'Elo Everyone...

Several prominent organizations in San Francisco have rallied together and will be staging a private event at Fort Mason this November to commorate the 40th anniversary of the Summer Of Love (guess too many others had the same party theme around this time, but who am I to question?). Along with several hundred others, I auditioned for the position of musical director, and found out just days ago that I have been selected for the coveted spot. Now the research begins...

Of course, creating the "perfect" soundtrack reflecting that year is something I could do alone, but that wouldn't be as fun as involving all of you music mavens (dare I say I'm also afraid that as well-versed as I am in that period I'm certain to forget SOMETHING that shouldn't be missed!). Obviously, the "standards" (the obvious hits) have all been covered, but I want to dig much deeper than that. (i.e.: I didn't include "White Rabbit on the audition tape - too obvious. I used "D.C.B.A.-25") I was also amazed at the scrutiny I was under from the panel of judges on their committee. One example that stands out is that I attempted to include "You Keep Me Hangin' On" by the Supremes - my favorite song of all time. Well aware that the single was released in October of '66, but its respective LP came out in January of 1967. This was actually mentioned in a meeting! Sorry, no go. Only singles and album tracks from the year 1967.

The major hubs have all been looked at: San Francisco, London, Los Angeles, Detroit, New York, Memphis, etc. But what about YOUR town, and what of all the great garage sounds? That's where you come in - LET YER VOICE BE HEARD BRUTHAS AND SISTAS! I have been contracted to create the ultimate playlist consisting of 2500 songs to be played during the engagement, and want to make sure that every borough across the U.S. and abroad is properly covered. Simply make a list of those crucial tracks - with origin of release so I can go purchase it - and they will be forwarded to me. I will be keeping a ledger of songs/acts suggested by y'all, and you will be receiving a complimentary box set of the finished compilation if your song is chosen. Hopefully this will be fun for everyone. Thanks in advance for your assistance, and enjoy yourself in the process![/img]

Here's a handful of 1967 songs that I remember hearing a lot growing up (keeping in mind I was born at the tail end of the '60s). I suppose all of these songs would be considered "obvious," since they all charted, but I don't know how well they're remembered today.

Robert Knight - "Everlasting Love"
Buckinghams - "Hey Baby (They're Playing Our Song)"
Otis And Carla - "Knock On Wood"
Glen Campbell - "By The Time I Get To Phoenix"
Keith - "98.6"
Jay And The Techniques - "Apples, Peaches, Pumpkin Pie"

(I can't imagine you'd have any trouble finding any of these -- if I'm wrong, just let me know.)

Here's a couple from Texas:

99th Floor by The Moving Sidewalks (Billy Gibbons pre-ZZ Top)
You're Gonna Miss Me by The 13th Floor Elevators

As for The Supremes, how about Reflections? It was released in the summer of '67 and fit in nicely with other Summer of Love songs.

I think "You're Gonna Miss Me" is '65 or '66.

'66. I stand corrected. Thanks for the update.