Ever wondered how many incredible songs from the 1960s have faded into obscurity? The year 1965 was a whirlwind for music—Bob Dylan went electric, The Beatles dropped Rubber Soul, and The Rolling Stones dominated the charts with 'Satisfaction.' But amidst this musical frenzy, countless tracks were overshadowed, lost to time. Here are three forgotten gems from that iconic year that you’ve likely never heard of—or maybe just can’t quite remember. And this is the part most people miss: these songs, though overlooked, offer a unique glimpse into the era’s creativity. Let’s dive in.
1. 'On the Road Again' by Bob Dylan
Wait, isn’t that a Willie Nelson song? Nope! Long before Nelson’s iconic version, Bob Dylan released his own 'On the Road Again' in 1965 on his album Bringing It All Back Home. While it’s one of the lesser-known tracks on the record—which includes heavyweights like 'Maggie’s Farm' and 'Mr. Tambourine Man'—it’s a fascinating example of Dylan’s surrealist lyricism. The song is a labyrinth of allegory, typical of Dylan’s style, though it’s far from his most celebrated work. But here’s where it gets controversial: Is this track a hidden masterpiece or a justifiable footnote in Dylan’s catalog? You decide.
2. 'For Your Love' by The Yardbirds
The Yardbirds are legendary, not just for their music, but for the three guitar gods who passed through their ranks: Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, and Jimmy Page. Yet, many fans know them more for their lineup than their discography. One track that’s slipped into obscurity is their 1965 hit 'For Your Love,' featuring Clapton on guitar. It was one of his final recordings with the band before his departure that March. But here’s the kicker: Despite its historical significance, the song is rarely discussed today. Is it a forgotten classic or a relic of its time? Let’s spark that debate.
3. 'Days of Decision' by Phil Ochs
When it comes to 1960s folk music, names like Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, and Simon & Garfunkel dominate the conversation. But what about Phil Ochs? His most famous track, 'I Ain’t Marching Anymore,' is a staple, but the lesser-known 'Days of Decision' from the same album deserves a spotlight. If you’re not a die-hard fan of the Greenwich Village folk scene, chances are you’ve missed this one. But trust us—it’s a deep cut worth rediscovering. And this is the part most people miss: Ochs’s ability to capture the era’s political and emotional turmoil in a single song. Is he an overlooked genius or just another voice in the crowd? Weigh in below.
Final Thought: These three songs may have been lost to time, but they’re a testament to the richness of 1965’s musical landscape. Which one do you think deserves a comeback? Or is there another forgotten track from that year you’d add to the list? Let’s keep the conversation going!
