The 1960s was a decade of unprecedented change and upheaval in the United States, with the Civil Rights Movement, the Vietnam War, and the rise of counterculture movements all playing a major role in shaping the cultural landscape. In the world of music, the 1960s saw the emergence of new genres and styles, including the soulful and emotive sound of R&B. R&B, or rhythm and blues, was a genre that blended elements of gospel, blues, and jazz, and gave voice to the struggles and triumphs of African American life in America. Many of the greatest R&B songs of all time were recorded during this decade, and continue to be cherished and celebrated by music lovers today. In this article, we’ll explore the top 20 best R&B songs of the 1960s, from the Motown classics of the Supremes and the Temptations, to the soulful ballads of Sam Cooke and Otis Redding. These songs are not only timeless classics, but they also represent a cultural moment in American history, capturing the spirit and soul of a generation.
1. “Smokie – Part 2” by Bill Black’s Combo
“Smokie – Part 2” is an instrumental rock and roll song performed by Bill Black’s Combo. It was released in 1959 and quickly became a hit, reaching the top of the charts in the United States. The song’s melody is infectious and upbeat, with a driving beat and a catchy guitar riff that will have you tapping your feet in no time. The saxophone and piano solos add an additional layer of energy and excitement to the song, creating a sense of fun and joy that is quintessential to the early days of rock and roll. “Smokie – Part 2” is a timeless classic that captures the spirit and energy of a bygone era, when rock and roll was still a new and exciting form of music that was just starting to take the world by storm. It’s a reminder of the power of music to bring people together and create moments of joy and celebration, and it continues to be a beloved song for rock and roll fans all around the world.
2. “Cathy’s Clown” by The Everly Brothers
“Cathy’s Clown” is a classic rock and roll song performed by The Everly Brothers. It was released in 1960 and became an instant hit, reaching the top of the charts in both the United States and the United Kingdom. The song’s lyrics are centered around a woman named Cathy, and the pain and heartbreak she causes the singer. The melody is catchy and upbeat, with the famous harmonies of the Everly Brothers adding an additional layer of energy and emotion. The chorus is particularly memorable, with the repetitive hook “Don’t want your love anymore” creating a sense of frustration and resignation. Overall, “Cathy’s Clown” is a timeless classic that showcases the Everly Brothers’ incredible talent as singers and songwriters. It’s a testament to the enduring power of rock and roll music, and a reminder of the emotional depth and complexity that can be captured in just a few minutes of music.
3. “Save the Last Dance for Me” by The Drifters
“Save the Last Dance for Me” is a classic doo-wop ballad performed by The Drifters. It was released in 1960 and became an instant hit, reaching the top of the charts in both the United States and the United Kingdom. The song’s lyrics are a plea to a lover to save the last dance for the singer, even if the lover is dancing with someone else. The melody is soft and romantic, with a slow tempo and a gentle rhythm that creates a sense of intimacy and vulnerability. The Drifters’ harmonies are especially beautiful, adding a layer of emotional depth to the song that is both haunting and poignant. “Save the Last Dance for Me” is a timeless classic that captures the longing and yearning of a lover who is separated from their beloved. It’s a reminder of the power of music to connect us to our deepest emotions and to create moments of beauty and grace that can last a lifetime.
4. “Will You Love Me Tomorrow?” by The Shirelles
“Will You Love Me Tomorrow?” is a classic pop ballad performed by The Shirelles. It was released in 1960 and became an instant hit, reaching the top of the charts in both the United States and the United Kingdom. The song’s lyrics are a plea to a lover to promise that their love will last beyond just one night. The melody is soft and romantic, with a slow tempo and a gentle rhythm that creates a sense of intimacy and vulnerability. The Shirelles’ harmonies are especially beautiful, adding a layer of emotional depth to the song that is both haunting and poignant. “Will You Love Me Tomorrow?” is a timeless classic that captures the uncertainty and fear that comes with falling in love. It’s a reminder of the power of music to connect us to our deepest emotions and to create moments of beauty and grace that can last a lifetime. The song continues to be beloved by fans of pop and rock music all over the world, and remains a testament to the enduring power of great songwriting and timeless melodies.
