary. Let's just say Dino ran a pretty loose ship. His celebrity roasts were even more outrageous for the times.

Dean Martin - (Remember Me) I'm The One Who Loves You

"Nothing Can Stop Me" #18 6/19/1965

Today's selection was performed by The Duke of Earl, Gene Chandler, and was written by Curtis Mayfield. This was Gene's last Top 40 record until "Groovy Situation" in 1970.

Gene Chandler - Nothing Can Stop Me

"Before And After" #17 6/19/1965

The last US Top 20 hit for Chad and Jeremy was written by Van McCoy, as in "The Hustle" Van McCoy. I don't remember this one from back in the day, but that's just me.

Chad and Jeremy - Before And After

"Last Chance To Turn Around" #13 6/19/1965

People think this Gene Pitney song is titled "Last Exit To Brooklyn" - maybe they didn't want Hubert Selby, author of the book with that title, to sue them or something. It was co-written by Victor Millrose, who also co-wrote "This Girl Is A Woman Now" later in the 60's for Gary Puckett and the Union Gap.

Gene Pitney - Last Chance To Turn Around

"I Can't Help Myself (Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch)" #1 6/19/1965

The first #1 for the Four Tops, and yet another of the 25 #1's written at Motown by the amazing songwriting team of Holland-Dozier-Holland. This was one of those rare records that reached #1, dropped down for a time and then regained the top spot.

Four Tops - I Can't Help Myself (Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch)

Happy Birthday, Paul McCartney!

And he's still out on the road even today. Such an amazing book of songs to choose from...this is from his first solo album, and yet the studio version was never released as a single. A live version from the Wings Over America tour was a single and did quite well.

Paul McCartney - Maybe I'm Amazed

"Words Of Love" Album cut

50 years ago this week, Capitol released "Beatles VI" which had no real equivalent in Britain, as the US album was cobbled together from four sources. This track was from the December '64 UK "Beatles For Sale" LP and was a nod to Buddy Holly (one of their major influences). Buddy originally recorded this song in 1957.

Beatles - Words Of Love

"Concrete And Clay" (Unit 4 + 2) #28 6/12/1965

Recently we featured a cover version of this, recorded by Eddie Rambeau and rushed onto the US market by Four Seasons producer Bob Crewe. Here's the original, which reached #1 over there by a British group that had four members then added two more (duh!). Russ Ballard later joined the band, then helped form Argent a few years later.

Unit 4 + 2 - Concrete And Clay

"Engine Engine #9" #7 6/12/1965

A #2 country hit that made the pop Top 10 for Roger Miller, this was the follow-up to "King Of The Road." He would go on to host a TV show on NBC (it only lasted for 13 weeks) and eventually write and star in a Tony award-winning Broadway musical, "Big River." Not bad for a child of the Depression from Oklahoma.

Roger Miller - Engine Engine #9

"Crying In The Chapel" #3 6/12/1965

Back from vacation - who missed me? Elvis loved to sing gospel music. He recorded this a few months after being discharged from the Army in 1960, but RCA didn't release it until Easter of 1965, whereupon it soon reached #1 on the adult contemporary charts as well as making the rock Top 5.

V-A-C-A-T-I-O-N!!!

This feature will be on vacation through 6/13 and shall return 6/14. Enjoy!

"Back In My Arms Again" #1 6/12/1965

The fifth of five number ones in a row (and fifth of twelve overall) for the Supremes. Another Holland-Dozier-Holland composition - those guys hardly ever missed. I think this video is from "Hullabaloo" in May of '65.

Supremes - Back In My Arms Again

"Concrete And Clay" (Eddie Rambeau) #35 6/5/1965

Sorry for the late post today - we've been traveling since 5 AM. Here's another case of multiple versions of a song charting at the same time. The version which was the bigger hit will show up very soon. Bob Crewe (the Four Seasons' producer) heard this on a trip to London and had Eddie Rambeau, one of his artists, record the song.

Eddie Rambeau - Concrete And Clay

"Three O'Clock In The Morning" #33 6/5/1965

This one (written in 1919) is believed to be the first million seller...of sheet music. Dozens have recorded today's song. Our version here is by German trumpeter and bandleader Bert Kaempfert, who may be considered notorious for being the first to employ the Beatles for a recording session.

Bert Kaempfert - Three O'Clock In The Morning

"L-O-N-E-L-Y" #22 6/5/1965

The third of four straight singles from Bobby Vinton with the word "lonely" in the title, beginning with the former #1 "Mr. Lonely." He found a style, and it worked.

Bobby Vinton - L-O-N-E-L-Y

"You Were Made For Me" #21 6/5/1965

The B-side of this single ("Do The Freddie" was the A-side over here) by Freddie and the Dreamers had been a Top 5 record in the UK almost 18 months earlier. This 45 was their last American hit.

