Top 21 of 1962 – #1

#1 – Ben E. King – “Stand By Me” – (1962)

The album that “Stand By Me” was released on came out in 1962. But the song itself was a #1 hit in 1961. It’s one of the greatest songs of all time, with one of the best vocal performances you’re likely to ever hear. King co-wrote it with the Leiber/Stoller team and wanted the Drifters to record it. But they passed… so he sung it himself and the rest is history.

 

Top 21 of 1979 – #13

#13 – The Clash – “Train in Vain” – (1979)

London Calling just barely squeaks in as an album of the 1970s, being released in mid-December of 1979. This song is far superior than the album’s title track. Honestly, this might be my favorite Clash tune, part of which is due in part to the pop-like delivery of the lyrics. The singing here is well done – not something punk bands are especially known for. It’s fantastic.