Some country songs, even those from way back in the 1960s, still manage to sound so fresh and gorgeous today. That’s the case, I’d say, for the following three iconic hit country songs, each of which is well over 60 years old at this point but still sounds surprisingly contemporary. Let’s take a look!
“I’ve Got A Tiger By The Tail” by Buck Owens and The Buckaroos from ‘I’ve Got A Tiger By The Tail’ (1964)
This country classic from Buck Owens still makes it to classic country radio stations today, and for good reason. “I’ve Got A Tiger By The Tail” is one of the most noteworthy examples of the Bakersfield sound, and it’s easily one of Buck Owens’ most memorable songs of his career. It made it into the Grammy Hall of Fame, after all.
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Back in 1964, “I’ve Got A Tiger By The Tail” by Buck Owens and The Buckaroos was a No. 1 hit on the Hot Country Singles chart. It was a crossover pop success as well, making it all the way to No. 25 on the Billboard Hot 100.
“I Fall To Pieces” by Patsy Cline from ‘Showcase’ (1961)
“I Fall To Pieces” by Patsy Cline is a country-pop classic for the ages, and it’s still considered one of Cline’s finest contributions to the genre. “Crazy” is a close second, though. It’s pretty shocking to consider the fact that this song initially didn’t get any airplay. Fortunately, though, some smart promo work turned this deserving country classic into a hit. And it still sounds so fresh today.
“I Fall To Pieces” by Patsy Cline peaked at No. 1 on the Hot Country Songs chart. It also reached No. 12 on the Billboard Hot 100.
“Ring Of Fire” by Johnny Cash from ‘Ring Of Fire: The Best Of Johnny Cash’ (1963)
Johnny Cash has quite a few songs I could have added to this list. But there’s at least tangible proof of the ongoing endurance of “Ring Of Fire”. This gritty tune has gone on to be used in media across television and film well into the 21st century. I can’t think of a more worthy Johnny Cash song to appear on any list of country songs from the 1960s that still sound fresh. And it was quite a hit, too, peaking at No. 1 on the Hot Country Singles chart back in the mid-1960s.
Photo by Gai Terrell/Redferns
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