I started this music project a few months after retiring in 2023. The goal was simple: choose a favorite song for each year of my life. But it turned out to be much harder than I expected, especially for the years after 2000.
I encouraged my friends to join in, and a few did. I really enjoyed seeing their picks. Now, I’m sharing my list and reflections here, decade by decade, starting with the 1960s.
The Rules:
- This list is a living document, meant to evolve as your tastes change. A good example is 1972, where I have 30 or 40 contenders. I ultimately chose “Superstition” by Stevie Wonder, based on a friend’s advice.
- I chose one song per year, but build your list however you like.
- There’s no deadline. Take your time.
- Share it and enjoy the process.
My Life in Songs: The 1960s
1961 – “Big Bad John” by Jimmy Dean
A spoken-word ballad about a heroic miner, this song topped the Billboard Hot 100 and even won a Grammy. Jimmy Dean’s storytelling style helped it become a classic of early ‘60s country-pop crossover.
My sisters and I listened to this over and over as the ’60s came to an end.
Trivia: The song was so popular it inspired a sequel, “The Cajun Queen,” in 1962.
1962 – “The Loco-Motion” by Little Eva
A dance-craze anthem that helped define the early ’60s. Eva Boyd, a babysitter for songwriters Carole King and Gerry Goffin, became an overnight star when they wrote this hit for her.
Trivia: This song has charted three times in three different decades: by Little Eva (1962), Grand Funk Railroad (1974), and Kylie Minogue (1988).
I know the Grand Funk Railroad version much better than any other, but I now associate it with the cheesier side of ’70s rock.
1963 – “It’s All Right” by The Impressions
This soulful tune marked Curtis Mayfield’s breakout as a leading figure in R&B and socially conscious music.
Significance: One of the earliest mainstream hits from a group that later influenced the civil rights soundtrack of the late ’60s.
I love The Impressions, but that love came later. They weren’t played much in my household growing up.
1964 – “Oh, Pretty Woman” by Roy Orbison
Orbison’s vocal range and dramatic delivery made this song an instant classic. Its guitar riff and romantic lyrics gave it wide appeal.
Trivia: It became iconic again through its use in the 1990 film Pretty Woman, starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere.
I’ll use my OG credentials on this one. I liked it long before the movie, thanks to my grandpa playing it in his old truck.
1965 – “Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag” by James Brown & The Famous Flames
A landmark in the evolution of funk, this track features Brown’s rhythmic vocals and tight horn arrangements.
Significance: It won a Grammy and marked a major shift in soul music.
Personally, what an amazing piece of music. I’ve loved it since I first heard it on the radio. It took me years to find a copy and smuggle it into the house as a boy.
1966 – “Paint It Black” by The Rolling Stones
Blending Eastern instruments like the sitar with rock, this track captured the darker mood of the era.
Trivia: One of the first mainstream rock songs to feature a sitar, influenced by Brian Jones.
This song still rocks. It’s a weekly listen for me.
1967 – “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” by Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell
An uplifting Motown duet about love and resilience. It remains one of the most beloved soul tracks of its era.
Trivia: Diana Ross re-recorded the song in 1970 as a solo hit with a lush orchestral arrangement.
This song sparked my love for all things Motown. I was too young at the time to understand why it resonated, but the meaning became clearer with age.
1968 – “Sympathy for the Devil” by The Rolling Stones
A provocative track that blends samba rhythms with dark lyrics reflecting on history and human nature.
Significance: This song marked the band’s shift into more experimental and philosophical territory.
I always felt guilty sneaking into my uncle’s room to listen to this, but I’m glad I did. It’s a banger.
1969 – “Living in the Past” by Jethro Tull
An unconventional hit in 5/4 time, this jazzy, flute-driven track helped define Jethro Tull’s unique style.
Trivia: Released in the UK in 1969, but it didn’t gain major traction in the U.S. until 1972, when it became a breakout hit.
This song would go on to define my teenage years in the ’70s. I can’t guess how many times I’ve listened to it.
📅 Coming Soon…
I’ll publish the 1970s in a week or so. Until then, if you want to share your picks, I’d love to see them. Also, here’s the Spotify playlist:
🎧 Favs from Each Year of My Life
Peanuts In My Pocket 
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