Hits of the Vietnam War: 1963

Music plays an incredible role in shaping society. Just like today, back in the Vietnam war era our veterans were listening to the music THEIR parents couldn't understand. Enjoy listening and learning. It's the music they listened to here and over there. Its memories to music.

We will be releasing the hits of each year, starting in February with 1962, pop back each month and enjoy the community, and don't forget to vote and share each month.

Its 1963 and a new four-piece band from England grabs national attention. The Beatles, with their unique British sound, take Australia by storm. Their first record 'Please Please Me' in March takes the country by storm and by the latter part of the year their hits continue with 'I Want to Hold Your Hand' and 'She Loves You' topping the charts. Beatlemania is here and young teenagers (and adults), many who in just a few years' time will be serving in Vietnam, flock to record stores. Australia is truly feeling part of the Empire.

In 1963 a new music craze is also developing – the distinct sound of the blossoming surf culture. 'Pipleline' by the Chantays makes the top ten and 'Bomborra' by the Atlantics narrowly misses out. The 'Stomp' dance that accompanies surf culture is also making waves. Some councils want it banned in recreation halls because it was thought to damage buildings. Teenagers couldn't understand the fuss and the craze continued. Surf culture endured for many who served in Vietnam. Just a few years later some of those same teenagers would be riding waves at Vung Tau with heavy machine guns and barbed wire protecting their surf break.