29 Best Songs From 1961

1961 was a golden age for music, with everything from jazz, blues, classic country, and classic rock. It was also the start of the British invasion when bands like The Beatles showed up on the scene.

Let’s take a walk through the best songs from 1961.

“Stand By Me” by Ben King

Song Year: 1961

You’ve probably heard “Stand By Me” at all kinds of different occasions: weddings, parties, dinners. It’s the sort of song that always seems to show up one way or another.

The song's message is beautiful: a man asking his woman to stay by his side no matter what comes their way.

“Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley

Song Year: 1961

It’s hard to go wrong with a love song from Elvis Presley. “Can’t Help Falling in Love” is one of his most heartfelt songs, all about a man who is hopelessly in love with the woman of his dreams.

“At Last” by Etta James

Song Year: 1961

Etta James was the sort of powerhouse singer that helped popularize women R&B and soul artists, especially in the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s.

His strong voice, wide range, and sultry attitude made her an almost instant success. “At Last” is probably one of her most famous love songs.

“The Wanderer” by Dion

Song Year: 1961

Dion makes his second appearance on this list with his hit song “The Wanderer,” an upbeat pop song about a traveling man who tries to make it with just about any woman he lays eyes on.

The content seems a little questionable if you really listen to the words. But the beat is so catchy that you almost don’t care.

“I Fall to Pieces” by Patsy Cline

Song Year: 1961

Patsy Cline was known for her deep voice, heartbreaking hits, and down-home country style.

“I Fall to Pieces” was one of the top-ranked songs on the country charts from 1961 and is easily one of Patsy Cline’s biggest hits and also one of the most memorable country songs of the year.

“Moon River” by Andy Williams

Song Year: 1961

Andy Williams sang “Moon River” with the British pop star Danny Williams, and the two singers made it one of the most recognized jazz songs in the United States and the United Kingdom.

It’s not the longest song, but it’s a charming one worth a listen. Definitely some good music from 1961.

“Crazy” by Patsy Cline

Song Year: 1961

Patsy Cline’s other most famous song was “Crazy,” a soulful and heart wrenching tune about a woman who feels insane for falling in love with a certain man.

Now she feels lonely and blue and spends the song rebuking herself for caring enough to try to make things work.

“Big Bad John” by Jimmy Dean

Song Year: 1961

Story songs were popular in country music, especially in the mid-1900s. Few were as potent as Jimmy Dean’s tale of “Big Bad John.”

He’s a man with a reputation and intimidating stature, but he’s also got a heroic nature. When his fellow workers become trapped in a mine, “Big Bad John” springs into action at the cost of his own life.

“Hit The Road Jack” by Ray Charles

Song Year: 1961

“Hit The Road Jack” is the sort of classic that will always be around, no matter what other songs come and go.

You can always count on Ray Charles to brighten the mood with his outstanding piano skills and soulful style when all else fails.

“Runaround Sue” by Dion

Song Year: 1961

In “Runaround Sue,” Dion showcases the unique doo-wap style that made him and other artists in the 1960s so famous.

He begins giving the listener the impression that he will tell a heartbreaking tale. Then the song takes a swing, just good enough for a dance!