The Decade's Music at a Glance

The 1960s was a revolutionary time in America. Best known as the era of counterculture where people shattered typical social norms such as clothing, music, education, and sexuality. It was a time referred to as the “Swinging Sixties” because people were socially and sexually free. The popular saying “Make Love, Not War,” was a product of the 1960s and was an impactful part of the way people lived their lives. Most remarkably, the Civil Rights Movement happened during the 60s. People were tirelessly fighting for equality for all and the end of discrimination. Surely, the overall feat for equality and acceptance would welcome a period of music that reflected these new American ideals.

The 1960s was a truly influential time for music and was arguably the most profound decade for Rock n’ roll and psychedelic rock music. As mentioned before, this decade saw drastic changes in fashion and its overall beliefs, but the most notable change was the shift in music. In addition to this shift, this decade is home to Woodstock, the first music festival of its kind that attracted over 400,000 attendees. Rolling Stone has referred to Woodstock as number 19 of the 50 most memorable moments that changed Rock n’ roll. The 1960s saw an emergence of rock, jazz, and a revival of folk music. Some of the best bands of our time came out of this time period and still have a powerful influence on musicians today.

5 Most Influential Bands

The Beatles

Music is what it is today because of the influence of The Beatles. It’s likely anywhere you travel in the world, someone has heard of them in one way or another. Of course, there are other popular musicians that have had a profound impact on society such as Elvis Presley and Frank Sinatra. However, none of them compare to the way The Beatles transcended their era.

The Beatles remain just as popular to each generation that discovers their music. The Beatles originated in 1960 from Liverpool, England, but their musical endeavors quickly spread across the world. It’s been said that The Beatles rose to fame so quickly because each album was better than the last, showing constant improvement and devotion to their craft. Their music continues to inspire people around the world on a daily basis.

The Rolling Stones

Portrait of British pop group The Beatles (L-R) Paul McCartney, George Harrison (1943 - 2001), Ringo Starr and John Lennon (1940 - 1980) at the BBC Television Studios in London before the start of their world tour, June 17, 1966. (Photo by Central Press/Getty Images) — Central Press/GettyImages

The Stones have an intense and captivating stage presence. They’re wildly known for their way with capturing each individual in the audience. The Rolling Stones were ranked the 4 out of 100 of the greatest artists of all time. It’s crazy to think that the band has been around for 50 years, and there’s still no definite end in sight.

Led Zeppelin

Led Zeppelin is an English rock band from London, England that continues to have a strong impact on society. Their love and use of guitar in all of their music led them to be known as the originators of heavy metal. The song “Stairway to Heaven” is noted as one of the most influential songs in rock history.

With Led Zeppelin’s love for hard rock, they’re said to have been a heavy inspiration for bands like Aerosmith and Queen. In addition to their unique take on rock music, Led Zeppelin is heavily applauded for their distinctive taste in style. The band loved tight open bottom jeans and graphic t-shirts. However, the band was best recognized for the band member’s long hairstyles.

The Who

The Who is an English rock band from London, England. Notice a trend yet? The most popular bands from the 1960s are from this decade. The Who have sold over 100 million records worldwide, which is just one of the reasons they’re considered one of the most influential rock bands of the 20th century.

In addition to their success with merchandise sales, The Who are known for their auto-destructive art. Time and time again, The Who would destroy their guitars and drums while on stage. The Who were also one of the bands to give an unforgettable at the first and only Woodstock in 1969. The Who are also known for their musical contributions of creating the ‘rock opera’. A rock opera is best known as a collection of songs that tell one, cohesive story. The Who redefined the culture of rock music during their time.

Pink Floyd

Pink Floyd was on the most influential psychedelic rock bands of their time. Of course, Pink Floyd is from London, England too. The band is best known for their psychedelic and sonic experimentations. The infamous Dark Side of the Moon album is one of the most commercially successful albums of all time. The popular logo featuring the triangular rainbow prism has been fabricated and sold as miscellaneous merchandise worldwide.

They’ve sold over 250 million records, with 75 million units being sold in the United States. MSNBC listed Pink Floyd as the 8th most influential rock band of our time in 2014. In addition, their elaborate live shows have been heavily recognized as a first of their kind. Pink Floyd admired the visual and audio experiences offered to guests during their live performances. The intense visual lights and effects combined with the music almost left the band members in the background. Pink Floyd set the stage for the visual experiences expected during live performances. In addition, they also had next-level sound engineering and sound quality, inspiring artists for years to come.