QUIZ: Name These Iconic One-Hit Wonders Of The 1960s
The 1960s witnessed a plethora of unforgettable tunes that catapulted these artists to instant fame, only to fade into the annals of music history shortly thereafter. From soulful ballads to catchy pop anthems, these one-hit wonders left an indelible mark on the decade’s vibrant musical landscape.
So, dust off your vinyl records and prepare to challenge your memory as you strive to match the songs to their rightful performers in this thrilling quiz about the one-hit wonders of the 1960s. Let’s dive in and see if you can name all of these chart-topping artists!
Which artist had a one-hit wonder with the song “In the Year 2525”?
A. Zager and Evans
B. The Tornados
C. The Trashmen
D. The Easybeats
Answer: Zager and Evans
Zager and Evans reached the top of the charts in 1969 with their thought-provoking hit “In the Year 2525.” The song’s dystopian lyrics and haunting melody made it an iconic anthem of the late ’60s, capturing the imaginations of listeners around the world.
Which song was made famous by The Angels?
A. “Wipe Out”
B. “My Boyfriend’s Back”
C. “The Lion Sleeps Tonight”
D. “In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida”
Answer: “My Boyfriend’s Back”
The Angels made a splash in 1963 with their hit “My Boyfriend’s Back.” This infectious song, featuring catchy harmonies and a sassy attitude, became an instant classic. It remains an emblematic example of the era’s girl group sound.
Which artist had a one-hit wonder with the song “Sugar, Sugar”?
A. The Monkees
B. The Cowsills
C. The Archies
D. The Partridge Family
Answer: The Archies
The Archies, a fictional band from the animated TV show The Archie Show, scored a massive hit in 1969 with “Sugar, Sugar.” This bubblegum pop gem became a chart-topping sensation, captivating audiences with its sugary-sweet melodies and infectious hooks.
The Surfaris are known for this classic song.
A. “I Fought The Law”
B. “Hang On Sloopy”
C. “Dominique”
D. “Wipe Out”
Answer: “Wipe Out”
The Surfaris rode the wave of success in 1963 with their instrumental hit “Wipe Out.” Known for its iconic drum solo and surf guitar riffs, this energetic tune became synonymous with the surf rock genre, leaving a lasting impact on music lovers worldwide.
This group sang the 1966 song “96 Tears.”
A. ? and the Mysterians
B. The Seeds
C. The Standells
D. The Kingsmen
Answer: ? and the Mysterians
? and the Mysterians burst onto the scene in 1966 with their hit “96 Tears.” This organ-driven garage rock anthem, featuring mysterious and cryptic lyrics, epitomized the raw and rebellious spirit of the era, securing its place in rock ‘n’ roll history.
The Foundations are known for this iconic song.
A. “Blame It On the Bossa Nova”
B. “Build Me Up Buttercup”
C. “If You Wanna Be Happy”
D. “Israelites”
Answer: “Build Me Up Buttercup”
The Foundations struck gold in 1968 with their infectious hit “Build Me Up Buttercup.” This soulful pop tune, characterized by its catchy melody and uplifting lyrics, has remained a beloved classic, filling dance floors and bringing joy to listeners for decades.
Name this 60s music group.
A. The Hollies
B. The Kinks
C. The Zombies
D. The Animals
Answer: The Zombies
The Zombies captivated audiences in 1968 with their mesmerizing hit “Time of the Season.” Known for its hypnotic rhythm and soulful vocals, this psychedelic rock gem has become an iconic representation of the late ’60s musical landscape.
This song was made famous by The Kingsmen.
A. “Ode to Billie Joe”
B. “Na Na Hey Hey Kiss Him Goodbye”
C. “The Monster Mash”
D. “Louie Louie”
Answer: “Louie Louie”
The Kingsmen gained fame in 1963 with their raucous rendition of “Louie Louie.” Despite its famously indecipherable lyrics, this garage rock anthem became a cultural phenomenon, exemplifying the rebellious spirit and infectious energy of the ’60s rock ‘n’ roll scene.
They sang the song “Hitchin’ A Ride.”
