Rewind: Top Songs of 1962

(dusts off some cobwebs)

Now that the year-end list has been completed and the suitable break has been taken from the blog, we'll start up again with semi-decennial (still not a word) march to the best songs of 2012. Last year we started in 1966 because while 1961 had some all-timers ("Stand By Me", Coltrane's "My Favorite Things"), I struggled to get to 5 tracks that wouldn't be somewhat embarrassing to list. While 1962 was still a struggle, there was enough good stuff to justify a list that goes to ten.

Also, Sam Cooke was awesome.

Top 10 Songs of 1962

1. "Bring It On Home To Me" / Sam Cooke / single
   "I tried to treat you right / but you stayed out, stayed out late at night / but I'll forgive you"
2. "Green Onions" / Booker T. & the MGs / Green Onions
   <instrumental> 
3. "Boom Boom" / John Lee Hooker / single
   "I'm gonna shoot you right down / right offa your feet"
4. "These Arms of Mine" / Otis Redding / single
   "And if you / would let them hold you / oh how grateful I would be"
5. "You've Really Got a Hold On Me" / The Miracles / The Fabulous Miracles
   "I don't like like you / but I love you"
6. "Up On the Roof" / The Drifters / single
   "and if this world start's getting you down / there's room enough for two"
7. "Duke of Earl" / Gene Chandler / single
   "And when I hold you / you are my duchess"
8. "Misirlou" / Dick Dale / Surfer's Choice
   <instrumental>
9. "Beechwood 4-5789" / The Marvelettes / single
   "...any old time"
10. "Desafinado (Off Key)" / Stan Getz and Charlie Byrd / Jazz Samba
    <instrumental>