What was the most popular song in 1968?
(Credits: Far Out)
As we look back at history, it’s compelling to argue that the tumultuous decade of the 1960s truly reached its conclusion not in 1970, but rather in 1969. The year 1969 marked a dramatic and chaotic end to the era characterized by hedonism, culminating in violence, tragedy, and loss. Thus, one could consider 1968 as the final celebratory moment of that vibrant decade.
Historians often gain clearer perspectives in hindsight, especially when analyzing cultural shifts and music trends. It’s important to recognize that transitions in culture don’t occur abruptly with a single date or event; they are usually gradual processes. Imagine a snowball rolling down a hill: it starts small, gradually gains momentum and size, and eventually transforms into something significant and powerful.
Such is the nature of cultural phenomena. For instance, punk music began to emerge in the 1960s as a mere whisper, but by the mid-1970s, it had exploded into a formidable force within the music industry. Similarly, the hippie movement began with small gatherings in places like San Francisco, only to evolve into a global phenomenon that continues to resonate today. Throughout this evolution, countless subtle changes occurred, akin to an avalanche of snowballs rolling down the slope—each contributing to the growth of new sounds, technologies, and trends.
By 1968, we find ourselves at the base of the hill representing the 1960s. The bands that epitomize this era were well-established and had spent years refining their art. The pace of change during this decade was rapid; by the time the decade closed, many artists had multiple albums under their belts, having transformed significantly from where they began.
The musical landscape shifted dramatically throughout the decade, evolving from a more traditional rock and roll sound to something distinctly psychedelic and avant-garde. With the ominous and chaotic conclusion of the decade on the horizon, 1968 stands out as a pivotal year—a moment when established acts could reach new heights before facing potential downfall, or when new artists could emerge as beacons of innovation.
It was an eventful year in music. Jimi Hendrix released his landmark album "Electric Ladyland," unaware that it would be his final work. The Rolling Stones put out "Beggars Banquet" amid Brian Jones's turmoil. The Doors delivered "Waiting For The Sun," while Van Morrison unveiled "Astral Weeks." Additionally, both Joni Mitchell and The Band made their impressive debuts.
Across the musical spectrum, it felt as though the various threads of the 1960s were converging toward a climactic moment before branching off into new directions. Yet, amidst all this creative energy, one particular song emerged as a defining anthem of the year.
What was the best-selling song of 1968?
When considering the band that embodies the spirit of 1968, The Beatles undoubtedly come to mind. Capturing the raw, unpredictable energy of the year, The Beatles were themselves entangled in a tumultuous phase that was nearing its climax, yet they continued to produce remarkable music.
Their album, often referred to as "The White Album," encapsulates the potent mix of creativity and impending chaos that foreshadowed the decline of the peace-and-love movement. Alongside this album, the band also released several impactful singles that year. If there's a saying that what ascends must eventually descend, then The Beatles' trajectory in 1968 represents a thrilling plunge filled with excitement but inevitably leading toward a cataclysm.
Amidst this descent, they gifted the world an everlasting anthem. "Hey Jude," which debuted as a standalone single in August, soared to the top of the charts. Originally written for John Lennon’s son, the song highlighted the growing rift between Lennon and McCartney, suggesting that Paul was stepping up in ways that John could not. However, as a standalone release, it became an enormous hit, ultimately claiming the title of the biggest-selling single in both the UK and the US for that year.
Today, it is estimated that "Hey Jude" has sold over eight million copies worldwide, securing its place as one of the most recognizable songs in music history. It's hard to find someone who isn’t familiar with the catchy refrain of "na na na na." In 1968, as the world seemed to be crumbling around them, The Beatles introduced this iconic tune to listeners for the very first time.
