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1960s Grammys: Rock Music Overlooked and Undervalued

1/16/2026

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Summary

Story summary

In the 1960s, the Grammy Awards resisted recognizing rock, awarding early wins to mainstream artists such as Henry Mancini and Frank Sinatra.
The best rock & roll recording category was added in 1962, but by decade's end only a few rock songs won.
Many winners were deemed unworthy or lacking rock's essence, and nominees were often overlooked.
The piece notes several '60s rock songs that were undeserving of Grammy recognition.

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Story summary

In the 1960s, the Grammy Awards resisted recognizing rock, awarding early wins to mainstream artists such as Henry Mancini and Frank Sinatra.
The best rock & roll recording category was added in 1962, but by decade's end only a few rock songs won.
Many winners were deemed unworthy or lacking rock's essence, and nominees were often overlooked.
The piece notes several '60s rock songs that were undeserving of Grammy recognition.