The year 1960 was full of music that touched hearts and made people smile. It was a time when rock ‘n’ roll and sweet love songs were everywhere.

Big stars like Elvis Presley, Brenda Lee, and Roy Orbison gave us songs that are still loved today. Their voices, stories, and sounds shaped the music world.

Even if you enjoy soft tunes or fun dance songs, the year 1960 had something for everyone.

In this article, we’ll look back at the top songs of 1960, the biggest hits that made the year special and still bring joy to music fans all over the world.

1. Theme from “A Summer Place” by Percy Faith

Percy Faith was a famous bandleader known for his smooth, easy-listening music. His 1960 hit, Theme from “A Summer Place”, became one of the most loved instrumental songs ever.

The soft and romantic tune stayed at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 for nine weeks, a record for an instrumental. The song’s calm and beautiful sound made it perfect for the time.

It helped make orchestral pop music popular and is still remembered today as a classic from the early 1960s.

2. He’ll Have to Go by Jim Reeves

Jim Reeves had a smooth, comforting voice that gave his songs an emotional touch. He’ll Have to Go is a gentle track where a man asks his partner to choose between him and someone else.

The quiet delivery and heartfelt words made it stand out. Reeves’s style helped country music reach wider listeners beyond its roots. This song became one of his signature hits.

3. Cathy’s Clown by The Everly Brothers

Cathy’s Clown showed how well the Everly Brothers could mix pop with emotion. The song speaks about heartbreak and dignity, where the singer decides not to be laughed at anymore.

Their harmonies gave the track a haunting and rich feel. With a catchy beat and strong lyrics, it connected with many fans and became one of their biggest songs. Their impact shaped future rock and pop harmony styles.

4. Running Bear by Johnny Preston

Johnny Preston’s Running Bear tells a love story with a strong rhythm and powerful imagery. It’s about two lovers who can’t be together because of tribal conflict.

The song uses chant-like backing vocals to set the mood, which added a unique touch for its time. People were drawn to the tragic ending and the emotional weight.

It became a standout hit thanks to its storytelling and rhythm.

5. Teen Angel by Mark Dinning

Mark Dinning’s Teen Angel became a touching tribute to young love and loss. The song tells a sad story of a girl who dies in a car accident while trying to save a keepsake. Its slow pace and emotional delivery made it stand out.

Many teens at the time related to the feelings of love and heartbreak. Though controversial for its theme, it became a chart-topping hit.

6. I’m Sorry by Brenda Lee

Brenda Lee was only a teenager when she recorded I’m Sorry, yet her voice carried sincere emotion and maturity.

The song talks about regret after love is lost. With soft strings and a sorrowful tone, it became a powerful ballad.

Listeners felt the sadness and honesty in every line. It helped Brenda Lee become one of the leading pop singers of the early ’60s.

7. It’s Now or Never by Elvis Presley

Elvis Presley brought a new level of passion to pop music with It’s Now or Never. Inspired by the Italian song O Sole Mio, it mixed classic melody with modern romance.

His heavy voice and heartfelt delivery gave the track great power and charm. The song speaks about love that must be taken before it slips away.

It became one of his biggest international hits and showed his skill at blending old and new styles.

8. Handy Man by Jimmy Jones

Jimmy Jones had a light, upbeat style, and Handy Man was the perfect song to show it off. With playful lyrics and a catchy tune, the song tells of a man who knows how to fix broken hearts.

His unique high voice and fun delivery made it a favorite. The rhythm and cheerful mood gave the track lasting charm. It reminded listeners that love can be repaired with the right words and care.

9. Stuck on You by Elvis Presley

After returning from military service, Elvis Presley released Stuck on You as his comeback single. The song has a fun and lively sound, telling how love holds him tight.

His voice was strong and smooth, making fans excited for his return. It was simple yet full of energy, showing he still had the magic touch.

This hit marked a new chapter in Elvis’s career and proved his popularity was still strong.

10. The Twist by Chubby Checker

Chubby Checker changed music and dance forever with The Twist. With a beat that was easy to move to, it got everyone dancing in a new way. Checker’s clear voice and fun delivery made the song a party favorite.