A. Vanity Fare
B. The Grass Roots
C. The Buckinghams
D. The Lemon Pipers
Answer: Vanity Fare
Vanity Fare had a breakout hit with “Hitchin’ a Ride.” This catchy pop-rock tune, filled with harmonies and a sing-along chorus, captured the carefree essence of the ’60s and remains a memorable favorite among fans of the era.
They were known for the song “Green Tambourine.”
A. The Box Tops
B. The Seeds
C. The Lemon Pipers
D. The Lovin’ Spoonful
Answer: The Lemon Pipers
The Lemon Pipers made a splash in 1968 with their psychedelic pop hit “Green Tambourine.” With its distinctive tambourine-driven melody and trippy atmosphere, this song perfectly encapsulated the experimental and colorful sound of the late ’60s.
Which of these songs is by The Music Explosion?
A. “Green Onions”
B. “Oh Happy Day”
C. “Tiptoe Through the Tulips”
D. “Little Bit O’ Soul”
Answer: “Little Bit O’ Soul”
The Music Explosion burst onto the scene in 1967 with their energetic hit “Little Bit O’ Soul.” This garage rock gem, characterized by its catchy guitar riffs and infectious hooks, remains a beloved favorite among fans of ’60s rock music.
Who sings “Baby It’s You?”
A. Smith
B. The Shangri-Las
C. The Dixie Cups
D. The Chiffons
Answer: Smith
Smith achieved chart success in 1969 with their soulful rendition of “Baby It’s You.” This powerful and emotive ballad, featuring lead singer Gayle McCormick’s captivating vocals, resonated with listeners, leaving a lasting impression within the ’60s music scene.
Which song was made famous by The Grass Roots?
A. “Who Put the Bomp (In the Bomp-A-Bomp-A-Bomp)”
B. “Let’s Live for Today”
C. “You Talk Too Much”
D. “Polk Salad Annie”
Answer: “Let’s Live for Today”
The Grass Roots made waves in 1967 with their hit “Let’s Live for Today.” This anthemic rock tune, characterized by its driving rhythm and optimistic lyrics, struck a chord with the counterculture movement and remains a staple of ’60s nostalgia.
He sings “Spirit in the Sky.”
A. Erik Jacobsen
B. Terry Jacks
C. Norman Greenbaum
D. Barry McGuire
Answer: Norman Greenbaum
Norman Greenbaum soared to fame with his infectious hit “Spirit in the Sky.” Fusing rock and gospel influences, this uplifting and spiritually-charged song became an iconic anthem, earning its place as one of the most memorable one-hit wonders of the ’60s.
Do you know the big hit by Strawberry Alarm Clock?
A. “Hippy Hippy Shake”
B. “Walk on the Wild Side”
C. “Tie Me Kangaroo Down Sport”
D. “Incense and Peppermints”
Answer: “Incense and Peppermints”
Strawberry Alarm Clock made a psychedelic splash in 1967 with their hit “Incense and Peppermints.” This trippy and whimsical song, known for its catchy melodies and swirling organ, perfectly captured the psychedelic spirit of the era.
Do you remember who sings “Snoopy vs. The Red Baron”?
A. The Royal Guardsmen
B. The Troggs
C. The Kingsmen
D. The McCoys
Answer: The Royal Guardsmen
The Royal Guardsmen achieved success in 1966 with their novelty hit “Snoopy vs. The Red Baron.” This lighthearted and fun song, inspired by the beloved Peanuts comic strip, became a playful addition to the ’60s musical landscape.
The Jelly Beans sang this tune in the 60s.
A. “They’re Coming to Take Me Away, Ha-Haaa!”
B. “Naughty Girl”
C. “Cool Jerk”
D. “Harlem Shuffle”
Answer: “Naughty Girl”
The Jelly Beans had a brief moment in the spotlight in 1964 with their hit “Naughty Girl.” This infectious and energetic song, showcasing the group’s harmonies and catchy melodies, captured the youthful exuberance of the ’60s.
Small Faces earned fame with this catchy tune.
