In the annals of music history, 1968 stands as a year of extraordinary musical diversity and innovation. While the top spot on the charts was fiercely contested, the runners-up, often overlooked, offer a fascinating glimpse into the era's musical tapestry. Let's delve into four songs that, despite settling for No. 2, have left an indelible mark on the music landscape, transcending the boundaries of time and genre.
The Soulful Cry: "Cry Like A Baby" by The Box Tops
The Box Tops, with their R&B grit and the charismatic Alex Chilton at the helm, were a force to be reckoned with in 1968. "Cry Like A Baby," a soulful masterpiece, showcases the band's ability to blend grit with a touch of psychedelia. The electric sitar part adds a unique twist, but it's Chilton's stellar vocals that truly elevate the song. Personally, I find the contrast between the band's R&B roots and the psychedelic elements intriguing. It's a testament to the era's musical experimentation, where genres often intertwined, creating something new and exciting. The song's enduring appeal lies in its raw emotion and the way it captures the essence of a bygone era, making it a timeless classic.
The Epic Ballad: "MacArthur Park" by Richard Harris
Richard Harris, a versatile artist known for his stage and screen performances, ventured into the pop realm with "MacArthur Park." The song, a masterpiece crafted by the brilliant Jimmy Webb, is a musical journey with several distinct movements. Harris' vocal prowess is on full display as he navigates the song's demanding melody. What makes this song truly remarkable is its ability to evoke a range of emotions, from the dramatic to the introspective. It's a testament to the power of songwriting, where a single composition can transport listeners through different moods and experiences. While Harris' pop career may have been short-lived, "MacArthur Park" remains a shining example of his artistic prowess.
The Birth of Heavy Metal: "Born To Be Wild" by Steppenwolf
Steppenwolf, with their Canadian roots and Mars Bonfire's songwriting prowess, crafted "Born To Be Wild," a song that would later define heavy metal. The song, originally written as a ballad, underwent a transformation when the band revved up the pace, creating an outlaw anthem. The phrase "heavy metal thunder" is a testament to the song's impact on the genre's nomenclature. However, upon closer inspection, the song leans more towards a sturdy blues rocker. This raises a deeper question: how do we define genres, and are they always as rigid as they seem? The song's enduring appeal lies in its ability to capture the spirit of rebellion and freedom, transcending the boundaries of musical classification.
The Crystalline Voice: "Those Were The Days" by Mary Hopkin
The Beatles, ever the discerning record label, discovered Mary Hopkin's crystalline voice on a television talent show. "Those Were The Days," a Russian folk song with English lyrics, became an international hit. Hopkin's youthful voice, coupled with Paul McCartney's production prowess, created a timeless classic. What makes this song particularly fascinating is its ability to capture the world-weary melancholy of the lyrics, despite Hopkin's age. It's a testament to the power of music to transcend age and cultural boundaries, resonating with listeners across generations. The song's global success, aside from the US, highlights the universal appeal of music, where language barriers are no obstacle to emotional connection.
In conclusion, these four songs, each settling for No. 2 in 1968, offer a fascinating glimpse into the era's musical diversity and innovation. They showcase the power of songwriting, the impact of vocal prowess, and the ability of music to transcend genres and cultural boundaries. As we reflect on these songs, we're reminded of the enduring appeal of music, where the runners-up often become the true champions of the era's musical tapestry.
