Tag: 1960s

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.

Todd Rundgren | Hello, It’s Me

First released by Todd Rundgren during his stint with the band Nazz 50 years ago (October 1968), Rundgren’s subsequent solo version (1972) reached #5 on the US pop charts. The tune features a horn section including Randy Brecker and Michael Brecker, among other top-drawer players. Something/Anything, the album which featured the single, was later voted #173 on Rolling Stone‘s “500 Best Albums of All Time.”

The half-step modulation at 2:45.

Leslie Gore | You Don’t Own Me

Released in 1963, Leslie Gore‘s “You Don’t Own Me” was a #2 hit in the US (also top 5 in Australia, New Zealand, and the UK). The tune has had a sustained half-life as a feminist anthem.

Produced by studio legend Quincy Jones, the tune packs multiple modulations into its two and a half minutes. The verse is in G minor, but transitions to G major for the chorus (0:31); the same pattern holds true for verse 2 and chorus 2; multiple direct half-step modulations follow at 1:03, 1:19, and 1:34.

The Foundations | Build Me Up, Buttercup

The Foundations released their hit “Build Me Up, Buttercup” in 1968; it reached #1 in the US, Canada, and Australia. It’s often played during the 7th inning stretch during Los Angeles Angels games. The key change is at the tail end of this short single (2:45), just as the tune begins its fade-out.