The Best Psychedelic Rock from the 60s and 70s
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Experience the best of psychedelic rock from the 60s and 70s. These are the essential tracks that defined the genre and continue to influence music today.
The Beatles – “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds”
One of the quintessential psychedelic songs, “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds” was released as a single in 1967, taken from The Beatles’ album Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band. The song was written by John Lennon and Paul McCartney, although Lennon claimed that the song’s trippy imagery was inspired by a drawing his then three-year-old son Julian had made of his classmate Lucy O’Donnell. Whatever the inspiration, “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds” is a beautiful and strange song that evokes the feeling of being on an acid trip.
The Doors – “Light My Fire”
“Light My Fire” is the perfect example of The Doors unique sound, which blended psychedelic rock with blues and jazz. Jim Morrison’s enigmatic lyrics, Ray Manzarek’s inventive keyboard work, and the band’s tight musicianship came together to create one of the most memorable songs of the 60s.
Jimi Hendrix – “Purple Haze”
Arguably one of the most iconic and influential electric guitarists of all time, Jimi Hendrix’s groundbreaking work in psychedelic rock cannot be overstated. His second studio album, 1967’s “Are You Experienced”, contained the single “Purple Haze” – a mind-bending track that is still revered as one of the greatest rock songs ever recorded. With its distorted guitars and trippy lyrics, “Purple Haze” is the perfect example of Hendrix’s innovative approach to songwriting and musicianship, and remains an enduring classic of psychedelic rock.
Led Zeppelin – “Whole Lotta Love”
One of the most beloved anthems of the counterculture movement, “Whole Lotta Love” is a true classic of psychedelic rock. Led Zeppelin’s second album, released in early 1969, is often cited as one of the greatest and most influential rock albums of all time. With its driving rhythms, searing guitar solos, and erotic lyrics, “Whole Lotta Love” epitomizes the sound and attitude of psychedelic rock.
Pink Floyd – “Another Brick in the Wall”
The English rock band Pink Floyd is known for their progressive and psychedelic rock music. One of their most famous songs is “Another Brick in the Wall”, which was released in 1979. The song is from the album “The Wall” and it is about the education system. The lyrics are critical of the way that children are treated in schools. The song became very popular and it was used in the film “The Wall”.
The Rolling Stones – “Paint It, Black”
Often cited as the first psychedelic rock song, “Paint It, Black” by The Rolling Stones was released in 1966. With its minor key tonality, heavy use of sitar, and wailing vocals from Mick Jagger, “Paint It, Black” perfectly encapsulates the vibe of psychedelia. The song reached number one in both the US and UK, and has been covered by everyone from Metallica to Janet Jackson.
The Who – “Won’t Get Fooled Again”
The Who – “Won’t Get Fooled Again” is a song by the English rock band The Who, released as a single in 1971.Written by Pete Townshend, it is one of the band’s most famous songs and appeared on their last album of new material, Who’s Next.
