The British Invasion Continues! The Best British Rock and Pop Hits of 1968  

The British Invasion of the mid-1960s brought a wave of influential music from across the pond, forever changing the landscape of rock and pop music. By 1968, British bands and artists had firmly established themselves as key players in the global music scene. This article explores the significant British rock and pop hits of 1968, examining how these songs continued to shape and define musical trends while reflecting the cultural and social currents of the time. 

 

The Rolling Stones: “Jumpin’ Jack Flash” 

Few bands epitomized the rebellious spirit of rock and roll more than The Rolling Stones. By 1968, they had already carved out a reputation for their gritty, blues-influenced sound and provocative stage presence. “Jumpin’ Jack Flash,” released in May 1968, marked a return to their roots after the psychedelic experimentations of their 1967 album, Their Satanic Majesties Request. 

Written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, “Jumpin’ Jack Flash” is driven by a distinctive, chugging guitar riff that became one of the most recognizable in rock history. The song’s lyrics, filled with images of resilience and survival, resonated with the turbulent social climate of the late 1960s. Richards later explained that the song’s title came from his gardener, Jack Dyer, whom he nicknamed “Jumpin’ Jack.” 

“Jumpin’ Jack Flash” was a commercial success, reaching number one on the UK charts and number three in the US. Its raw energy and defiant attitude captured the zeitgeist of the era, cementing The Rolling Stones’ status as rock icons. The song remains a staple in their live performances and has been covered by numerous artists, further attesting to its enduring appeal. 

 

Cream: “Sunshine of Your Love” 

Formed in 1966, Cream was a supergroup featuring Eric Clapton, Jack Bruce, and Ginger Baker. Their blend of blues, rock, and psychedelic influences set them apart, and they quickly gained a reputation for their virtuosic musicianship. “Sunshine of Your Love,” from their 1967 album Disraeli Gears, continued to dominate the airwaves in 1968, showcasing the band’s unique sound and technical prowess. 

 

The song’s iconic riff, co-written by Clapton and Bruce, was reportedly inspired by a Jimi Hendrix concert. Clapton’s searing guitar work, combined with Bruce’s powerful vocals and Baker’s dynamic drumming, created a track that was both innovative and accessible. The lyrics, penned by Bruce and poet Pete Brown, reflect a sense of longing and romanticism that contrasted with the song’s heavy instrumental backdrop. 

“Sunshine of Your Love” became Cream’s most successful single, peaking at number five on the US charts and number 25 in the UK. Its influence extended beyond the charts, as it became a staple of rock radio and a standard in guitar repertoire. The song’s blend of blues and rock elements helped pave the way for the hard rock and heavy metal genres that would emerge in the following decades. 

 

The Crazy World of Arthur Brown: “Fire” 

1968 was a year of experimentation and boundary-pushing in rock music, and no song exemplified this more than “Fire” by The Crazy World of Arthur Brown. Fronted by the flamboyant Arthur Brown, the band was known for their theatrical performances and avant-garde approach to music. “Fire,” released in June 1968, was a psychedelic rock anthem that captured the imagination of listeners with its dramatic flair and surreal lyrics. 

The song opens with the unforgettable line, “I am the God of Hellfire, and I bring you… FIRE!” before launching into a frenetic, organ-driven arrangement. Vincent Crane’s haunting organ lines and Drachen Theaker’s pounding drums create a sense of urgency and chaos, while Brown’s operatic vocals add a layer of intensity. The song’s lyrics, written by Brown and Crane, explore themes of destruction and renewal, reflecting the countercultural fascination with existentialism and mysticism. 

“Fire” was a commercial hit, reaching number one in the UK and number two in the US. Its success was bolstered by Brown’s electrifying stage presence, which included pyrotechnics and elaborate costumes. The song’s impact on the psychedelic rock genre was significant, influencing later artists such as Alice Cooper and Kiss, who would incorporate theatrical elements into their own performances. 

 

The Beatles: “Hey Jude” 

No discussion of 1968 British music would be complete without mentioning The Beatles. By this point, the Fab Four had already revolutionized popular music multiple times, and they continued to innovate with each new release. “Hey Jude,” released in August 1968, was one of their most ambitious and beloved songs, showcasing their unparalleled songwriting and production skills. 

 

Written by Paul McCartney, “Hey Jude” began as a comforting message to John Lennon’s son, Julian, during his parents’ divorce. The song’s uplifting lyrics and soothing melody struck a chord with listeners, offering a sense of hope and reassurance. At over seven minutes long, “Hey Jude” defied conventional single length, yet its extended coda, featuring the now-famous “na-na-na” refrain, became one of the most memorable moments in rock history. 

“Hey Jude” topped the charts in multiple countries, including the UK and the US, where it stayed at number one for nine weeks. The song’s success was a testament to The Beatles’ ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level. Its legacy endures, with countless artists covering the song and audiences worldwide continuing to sing along to its iconic chorus. 

