Gary Watton: commentator and satirist

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He Ain't Heavy , He's My Brother by The Hollies

Long before the emergence of Madchester or before Manchester became a mecca for the indie/new wave scene, it was the Hollies who originally flew the flag for this city. The group regularly flirted with the upper echelons of the UK singles chart, having been 'top of the pops' in 1965 with 'I'm Alive'. However, arguably their greatest 'sixties recording was this slice of brotherly love, ably assisted by a prominent harmonica, strings, and the group's trademark harmonies.

If I Can Dream by Elvis Presley

The king of rock 'n' roll made a belated attempt to regain his throne by abandoning his mediocre acting career and returning to what he always did best: singing and performing. A 'Comeback Special' was filmed and screened to wide acclaim with Elvis showcasing a new tune, 'If I Can Dream'. It wasn't exactly hip-swivelling stuff, but 'If I Can Dream' is a mini-epic which reminded one and all of the majesty of Mr P. Buoyed by this comeback, Elvis enjoyed a brief flurry of big hits.



I Want You (She's So Heavy) by The Beatles 

After group relations were frayed by the sessions for the not-yet released 'Let It Be' album, the once fab four managed to patch up their differences and re-enlisted George Martin for the more harmonious 'Abbey Road' project. Determined to go out on a high, John Lennon weighs in with the lengthy and slightly disturbing 'I Want You (She's So Heavy)'. Dominated by guitar and Lennon's unremitting demand of 'I want you', the song ends abruptly when Lennon states: cut the tape 'there'.



Nothing Is Easy by Jethro Tull

Long-haired flautist Ian Anderson carved out his own niche in the world of rock with a number of unique singles and albums. Nothing is indeed easy but Jethro Tull serve up a treat with this item from their 'Stand Up' album. Not only is the flute-playing a joy to behold, but the intro is out of this world. Jethro Tull are largely unheard of by the 21st century audience of X Factor devotees. One can feel nothing but sympathy for those who are oblivious of this quirky recording.



Ramble On by Led Zeppelin

Ace guitarist Jimmy Page alternated between acoustic guitar and electric guitar while Bonzo Bonham's drumming was both sedate and ferocious as the mighty Zeppelin demonstrated their light and shade dynamic in this outstanding piece from their second album. Robert Plant meanwhile revisits the well-worn theme of the rolling stone, born under a wanderin' star who is unable to settle down and whose itchy feet set out for pastures new. Here was a new band really hitting its awesome stride.



Reflections Of My Life by Marmalade

Marmalade were the toast of the airwaves with their own joyful rendition of the Beatles' 'Ob-La-Di-Ob-La-Da' which reached the top of the pops in the UK in early 1969. At the end of the year, the gang were back again with something completely different. 'Reflections Of My Life' was a sensitive tune and didn't belong in the happy-go-lucky bracket. The track is notable for a backwards guitar whilst also decorated with strings. It is one of the best sad songs in popular music.



Someday We'll Be Together by Diana Ross & The Supremes 

The Supremes closed out the decade by occupying familiar territory, the summit of the Billboard Hot 100. It was something of a bitter-sweet triumph as this was the swansong for the leading Supreme, Diana Ross, who had just announced that this single would be her last with the group, as she prepared to launch her own solo career. Whether the song title suggested a group reunion was open to question, but the tragic death of original Supreme, Flo Ballard in 1976, scuppered any such hopes.



Something In The Air by Thunderclap Newman

There was certainly something in the air in 1968, which was something of a year of protests and riots. This theme surfaces in this memorable tune from the short-lived 'Thunderclap Newman'. This revolutionary single was a call to arms which if nothing else climbed to the peak position of the UK chart in mid-summer. This studio band included Jimmy McCulloch, future guitarist with Wings and the song was produced by Pete Townshend. It was his only involvement with a UK chart-topper.



Wonderful World , Beautiful People by Jimmy Cliff 

Before Jimmy Cliff found fame with his leading role in the film, 'The Harder They Come', he made a few forays into the UK charts. Notable among them was this single which revealed Cliff's longing for a better world. Cliff even exhorts Prime Minister Wilson and President Nixon in mid-song, though one could argue that his pleas fell on deaf ears. Here was another song that fell into the skinhead reggae category as Jamaican music found an unlikely audience with working-class white men.