A. “Only One Woman”
B. “Natural Born Bugie”
C. “Crumbs Off the Table”
D. “Itchycoo Park”
Answer: “Itchycoo Park”
Small Faces made waves in 1967 with their psychedelic hit “Itchycoo Park.” Known for its dreamy melodies and whimsical lyrics, this song perfectly encapsulated the spirit of the era and became an enduring classic of ’60s rock.
They are known for the song “Keep on Dancing.”
A. The Buckinghams
B. The Box Tops
C. The Gentrys
D. The Shadows of Knight
Answer: The Gentrys
The Gentrys found success in 1965 with their dance-oriented hit “Keep on Dancing.” This upbeat and catchy tune, filled with infectious rhythms and a driving beat, became a favorite on dance floors across the country.
Who sings “Crimson and Clover”?
A. Tommy James & The Shondells
B. The Grass Roots
C. The Turtles
D. The Lemon Pipers
Answer: Tommy James & The Shondells
Tommy James & The Shondells achieved chart success in 1968 with their mesmerizing hit “Crimson and Clover.” This psychedelic rock ballad, known for its dreamy atmosphere and hypnotic guitar riffs, remains an enduring favorite among fans of the era.
Gary Lewis & The Playboys became famous for this song.
A. “(Today I Met) The Boy I’m Gonna Marry”
B. “This Diamond Ring”
C. “Mr. Custer”
D. “Paper Roses”
Answer: “This Diamond Ring”
Gary Lewis & The Playboys struck gold in 1965 with their hit “This Diamond Ring.” This romantic pop tune, featuring Lewis’ earnest vocals and catchy melodies, captured the hearts of listeners and propelled the band to instant fame.
This band became recognized after the release of the song “Lies.”
A. The Lovin’ Spoonful
B. The Shadows of Knight
C. The Knickerbockers
D. The Buckinghams
Answer: The Knickerbockers
The Knickerbockers had a brief moment in the spotlight in 1966 with their hit “Lies.” This Beatlesque rock tune, featuring jangly guitars and infectious harmonies, showcased the band’s musical prowess and captured the essence of the British Invasion sound.
Which of these songs is by The Human Beinz?
A. “You Talk Too Much”
B. “Something in the Air”
C. “Color Him Father”
D. “Nobody But Me”
Answer: “Nobody But Me”
The Human Beinz made waves in 1968 with their energetic hit “Nobody But Me.” This high-energy rock tune, driven by its powerful vocals and infectious rhythm, quickly became a favorite among fans of ’60s rock music.
Which artist had a one-hit wonder with the song “Cherry Hill Park”?
A. The Cowsills
B. Billy Joe Royal
C. Tommy James & The Shondells
D. The Winstons
Answer: The Cowsills
The Cowsills achieved chart success in 1969 with their hit “Cherry Hill Park.” This upbeat and melodic song, filled with sunny harmonies and catchy hooks, reflected the carefree spirit of the era and remains a favorite among fans of ’60s pop music.
Young-Holt Unlimited made this song a smash hit in 1968.
A. “Black Pearl”
B. “Soulful Strut”
C. “Nothing But A Heartache”
D. “Lily the Pink”
Answer: “Soulful Strut”
Young-Holt Unlimited gained recognition in 1968 with its instrumental hit “Soulful Strut.” This soul-jazz composition, characterized by its infectious groove and smooth instrumentation, became a beloved instrumental classic of the ’60s.
Only true music fans will know who sings “Simon Says.”
A. The Monkees
B. The Lovin’ Spoonful
C. 1910 Fruitgum Company
D. The Box Tops
Answer: 1910 Fruitgum Company
1910 Fruitgum Company burst onto the scene in 1968 with their bubblegum pop hit “Simon Says.” This playful and catchy tune, complete with clapping and sing-along instructions, became a dance floor favorite and a nostalgic gem of the ’60s.
Which band was behind “The Letter?”
A. The Box Tops
B. The Turtles
C. The Scaffold
D. The Marbles
Answer: The Box Tops
The Box Tops skyrocketed to fame in 1967 with their hit “The Letter.” This soulful rock song, driven by lead singer Alex Chilton’s powerful vocals, captivated audiences and remains an iconic example of the era’s rock and soul fusion.
