Sixties Songs of Tragedy

A best-selling song was recorded by Mark Dinning. In a string of sad songs, this was just the beginning. In 1960, the lyrics conveyed teary eyes. “Teen Angel” was a big hit, and it was no surprise. Many sad songs followed this one up the Billboard charts. Their lyrics described death and tragedy, breaking hearts. “Tell Laura I Love Her” was sung by Ray Peterson. Another great song was “Last Kiss” by J. Frank Wilson. We have to include “Big John” produced by Jimmy Dean. Some more great tragic songs made their presence on the scene. “Ringo” was recorded by Bonanza’s own Lorne Greene. “Dead Man’s Curve” earned a gold record for both Jan and Dean. The Shangri-La’s song “Leader of the Pack” joined others. There was “Ebony Eyes” by the Everly Brothers. Two tragic melodies delivered by Dickey Lee were the gold recordings titled “Patches” and “Laurie”. That was not the end, for in ‘68 came “Honey”. This was a number one hit so many got to know. It became the best effort by Bobby Goldsboro. However, during this time, not all songs sounded sad. A few melodies came around that were not that bad. Among the tragic ballads that were a plethora was the novel song, Allan Sherman’s “Camp Granada”. My favorite non-tragic melody one would sing was the late Bob Luman’s hit “Let’s Think About Living”. I really believe everything would have been so nice if only more people heeded Bob Luman’s advice!