Music

Best psychedelic rock songs of the 60s

Explore the most influential and iconic tracks from the 1960s psychedelic rock era. This ranking features essential songs that defined the counterculture movement, showcasing innovative guitar riffs, experimental sounds, and mind-bending lyrics. Discover classic hits and hidden gems that shaped the sound of psychedelic music, perfect for enthusiasts of vintage rock, acid rock, and 60s counterculture anthems. Dive into the origins of psychedelic music with tracks that feature groundbreaking production and lyrical depth, ideal for music history buffs and rock and roll fans.

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  1. 1

    In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida (1968)

    212 Global Votes
    • Cultural revolution anthem

      (+4)

    An iconic and highly influential psychedelic rock epic, known for its lengthy instrumental passages and hypnotic rhythm. It remains a powerful example of immersive psychedelic sound.

  2. 2

    Tomorrow Never Knows (1966)

    98 Global Votes
    • Pioneering use of sampling

      (+4)

    A groundbreaking track that defined the experimental spirit of psychedelic music, utilizing revolutionary studio techniques. Its innovative production, including tape loops and reverse guitar, inspired countless bands.

  3. 3

    See Emily Play (1967)

    68 Global Votes
    • Consummate slice of British psych-pop whimsy

      (+4)

    An early Pink Floyd classic that highlights their pioneering role in British psychedelia and Syd Barrett's unique vision. Its whimsical lyrics and experimental soundscapes are iconic.

  4. 4

    Time of the Season (1968)

    60 Global Votes
    • Iconic hit of 1960s psychedelia

      (+4)

    A late-60s psychedelic pop masterpiece with enduring appeal, known for its distinctive organ riff and breathy vocals. Its jazzy, atmospheric feel makes it a unique and memorable track.

  5. 5

    Crimson and Clover (1969)

    50 Global Votes
    • Landmark rock song of the psychedelic era

      (+4)

    A late-60s psychedelic pop hit that remains widely recognized and appreciated for its distinctive, hypnotic sound. Its tremolo guitar and dreamy vocals create a swirling, immersive experience.

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  7. 6

    Eight Miles High (1966)

    43 Global Votes
    • Defined the psychedelic rock genre

      (+4)

    Often cited as one of the first true American psychedelic rock songs, it innovatively blends raga-style guitar and jazz-influenced solos. Its fusion of genres made it a pioneering track.

  8. 7

    The End (1967)

    38 Global Votes
    • Epic song by The Doors

      (+4)

    This epic track is a cornerstone of psychedelic rock, known for its abstruse lyrics and trippy atmosphere. It showcases The Doors' unique blend of high and low energy, making it a watershed moment in the genre.

  9. 8

    Sunshine Of Your Love (1967)

    18 Global Votes
    • Iconic psychedelic rock track

      (+4)

    This classic track helped define the sound of psychedelic blues-rock with its distinctive guitar riff and powerful vocals. It remains a staple on 'best of' lists for its enduring impact.

  10. 9

    Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds (1967)

    17 Global Votes
    • Key work in the psychedelic genre

      (+3)

    This highly influential song from *Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band* perfectly encapsulates the whimsical and imaginative side of psychedelia. Its dreamlike atmosphere and surreal imagery are iconic.

  11. 10

    Magic Carpet Ride (1968)

    9 Global Votes
    • Features an experimental, otherworldly organ solo

      (+4)

    A high-energy psychedelic rock anthem that remains popular, known for its driving rhythm and prominent organ. Its adventurous sound and lyrics make it a memorable track.

  12. 11

    Time Has Come Today (1968)

    7 Global Votes
    • Considered a psychedelic rock classic

      (+4)

    An epic psychedelic soul-rock track known for its intensity and experimental elements, including an extended jam and ticking clock sound effects. It stands as a monster among psychedelic songs.

  13. 12

    Itchycoo Park (1967)

    2 Global Votes
    • Features psychedelic sound of the organ

      (+3)

    A full-on psychedelic pop gem that, despite its chart success, deserves continued recognition for its innovative sound. Its use of phasing effects and whimsical lyrics are iconic.

  14. 13

    White Rabbit (1967)

    0 Global Votes
    • Defining moment in 1960s rock

      (+4)

    This highly famous song compellingly evokes an acid trip through its 'Bolero'-like structure and Grace Slick's powerful vocals. It was instrumental in announcing the Haight-Ashbury counterculture to the United States.

  15. 14

    A Day in the Life (1967)

    0 Global Votes
    • Landmark piece of music

      (+4)

    One of the most moving examples of psychedelic rock, this song features an experimental structure and surreal lyrics. It's a classic from the influential *Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band* album.

  16. 15

    Purple Haze (1967)

    0 Global Votes
    • Defining track of the psychedelic era

      (+4)

    A definitive psychedelic rock anthem, 'Purple Haze' showcases Jimi Hendrix's unparalleled guitar skills and innovative use of feedback and distortion. Its powerful energy left an enduring influence on rock music.

  17. 16

    I Had Too Much to Dream (Last Night) (1967)

    0 Global Votes
    • Landmark psychedelic rock song

      (+4)

    This track is a quintessential psychedelic garage rock song, defining the genre for many with its fuzz guitar, tremolo effects, and haunting vocal delivery. It perfectly captures the raw energy of the era.

  18. 17

    Light My Fire (1967)

    0 Global Votes
    • Signature psychedelic rock hit

      (+4)

    A massive hit that brought psychedelic rock to a wider audience, featuring Ray Manzarek's extended organ solo and Jim Morrison's distinctive vocals. It remains one of The Doors' most recognizable songs.

  19. 18

    All Along The Watchtower

    0 Global Votes
    • Great psychedelic rock cover

      (+4)

    Jimi Hendrix's masterful interpretation of Bob Dylan's original is widely considered the definitive version, showcasing his unparalleled guitar work. It's a prime example of psychedelic guitar artistry.

  20. 19

    Paper Sun (1967)

    0 Global Votes
    • Great example of British psychedelia

      (+4)

    A catchy and atmospheric song that showcases Traffic's unique sound, blending folk and psychedelic rock. Its distinctive flute melody and Steve Winwood's vocals make it a perfect example of the genre.