5. “Fannie Mae” by Buster Brown
“Fannie Mae” is an upbeat and catchy blues song performed by Buster Brown. It was released in 1959 and quickly became a hit, reaching the top of the R&B charts in the United States. The song’s rhythm is infectious, with a driving beat and a catchy guitar riff that will have you tapping your feet in no time. The lyrics are playful and fun, with Brown singing about his love for a woman named Fannie Mae. The song’s melody and energy captures the spirit and joy of early rock and roll and rhythm and blues, making it a classic that has endured for generations. “Fannie Mae” is a reminder of the power of music to bring people together and create moments of joy and celebration, and it continues to be a beloved song for fans of blues and rock and roll all over the world.
6. “There’s Something On Your Mind Part 2” by Bobby Marchan
“There’s Something On Your Mind Part 2” is a soulful and emotive R&B song performed by Bobby Marchan. It was released in 1960 and became a hit, reaching the top of the R&B charts in the United States. The song’s lyrics are a plea to a lover to open up and share their true feelings, and Marchan’s powerful and soulful voice brings a depth of emotion and feeling to the song that is both haunting and beautiful. The melody is slow and sensual, with a smooth rhythm and a jazzy undertone that captures the essence of early R&B and soul music. “There’s Something On Your Mind Part 2” is a classic that has endured for decades, thanks to its powerful vocals and timeless melody. It’s a reminder of the power of music to touch our hearts and souls, and to bring us together in moments of beauty and grace that can last a lifetime.
7. “Exodus” by Ferrante & Teicher
“Exodus” is a beautiful and haunting instrumental piece performed by Ferrante & Teicher. It was released in 1960 and became a hit, reaching the top of the charts in the United States. The song’s melody is instantly recognizable, with its sweeping strings and gentle piano riff that creates a sense of mystery and drama. The song was originally composed as the theme music for the movie “Exodus,” and its powerful and evocative melody captures the spirit and feeling of the film’s story of the struggle for freedom and justice. Ferrante & Teicher’s arrangement adds a layer of emotional depth to the song, creating a sense of beauty and grandeur that is both timeless and unforgettable. “Exodus” is a classic that has endured for decades, and continues to be beloved by fans of instrumental music all over the world. It’s a reminder of the power of music to create moments of beauty and grace that can touch our hearts and souls in ways that words cannot.
8. “Theme from A Summer Place” by Percy Faith and His Orchestra
“Theme from A Summer Place” is a beautiful and romantic instrumental piece performed by Percy Faith and his orchestra. It was released in 1959 and became an instant classic, reaching the top of the charts in the United States. The song’s gentle and soothing melody captures the essence of summer romance, with its dreamy strings and wistful piano riff that creates a sense of nostalgia and longing. The song was originally composed for the movie “A Summer Place,” and its theme of love and longing has resonated with audiences for decades. Percy Faith’s arrangement adds a layer of emotional depth to the song, creating a sense of beauty and grace that is both timeless and unforgettable. “Theme from A Summer Place” is a classic that has endured for generations, and continues to be beloved by fans of instrumental music all over the world. It’s a reminder of the power of music to evoke emotions and feelings that are often difficult to express in words, and to transport us to a place of beauty and tranquility that can heal our hearts and souls.
9. “You Got What It Takes” by Marv Johnson
“You Got What It Takes” is a classic R&B song performed by Marv Johnson. It was released in 1959 and became a hit, reaching the top of the charts in the United States. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy melody capture the playful and flirtatious nature of the lyrics, which are a conversation between two lovers who are trying to impress each other. Johnson’s smooth and soulful voice adds a layer of depth and feeling to the song, creating a sense of romantic tension that is both playful and sincere. “You Got What It Takes” is a reminder of the power of music to capture the essence of human emotion and experience, and to connect us to a sense of joy and possibility that can be transformative. It’s a classic that has stood the test of time, and continues to be beloved by fans of R&B and soul music all over the world.
