While it might be hard to beat the best records from the 1960s and 70s, we think these modern songs perfect for retro country and pop lovers come pretty darn close. As anyone who loves mid-century music, finding contemporary cuts that hold up to the classics is a tall order.
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From the studio mixes dripping in reverb to the nostalgia-inducing lyrics, 1960s and 70s country and pop music had a unique sheen that broke and mended your heart all at once. Luckily, that style of music didn’t die out when it left the top of the Billboard charts.
Indeed, retro pop and country are still alive and well. Whether you’re looking to freshen up your playlist or are curious about how modern musicians interpret a retro feel, we’ve got you covered.
“Statues” by The Cactus Blossoms
The Cactus Blossoms have been embodying the timeless harmonies of musical groups like The Everly Brothers since their debut, and their 2024 release, Every Time I Think About You, is no exception. Contrasting beefy guitar tones and dreamy pedal steel dot an otherwise airy arrangement which, of course, puts the airtight harmonies of siblings Jack Torrey and Page Burkum on full display.
Fans of The Everly Brothers, Simon & Garfunkel, and The Righteous Brothers will enjoy the effortless way the Cactus Blossoms present their nostalgic and thoughtful lyrics. Lovers of Marty Robbins and Glen Campbell will find a welcome home in the band’s Western-tinged catalog, including “Statues.”
“In The Eyes Of The Girl” by The Lemon Twigs
If someone were to show us The Lemon Twigs and say they were an underground gem from the 1960s, we wouldn’t need much convincing to believe it. From their classic instrumentation to vocal timbre reminiscent of The Beach Boys’ Mike Love, The Lemon Twigs personify the best of retro pop. “In The Eyes Of The Girl” sits neatly in the middle of the band’s May 2024 release, A Dream Is All We Know.
Fab Four fans will enjoy the wistfully romantic lyrics of this track, presented sweetly in a swinging vocal line with supporting “oohs” and “ahhs” à la the Beatles’ early years. The Lemon Twigs are also a fantastic modern band for Beach Boys fans who enjoy a jangly, sunshiney West Coast sound.
“A Night To Remember” by beabadoobee, Laufey
Easily the jazziest offering of this list of retro pop and country tunes, this collaboration between indie artists beabadoobee and Laufey is a perfect example of how these types of mash-ups can bring out the best, most exciting parts of either artist. With Laufey’s inimitable jazz presentation and beabadoobee’s eccentric alt-pop style, “A Night To Remember” sounds like a time traveler from the 2020s went back to the 1960s to cut a record.
Featuring a toe-tapping bossa beat and dramatic violins, this pop duet combines elements of impressively chill jazz singers like Astrud Gilberto with cinematic additions reminiscent of Bobbie Gentry, Dusty Springfield, and Nancy Sinatra.
“Hey Lover!” by Wabie
Finally, with nearly three million fans on Spotify, Wabie’s artist bio is hilariously incorrect: “I have no idea what I’m doing.” One only needs to listen to “Hey Lover!” one time through to know this is decidedly false. The California artist’s lovesick track embodies the best elements of 1960s and 70s pop with its doo-wop rhythms, vocals dripping in reverb, and infectious harmonies. The music is notably unserious, but it isn’t cheesy, either.
Wabie’s lackadaisical approach to his still-pitch-perfect singing will peke the interest of Lou Reed fans, while the doo-wop undercurrents are great for fans groups like The Mamas & The Papas and Martha and the Vandellas.
Photo by Daniel DeSlover/ZUMA Press Wire/Shutterstock
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