Many eras of music have come and gone since 1967, but none of them were quite like the Summer of Love in San Fransisco, California. It was a fascinating year for psychedelic and popular music. Many bands and songs that catapulted to fame that summer are still revered and enjoyed today. Let’s look at five songs that defined the Summer of Love!
1. “Happy Together” by Turtles
A ton of songs defined the Summer of Love, but few are as memorable and catchy as “Happy Together” by Turtles. Released in April of 1967, this track caught the attention of listeners around the country. It’s an extremely inventive and unique song; it’s a shame that it’s more or less the only song Turtles are known for.
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2. “For What It’s Worth” by Buffalo Springfield
“For What It’s Worth” by Buffalo Springfield was released in January of 1967 and became a summertime hit that year. Interestingly enough, it was written about a 1966 incident of youths and police officers clashing along the Sunset Strip. The track ended up matching the mood and political sentiments of listeners for the rest of the decade, and it outlived the Summer of Love as an anthem.
3. “Somebody To Love” by Jefferson Airplane
Like “Happy Together”, “Somebody To Love” by Jefferson Airplane is one of those songs that just transports you back to the summer of 1967. This particular track was released in April and was their relatively new singer Grace Slick’s contribution to the band. It ended up becoming one of their biggest defining hits. You can’t beat her vocals, either.
4. “Purple Haze” by Jimi Hendrix
Few artists defined the Summer of Love quite like Jimi Hendrix, and “Purple Haze” is one of many songs firmly associated with that unique era of popular music. Released in March of that year, “Purple Haze” wasn’t an immediate hit. But today, it’s one of the most important songs of Hendrix’s career and the Summer of Love as an ethos of music. That guitar riff, though.
5. “New York Mining Disaster 1941” by Bee Gees
Bee Gees were one of the biggest acts of the 20th century, and “New York Mining Disaster 1941” was one of their biggest contributions to the Summer of Love. This song was released in April of 1967 and cemented the band’s status as one of the most influential bands of the 60s. There’s a reason why so many bands and musicians that followed claimed Bee Gees as their biggest inspirations.
Photo by Michael Ochs Archives
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