In the entire catalog of music gracing this great Earth, there are songs particular to a moment, emotion, place, and time. In other words, some songs just serve a particular purpose. However, every so often, there comes a song that is perfect in every sense of the word, and consequently, can be heard no matter the time, place, emotion, or moment. No matter how many times we listen to them, they are still just perfect.
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Perfect songs exist in every single decade, and of course, differ highly depending on one’s taste. However, throughout the years, it seems the greater population of music fans has agreed upon a set of songs that are “perfect.” And regarding the 1960s, here are three of them.
“Yesterday” by The Beatles
Flawless, impeccable, and pristine are just a few of the adjectives one could attach to The Beatles‘ 1965 hit, “Yesterday”. Every note, lyrics, phrase, and accompanying instrument is placed exceptionally well, and as a result, there is seemingly nothing that could be added or omitted. To many, it is one of the greatest songs of all time.
At the time, people raved over its quality, as it peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. Additionally, Rolling Stone called it the 72nd greatest song of all time on the “The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time” list. Frankly, this whole list could be composed of Beatles songs, but we’ll spare you and feature just one of our favorites.
“Stand By Me” by Ben E. King
Other than The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and the other rock bands of the decade, the sound that ruled the 60s was R&B soul. Arguably, the most notable and, to us, perfect R&B soul song of the 60s was Ben E. King‘s staple classic, “Stand By Me”. Released in 1962, King’s single peaked at No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100.
The single is sentimental, soulful, melancholic, and joyful all at the same time. Each lyrical and musical phrase is delivered to perfection. Consequently, this song has remained relevant to this day, as its themes and sounds are timeless.
“At Last!” by Etta James
Etta James is often considered one of the greatest vocalists of all time, and she garnered that title by releasing exceptionally sophisticated songs such as the perfect and utterly unblemished “At Last!”. Following its release in 1961, James’ single peaked at No. 47 on the Billboard Hot 100. Which, if you ask us, is criminal. However, it has stood the test of time.
This song is “perfect” for several reasons, but what makes it all the more impressive is the fact that the song resides on James’ debut album of the same name. The song’s tropes and music are soothing, cathartic, and overall, sensationally exquisite.
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