29 Best Songs From 1959

“Mr. Blue” by The Fleetwoods

Song year: 1959

This slow, melancholy pop song by The Fleetwoods might resonate with anyone feeling heartbroken over someone who doesn’t share the same feelings of love you have for them. The lyrics’ blue symbolism and guitar and trombone accompaniment emphasize the narrator’s sadness.

I prefer listening to this song after a rough week. This song topped Billboard’s Hot 100 Chart and ranked second on the Hot R&B Sides Chart.

“What A Diff’rence A Day Made” by Dinah Washington

Song year: 1959

Although many people have recorded their renditions of “What A Diff’rence A Day Made,” Dinah Washington’s jazz-inspired take is one of the most well-known. Its slower tempo enhances its romantic energy courtesy of the lyrics describing how a person’s life can change after finding love.

This song ranked within the Top Ten of Billboard’s Hot 100 Chart, won a Grammy Award for “Best Rhythm and Blues Performance,” and got inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1998.

“Waterloo” by Stonewall Jackson

Song year: 1959

If you’re a country fan looking for good music from 1959, you can’t go wrong with Stonewall Jackson’s “Waterloo.” The song’s title references an expression relating to defeat, emphasizing that everyone has to face failure at some point in their lives.

The song spent five weeks in the top spot on Billboard’s US Country Music Chart and ranked fourth on the Hot 100 Chart.

“Turn Me Loose” by Fabian

Song year: 1959

Fabian’s “Turn Me Loose” encapsulates the feeling every young man experiences when he goes out into the world independently and craves love. Although the song isn’t as fast-paced as other rock and roll hits at the time, its guitar accompaniment keeps it sounding fresh.

This song was Fabian’s first hit on the music scene, peaking at the ninth spot on Billboard’s Hot 100 Chart.

“That’s Why (I Love You So)” by Jackie Wilson

Song year: 1959

Jackie Wilson’s “That’ Why (I Love You So)” is a soulful and uplifting love song that can brighten up anyone’s day. The lyrics emphasize the narrator’s feelings about the one he loves, stating how lucky he is to have her by his side. It ranked second on the R&B charts and 13th on the Hot 100 Chart.

“There Goes My Baby” by The Drifters

Song year: 1959

The Drifters released “There Goes My Baby” as soul music grew in popularity and doo-wop passed as one decade moved to the next. The lyrics describe a man wishing his love would return after breaking her heart. The vocals blend well with the swelling string accompaniment, giving the song a bittersweet touch.

This soulful song topped Billboard’s Hot R&B Sides Chart and ranked second on the Hot 100 Chart.

“Primrose Lane” by Jerry Wallace

Song year: 1959

Jerry Wallace’s “Primrose Lane” is one of the best songs from 1959 for any avid music lover looking for vintage country tunes. The song depicts a man walking through the streets with the woman he loves and enjoying life with her.

Like most songs in this period, it has a short yet simple execution, enhanced by its guitar and brass accompaniment. It ranked eighth on Billboard’s Hot 100 Chart.

“Lipstick On Your Collar” by Connie Francis

Song year: 1959

Connie Francis‘ “Lipstick On Your Collar” tells a straightforward story in its lyrics about a woman finding out about her lover’s unfaithfulness. Despite its upbeat and playful sound, these lyrics’ subject manner might resonate with experience issues in a relationship.

This song ranked fifth on Billboard’s Hot 100 Chart and sold over one million copies. It was also the theme song for the 1993 British TV serial Lipstick on Your Collar.

“Enchanted” by The Platters

Song year: 1959

Like most good music from 1959, you can’t go wrong with an immersive love song. The Platters’ “Enchanted” embraces the ideas of love through lyrics describing how finding love is one of the best experiences a person can imagine. The vocals’ harmonies give the song a pleasant sound. This enchanting song ranked 12th on the Billboard Hot 100 Chart and ninth on the R&B charts.

Top Songs From 1959, Final Thoughts

1959 was an impactful year when many famous artists and groups released music that resonated with the youth. No matter what music styles you prefer, you’re bound to find a new favorite while searching for top songs from 1959 for your playlist.