Author: Margaret Ashworth

A rare vocal number from the Shads, with Hank Marvin and Bruce Welch singing. Written by Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil, it went to No 10 in Britain in 1965. … Continue readingThe Shadows: Don’t Make my Baby Blue

This was Pitney’s biggest UK hit, reaching No 2 in 1964. It made No 9 in the States. It was written by husband and wife team Barry Mann and Cynthia … Continue readingGene Pitney: I’m Gonna Be Strong

This was slightly unusual for the time as it featured saxophones in addition to the usual guitars and drums. The song had an impressive pedigree, written by Jerry Ragavoy (co-writer … Continue readingCliff Bennett and The Rebel Rousers: One Way Love

This was based on Bull Doze Blues, recorded in 1928 by Texas bluesman Henry Thomas, which you can hear on a Vocalion record here: These are the words: I’m going away, babe, … Continue readingCanned Heat: Going Up The Country

This is a great pop song. Released in 1962, it was Montez’s third record but his first hit, going to No 4 in America and 2 in Britain. It was … Continue readingChris Montez: Let’s Dance

I have chosen this partly because of the wonderful video. This was the trio’s only hit, reaching No 11 in Britain in 1968. It was written by Tony Macaulay and … Continue readingPaper Dolls: Something Here in My Heart (Keeps A Tellin’ Me No)

One of many pop songs on the theme that girls suddenly become beautiful on their 16th birthday, this was written by Luther Dixon and Allyson R Khent. It reached No 2 … Continue readingThe Crests: Sixteen Candles

Phil Phillips was Louisiana bellboy John Phillip Baptiste when he wrote this song with record producer George Khoury. It reached No 2 in America in 1959, and it was his … Continue readingPhil Phillips: Sea of Love

As the house band of Stax Records, Booker T and the MGs played on hundreds of recordings by artistes including Otis Redding, Wilson Pickett and Sam & Dave. Time is … Continue readingBooker T and the MGs: Time is Tight