1960s – Page 26

Carol Channing | Hello, Dolly

The musical theatre world lost a legend today with the passing of Carol Channing at age 97. In honor of her more than 5,000 performances in the role of Dolly Levi, we say good-bye, Dolly. RIP. Key changes at 2:17, 3:13, 4:42, 5:41, and 6:19.

Spanky + Our Gang | Sunday Will Never Be the Same

Intrepid MotD fan Paul Steckler points out the single modulation at 2:19 in the middle of a section of Bach-inspired vocalese in “Sunday Will Never Be the Same” by Spanky and Our Gang (1967). The tune, which reached #9 in the US and was another example of Sunshine Pop, scored the biggest hit for this short-lived band from the late 60s.

The Association | Time for Livin’

Today we feature The Association’s 1968 release “Time for Livin’,” suggested by one of our mod scouts, JB. Known as a “sunshine pop” band from Southern California, the band is better known for its iconic hits such as ”Cherish” and ”Never My Love.” This track, which reached only #39 on the US pop charts, modulates all over the place — starting at the 0:52 mark and continuing all the way to the end.

Allan Sherman | The Twelve Gifts of Christmas

Allan Sherman makes his MotD debut with “The Twelve Gifts of Christmas” (1963)! Key change at 2:30, but this one is worth listening to the whole way through. Have a good weekend!

Ella Fitzgerald | Jingle Bells

No holiday season is complete without Ella! “Jingle Bells” (1960) features a key change at 1:45. Enjoy!

Otis Redding | Merry Christmas, Baby

Happy Monday! Starting off the week with Otis Redding’s “Merry Christmas Baby” (1968). Key change at 1:35. Thanks to MotD fan Paul Steckler for this contribution!

Tom Lehrer | Who’s Next

Here’s something a little different: this is the genius Tom Lehrer’s “Who’s Next” (1965), featuring FIVE modulations: 1:06, 1:21, 1:35, 2:02, and 2:17.

The Guess Who | These Eyes

From MotD regular Rob P.: Canadian band The Guess Who released their breakthrough US hit, “These Eyes,” in 1969. It peaked at #6 on the US Billboard chart.

After a few verses, a string of direct modulations builds during the chorus (starting at 1:42); the tune reverts to the original key for the next verse at 2:40. 3:00 marks the start of chorus/outro, stacking yet more modulations until the fadeout, augmented by boffo amounts of strings and brass.

Eddie Holman | Hey There Lonely Girl

The Legendary Eddie Holman‘s “Hey There Lonely Girl,” released in 1969, peaked at #2 in the US, #1 in Canada, and #4 in the UK when it was released there a few years later. The tune was later covered by many artists, including Donny Osmond and New Edition. Modulation at 2:14.