The Box Tops were an American rock band formed in Memphis, Tennessee, in the 1960s. The band is best known for their hit single “The Letter,” which topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1967. The Box Tops were fronted by a young Alex Chilton, whose distinctive voice helped propel the band to fame. Their music blended rock, pop, and soul influences, and they enjoyed several other hits, including “Neon Rainbow” and “Cry Like a Baby.” Despite their success, the group disbanded in 1970, but their music remains influential and beloved by fans of classic rock and pop.
1. The Letter
“The Letter” is a song by The Box Tops, released in 1967. Written by Wayne Carson, the song became a major hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The track is known for its catchy melody and the powerful, soulful vocal performance of Alex Chilton, the band’s lead singer. “The Letter” features a concise, urgent narrative about a man who is eager to reunite with his lover after receiving a letter. The song’s success helped establish The Box Tops as a prominent band of the 1960s and remains a classic of the era.
2. Cry Like a Baby
“Cry Like a Baby” is a song by The Box Tops, released in 1968. Written by songwriters Matt Murphy and Donald and Philip Montanari, the track showcases the band’s blend of rock and soul. The song features Alex Chilton’s emotive vocals and a catchy melody, with lyrics about a man lamenting a broken relationship and expressing his feelings of sadness and regret. “Cry Like a Baby” became one of the band’s most successful singles, reaching number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song is celebrated for its heartfelt delivery and remains a notable part of The Box Tops’ legacy.
3. Neon Rainbow
“Neon Rainbow” is a song by The Box Tops, released in 1967. Written by songwriter Wayne Carson, the track features a blend of pop, rock, and soul influences. The song’s lyrics, delivered by lead singer Alex Chilton, describe a sense of escapism and longing, with the “neon rainbow” serving as a metaphor for a hopeful vision of a better life. “Neon Rainbow” was a hit, reaching number 24 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Its soulful melody and emotive performance helped solidify The Box Tops’ reputation during the late 1960s.
4. Sweet Cream Ladies, Forward March
“Sweet Cream Ladies, Forward March” by The Box Tops is a song from their 1969 album *Dimensions*. Written by Allen Toussaint, the track features the band’s signature soulful rock sound with a blend of blues and funk influences. The song’s lyrics explore themes of social change and empowerment, set against an energetic and rhythmic backdrop. With its catchy melody and powerful vocals by Alex Chilton, “Sweet Cream Ladies, Forward March” stands out as a notable example of The Box Tops’ ability to merge socially conscious themes with their dynamic musical style.
5. Choo-Choo Train
“Choo-Choo Train” is a song by The Box Tops, released in 1968. Written by Joe South, the track is a lively and upbeat pop-rock song featuring a catchy melody and rhythm. The song’s lyrics use the metaphor of a “choo-choo train” to describe a passionate and unstoppable romantic relationship. With its energetic sound and Alex Chilton’s distinctive vocal delivery, “Choo-Choo Train” highlights the band’s versatility and ability to blend different musical influences. Although it wasn’t as commercially successful as some of their other hits, it remains a notable part of The Box Tops’ discography.
6. Soul Deep
“Soul Deep” is a song by The Box Tops, released in 1969. Written by Dan Penn and Spooner Oldham, the track features a soulful melody and emotive lyrics that explore themes of deep, heartfelt love. The song highlights Alex Chilton’s powerful vocal performance and the band’s ability to blend rock with soul influences. “Soul Deep” became a hit, reaching number 18 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The track is celebrated for its heartfelt delivery and remains a memorable part of The Box Tops’ catalog, showcasing their versatility and depth as a band.
7. I Met Her in Church
“I Met Her in Church” is a song by The Box Tops, released in 1969. Written by Dan Penn and Spooner Oldham, the track features a blend of pop, soul, and gospel influences. The song’s lyrics tell a story of a romantic encounter with a woman met in a church setting, capturing themes of love and connection. Alex Chilton’s emotive vocal delivery and the song’s soulful arrangement highlight the band’s ability to merge different musical styles. “I Met Her in Church” was well-received and remains a notable example of The Box Tops’ diverse musical range.
8. People Gonna Talk
“People Gonna Talk” is a song by The Box Tops, released in 1968. Written by Dan Penn and Spooner Oldham, the track is characterized by its soulful, R&B-influenced sound. The song addresses the theme of facing judgment and gossip from others, reflecting the band’s blend of rock and soul. Alex Chilton’s powerful and emotive vocals bring depth to the lyrics, which explore the personal challenges of dealing with public scrutiny. “People Gonna Talk” was well-received and is remembered for its heartfelt delivery and the distinctive musical style that defines The Box Tops.
9. I Shall Be Released
“I Shall Be Released” is a song written by Bob Dylan, first released on his 1967 album “The Basement Tapes” with The Band. The song has been covered by numerous artists, including The Box Tops, who recorded their version in 1968. The track features a soulful arrangement and reflects themes of liberation and redemption. Dylan’s original version is known for its poignant lyrics and gospel-inspired sound. The Box Tops’ rendition, with Alex Chilton’s expressive vocals, adds a unique touch while maintaining the song’s emotional depth. “I Shall Be Released” remains a classic, appreciated for its reflective and uplifting message.
10. Turn On a Dream
“Turn On a Dream” is a track by The Box Tops from their 1969 album *Dimensions*. The song features a smooth blend of rock and soul, showcasing the band’s signature sound with Alex Chilton’s distinctive vocals. “Turn On a Dream” combines reflective lyrics with a catchy, melodic arrangement, highlighting the band’s versatility and ability to convey deep emotions through their music. The track contributes to the album’s overall exploration of themes like aspiration and introspection, fitting seamlessly into The Box Tops’ broader discography.