4 Innovative Classic Rock Songs From the 1960s That Were Ahead of Their Time

The 1960s were a transformative time for music. A few bands and specific songs greatly influenced the trajectory of rock music, starting way back in the middle of the 20th century. The following four rock songs from the 1960s are some of the most innovative and influential works of their time. I think they deserve to be revisited.

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1. “Arnold Lane” by Pink Floyd

Few bands in the 1960s were quite as innovative as Pink Floyd. Quite a few songs from this psychedelic band could make it to our list. I opted for one that has always stood out to me: “Arnold Lane” from 1967. It’s one of Syd Barrett’s finest songwriting efforts from the early years of Pink Floyd, and that organ solo from Richard Wright is absolutely captivating.

2. “White Rabbit” by Jefferson Airplane

This iconic song from 1967 is often seen as a definitive tune from the psychedelic rock movement of the late 1960s. I’d have to agree with that. “White Rabbit” by Jefferson Airplane has a wild concept, a musicality completely unlike other songs of the time (it lacks a chorus, among other pop formulas), and its lyricism is pure poetry. Few songs have served as the soundtrack for psychedelic trips back in the day quite like this classic.

3. “Surf’s Up” by The Beach Boys

This song has to be one of Brian Wilson’s most innovative pieces of work. The structure of the song is way ahead of its time, and it’s a definitive Beach Boys track for a reason. Whether you first heard “Surf’s Up” in 1971 via Brother/Reprise or heard it recently on classic pop or rock radio, it’ll fascinate you to no end.

4. “Strawberry Fields Forever” by The Beatles

Quite a few Beatles tunes could make it to our list of innovative rock music from the 1960s. However, I went with “Strawberry Fields Forever” because it is one of John Lennon’s most unique and wholly original works, both in terms of composition and lyrics. The song is also one of the very first mainstream efforts to include the sounds of a Mellotron as well as the Indian swarmandal. 

The song’s production is fascinating as well. It includes reverse-recorded tracks, which were far from common at the time.

Photo via  “Strawberry Fields” music video / YouTube

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