You Can't Always Get What You Want by The Rolling Stones

1969 witnessed the death of Rolling Stone, Brian Jones, (who was almost certainly murdered) while Marianne Faithfull nearly joined him a few days later when she overdosed. Undaunted by these traumas, Mick Jagger rode on regardless, as he went down to the demonstration to get his fair share of abuse! A choir was thrown in to this epic for good measure. This was the long closing track to the critically acclaimed 'Let It Bleed' album which had opened with the equally remarkable 'Gimme Shelter'.

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Build Me Up Buttercup by The Foundations

Having enjoyed a marvellous chart-topper in 1967 with 'Baby, Now That I've Found You', the Foundations journeyed up the hit parade again with the toe-tapper 'Build Me Up Buttercup'. It still deservedly receives airplay many decades later, a testimony to its timeless impact. Although this single climbed to the top spot on the US Cashbox chart in early 1969, the Foundations did not build upon the foundations of this commercial triumph.

Burning Of The Midnight Lamp by The Jimi Hendrix Experience

"Loneliness is such a drag" wailed Hendrix on this remarkable track from the double album 'Electric Ladyland'. Here the guitar virtuoso treats us to some wah-wah guitar, and throw in the harpsichord plus the rhythm of Mitch and Noel, and the outcome is pretty spectacular. It was such a pity that Hendrix would part company with Chas Chandler, and in time with his bass player and drummer too. Jimi never matched this excellence again. What a waste.

Can Blue Men Sing The Whites? by The Bonzo Dog Band

Having initially guested on the Beatles' 'Magical Mystery Tour' film fiasco, the Bonzos were back in the limelight in 1968 with the suitably ludicrous 'I'm The Urban Spaceman'. These urban spacemen also released an album entitled 'The Doughnut In Granny's Greenhouse'. This project included the spoof song which in its own weird way questioned whether English white boys should be singing the blues. It's a frantic little number with guitar and harmonica to the fore. It's worth checking out.

Crossroads by Cream

In-fighting amongst the trio's rhythm section ensured that Cream would be a short-lived phenomenon. Before they bade their 'fond' farewells at the Royal Albert Hall, they weighed in with an outstanding live interpretation of Robert Johnson's 'Crossroads'. This must surely rank alongside 'My Back Pages' and 'All Along The Watchtower' as the best cover version of the decade. Take four minutes to bask in Eric Clapton on guitar and vocals here. It's time well spent.

Lazy Sunday by The Small Faces

The cockney mods had really found their feet with the splendid 'Ogden's Nut Gone Flake'. The LP included this UK Number Two smash. It's a real slice of joie de vivre from that artful dodger Steve Marriott, assisted by Ian McLagen on keyboards, bemoaning intolerant

neighbours who have no time for ravers! The Small Faces were really starting to go places, but regrettably Marriott jumped ship, leaving les autres to form the Faces with Rod and Woody, a rock group-cum-drinking club.

Old Friends by Simon And Garfunkel

The old friends of Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel had spent enough time together that by the late 'sixties, their old friendship was becoming strained. Before they took a prolonged leave of one another, they recorded their penultimate studio album, 'Bookends'. The LP takes its name from the track 'Old Friends', a gentle, reflective piece with an orchestral arrangement thrown in. It may not be one of their toe-tappers, but this easy listening item is worth several listens.

Pictures Of Matchstick Men by Status Quo

Status Quo were the latest English male guitar group to emerge on planet pop. Their debut single was very much in keeping with its time, a slice of psychedelia which would be a far cry from much of their output in the rockin' seventies. Francis Rossi for the time being was

sporting a moustache and hadn't yet reinvented himself as a good time rocker. He was however the lead vocalist on one of the best songs of its era, and that was more than good for starters.

Rainbow Valley by The Love Affair

Young Steve Ellis and his group helped themselves to a brilliant UK Number One with 'Everlasting Love'. Although its follow-up, 'Rainbow Valley', failed to reach the 'top of the pops', it was a hugely commendable single. Ellis longs for the safe haven of Rainbow Valley accompanied by fine female vocals and a notable contribution from the brass section. Deservedly, this release found a place in the UK Top 5. It is without doubt among the best singles of not only 1968, but of all-time.

Set The Controls For The Heart Of The Sun by Pink Floyd

With the wayward genius of Syd Barrett beginning to lose his marbles on account of his acid consumption, the other three were resigned to having to cut their umbilical cord and go it alone without the charismatic Syd. Recruiting new guitarist, Dave Gilmour, they opted for space rock on 'Set The Controls For The Heart Of The Sun'. This was one of the first occasions when Roger Waters took over songwriting duties. The result was sufficiently impressive to encourage him to write more tunes.