It wasn’t just a hit; it started a dance craze that swept the world. This song showed how simple joy and rhythm could bring people together.

11. Everybody’s Somebody’s Fool by Connie Francis

Connie Francis brought warmth and heart to her music, and Everybody’s Somebody’s Fool is a perfect example. The song talks about how everyone experiences heartbreak.

Her voice was full of feeling, and listeners connected with its simple truth. This hit showed her talent for mixing pop with emotion. It helped make her one of the top female stars of the early ’60s.

12. Wild One by Bobby Rydell

Bobby Rydell brought energy and charm to the pop scene, and Wild One shows that well. It’s a fun song about a girl who loves to have a good time. His smooth voice and upbeat sound made it a hit with teenagers.

The catchy rhythm gave it a lasting place in early rock and roll. Rydell helped shape the teen idol trend of the time. His cheerful music captured the mood of youth in the early ’60s.

13. Greenfields by The Brothers Four

The Brothers Four used soft voices and gentle guitar to make Greenfields a peaceful ballad. It tells of love that’s been lost, with nature as the backdrop.

The simple melody and heartfelt delivery gave it a lasting beauty. Their folk sound was soothing and easy to enjoy.

This song became one of their biggest hits. It showed how folk music could touch people’s emotions with simplicity.

14. What in the World’s Come Over You by Jack Scott

Jack Scott mixed rock and country in his music, and this song showed both styles. What in the World’s Come Over You is about lost love and confusion. His heavy voice gave the song a moody feel.

The slow tempo made the feelings even stronger. It was a hit because people felt the pain he was singing about. The song’s haunting sound made it stand out on the charts.

15. El Paso by Marty Robbins

Marty Robbins told a full story in his song El Paso. It’s about a cowboy and lost love, ending in tragedy.

The Spanish-style guitar added a unique touch. Robbins’s storytelling made it feel like a movie in music form.

The song’s rich details and melody made it a classic of country music. It proved that a country ballad could also be a chart-topping pop success.

16. Alley Oop by The Hollywood Argyles

Alley Oop is a playful and quirky rock song about a comic strip caveman. With silly lyrics and a fun beat, it became a surprise hit.

The song brought laughter and lightness to the charts during a time of over-the-top ballads. Its catchy chant and carefree vibe stood out.

This novelty track showed that music could be just plain fun. It gave listeners something unexpected and memorable.

17. My Heart Has a Mind of Its Own by Connie Francis

My Heart Has a Mind of Its Own speaks to the idea that love doesn’t always follow reason. Connie’s voice delivers the words with both strength and sadness.

It became another chart-topping hit for her, proving her staying power. The heartfelt lyrics made it easy for listeners to relate. It remains one of her most beloved songs.

18. Sweet Nothin’s by Brenda Lee

Sweet Nothin’s is a flirty and lively tune that shows off Branda’s youthful spirit. Her voice was powerful even at a young age, and it shines in this track.

The song’s playful tone and simple words made it easy to sing along to.

It became a favorite for teens in love. Brenda helped pave the way for young female pop singers. Her bold, fun style was fresh and exciting for its time.

19. Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polkadot Bikini by Brian Hyland

Brian Hyland made waves with this playful novelty song in 1960. Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polkadot Bikini told a lighthearted story about a shy girl at the beach.

Its memorable lyrics and fun rhythm made it a summer anthem.

The tune stood out for its humor and charm, winning over audiences of all ages. It showed how a silly idea could turn into a massive hit.

20. Only the Lonely (Know the Way I Feel) by Roy Orbison

Roy Orbison had a voice full of emotion, and Only the Lonely became one of his most loved songs. It tells the story of heartbreak in a way that felt fresh and real.

His smooth, soaring vocals gave the song real power. The sadness in his voice made it easy for fans to connect.

This hit helped shape the sound of pop songs in the early ’60s. It also marked the beginning of Orbison’s signature style.

21. Where or When by Dion and The Belmonts

Where or When is a romantic song that wonders about love and memory. Their smooth harmonies made the song feel warm and timeless.

Dion’s voice added sweetness and emotionality to every word. It became one of their biggest and most remembered hits. The song’s mix of innocence and style kept it alive in listeners’ hearts.

