Best Selling Folk And Rock Albums Of 1966
Best Selling Folk And Rock Albums Of 1966
Here are the top 10 best-selling albums in the folk and rock genres from 1966, listed in the order they were released:
1. "If You Can Believe Your Eyes and Ears" by The Mamas & The Papas
Release Date: February 28, 1966
Description: The debut album by The Mamas & The Papas featured their distinctive harmonies and a blend of folk rock and pop. The album included hit singles like "California Dreamin'" and "Monday, Monday," which became anthems of the 1960s counterculture. The rich vocal arrangements and polished production made it a standout release of the year.
2. "The Paul Butterfield Blues Band" by The Paul Butterfield Blues Band
Release Date: March 1966
Description: This self-titled debut album from The Paul Butterfield Blues Band showcased their unique fusion of blues and rock. With tracks like "Born in Chicago" and "Shake Your Money-Maker," the album highlighted the band's powerful sound and skilled musicianship, paving the way for blues rock's prominence.
3. "Blonde on Blonde" by Bob Dylan
Release Date: May 16, 1966
Description: Bob Dylan's seventh studio album is often regarded as one of his masterpieces. This double album featured a mix of rock, blues, and folk influences, with Dylan's poetic lyrics taking center stage. Notable tracks include "Rainy Day Women 12 & 35," "Visions of Johanna," and "Just Like a Woman." The album's innovative sound and lyrical complexity cemented Dylan's status as a musical visionary.
4. "Pet Sounds" by The Beach Boys
Release Date: May 16, 1966
Description: Although more associated with pop and rock, "Pet Sounds" by The Beach Boys incorporates elements of folk and baroque pop, making it a significant release in 1966. Brian Wilson's ambitious production and intricate harmonies are showcased in tracks like "Wouldn't It Be Nice" and "God Only Knows." The album's emotional depth and innovative arrangements have earned it a lasting legacy in music history.
5. "Aftermath" by The Rolling Stones
Release Date: April 15, 1966 (UK Release), June 20, 1966 (US Release)
Description: "Aftermath" was a pivotal album for The Rolling Stones, marking the first time all songs were written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards. The album showcased a more diverse musical palette, including the use of sitar on "Paint It Black." Other notable tracks include "Under My Thumb" and "Lady Jane." The album's mix of rock and experimental sounds demonstrated the band's evolving artistry.
6. "Fifth Dimension" by The Byrds
Release Date: July 18, 1966
Description: The Byrds' third album saw the band exploring more psychedelic sounds while retaining their folk rock roots. The album includes the hit single "Eight Miles High," known for its groundbreaking use of feedback and jazz influences. Other notable tracks include "Mr. Spaceman" and "I See You." The album's adventurous spirit and innovative use of instrumentation marked a significant step forward for the band.
7. "Revolver" by The Beatles
Release Date: August 5, 1966 (UK Release), August 8, 1966 (US Release)
Description: "Revolver" is considered one of The Beatles' most groundbreaking albums. It features a mix of rock, pop, and experimental sounds, with innovative studio techniques. Standout tracks include "Eleanor Rigby," "Tomorrow Never Knows," and "Yellow Submarine." The album's eclectic style and innovative approach to recording had a profound influence on the music of the time.
8. "Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme" by Simon & Garfunkel
Release Date: October 10, 1966
Description: Simon & Garfunkel's third studio album features their signature harmonies and poetic lyrics. The album includes well-known tracks like "Scarborough Fair/Canticle" and "Homeward Bound." The duo's ability to blend folk influences with contemporary themes made this album a critical and commercial success.
9. "Sunshine Superman" by Donovan
Release Date: August 26, 1966 (US Release), December 1966 (UK Release)
Description: Donovan's third studio album is a seminal work in psychedelic folk rock. The title track, "Sunshine Superman," became a major hit, and the album features other notable songs like "Season of the Witch." Donovan's eclectic style and incorporation of various musical influences made this album a key release of the year.
10. "Fresh Cream" by Cream
Release Date: December 9, 1966 (UK Release)
Description: The debut album by Cream, a supergroup consisting of Eric Clapton, Jack Bruce, and Ginger Baker, blends blues, rock, and psychedelia. Tracks like "I Feel Free" and "Spoonful" showcased the band's virtuosic musicianship and improvisational skills. The album's fusion of blues and rock influences made it a significant release in 1966.