15 Cringy 1960’s Hits That Topped Charts
There were many musical hits in the 1960s, but not everyone was a masterpiece. Despite being extremely popular, some songs left us wondering how they ever topped the charts. Ready to cringe at the questionable taste of the past? Check out 15 of the worst number-one hits from the 1960s—brace yourself for a few surprises!
“Honey” by Bobby Goldsboro (1968)
A bittersweet ballad, “Honey,” shows the tearful story of a husband mourning his late wife. While some listeners found it touching, others felt it was overly melodramatic. It may leave you teary-eyed or rolling your eyes, but it was a chart-topping success that still divides audiences today.
“Sugar, Sugar” by The Archies (1969)
This bubblegum pop hit, performed by a fictional band, dominated the charts with its catchy, sing-along chorus. The repetitive lyrics are either an instant mood booster or a bit too sweet for some tastes. Still, “Sugar, Sugar” solidified its place in pop culture as one of the most iconic songs of the era.
“Winchester Cathedral” by The New Vaudeville Band (1966)
With its quirky, old-fashioned style, “Winchester Cathedral” threw listeners back to the 1920s. Some embraced its whimsical charm; others were puzzled by its place in a decade defined by rock and pop. Whether you loved it or scratched your head, this tune undeniably made its mark.
“Dizzy” by Tommy Roe (1969)
“Dizzy” lives up to its name with its high-energy melody and repetitive chorus. It took over the airwaves, becoming one of the decade’s unforgettable tracks. A few fans couldn’t get enough of the tune’s upbeat charm, while most found it exhausting after a few listens.
“I’m Henry VIII, I Am” by Herman’s Hermits (1965)
This playful, pub-style song is as quirky as it gets, with its lighthearted lyrics and sing-along rhythm. Some listeners adored its carefree spirit, whereas others quickly tired of its repetitive nature. Despite the divide, it became a smash hit and is still remembered for its quirky appeal.
“Hello Goodbye” by The Beatles (1967)
Even The Beatles aren’t immune to mixed reviews. “Hello Goodbye” was a commercial success, yet many critics found its simplistic lyrics underwhelming compared to the band’s more profound work. Nevertheless, its upbeat sound and easy-to-sing-along vibe kept it a fan favorite.
“Yummy, Yummy, Yummy” by Ohio Express (1968)
This is yet another bubblegum pop anthem that wears its sugary appeal on its sleeve. The song’s repetitive lyrics might leave you craving more—or less. Either way, “Yummy, Yummy, Yummy” became an earworm of its era. Even though some loved its playful simplicity, the rest couldn’t take it seriously.
“The Ballad of the Green Berets” by SSgt. Barry Sadler (1966)
A patriotic anthem released during the Vietnam War, this song struck a chord with many Americans. Critics, however, called it overly simplistic and too on-the-nose. Still, the song’s message resonated with listeners at the time, earning its place at the top of the charts.
“Harper Valley PTA” by Jeannie C. Riley (1968)
This country-pop crossover tells the bold tale of a housewife standing up to small-town hypocrisy. Its soap opera-style story was a hit for many, but a few found its drama a bit much. Nevertheless, its defiant message struck a chord with fans, and this made it an unforgettable number-one hit.
“Wild Thing” by The Troggs (1966)
With its gritty sound and unforgettable guitar riff, “Wild Thing” became a raw, energetic anthem of the ’60s. Many praised it as a rebellious classic. Others criticized its rough simplicity. Regardless, it’s undeniably one of the most iconic rock songs of its time.