22. Sixteen Reasons by Connie Stevens

Sixteen Reasons is a gentle pop tune that lists all the things she loved about her crush. It was sweet, soft, and full of teenage charm.

Her voice gave the lyrics a personal touch that made fans adore the song. The simple idea made it very relatable.

It became her most famous hit and a classic of the girl-pop sound. The song’s charm came from its innocence and catchy melody.

23. Puppy Love by Paul Anka

Paul Anka wrote and sang Puppy Love about young emotions that feel very real. The song became a teen anthem for anyone who’s ever had a first crush.

His heartfelt delivery made listeners believe every word. It showed that even simple feelings could make powerful songs.

Paul Anka proved he understood the teen heart. The song’s success helped solidify his place as a teen idol of the time.

24. Why by Frankie Avalon

Frankie Avalon’s Why was a smooth, romantic tune that asked the big questions about love. With soft vocals and a dreamy melody, it captured the mood of many young listeners.

The song became one of his last big hits before music trends shifted. It showed his skill at singing straight from the heart.

It left a sweet mark on pop history. The tune also became a symbol of a changing era in teen music.

25. Walk, Don’t Run by The Ventures

Walk, Don’t Run by The Ventures brought a cool, instrumental surf sound to the charts. Its guitar-driven melody was fresh and exciting.

The lack of vocals didn’t stop it from becoming a huge hit. The tune inspired many young musicians to pick up guitars.

It helped shape instrumental rock for years to come. This track opened the door for the surf rock wave of the early ’60s.

26. Save the Last Dance for Me by The Drifters

Save the Last Dance for Me was a heartfelt love song that stood out for its emotionality.

The lyrics told a story of loyalty and patience, asking a loved one to enjoy the night but remember who loves them most.

The song’s mix of R&B and pop helped it reach a wide audience. Ben E. King’s lead vocals brought sincerity and soul. Its graceful message still moves listeners today.

27. Baby (You’ve Got What It Takes) by Dinah Washington

This duet between Dinah Washington and Brook Benton was full of charm and chemistry. Their back-and-forth style made the lyrics feel like real-life banter between two lovers.

It blended soul, pop, and a touch of humor. Their playful voices added life to every line.

The song became a standout duet in both their careers. Its success showed how well their voices worked together.

28. Sink the Bismarck by Johnny Horton

The song tells the story of a battle during World War II. His storytelling style and strong voice made the action come alive.

It stood out as both history and entertainment. Horton became known for these story-songs about American events. This track gave listeners a lesson with a beat.

29. Chain Gang by Sam Cooke

Sam Cooke’s Chain Gang was inspired by a real-life moment when he saw prisoners working on the side of the road. The song had the rhythm of hard labor and the longing for freedom.

His smooth voice made even a tough subject feel soulful. It was both a pop hit and a powerful story.

This song helped show how music could reflect social issues. Cooke’s style gave it strength and heart.

30. Let It Be Me by The Everly Brothers

Let It Be Me is a tender ballad that speaks of great devotion. The Everly Brothers’ harmonies gave the song its unforgettable beauty. The lyrics promised lifelong love in a simple, honest way.

This track showed their softer side, moving away from their upbeat rock hits. It became one of their most loved songs. Its emotional message touched listeners around the world.

