The music industry is a fickle beast, and reaching the pinnacle of success is no mean feat, especially during a year as musically rich as 1968. In this article, we'll delve into four iconic songs that, despite their No. 2 chart positions, have left an indelible mark on music history.
The Soulful Journey of The Box Tops
When The Box Tops released "Cry Like a Baby," they had already proven their prowess with the No. 1 hit "The Letter." This soulful gem, penned by the prolific duo Dan Penn and Spooner Oldham, showcases the band's R&B roots with a twist of psychedelia. The electric sitar adds a unique flavor, but it's Alex Chilton's vocals that steal the show. His stellar performance is a testament to the band's ability to deliver even when they didn't quite reach the top spot.
Richard Harris: A Pop Star in the Making
Richard Harris, known for his stage and screen performances in musicals like Camelot, decided to venture into the world of pop music. His collaboration with Jimmy Webb, a rising tunesmith, resulted in the dramatic and range-testing "MacArthur Park." Webb's intuition paid off, creating a song that suited Harris' talents perfectly. However, Harris' pop star aspirations were short-lived, as he returned to his successful acting career. Webb, on the other hand, went on to become one of the most renowned songwriters of his time, a true testament to the power of musical collaboration.
Steppenwolf's Heavy Metal Anthem
"Born to Be Wild" is a song that, through its lyrics, became synonymous with heavy metal. Yet, it was originally written as a ballad by Mars Bonfire. Steppenwolf's decision to accelerate the pace transformed it into an iconic outlaw anthem. While the song may not embody the typical heavy metal sound, the phrase "heavy metal thunder" and John Kay's gritty vocals left an indelible mark on the genre. Michael Monarch's guitar work also played a crucial role in making this song an enduring classic.
Mary Hopkin's Crystal-Clear Voice
The Beatles, despite their occasional lack of focus on their Apple record label, had an eye (or ear) for talent. They discovered Mary Hopkin on a television talent show and signed her to their label. With Paul McCartney's production expertise, Hopkin released "Those Were the Days," a Russian folk song with English lyrics. Hopkin's crystalline voice and her ability to capture the world-weary melancholy of the lyrics ensured the song's success, reaching No. 1 in countries worldwide, except the US.
These four songs, despite their No. 2 chart positions, have stood the test of time. They showcase the diverse musical landscape of 1968 and the unique stories behind each song's creation and success. It just goes to show that sometimes, the journey to the top is more about the impact you leave behind than the chart position you achieve.
What makes these songs particularly fascinating is their ability to transcend their initial chart positions and leave a lasting legacy. It's a reminder that music, at its core, is about the emotion it evokes and the stories it tells, regardless of its commercial success.
