In the realm of music, the 1960s were a time of experimentation and innovation, giving birth to sounds that would later define an entire genre. While alternative rock as we know it today didn't fully materialize until the late 1970s and early 1980s, the seeds of this genre were sown much earlier. In my opinion, three songs from the 1960s stand out as particularly influential in the development of alternative rock, each in its own unique way. These tracks, though not widely recognized at the time, have left an indelible mark on the genre, shaping its sound and spirit. Let's delve into these three songs and explore why they are so significant.
The Velvet Underground - "H*roin"
"H*roin" is, in my view, the quintessential proto-alternative rock song. It's a track that encapsulates the raw, unfiltered energy that would later define the genre. The song's noise, its vulgar subject matter, and its two-chord structure are all hallmarks of alternative rock. When you listen to bands like Sonic Youth, you can hear the direct influence of this song, a testament to its enduring impact. What's fascinating is how this song, despite not being released as a single and thus not charting, has become a cornerstone of alternative rock. Its experimental nature and bold subject matter have ensured its place in music history, and its influence can be heard in countless bands that followed.
The Stooges - "1969"
"1969" by The Stooges is another song that, in my opinion, leans heavily into the grunge side of alternative rock. The band's self-titled debut album is a proto-punk masterpiece, but this particular song stands out for its repetitive riff and volatile vocals. It's no surprise that bands like Nirvana and Mudhoney were heavily influenced by Iggy Pop and The Stooges. The song's raw, unapologetic energy and its focus on the darker side of life are hallmarks of grunge, a subgenre that would later dominate the alternative rock scene. The Stooges' influence on these later bands is undeniable, and "1969" is a prime example of how the genre evolved from its early roots.
The Kinks - "Shangri-La"
"Shangri-La" by The Kinks is a song that, at first glance, seems like a standard folky-sounding rock record from the late 1960s. However, upon closer inspection, it becomes clear that this song has had a significant impact on alternative rock songwriters in the 1990s. The song's unique and observational storytelling, complete with a touch of depressing irony, is a hallmark of alternative rock. Bands like R.E.M. and The Smiths have clearly drawn inspiration from The Kinks' work, and it's easy to see why. The song's influence can be heard in the way these later bands approached their own storytelling, with a similar blend of observation and irony.
These three songs, though not widely recognized at the time, have played a crucial role in shaping the sound and spirit of alternative rock. They are a testament to the power of early experimentation and the enduring impact of music that pushes boundaries. In my opinion, these songs are a must-listen for anyone interested in the evolution of alternative rock, and they serve as a reminder of the genre's rich and diverse history.