Freddie and the Dreamers - You Were Made For Me

"Do The Freddie" #18 6/5/1965

Today we feature both sides of a US single by the manic Freddie Garrity and the Dreamers. Their UK career had tailed off, but they cashed in on the American fascination with anything British, like this dance craze record. Chubby Checker had a unrelated record with the same title a week or two earlier.

Freddie and the Dreamers - Do The Freddie

"True Love Ways" #14 6/5/1965

Peter and Gordon's remake of the Buddy Holly classic, from what turned out to be Buddy's final recording session prior to The Day The Music Died. Mickey Gilley also had a hit with his remake on the country side in 1980.

Peter and Gordon - True Love Ways

"Queen Of The House" #12 6/5/1965

Jody Miller's answer record to "King Of The Road" by Roger Miller (no relation). She would have a fair amount of success on the country charts in the early 70's. An outfit named Scopitone made a very primitive form of video jukebox in the 60's which would normally be placed in restaurant booths and so forth, of which today's song was one of those films.

Jody Miller - Queen Of The House

"Just A Little" #8 6/5/1965

We'll be on vacation all next week. Since this feature will be offline June 7-13, we shall double up the rest of this week. Like the previous hit from San Francisco's Beau Brummels, it was produced by Sylvester Stewart, the future Sly of the Family Stone. This was pretty much it for these guys. Nice harmony here!

Beau Brummels - Just A Little

"Wooly Bully" #2 6/5/1965

My wife Susan remembers skating to this at the roller rink back in the day. It and "Louie, Louie" may be tied for being the sloppiest records ever in rock. But this one had the most recognizable sax solo in rock history until "Baker Street" years later. They called Domingo Samudio "Sam The Sham" because he sorta faked his way thru playing organ on stage. His band (the Pharaohs) would arrive at the gigs in a hearse, and they were dressed like King Tut. Words fail me after that.

Sam the Sham and the Pharoahs - Wooly Bully

"Dream On Little Dreamer" #25 5/29/1965

A Top 5 adult contemporary record that sort of snuck onto the Billboard pop/rock charts. This would be Perry Como's last Top 40 appearance until "Seattle" in 1969. His career longevity and consistency was something to be admired, spanning over five decades.

Perry Como - Dream On Little Dreamer

"She's About A Mover" #13 5/29/1965

One of the better Texas-based rock and roll records of the 60's was this Tex-Mex hit by San Antonio's Sir Douglas Quintet. A standard of frat houses everywhere, and just a good old rockin' party song. One of my personal favorites.

Sir Douglas Quintet - She's About A Mover

"It's Not Unusual" #10 5/29/1965

The first UK #1 and the first US hit for Tom Jones. The piano player scheduled for this session went missing, so they scrambled and found a young pianist hanging around the studio looking for a gig. Afterward, someone asked, "Who was he, anyway?" "I don't know - Reg somebody." His name was Reg Dwight, and yes, the first known appearance on record for the future Elton John was on Tom Jones' signature song. Cosmic, man.

Tom Jones - It's Not Unusual

"Help Me, Rhonda" #1 5/29/1965

Originally appearing on the Beach Boys album "Today!" as "Help Me, Ronda" this was given a different arrangement and re-recorded for a single. Looks like they made the right call. The Wilson brothers' dad and band manager, Murry, was drunk and barged in during the session to berate his sons. This was caught on tape, and the group fired him soon thereafter.

Beach Boys - Help Me, Rhonda

"Good Lovin' " (Olympics) #81 5/22/1965

Sometimes I stumble across an absolute gem. The Young Rascals would reach #1 with this in '66, but that was based on the version by the Olympics, whose biggest hit was "Western Movies" in 1958. These guys were totally ripped off when "Big Boy Pete" was remade by the Kingsmen as "The Jolly Green Giant." Not the first or last time that happened in rock history.

Olympics - Good Lovin'

"Do The Freddie" (Chubby Checker) #40 5/22/1965

A totally different song than the similarly titled one by Freddie and the Dreamers, this was Chubby Checker's last Top 40 effort until that odd pairing with the Fat Boys in the late 1980's. Definitely the king of the dance craze records.

Chubby Checker - Do The Freddie

"Reelin' And Rockin' " #23 5/22/1965

Everybody in the 60's figured you couldn't go wrong with a remake of a Chuck Berry record. The Dave Clark Five got in on the fun with this one, which stayed relatively true to the original.

Dave Clark Five - Reelin' And Rockin'

"Iko Iko" #20 5/22/1965

One of the great tunes out of New Orleans, done by the Dixie Cups. It's pretty much a-capella, with drumsticks and ashtrays banging on a table as percussion in the studio. It's based on a Mardi Gras ditty titled "Jock-A-Mo" all about the shenanigans and espionage between the parade float organizers (or krewes). It's a long story. I love this record!

