The '60s were a chaotic period in our culture with a war overseas and class struggles boiling over at home, but it was also one of the most incredible decades for music history. From the early years bringing the rise of rock and roll with Elvis Presley and the Beatles leading the way, to the more psychedelic sounds of Janis Joplin and Jimi Hendrix as the era came to a close, the amazing evolution of melodies still leaves its mark on many of today's performers.
One of the most important years, which became known as the "Summer of Love," was 1967. That year seemed to be when all of the hippie sub-culture's "good vibrations" hit their peak with an influence on every aspect of young lives. It was also the year this legendary performer debuted with her first-ever hit single. Performing with her band, the Stone Poneys, Linda Ronstadt found her way to the top of the charts with "Different Drum." The band didn't last long following the release of the song, but Ronstadt's impressive vocals made sure she would remain on the radio ever since.
The tune was actually written by another musician making waves at the same time: Mike Nesmith of the Monkees. Originally recorded by a bluegrass group called the Greenbriar Boys, the Poneys flipped the pronouns and gave it their own feel. Nesmith also eventually released a version, but even he admits Ronstadt "infused it with a new level of passion" beyond his abilities.
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