31 Best Songs From 1956

22. “Sixteen Tons” By Tennessee Ernie Ford

Song Year: 1956

The working man’s anthem, “Sixteen Tons” is one of the most memorable songs of 1956. The song focuses on the story of a coal miner and the hardships he endures to survive.

Tennessee Ernie Ford’s version of “Sixteen Tons” found pop success in 1956. His recording sold over 1 million copies and dominated the country music charts for 10 weeks.

23. “Just Walkin’ in the Rain” By Johnnie Ray

Song Year: 1956

Written by 2 prisoners at Tennessee State Prison, Johnny Bragg and Robert Riley found the idea for the song after walking across the courtyard of the prison during the rain.

While Bragg released a version, the song wasn’t a hit until Johnnie Ray released his version in 1956. Ray’s version of “Just Walkin’ in the Rain” reached number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100.

24. “Allegheny Moon” By Pattie Page

Song Year: 1956

Patti Page recorded her hit version of “Allegheny Moon” in 1956. Her version found success and reached number 2 on the Billboard charts in June of the same year.

Written by Al Hoffman and Dick Manning, Bing Crosby, Guy Mitchell, and Anne Murray also recorded versions of the song.

25. “I’m in Love Again” By Fats Domino

Song Year: 1956

One of the biggest R&B songs of the year, Fats Domino crossed over onto the pop charts with his hit, “I’m in Love Again.” The song spent 7 weeks at the top of the R&B charts and reached number 3 on the pop charts.

This groovy and soulful tune had a lasting impact and influence throughout rock music. Future versions of the song included recordings by Paul McCartney, Pat Boone, and Bonnie Raitt.

26. “Tonight You Belong to Me” By Patience and Prudence

Song Year: 1956

Originally recorded in 1926, Patience and Prudence revived “Tonight You Belong to Me” in 1956. While recorded by several other artists during the era, the Patience and Prudence version reached number 4 on the pop charts.

The song is still incredibly popular and was recently used in commercials and films. The television show “American Horror Story” featured “Tonight You Belong to Me” in 4 episodes in 2011.

27. “Be-Bop-a-Lula” By Gene Vincent

Song Year: 1956

One of the first popular rockabilly songs, Gene Vincent recorded “Be-Bop-a-Lula” in 1956. Thanks to their inclusion in the film, “The Girl Can’t Help It,” Vincent’s version was an instant success. After release, the song went on to peak at number 7 on the Billboard charts and number 8 on the R&B charts.

“Be-Bop-a-Lula” is still an influential song and was covered by a wide range of artists including The Beatles, The Everly Brothers, and The Stray Cats.

28. “Why Do Fools Fall in Love” By Frankie Lymon and the Teenagers

Song Year: 1956

Frankie Lymon and the Teenagers had a big R&B hit on their hands with “Why Do Fools Fall in Love.” Released in 1956, the song peaked at number 1 on the R&B charts while reaching number 6 on the pop singles chart.

The song has a lasting legacy and Rolling Stone added it to their 500 greatest songs of all time list. Versions by The Beach Boys and Diana Ross found success in later decades as well.

29. “Standing on the Corner” By The Four Lads

Song Year: 1956

Our second pick from the Four Lads, “Standing on the Corner” is their second hit of 1956. Peaking at number 3 on the Billboard charts, The Four Lads offer a nostalgic tune that transports you to an easier time.

The song tells the story of a guy who dreams of having a girlfriend but he can’t afford to have one. He can watch from afar but is afraid to take a chance on his dreams.

30. “The Flying Saucer” By Buchanan & Goodman

Song Year: 1956

A novelty comedy record, “The Flying Saucer” is a weird mix of songs, news reports, and interviews while flying saucers land on Earth.

During the recording, you’ll hear a mix of samples from popular records including tracks by The Platters, Elvis Presley, and Little Richard. In between the samples, you get sports scores, interviews with Aliens, and news reports.

31. “Ivory Tower” By Cathy Carr

Song Year: 1956

Recorded by several artists in 1956, Cathy Carr’s version of “Ivory Tower” was the biggest hit. Her slow-moving ballad version of the song reached number 2 on the Billboard charts while also charting in Australia.

Otis Williams also found success with his R&B version of the song in the same year.

Top Songs From 1956, Final Thoughts

There were so many good songs and artists in 1956. It was hard to decide who should be on this list of good music from 1956. Hopefully, we didn’t leave off your favorite rock song or love ballad. Let us know about your best songs from 1956.