Are you in the process of planning your first 1960s themed event? If so, you should know that the 1960s was known for many things. Among them were hootenannies, the Kennedy-Nixon debates and great love songs. Personally, I am more familiar with the decade’s phenomenal love songs because of the time that I spent working as a special events planner. As such, you may want to peruse the list of songs that was often requested at my events. It might help you to develop a playlist of your own. Here they are:
“Tracks of My Tears”
The Miracles’ song “Tracks of My Tears” is one tune that tends to get requested often and its popularity doesn’t surprise me. After all, it’s a well written and catchy tune that has also been covered by countless other people over the years. You can find a copy of the original version on Smokey Robinson’s album “Masterpieces”, which is jam packed with other excellent tunes as well.
“My Girl”
Speaking of The Miracles, they also wrote another song that my guests would request often. The song is “My Girl” and The Temptations’ version has by far been the most popular one at my events. I can’t say that I blame the guests either because it has a great opening guitar riff and very well written lyrics. A copy of the song is on the group’s album “Ultimate Collection”, which also includes such tremendous songs as “Way You Do The Things You Do” and “Just My Imagination (Running Away With Me).”
“Stop! In the Name of Love”
Made famous by The Supremes, “Stop! In the Name of Love” is another song that I’d suggest that you have on your event’s playlist. It was written by Eddie Holland, Brian Holland and Lamont Dozier, who were memorable in their own right. One of the best copies of the tune may be found on The Supremes’ album “Love Songs.” In my opinion, it’s a great album to add to your overall collection, especially if you plan on hosting period events often. Other tunes that appear on the album are “Whisper You Love Me Boy” and “Someday We’ll Be Together.”
“Will You Love Me Tomorrow?”
In my opinion, Carole King and Gerry Goffin’s “Will You Love Me Tomorrow?” should be on your party’s hit list too. It has been a consistent favorite among my guests as well as with my family members. The Shirelles’ rendition of the song is the one that I would suggest above all others. The song is available on the group’s DVD “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow.” It also contains other highly requested songs like “Soldier Boy” and “Chapel of Love.”
“When a Man Loves a Woman”
I’d also recommend having a copy of Percy Sledge’s rendition of “When a Man Loves a Woman” on hand. Based on my experience, it’s a beautiful, popular song that is just perfect for slow dancing. You can find a copy of it on his album of the same name. Other memorable songs on the album include “If This Is the Last Time” and “Take Time to Know Her.”
“Can’t Help Falling in Love with You”
Last but certainly not least, I’d recommend investing in a copy of Elvis Presley’s rendition of “Can’t Help Falling in Love with You.” In my opinion, it is a very pretty song. It was also part of the soundtrack for the movie “Blue Hawaii”, which was one of my parents’ favorite films. You can find a superlative rendition of the tune on the album “Elvis: 30#1 Hits.”
Source: Personal Experience
More from this contributor:
1960s Party Favors for Kids
Interview with Professional DJ Tina T of Camp Spin Off
Top 5 Songs That Rocked the Billboard Hot 100 Charts for 14 Weeks
History of Skateboard Competitions 1960s to 1980s: A Brief Overview
