In the annals of music history, the year 1968 stands as a testament to the power of artistic expression, where a myriad of songs not only topped the charts but also left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape. While the top spot often garners the most attention, the runners-up, those songs that settled for a respectable No. 2, are equally deserving of recognition. This article delves into four such songs from 1968, each a gem in its own right, that have withstood the test of time, proving that sometimes, second place is indeed the new first.
The Soulful Cry of The Box Tops
The Box Tops, a band that had already made waves with their 1967 hit "The Letter," aimed to replicate that success with "Cry Like A Baby." The song, penned by the prolific duo Dan Penn and Spooner Oldham, showcased the band's ability to blend R&B grit with a hint of psychedelia, thanks to an electric sitar part. However, it was the stellar vocals of Alex Chilton, the band's lead singer, that truly brought the song to life. Chilton's soulful delivery, combined with the song's powerful lyrics, created a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences today. In my opinion, the band's ability to infuse their music with such raw emotion is what sets them apart, and "Cry Like A Baby" is a prime example of that.
The Epic Journey of "MacArthur Park"
Richard Harris, known for his stage and screen performances in musicals like Camelot, decided to venture into the pop music scene with the help of up-and-coming songwriter Jimmy Webb. "MacArthur Park" was the result, a song with multiple musical movements and a melody that pushed Harris to his vocal limits. The song's dramatic nature and Webb's intuitive understanding of what Harris needed to succeed made it an instant hit. While Harris couldn't maintain the momentum in the pop charts, Webb's songwriting prowess was solidified, and he went on to become one of the best songwriters of his era. From my perspective, the song's ability to evoke such strong emotions and its impact on both the performer and the songwriter is truly fascinating.
The Birth of Heavy Metal
"Born To Be Wild" by Steppenwolf is a song that, through its lyrics at least, came to define heavy metal. Mars Bonfire, connected to the band through his brother, the drummer, wrote the song as a ballad. However, the band wisely revved up the pace, turning it into the ultimate outlaw anthem. The song's heavy metal connection is more of a blues rocker, but the phrase "heavy metal thunder," belted out by lead singer John Kay, helped coin the term. The outstanding guitar work of Michael Monarch further sets this song apart. Personally, I think the song's ability to blend different genres and its impact on the evolution of heavy metal is truly remarkable.
The Crystalline Voice of Mary Hopkin
The Beatles, known for their keen eye for talent, discovered Welsh chanteuse Mary Hopkin on a television talent show. With the help of Paul McCartney, who produced "Those Were The Days," a Russian folk song given English lyrics, Hopkin's crystalline voice shone through. The song's world-weary melancholy, despite Hopkin being in her teens at the time, tapped into a universal emotion. "Those Were The Days" went to No. 1 in almost every country in the world aside from the US. What many people don't realize is that Hopkin's success was not just a fluke, but a testament to her raw talent and emotional depth. From my perspective, the song's ability to transcend cultural boundaries and its enduring appeal is truly fascinating.
A Second Place That's First in Our Hearts
These four songs, each in its own way, have proven that second place is indeed the new first. They have not only withstood the test of time but have also left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape. In my opinion, the ability of these songs to evoke such strong emotions and their impact on both the performers and the listeners is truly remarkable. As we reflect on these songs, we are reminded of the power of artistic expression and the enduring legacy of 1968, a year that continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world.