Dixie Cups - Iko Iko

"Baby The Rain Must Fall" #12 5/22/1965

The title song to the flick starring Steve McQueen, this was co-written by Hollywood composer Elmer Bernstein. He scored many movies, but was best remembered for the music from "Animal House" and "Airplane!" Video is from the syndicated "Hollywood A Go Go" - listen closely to the first few words of the lip-sync, as they didn't turn off Glenn Yarbrough's mike soon enough.

Glenn Yarbrough - Baby The Rain Must Fall

"Ticket To Ride" #1 5/22/1965

The first single from the Fab Four's upcoming movie, originally titled "Eight Arms To Hold You" before it was changed to "Help!" Some pressings of this record have that early title. George played the iconic intro, but Paul played the other lead guitar parts. Thus began the practice of the Beatles doing things in the studio they couldn't replicate live, which culminated with their last concert in August of '66 at Candlestick Park.

Beatles - Ticket To Ride

"Yes It Is" #46 5/15/1965

We give you the B-side of "Ticket To Ride" which made the Top 50 on its own. It's from the upcoming Beatles VI album, which was cobbled together from four different sources for the US market. Capitol sure knew how to squeeze a buck out of the American record buying public.

Beatles - Yes It Is

"Subterranean Homesick Blues" #39 5/15/1965

Bob Dylan never based his career on singles, but this was his first Top 40 record. He patterned himself after 30's and 40's folkie Woody Guthrie (Arlo's dad), who also must have been paid on how many words per line could be crammed into a song. If you rocked up their style and added a sax, you got...Bruce Springsteen.

Bob Dylan - Subterranean Homesick Blues

"It's Growing" #18 5/15/1965

Several days ago we featured Marvin Gaye in this space with "I'll Be Doggone." Today's selection was co-written by Smokey Robinson as well. The sheer number of hits he was involved with at Motown was simply amazing. The similarities extend to how much this sounds like "My Girl," the Temps' immediate prior #1, which was also co-written by Smokey.

Temptations - It's Growing

"One Kiss For Old Time's Sake" #14 5/15/1965

Here's another in a string of 60's hits from Ronnie Dove, the poor man's Bobby Vinton. Like Bobby, Ronnie had a definite ballad style from which he rarely deviated. With 11 Top 40 singles to his credit, it worked for him.

Ronnie Dove - One Kiss For Old Time's Sake

"Just Once In My Life" #9 5/15/1965

The second Top 10 record for the Righteous Brothers, this one was written by Carole King, Gerry Goffin and Phil Spector. A textbook Wall Of Sound production from Phil. And they recorded all this in mono, too.

Righteous Brothers - Just Once In My Life

"I'll Be Doggone" #8 5/15/1965

This was Marvin Gaye's second Top 10 record on the Hot 100, his first R&B #1, and his first million-seller. Co-written by Smokey Robinson - the Miracles provided backup vocals as well. A team collaboration from Motown.

Marvin Gaye - I'll Be Doggone

"Silhouettes" #5 5/15/1965

Originally a 1957 hit for the Rays, this was written by Bob Crewe, who famously was the guy behind the glass for all those Four Seasons records. Herman's Hermits heard it on Armed Forces Radio and cut a version that became their third Top 5 record in America.

Herman's Hermits - Silhouettes

"I'll Never Find Another You" #4 5/15/1965

One by the Seekers, the first Aussie group to succeed in America. They were touring England with Dusty Springfield when her brother Tom gave them this song; it reached #1 Down Under and in the UK, and was then released over here. Without a doubt, Judith Durham had one of the purest voices of the 60's. An absolute personal favorite of mine.

Seekers - I'll Never Find Another You

"The Entertainer" #31 5/8/1965

A Top 10 R&B hit and the only Top 40 chart appearance for Tony Clarke. A few years after this record, he attacked his estranged wife with a tire jack, so she shot and killed him in self-defense. Wow. Just wow.

Tony Clarke - The Entertainer

"Orange Blossom Special" (Johnny Cash) Bonus

Today's song was on the country charts this week in 1965, and concerns the famous 20th century steam train from NYC to Miami and sometimes Tampa. It's a fiddle instrumental (I've seen Charlie Daniels play the hell out of it) but Mr. Cash sang and played the harmonica on this version - his voice has an odd quality to it, as he allegedly did lots of those funny white pills back then. I think Boots Randolph did the sax solo, as it sure fits his style.