The Way Young Lovers Do by Van Morrison

Van the man served his musical apprenticeship with Them who were welcome visitors to the airwaves with the likes of 'Here Comes The Night'. Belfast's most famous singer then chose to go it alone and came forth with a remarkable eight-track album entitled 'Astral Weeks'.

Although this project was something of an acquired taste, it did possess this obscure gem which, assisted by an excellent horns accompaniment, was a bit more energetic than most of the other laid-back tunes on the LP.

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THE BEST 10 SONGS OF 1967?

Death Of A Clown by Dave Davies

Having previously treated the airwaves to the superb 'Waterloo Sunset', Dave Davies emerged from the shadow of his brother Ray and the other Kinks to briefly fly solo on this delightful ditty. He followed up the success of this release with another admirable single, 'Susannah's Still Alive' before returning to further Kinks projects. Anyhow, let's all drink to this UK Top 3 hit with its la-la-la backing vocals.

Don't Sleep In The Subway by Petula Clark

'Downtown' is undoubtedly Petula's best-known song. It even reached the coveted Number One position on the US Billboard and Cashbox singles charts. However, I have a liking for this relatively minor hit. Petula Clark may have delivered a number of strong-selling singles, but her vocals and the musical accompaniment on this particular recording are worthy of repeated listens.

007 by Desmond Dekker And The Aces

Desmond Dekker was the first male Jamaican singing sensation to find international popularity. This recording may have been viewed in some quarters as something of a novelty song, but more hits followed. In this track Dekker makes reference to the rude boys of the shanty town. These were Jamaican gangsters whose deeds inspired some of the material at this time in Jamaica where the craze of blue beat and ska was in fashion. It also found a willing audience amongst inner-city Britain.

Excerpt From A Teenage Opera by Keith West

It wasn't exactly an opera song, though the subject matter was something of a soap opera as folks ponder the absence of the once-reliable

grocer Jack. As we discover that poor old Jack's delivery days are over, we are treated to a wondrous tune. The backing vocals of the children would have attracted a young audience, but this single proved popular amongst the older age group who appreciated the strings of this unusual ballad. This was definitely one of the 1960s' best novelty records.

Let's Go To San Francisco by The Flower Pot Men

San Francisco was the happening place to be in 1967 as numerous flower people made pilgrimages to Haight-Ashbury to bask in the sunshine, the sea, the sounds, and the substances. The Flower Pot Men were one-hit wonders but they did leave the legacy of this fine museum piece from the 'summer of love'. Scott McKenzie and the Animals had also paid homage to San Francisco in their song titles, as the west coast of the USA became the Mecca for all self-respecting hippies.

Light My Fire by The Doors

The Doors eclipsed both the Beach Boys and the Byrds in 1967 as the leading act from the west coast of the USA. They hit the ground running with a memorable debut album that featured the psychotic 'The End' as well as this lighter item. Ray Manzarek's keyboards are an absolute joy here as the charismatic Jim Morrison remains sufficiently sober to get playful. Hereafter Jim's behaviour would become erratic, but quality tunes continued to be delivered until his death in 1971.

Massachusetts

Whilst other citizens of pop world were thinking about San Francisco, the Bee Gees were singing of a location on the opposite coast. A decade before they became the premier disco act, the Gibb brothers were issuing this two and a half minute piece of melancholy. Record buyers were suitably impressed by the orchestral arrangement and the vocals of this release to reward these new singing sensations with a British chart-topper. The USA were yet to be convinced.

She's A Rainbow by The Rolling Stones

1967 has been described as an 'annus horribilis' for the strolling ruins as they fell foul of the law and fell out with one another. Ultimately Brian, Keef, and Mick narrowly escaped porridge, but they didn't escape widespread scorn when they attempted their very own 'Pepper' album. The result was the sorely under-rated 'Their Satanic Majesties Request'. This LP featured the delightful 'She's A Rainbow'. Assisted by the piano, this was a colourful psychedelic Stones track.

Somethin

The Sinatras had been regular visitors to the Transatlantic charts in recent times, and each had enjoyed a Number One single in 1966. In fact they spent the turn of the year competing against one another in the midst of the Billboard's Top 10. Now at last, father and daughter joined ranks with this easy listening piece which predictably climbed to the top of the pop listings. It was a unique achievement for a family get-together. Maybe it inspired the Jacksons and the Osmonds.

Within You

George Harrison was among the first western pop artists to embrace the eastern sounds as demonstrated by the likes of India's sitar man, Ravi Shankar. Harrison brought this influence into his own compositions. A number of Asian instruments were drafted into the likes of John

Lennon's 'Strawberry Fields Forever' and George's offering for the Pepper album, 'Within You Without You'. This five-minute wonder is a strong contender for the album's best song.