10. “Chain Gang” by Sam Cooke
“Chain Gang” is a powerful and emotive R&B song performed by Sam Cooke. It was released in 1960 and became a hit, reaching the top of the charts in the United States. The song’s driving beat and soaring vocals capture the struggle and hardship of a group of prisoners who are forced to work on a chain gang. Cooke’s voice, with its range and depth, conveys the pain and suffering of the prisoners, while also expressing a sense of defiance and hope that is both inspiring and uplifting. “Chain Gang” is a reminder of the power of music to give voice to the voiceless, and to speak truth to power. It’s a classic that has endured for generations, and continues to be a source of inspiration and empowerment for fans of R&B and soul music all over the world.
11. “Everybody’s Somebody’s Fool” by Connie Francis
“Everybody’s Somebody’s Fool” is a classic pop song performed by Connie Francis. It was released in 1960 and became a hit, reaching the top of the charts in the United States. The song’s sweet melody and Francis’s tender voice capture the pain and heartache of unrequited love. The lyrics, which tell the story of a girl who falls in love with a man who does not love her back, are poignant and relatable, and Francis’s emotive delivery gives them an added layer of depth and feeling. “Everybody’s Somebody’s Fool” is a timeless reminder of the vulnerability and fragility of the human heart, and of the power of music to express our deepest emotions and experiences. It’s a classic that has stood the test of time, and continues to be beloved by fans of pop and rock music all over the world.
12. “Baby (You’ve Got What It Takes)” by Dinah Washington & Brook Benton
“Baby (You’ve Got What It Takes)” is a classic R&B duet performed by Dinah Washington and Brook Benton. The song was released in 1960 and became a hit, reaching the top of the charts in the United States. The song’s playful call-and-response format and Benton and Washington’s soulful vocals create a charming and catchy melody that is impossible not to sing along to. The lyrics, which celebrate the joys and pleasures of love and intimacy, are witty and romantic, and Benton and Washington’s chemistry is palpable. “Baby (You’ve Got What It Takes)” is a timeless classic that has been covered by many artists over the years, and its appeal and charm remain as strong today as they were when it was first released. It’s a perfect example of the power of music to bring people together, and to celebrate the universal experiences of love and connection that we all share.
13. “Just A Little Bit” by Rosco Gordon
“Just A Little Bit” is a classic R&B song by Rosco Gordon, released in 1960. The song features a catchy and upbeat melody, with a strong horn section and Gordon’s soulful vocals. The lyrics are simple and straightforward, with Gordon asking for just a little bit of love and affection from his lover. The song is an excellent showcase of Gordon’s talents as a songwriter, singer, and pianist, and his influence on R&B and soul music can still be felt today. “Just A Little Bit” has been covered by many artists over the years, including Etta James and Roy Head, and has been featured in numerous films and television shows. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and the enduring power of R&B music to move and inspire people.
14. “Kiddio” by Brook Benton
“Kiddio” is a charming and upbeat R&B song by Brook Benton, released in 1960. The song has a simple but catchy melody, with a lively rhythm section and Benton’s smooth, soulful vocals. The lyrics describe the narrator’s affection for his sweetheart, using playful language and wordplay to express his love. The song features a memorable chorus that encourages listeners to sing along and dance along to the infectious beat. “Kiddio” was a hit for Benton, reaching the top ten on the R&B and pop charts, and it remains a favorite among fans of R&B and soul music today. The song’s upbeat tempo and playful lyrics make it a perfect choice for any occasion, from parties and weddings to road trips and dance-offs. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Brook Benton or a newcomer to the world of R&B music, “Kiddio” is sure to delight and entertain you with its catchy melody and irresistible charm.
15. “All I Could Do Was Cry” by Etta James
Released in 1960, “All I Could Do Was Cry” is a soulful and emotional ballad by the legendary Etta James. The song features James’ powerful, bluesy vocals and a simple but effective arrangement, with piano and strings providing a lush and mournful backdrop to the singer’s heartbreaking lyrics. The song tells the story of a woman who has lost her lover to another woman and can do nothing but cry over her broken heart. The raw emotion and vulnerability of James’ performance make “All I Could Do Was Cry” a powerful and unforgettable song that has become a classic of R&B music. With its timeless melody and universal themes of heartbreak and loss, the song has resonated with generations of listeners and remains a beloved part of Etta James’ remarkable legacy. Whether you’re a longtime fan of soul music or a newcomer to the genre, “All I Could Do Was Cry” is a must-listen that will touch your heart and soul.