Johnny Cash - Orange Blossom Special

"It's Gonna Be Alright" #23 5/8/1965

This was the next-to-last US hit for Gerry and the Pacemakers - their final Top 40 hit over here would happen in about 18 months. Video is from a London-based segment of "Hullabaloo" hosted by their manager Brian Epstein, who also managed another little band from Liverpool called the Beatles.

Gerry and the Pacemakers - It's Gonna Be Alright

"Ooh Baby Baby" #16 5/8/1965

More ridiculously great harmonies from the Miracles. Linda Ronstadt had a wonderful remake of this in the late 70's, but OMG, Smokey Robinson never put a smoother sound on record. Man, this is as good as it gets.

Miracles - Ooh Baby Baby

"Cast Your Fate To The Wind" #10 5/8/1965

Today's instrumental selection was written and originally done by Vince Guaraldi, who did the music for "A Charlie Brown Christmas" and all those other Peanuts cartoons. It also appeared on the "Good Morning, Vietnam" soundtrack. They Might Be Giants also did a version titled "Cast Your Pod To The Wind." Go figure.

Sounds Orchestral - Cast Your Fate To The Wind

"Count Me In" #2 5/8/1965

The follow-up to "This Diamond Ring" didn't quite do as well - that reached #1, but this only got to #2 for Gary Lewis and the Playboys. Leon Russell arranged and played piano on today's tune, as it was pretty much a Wrecking Crew production. Those musicians appeared on sooooo many L.A.-based records of the 60's.

Gary Lewis and the Playboys - Count Me In

"Whipped Cream" #68 5/1/1965

Aaaaaaand here come the bachelors! This was the music used when the female contestant interviewed the guys on "The Dating Game" back in the day. The album cover was out there for the times, featuring a ostensibly nude model covered in whipped cream - actually shaving cream, since that didn't melt! Video is from a TV special filmed at Herb Alpert's A&M Records, then located at La Brea and Sunset in Hollywood where Charlie Chaplin once owned a film studio. You'll see the connection.

Herb Alpert and the Tijuana Brass - Whipped Cream

"The Barracuda" #59 5/1/1965

The follow-up to "Twine Time" from Alvin Cash and the Crawlers. Alvin went to the same St. Louis high school as Tina Turner, Billy Davis Jr. of the Fifth Dimension, and Luther Ingram. Must have been something in the water.

Alvin Cash and the Crawlers - The Barracuda

"Truly, Truly True" #54 5/1/1965

Brenda Lee scored a Top 10 adult contemporary hit with our selection today, yet it didn't even crack the Top 50 on the rock charts. Definitely a lush arrangement on this one.

Brenda Lee - Truly, Truly True

"Got To Get You Off My Mind" #22 5/1/1965

An R&B #1 that was Solomon Burke's biggest Top 40 hit. He was a pretty busy dude - minister at age 12, signed his first record deal at 15, and had studied to be a mortician. He owned a number of funeral homes and was quite the entrepreneur. Mr. Burke was married four times and had 14 kids starting when he was 14, so yeah, I suppose he needed to work pretty hard.

Solomon Burke - Got To Get You Off My Mind

"The Last Time" #9 5/1/1965

Mick and the boys do it again! We give you the Stones' third #1 in England and a Top 10 on this side of the pond. Their next single would do even better over here - that's what I say (hint, hint). I believe today's video is from the BBC's "Top Of The Pops."

Rolling Stones - The Last Time

"I Know A Place" #3 5/1/1965

The follow-up to "Downtown" for Petula Clark. She'd already had several show biz careers (radio, movies and singing) at home, but would have bigger recording success in the US than England - it's not unusual. (There's a little hint at another tune coming up in this space soon.) The line "a cellar full of noise" is a nod to the Beatles and their days at the Cavern Club.

Petula Clark - I Know A Place

RIP, Ben E. King

Ben only sang lead on a few of the Drifters hits, but boy, were those some timeless tunes. This one is my fave.

Drifters - I Count The Tears

"Mrs. Brown You've Got A Lovely Daughter" #1 5/1/1965

The British Invasion is alive and well. Here's the first #1 record in America for Herman's Hermits, which oddly was never issued as a single in their native UK. These days, lead singer Peter Noone hosts a 60's-based weekend show on satellite radio and still does concert tours.

Herman's Hermits - Mrs. Brown You've Got A Lovely Daughter

"Baby Please Don't Go" #102 4/24/1965

This blues standard can be traced to several 19th century work songs - reminds you of "Blazing Saddles" right? A UK Top 10 from a 19-year-old Van Morrison and Them that "bubbled under" the Hot 100 in America. Again, Jimmy Page is alleged to have played on this, although his contribution is unclear. The B-side "Gloria" got more airplay over here and was re-released several times; that garage-band classic lost out to a version by the Chicago-based Shadows of Knight.

Them - Baby Please Don't Go