Hey hey, my my, rock and roll can never die

Experts and fans tell us why '60s rock endures above all others.

BY ROSS ANDERSEN

Being a multi-platinum selling band is one thing, but creating music that stands the test of time is a true achievement.

Beethoven, Bach and Mozart have all successfully proven their music is timeless, although a different genre of music has accomplished similar milestones. Songs specifically from the ‘60s seem to endure, remaining popular generation after generation.

“The messages were directed to a young audience, and there is always a young audience, regardless of what generation we are in,” said Robbie Lane, a full-time radio host at Zoomer Radio.

(Photo from: robbielane.com)

The infectious sound of music from the era continues to fill the radio waves today. Lane hosts three nightly radio shows, Sixties at Six, Seventies at Seven and the Eighties at Eight.

Lane has had a Toronto–based band since the ‘60s called Robbie Lane and the Disciples, which band specializes in rock and roll.

The music that once belonged to baby boomers continues to draw new fans. The music represented society at the time during war, racism and political upheaval. Songs written about love and peace still resonate with listeners today.

“Songs like ‘Imagine,’ are as relevant today as they ever were,” said Lane. “I can see this music surviving through decades to come.”

The Beatles, Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young and Bob Dylan all wrote music that had the power to fuel a musical revolution.

“It contains all of the elements of well–written music,” said John Anczurowski, owner of PCV records, in Oakville.

The music was created with a raw formula of instruments and unaltered vocals. Guitar, piano and creativity were key ingredients.

“Each band brought their own unique formula to the table, and its own blueprint provided inspiration to music made today,” said Anczurowski.

Much of the music written today contains elements of music from the era, such as songs by John Mayer. Musicians who did not adapt to the current mainstream, didn’t survive.

“The music that adapted through the decades, without losing their roots are the ones that are still here,” said Lane.

Rock icons such as the Rolling Stones and Paul McCartney are constantly selling out concert venues each year. Like in the ‘60s, many music enthusiasts vary in age.

PCV Records employee Tim Gall shows off cleaned record.
(Photo by Ross Andersen/The Sheridan Sun)

“We have people of all ages who come into the shop looking for vinyl records,” said Anczurowski.

The natural and authentic sounds of vinyl are what still attract listeners, he explains. It has come back in fashion, so to speak.

“The pure sound of vinyl is what appeals to me,” said Karson Neilly, a Paralegal student.

The sound of the ‘60s had such an affect on Neilly, that he got a Rolling Stones tattoo on his shoulder. “The music is so unique and different than what you hear today.”

Critical acclaim is being heaped on in HBO’s newest series called Vinyl, a story about record companies in the ‘60s. The show is produced by Martin Scorsese and Rolling Stones’ frontman, Mick Jagger. It also stars his son, James.

“It’s a true testament this music has the power to hold onto their listeners,” said Anczurowski.