4 of the Most Underrated Rock Bands From the 1960s

Genres will come and go, as will bands, singers, musicians, and trends in the world of music. But nothing will ever be quite like the 1960s’ unique brand of rock and roll. It was a stellar decade for music in general, but rock music had burst onto the scene and changed everything. Overrated and underrated rock bands alike from the 1960s became the blueprint for dozens of new genres of rock music and bands that followed. Let’s look at four examples of some 1960s hitmakers who deserve just as much attention as their higher-profile contemporaries!

1. The Sonics

When it comes to proto-punk, nobody was doing it quite like The Sonics. Somehow, they’ve landed themselves in a spot where those who were around to hear their underrated music in the 1960s know them by name, but the band itself is still extremely underexposed.

The Sonics dished out three albums in the 1960s and continue to tour in the 2020s with just one original member, saxophonist Rob Lind. Here Are The Sonics and Boom are essential listening.

2. Tommy James And The Shondells

Tommy James And The Shondells are known for the song “I Think We’re Alone Now”. It was a hit when it was released, and it was later covered in the 1980s by Tiffany Darwish. They also were the original band behind “Crimson And Clover”, which was later covered quite famously by Joan Jett And The Blackhearts.

They’re technically still together today, though several members have gone on to form (and disband) new bands.

3. The Monks

This band is technically a one-album wonder since they only released one album during their time. The 1966 record Black Monk Time may be The Monks’ only release, but it’s a stellar piece of work.

The Monks came together as American soldiers stationed in Germany who wanted to mess around and experiment with rock music. They’re a definitive proto-punk band that borders on the avant-garde, and that one single album is still a wild ride to listen to today.

4. The Bobby Fuller Four

When it comes to underrated rock bands from the 1960s, we can’t forget this beloved four-piece outfit. Bobby Fuller and his brother kicked off this 1960s rock band. The remaining two members were in constant rotation, but the band itself always managed to sound great. The Bobby Fuller Four could easily have gone on to be very famous in the world of rock and roll.

Unfortunately, Bobby Fuller died from extremely mysterious circumstances and the band called it quits immediately after. Their only two albums, KRLA King Of The Wheels and I Fought The Law, are essential listening for fans of The Beach Boys or Buddy Holly.

Photo by Don Paulsen/Michael Ochs Archives

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