Other Top Songs from 1973

31. Theme from “The Apartment” – Ferrante & Teicher

32. Volare – Bobby Rydell

33. A Million to One – Jimmy Charles

34. The Village of St. Bernadette – Andy Williams

35. White Silver Sands – Bill Black’s Combo

36. The Old Lamp-Lighter – The Browns

37. Devil or Angel – Bobby Vee

38. Down by the Station – The Four Preps

39. Forever – The Little Dippers

40. Image of a Girl – The Safaris & The Phantom’s Band

41. Kiddio – Brook Benton

42. Mission Bell – Donnie Brooks

43. I Love the Way You Love – Marv Johnson

44. It’s Time to Cry – Paul Anka

45. Tell Laura I Love Her – Ray Peterson

46. Mama – Connie Francis

47. Footsteps – Steve Lawrence

48. So Sad – The Everly Brothers

49. That’s All You Gotta Do – Brenda Lee

50. Walking to New Orleans – Fats Domino

51. Among My Souvenirs – Connie Francis

52. Swingin’ School – Bobby Rydell

53. A Rockin’ Good Way (to Mess Around and Fall in Love) – Dinah Washington & Brook Benton

54. Stairway to Heaven – Neil Sedaka

55. My Home Town – Paul Anka

56. Georgia on My Mind – Ray Charles

57. Cherry Pie – Skip & Flip

58. Wonderful World – Sam Cooke

59. Tracy’s Theme – Spencer Ross

60. Lady Luck – Lloyd Price

61. Step by Step – The Crests

62. Happy-Go-Lucky Me – Paul Evans

63. Young Emotions – Ricky Nelson

64. Dreamin’ – Johnny Burnette

65. Poetry in Motion – Johnny Tillotson

66. O Dio Mio – Annette Funicello

67. You Talk Too Much – Joe Jones

68. Beatnik Fly – Johnny and the Hurricanes

69. When Will I Be Loved – The Everly Brothers

70. Let’s Think About Living – Bob Luman

71. Heartaches by the Number – Guy Mitchell

72. My Little Corner of the World – Anita Bryant

73. Doggin’ Around – Jackie Wilson

74. Little Bitty Girl – Bobby Rydell

75. Money (That’s What I Want) – Barrett Strong

76. Stay – Maurice Williams and the Zodiacs

77. Lonely Weekends – Charlie Rich

78. Sandy – Larry Hall

79. The Madison – Al Brown’s Tunetoppers

80. The Madison Time – Ray Bryant Combo

81. Clementine – Bobby Darin

82. Big Boy Pete – The Olympics

83. Angela Jones – Johnny Ferguson

84. Young and in Love – Dick & DeeDee

85. My Old Man’s a Dustman – Lonnie Donegan

86. Big Iron – Marty Robbins

87. Just One Time – Don Gibson

88. A Fool in Love – Ike & Tina Turner

89. Mission Bell – Donnie Brooks

90. Theme from “The Unforgiven” – Don Costa

91. Please Help Me, I’m Falling – Hank Locklin

92. That’s When I Cried – The Dubs

93. I Really Don’t Want to Know – Tommy Edwards

94. I Want to Be Wanted – Brenda Lee

95. The Big Hurt – Toni Fisher

96. What Am I Living For – Conway Twitty

97. Because They’re Young – Duane Eddy

98. The Big Bang – The Big Bopper

99. The Old Lamplighter – The Browns

100. The Theme from “The Apartment” – Ferrante & Teicher

101. The Village of St. Bernadette – Andy Williams

102. White Silver Sands – Bill Black’s Combo

103. Devil or Angel – Bobby Vee

104. Down by the Station – The Four Preps

105. Forever – The Little Dippers

106. Image of a Girl – The Safaris

107. Kiddio – Brook Benton

108. Mission Bell – Donnie Brooks

109. I Love the Way You Love – Marv Johnson

110. It’s Time to Cry – Paul Anka

111. Tell Laura I Love Her – Ray Peterson

112. Mama – Connie Francis

113. Footsteps – Steve Lawrence

114. So Sad – The Everly Brothers

115. That’s All You Gotta Do – Brenda Lee

116. Walking to New Orleans – Fats Domino

117. Among My Souvenirs – Connie Francis

118. Swingin’ School – Bobby Rydell

119. A Rockin’ Good Way – Dinah Washington & Brook Benton

120. Stairway to Heaven – Neil Sedaka

121. My Home Town – Paul Anka

122. Georgia on My Mind – Ray Charles

123. Cherry Pie – Skip & Flip

124. Wonderful World – Sam Cooke

125. Tracy’s Theme – Spencer Ross

126. Lady Luck – Lloyd Price

127. Step by Step – The Crests

128. Happy-Go-Lucky Me – Paul Evans

129. Young Emotions – Ricky Nelson

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Artists were Most Popular in the 1960 Music Charts?

Artists from pop and early rock genres dominated the 1960 charts.

What Recording Technology was Used for Hit Songs?

Most songs were recorded using analog equipment and released on vinyl records.

Were there Any Significant Music Awards in 1960?

Yes, the Grammy Awards recognized outstanding achievements in the music industry.