 

The Kinks: “Days” 

The Kinks, led by the songwriting genius of Ray Davies, were another major force in British rock during the 1960s. Known for their incisive social commentary and distinctive sound, The Kinks produced a string of hits that captured the essence of British life. In 1968, they released “Days,” a poignant ballad that showcased Davies’ knack for crafting emotionally resonant lyrics. 

“Days” is a song of gratitude and farewell, with Davies reflecting on the impact of a past relationship. The song’s gentle acoustic arrangement and heartfelt lyrics struck a chord with listeners, making it one of The Kinks’ most beloved tracks. Despite its emotional depth, “Days” maintains a sense of optimism, celebrating the enduring influence of cherished memories. 

While “Days” did not achieve the same commercial success as some of The Kinks’ earlier hits, it received critical acclaim and has since become a fan favorite. The song’s timeless appeal lies in its universal themes of love and loss, resonating with listeners across generations. “Days” has been covered by numerous artists, further cementing its status as a classic in the Kinks’ catalog. 

 

The Small Faces: “Lazy Sunday” 

The Small Faces, a band known for their dynamic sound and playful spirit, made a significant impact on the British music scene in the 1960s. In 1968, they released “Lazy Sunday,” a whimsical and irreverent track that showcased their unique blend of rock, pop, and psychedelic influences. Written by lead singer Steve Marriott and bassist Ronnie Lane, the song captured the laid-back vibe of a Sunday afternoon in London. 

 

“Lazy Sunday” features Marriott’s distinctive Cockney-accented vocals and a catchy, sing-along chorus that became a trademark of the band’s style. The song’s lyrics, filled with humorous observations and everyday reflections, resonated with listeners who appreciated its lightheartedness and relatability. The track’s production, which included sound effects and unconventional instrumentation, added to its quirky charm. 

“Lazy Sunday” was a commercial success, reaching number two on the UK charts. Its popularity highlighted the Small Faces’ ability to connect with a wide audience while maintaining their artistic integrity. The song remains a beloved part of their legacy, capturing the carefree spirit of the 1960s and the band’s enduring appeal. 

 

Donovan: “Hurdy Gurdy Man” 

Scottish singer-songwriter Donovan was another prominent figure in the British music scene of the 1960s. Known for his eclectic style and mystical lyrics, Donovan released “Hurdy Gurdy Man” in 1968, a song that became one of his most iconic hits. Written during a trip to India, where Donovan was studying Transcendental Meditation with The Beatles, the song reflects the psychedelic and spiritual influences of the time. 

“Hurdy Gurdy Man” features a distinctive, droning guitar riff and Donovan’s hypnotic vocals, creating a mesmerizing soundscape. The song’s lyrics, which tell the story of a wandering minstrel spreading enlightenment through his music, resonated with the countercultural movement’s ideals of peace and consciousness expansion. The track’s production, featuring contributions from session musicians including John Paul Jones and Jimmy Page of Led Zeppelin, added to its rich, layered sound. 

The song was a commercial success, reaching the top ten in both the UK and the US. “Hurdy Gurdy Man” remains one of Donovan’s signature songs, encapsulating the psychedelic spirit of 1968 and his unique place in the pantheon of British rock and pop artists. 

 

The Zombies: “Time of the Season” 

Though often overshadowed by some of their contemporaries, The Zombies made a lasting impact with their 1968 hit “Time of the Season.” Written by keyboardist Rod Argent, the song was part of the band’s critically acclaimed album Odessey and Oracle. Despite initial commercial struggles, “Time of the Season” eventually became one of the defining tracks of the late 1960s. 

“Time of the Season” is characterized by its distinctive bassline, haunting vocal harmonies, and atmospheric production. Lead singer Colin Blunstone’s ethereal vocals added to the song’s dreamy quality, creating a timeless feel that resonated with listeners. The lyrics, which touch on themes of love and connection, captured the zeitgeist of the era, reflecting the optimism and experimentation of the late 1960s. 

The song became a hit in the US in 1969, reaching number three on the Billboard Hot 100, and has since been recognized as a classic. “Time of the Season” exemplifies The Zombies’ innovative approach to pop music, blending sophisticated arrangements with emotional depth. Its enduring popularity attests to its status as a quintessential track of 1968. 

 

The Lasting Legacy of 1968’s British Hits 

The British rock and pop hits of 1968 represent a year of remarkable creativity and cultural significance. Bands and artists like The Rolling Stones, Cream, The Beatles, and others continued to push the boundaries of music, reflecting the social and political currents of the time. These songs not only defined the sound of 1968 but also left an indelible mark on the music landscape, influencing generations of musicians and listeners. 

The songs remain timeless, reminding us of a period of profound change and enduring musical legacy. The hits of 1968 continue to inspire and captivate, proving that great music truly transcends time and are… ICONIC!