Which song put The Outsiders on the map?
A. “Get Together”
B. “Time Won’t Let Me”
C. “Take A Letter Maria”
D. “Worst That Could Happen”
Answer: “Time Won’t Let Me”
The Outsiders made a lasting impression in 1966 with their hit “Time Won’t Let Me.” This energetic rock tune, featuring a memorable guitar riff and catchy chorus, showcased the band’s talent and became a staple of ’60s rock radio.
Guess the band who sings “Yummy Yummy Yummy.”
A. The Intrigues
B. The Flying Machine
C. Ohio Express
D. The Hesitations
Answer: Ohio Express
Ohio Express made a splash in 1968 with their bubblegum pop hit “Yummy Yummy Yummy.” This infectious and upbeat song, known for its catchy hooks and sing-along chorus, remains a nostalgic favorite among fans of ’60s pop music.
Which artist had a one-hit wonder with the song “Out of Time”?
A. Chris Farlowe
B. Hugo Montenegro
C. Richard Harris
D. Mason Williams
Answer: Chris Farlowe
Chris Farlowe had a notable hit in 1966 with “Out of Time.” This soulful and bluesy rock song, featuring Farlowe’s powerful vocals, struck a chord with audiences and remains a testament to the timeless appeal of ’60s rock music.
Who sings “Little Green Apples”?
A. Bobby Taylor
B. Leon Ashley
C. O.C. Smith
D. Willie Mitchell
Answer: O.C. Smith
O.C. Smith found success in 1968 with his hit “Little Green Apples.” This soulful and introspective song, featuring Smith’s smooth vocals, explored themes of love and appreciation, earning him a place in the hearts of listeners.
Tom Jones sings this iconic ’60s song.
A. “Spooky”
B. “The Funky Judge”
C. “Soul Serenade”
D. “Green, Green Grass of Home”
Answer: “Green, Green Grass of Home”
Tom Jones struck a chord with audiences in 1966 with his poignant hit “Green, Green Grass of Home.” This emotional ballad, showcasing Jones’ powerful vocals and storytelling ability, became a signature song for the legendary crooner.
Who is known for singing “A Beautiful Morning”?
A. The Rascals
B. Iron Butterfly
C. The Soul Survivors
D. The Easybeats
Answer: The Rascals
The Rascals brightened up the charts in 1968 with their optimistic hit “A Beautiful Morning.” This joyous and upbeat song, filled with infectious melodies and uplifting lyrics, continues to be a favorite feel-good tune for fans of ’60s pop rock.
Name the song by Jay and the Techniques.
A. “Kind of A Drag”
B. “Apples, Peaches, Pumpkin Pie”
C. “Nothing Takes the Place of You”
D. “For Your Precious Love”
Answer: “Apples, Peaches, Pumpkin Pie”
“Apples, Peaches, Pumpkin Pie” by Jay & the Techniques was a vibrant and infectious hit in 1967. This lively soul-pop tune, driven by catchy hooks and energetic vocals, captured the essence of carefree ’60s pop music, leaving a lasting impression on listeners with its irresistible charm.
Which band sings “Hang On Sloopy”?
A. Alvin Cash & The Crawlers
B. Freddie & The Dreamers
C. The McCoys
D. The Toys
Answer: The McCoys
“Hang On Sloopy” by the McCoys was a rock anthem that took the charts by storm in 1965. With its catchy guitar riff and spirited vocals, this infectious song became a timeless classic, representing the rebellious spirit and energetic sound of the ’60s rock scene.
This song made Jewel Akens a one-hit wonder.
A. “The Boy from New York City”
B. “The Game of Love”
C. “Hole in the Wall”
D. “The Birds & the Bees”
Answer: “The Birds & the Bees”
“The Birds & the Bees” by Jewel Akens became a memorable hit in 1965. With its catchy melody and playful lyrics, this lighthearted song captured the innocence and flirtatious nature of young love, leaving a sweet and enduring impression on the ’60s pop landscape.
