Forty-five years ago, the song that was at the top of the singles chart for much of August was by four guys, from the U.S. and Canada, who considered themselves to be more a a jug band than a rock band. The screaming girls through them for a loop.
This band, one of my favorites of the era, squeezed into #1 on the charts by bumping four guys from England off the #1 perch. And, three weeks later, they were knocked down to #2 by an English folksinger. Those Brits were not to be trifled with in the 1960's.
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This jug band had four top ten hits prior to the August smash that propelled them to the top of the charts. This gritty hit has gone on to be one of the classics songs of summer. There are few tunes about the hot weather that better describe the big city on a hot day. The minute you hear the opening bars, you know the song. It has been featured in many movie soundtracks.
To see the original artists perform the song that topped the charts, for three weeks back in August 1966, you need to go over to the vintage TV and switch channels. You can watch Have Gun Will Travel another day. Simply click on Richard Boone's face to be taken back to that hot summer in August 1966 when this hit ruled the airwaves.
"This Day In History" features songs and television appearances from the 50's, 60's, 70's and 80's. I will write these, over the next few weeks, months or years as time permits. In the meantime, keep it groovy !
To see other features in this series, click on Elvis' gold record below
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