16. “Are You Lonesome Tonight?” by Elvis Presley
“Are You Lonesome Tonight?” is a classic ballad recorded by the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley, in 1960. The song features Presley’s signature crooning vocals and a soft, romantic melody that captures the heartache and longing of a lost love. With its gentle piano accompaniment and emotional lyrics, “Are You Lonesome Tonight?” is a hauntingly beautiful track that showcases Presley’s incredible vocal range and emotional depth. The song has become one of Presley’s most enduring hits, and its universal themes of love, heartbreak, and loneliness have made it a favorite of listeners of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you’re a die-hard Elvis fan or simply appreciate great music, “Are You Lonesome Tonight?” is a timeless classic that continues to touch hearts and inspire new generations of music lovers.
17. “I’ll Take Care Of You” by Bobby Bland
“I’ll Take Care of You” by Bobby Bland is a soulful and bluesy song that showcases Bland’s powerful and emotive vocals. The song begins with a slow, mournful saxophone intro that sets the melancholic mood. Bland’s vocals then enter, expressing a deep sense of devotion and responsibility to take care of someone in need. The lyrics are simple yet heartfelt, with Bland promising to be there for his loved one through thick and thin. The song’s instrumentation is spare but effective, with the gentle saxophone and piano providing a soft and tender accompaniment to Bland’s vocals. As the song progresses, Bland’s voice becomes more impassioned and urgent, conveying a sense of deep empathy and compassion. Overall, “I’ll Take Care of You” is a classic soul ballad that showcases the best of Bobby Bland’s vocals and the power of R&B music to convey raw emotion and humanity.
18. “Stay” by Maurice Williams & the Zodiacs
“Stay” by Maurice Williams & the Zodiacs is a classic doo-wop song from the 1960s that has stood the test of time. The catchy melody, tight harmonies, and simple but effective lyrics make it an enduring favorite. The song is about a young man begging his girlfriend to stay with him for just a little bit longer, as he knows that he will miss her when she’s gone. The group’s lead singer, Maurice Williams, delivers a soulful performance that is both heartfelt and emotive. The song’s upbeat tempo and infectious rhythm make it an ideal dance number, and it has been covered by a number of artists over the years. Despite being over 60 years old, “Stay” remains a timeless classic that continues to capture the hearts of music fans all over the world.
19. “Be My Guest” by Fats Domino
“Be My Guest” is a lively and upbeat R&B song by Fats Domino, released in 1959. The song features Fats’ signature boogie-woogie piano style and a catchy horn section, accompanied by his soulful vocals. The lyrics are a playful invitation to a special someone, asking them to come to a party and be his guest. The infectious chorus is a call-and-response between Fats and his backing singers, urging the listener to join in and sing along.
The song was a major success upon its release, reaching the top 10 on both the pop and R&B charts. Its popularity was further boosted by its inclusion in the movie “The Girl Can’t Help It,” starring Jayne Mansfield. Over the years, “Be My Guest” has become one of Fats Domino’s most enduring hits and a classic of the early rock and roll era. Its joyful energy and catchy melody continue to captivate listeners, making it a timeless party anthem that still gets people dancing to this day.
20. “Sweet Sixteen, Pt. 1” by B.B. King
“Sweet Sixteen, Pt. 1” is a classic blues song by B.B. King, released in 1960. The song tells the story of a man’s love for a sixteen-year-old girl, who he believes is the perfect match for him. The lyrics are emotional and soulful, and King’s powerful vocals and guitar playing make this song a masterpiece. The song begins with a slow, mournful melody, and as it progresses, King’s guitar playing becomes more intense, reflecting the increasing passion and desire of the narrator. The song is an excellent example of King’s unique blues style, which combined his remarkable guitar skills with his deep, expressive voice. “Sweet Sixteen, Pt. 1” is a testament to the enduring power of blues music and the immense talent of B.B. King.
Erica Henderson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