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THE BEST 10 SONGS OF 1966?

Dedicated Follower Of Fashion by The Kinks

Ray Davies emerged as one of the most respected songwriters of his generation as his compositions were an observation of the state of the UK, from the down-at-heel 'Dead End Street' to the nouveau riche lamenting a 'Sunny Afternoon'. Then of course there was this

satirical swipe at the dandies and fashionistas who were making pilgrimage to London's Carnaby Street. Like many of their contemporaries, the Kinks were travelling away from frantic origins towards something more thoughtful.

Distant Drums by Jim Reeves

Once upon a time, air travel was the tragic undoing of many a talented globetrotter. Jim Reeves succumbed to an early grave, courtesy of an aeroplane crash on July the 31st 1964. His wife still ensured that Jim's esteemed repertoire would continue to surface beyond his untimely demise. 'Distant Drums' was his most successful posthumous smash hit, as it conquered the UK singles chart in the late summer of 1966.

Gimme Some Lovin

The teenage Stevie Winwood raised the roof with an engaging uptempo number which stands favourable comparison with any dance song that emanated from the swinging 'sixties. This track was notable for its intro and the fabulous organ sound. Remarkably, it failed narrowly to

reach the UK singles summit, though it perhaps was more deserving of this lofty position than the group's two recent chart-toppers, 'Keep On Running' and 'Somebody Help Me'.

Go Where You Wanna Go by The Mamas And The Papas

Vocal harmonies rarely sounded better than they did when this mixed gender quartet combined so well in the recording studio. Whilst Michelle was sacked and then reinstated on account of her infidelity, the group still thrived in spite of the disharmony. Along with the hit single 'I Saw Her Again', this album track was amongst the very best pop songs of 1966.

Last Train To Clarksville by The Monkees

After the Beatles had conquered the United States with both their breezy pop music and their cheeky charm, imitators were sought. In the event, four Beatles clones were found in the guise of the Monkees. Critics may have scoffed at their lack of musical prowess and the fact that they had to rely on other songwriters, nevertheless this new fab four thrilled their teenage followers with such catchy tunes as the guitardecorated 'Last Train To Clarksville'. Here began the latest stars.

Rainy Day Women Nos. 12 & 35 by Bob Dylan

Many Dylan aficionados take his music a bit too seriously, which is surprising, given that the great man was himself prone to a bit of humour. The album opener for the excellent 'Blonde On Blonde' project was one such case, in which Mr Zimmerman suggests "everybody must get stoned." What, like the early Christian martyr Stephen? No, not exactly, one can safely deduce that this was a call to indulge in some marijuana. This likeable, but rather oddball tune narrowly fell short of the US pop summit.

Reach Out

Nobody can put a date on the origin of disco music, but I would venture that this fine product from Tamla Motown is one of the pioneering dancefloor classics of the 1960s. The Four Tops were one of the great North American singing groups of their era, alongside the Miracles and the Temptations. This danceable delight is undoubtedly the highlight of their career.

When A Man Loves A Woman by Percy Sledge

This release hit the top of the Billboard Hot 100, whilst in the UK, it journeyed into the Top 10 in 1966 and again in 1987 when another retro item, Ben E King's 'Stand By Me' kept it away from the Number One spot. Sledge's singing is a wonder, assisted by good contributions from the organ and the backing vocalists. Regrettably, he failed to build upon this triumph.

Wild Thing by The Troggs

The Troggs not surprisingly found favour on both sides of the Atlantic with this tune which was something of a rock and pop crossover hit. There may have been only one Elvis, but there were two Presleys, including the group's lead singer Reg. Jimi Hendrix was sufficiently impressed to cover this song at the Monterey Pop Festival just prior to setting fire to his guitar. The Troggs had a few big hits, including 'Love Is All Around' in the USA in 1968, though songwriting royalties from that record weren't boosted until it was successfully covered in 1994 by Wet Wet Wet.

Wrapping Paper by Cream

They were well-named because the power trio of Ginger Baker, Jack Bruce, and Eric Clapton were the cream of the British blues scene. Their first single, 'Wrapping Paper', is by no means their best recording, but it is rather quaint and considerably better than Baker has suggested. The drummer scathingly regarded it as the worst song he had heard in his entire life, which may be attributed to his concern that it was the start of the Jack Bruce/Pete Brown songwriting axis.