In the 1960s, artists put a whole new spin on music. Building on the foundations of rock and roll, they moved the genre in many directions.
But you might wonder what’s become of them since. And you’re not alone.
Today, we’re diving into the history of some of the greatest acts of the decade and seeing where they are now.
Let’s get groovy!
New Artists Changed the Face of Music In the 1960s
The music of the 1960s has been described in many ways, but the word revolutionary might sum it up best. While the 50s brought about rock and roll, the following decade transformed that beast in more innovative ways.
Artists of this generation grew up in a time of social and political upheaval. The civil rights movement paved the way for marginalized Americans to move forward.
Meanwhile, anti-establishment sentiments were becoming commonplace. More than ever before, citizens were questioning America’s pro-war government. Protest songs became popular as people opened their eyes to the atrocities taking place in their own backyards.
Also, in the early 60s, the British Invasion took over in the US. Pioneered by groups like the Beatles, the UK influence is undeniable.
Whatever side of the pond these new 1960s artists were from, they helped shape music moving forward. Folk, blues, and psychedelic rock developed, and gospel-infused R&B took over the airwaves.
New Artists That Hit the Scene In the 1960s
The 1960s saw many new artists, some more influential than others. Here are five of the most memorable groups to come on the scene in the Swingin’ Sixties.
#1 Stevie Wonder
About the Artist: Despite being born with a congenital disease that would ultimately take his sight, R&B legend Stevie Wonder began recording at only 11 years old.
When he was four, his family moved from Saginaw, Michigan, to Detroit. It was here that Motown stars Ronnie White and Berry Gordy discovered him. They were impressed by his self-taught abilities on piano, harmonica, and drums.
He went on to release hit songs like Superstition and My Cherie Amour. In addition to a spate of awards, he received a Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2014.
Where Are They Now: Stevie Wonder hasn’t shown any signs of slowing down. In 2023, Fordham University presented him with an honorary doctorate for his advocacy work. He also collaborated on various projects with artists like Cher and the Rolling Stones.
The phenom continues to perform live. He played at the annual Grammy Awards to honor Smokey Robinson and Berry Gordy, who was responsible for his first record deal.
#2 The Beach Boys
About the Artist: The Beach Boys brought the West Coast to the rest of America in the 60s. Their surf-rock sound permeated pop culture and made them one of the most recognizable groups in history.
Three brothers, Brian, Carl, and Dennis Wilson, their cousin, Mike Love, and friend Al Jardine, formed the original lineup in 1961. The following year, they signed with Capitol Records and released their debut album, Surfin’ Safari.
More than 60 years later, they’ve sold over 100 million albums and had over 80 songs hit the charts. Of these, 36 landed on the US Top 40, more than any other rock group can claim.
Where Are They Now: Although the lineup has changed substantially, The Beach Boys continue to tour. Today, Mike Love, his son Christian, and 1965 addition Bruce Johnston perform with various musicians.
Sadly, Dennis passed in a tragic drowning in the 80s, and Carl died from lung cancer. However, the group still performs their upbeat tunes for thousands of exuberant fans each year.
The Greatest 1960s Songs of Summer
#3 The Rolling Stones
About the Artist: Undeniably, the Rolling Stones were one of the most iconic new bands of the 1960s. Gritty and controversial, they weren’t afraid to experiment with dynamic sounds. Frontman Mick Jagger led the group, which included Keith Richards, Brian Jones, Bill Wyman, and Charlie Watts.
Vacillating from hard rock to psychedelia to blues, they were the bad boy’s answer to the Beatles.
They had their share of hard times along the way, including the untimely death of Brian Jones and the tragic riot at their 1969 Altamont concert. However, the Stones have prevailed. In 1989, they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Where Are They Now: Today, Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, and Ronnie Wood are still creating under the Rolling Stones moniker. The 1960s artists dropped a new album, Hackney Diamonds, in 2023, which included cameos by Elton John, Paul McCartney, Stevie Wonder, and Lady Gaga.
It was their first release since 2005.
Sadly, Charlie Watts passed away in 2021. However, the Stones still consider him the fourth member of their quartet.
#4 Bob Dylan
About the Artist: Our list of new 1960s artists wouldn’t be complete without a segment on the great Bob Dylan. This poet, songwriter, and singer started playing music in high school, but his career really kicked off when he moved to New York City as a young adult. He quickly signed on with Columbia Records and began releasing albums.
His folksy, blues-infused sound and iconic voice made his songs instantly recognizable. Many of his lyrics were politically focused, delving into America’s racial division and obsession with war. Later releases were a bit lighter, capturing snippets of life as a troubadour.
That being said, he never stopped using it as a platform to express his beliefs. After all, he was one of the founders of protest music.
Where Are They Now: In October 2023, Dylan added another leg to his most recent tour. He’d already visited US, Europe, and Japan spots to support his 2020 album, Rough and Rowdy Ways. This outing brought him back to his homeland, hitting cities from Kansas to Toronto.
We hear he’ll continue his live shows throughout 2024.
7 Greatest Protest Songs of the 1960s
#5 Jefferson Airplane
About the Artist: San Francisco-based rock band Jefferson Airplane was one of the most influential new groups of the 1960s. They got their start in 1965 and soon hit the festival scene. Performances at significant events like Woodstock skyrocketed their popularity.
Some tunes, like White Rabbit, had a psychedelic feel, amplified by Grace Slick’s unusually haunting voice. Others featured instrumental compositions, such as Embryonic Journey.
In addition to Slick, other members included Marty Balin, Jack Casady, Paul Kantner, Jorma Kaukonen, and Spencer Dryden.
While their run lasted less than ten years, it was still solid gold. They’ve since received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Where Are They Now: After the group disbanded in the 70s, Slick formed Jefferson Starship, while Casady and Kaukonen created Hot Tuna.
Of the original lineup, these three are the only ones still alive today. While they no longer perform together, they came together in 2022 to unveil the group’s star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
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These New Artists From The 1960s Are Still Topping The Charts Today!
The new artists of the 1960s changed the trajectory of music for decades to come. Creators with an insatiable appetite for experimentation led the way for the next generations. From folk and blues to psychedelic rock, these sounds live on today.
Did we miss your favorite debut bands from this iconic decade? If so, let us know in the comments!