Music · 1961
Folk Awakening and the Dawn of Motown
In 1961, traditional pop and jazz reached sophisticated heights while early soul and rock 'n' roll sowed the seeds of a cultural revolution. From Greenwich Village folk clubs to Motown's hit factory, a new musical generation began to find its voice.
- April 23, 1961 | Concert
Judy Garland at Carnegie Hall
Judy Garland delivers a legendary, high-energy performance at Carnegie Hall, hailed as one of the greatest nights in show business history.
- October 1961 | Industry Debut
Bob Dylan Signs with Columbia Records
After talent scout John Hammond discovers him in Greenwich Village, young folk singer Bob Dylan signs his historic first recording contract.
- October 1961 | Country Single
"Crazy" by Patsy Cline
Written by Willie Nelson, Patsy Cline's lush country-pop ballad turns emotional heartache into a timeless, chart-topping masterpiece.
- February 1961 | Rock Single
"Runaway" by Del Shannon
Driven by an unforgettable, haunting Musitron organ solo, Del Shannon's breakthrough single launches to the top of the pop charts.
- August 1961 | Motown R&B
"Please Mr. Postman" by The Marvelettes
The Marvelettes deliver Motown Records its very first number-one Billboard Hot 100 hit with this infectious, uptempo girl-group anthem.
- October 1961 | Jazz Album
Sunday at the Village Vanguard
Pianist Bill Evans and his trio record a live jazz benchmark that redefines bass-piano-drum interplay just weeks before bassist Scott LaFaro's tragic death.
- March 1961 | Jazz Album
My Favorite Things by John Coltrane
John Coltrane reimagines a Rodgers and Hammerstein showtune into a hypnotic, modal jazz masterpiece featuring his revolutionary soprano saxophone.
- November 9, 1961 | UK History
Brian Epstein Discovers The Beatles
Local record store owner Brian Epstein visits the sweaty Cavern Club in Liverpool to watch the Beatles perform, immediately offering to manage them.
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