Got a flair for the old times? Enjoy the idea of rocking and rolling with company at an all-American diner? Well, the magic of the '60s era stays on after all these decades. It’s even more vibrant with musicals like Hairspray and crossover fashion trends captivating today’s young generation. Keep the retro spirit alive by infusing an oldies vibe at your next get-together with friends.
Party Like the '60s
An evening at Johnny Rockets would be a marvelous start. Tasty sandwiches and chicken wings with your choice of sauce are among the list of specialties on the menu. Take turns choosing songs on the mini jukebox on the side of the table with your friends. Feel free to sing along with the light tunes until dinner is served.
Want to experience watching a movie at a drive-in? There are places and festivals in every town that play out-door films. Checking your local listings can help you find them. If everyone is in a competitive mood, the bowling center may be a dream destination.
Is there an oldies-themed event going on at a venue nearby? If so, get ready to jive together with costumes from that era. Setting up a house party can make a great alternative. You have the freedom to decorate the place your way. It’ll be more personalized. After all, nothing beats the unforgettable taste of a homemade milkshake.
A Little Musical Inspiration
These songs are some of the yesteryear hits you can play to get everyone in the mood fast and easy:
- The Twist – Chubby Checker
- Blue Moon – The Marcels
- It’s My Party – Lesley Gore
- Baby Love – The Supremes
- These Boots are Made for Walkin’ – Nancy Sinatra
- I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch) – The Four Tops
- Good Vibrations – The Beach Boys
- Travelin’ Man – Ricky Nelson
- Moody River – Pat Boone
- Please Mr. Postman – The Marvelettes
- I Feel Fine – The Beatles
- Peppermint Twist – Joey Dee and the Starliters
- Stuck on You – Elvis Presley
- Happy Together – The Turtles
- My Boyfriend’s Back – The Shirelles
- Sugar Shack – Jimmy Gilmer and the Fireballs
- Bend Me Shape Me – Amen Corner
- DownTown – Petula Clark
- Hey! Baby – Bruce Channel
- Surf City – Jan and Dean
Mix the Old with the New
If you also crave music from this era, a mix-and-match can work. Blend the old with the contemporary by listening to these tunes that very much cater to the new generation but still fit in with the old style vibe:
- Are You Gonna Be My Girl? – Jet
- Rock and Roll – Eric Hutchinson
- Mercy – Duffy
- Honey – The Hush Sound
- Radio Radio – Brooke White
- The Sweet Escape – Gwen Stefani
- Rich Girls – The Virgins
- Baby, Baby, Baby – Joss Stone
These are just ideas to get things started. There are more song options you and the group can explore.
For more inspiration, various old magazines, music videos, movies, TV shows, photography books and record shops make excellent resources. It’s about time for everyone to blast to the past.
