The 3 Best Classic Rock Songs From the 1960s Seattle Scene

Music fans know—there are regions all over the world known for specific sounds. In Nashville, you find country music. In Atlanta, you can find hip-hop. But in the Pacific Northwest, you can’t swing a cafe latte without hitting an indie rocker.

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For decades now, PNW cities like Seattle have come to be known for rock music. And that’s what we wanted to highlight below. While grunge was big in the 1990s, there were rock acts doing their thing way before. Indeed, these are the three best classic rock songs from the 1960s Seattle scene.

“The Witch” by The Sonics from ‘Here Are The Sonics’ (1964)

When people think of The Sonics and Seattle, often it’s the former NBA basketball team that comes to mind. But before the dunks and dishes, there was the buzzing garage band. Indeed, the early 1960s rock group predates the now-defunct sports team. And they were big in their day, too. Songs from the group like “The Witch” propelled and inspired a legion of rockers in their wake. You can hear the rugged, ragged human howl in the performance by the group. Indeed, without The Sonics, Seattle rock might not exist like it does today.

“Purple Haze” by The Jimi Hendrix Experience (Single, 1967)

Jimi Hendrix is one of the most crucial and essential rockers in the history of modern music. The Seattle-born musician’s ability to play guitar leaves even the most accomplished players stunned and spellbound. And while it took Hendrix going to London for his career to take off, his roots very much stretch back to the Pacific Northwest and his rain-soaked Seattle home. Of course, Hendrix’ career (and life) was cut far too short, but while he was alive, songs like “Purple Haze” emanated from him like moonlight. It’s a song that’s played thousands of times per day even still.

“Angel Of The Morning” by Merrilee Rush & The Turnabouts from ‘Angel Of The Morning’ (1968)

Merrilee Rush’s rendition of the song “Angel Of The Morning” has influenced millions of people. Whether her style is being sampled for rap tracks or it’s just being played over and over to audiences every year, the tune reminds us that we have the power over our narrative. Rush sings about a woman empowered to be herself and to own her autonomy. It was a revolutionary statement to make in song in the 1960s and it’s a message that still rings out today.

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