The Box Tops, formed in Memphis, Tennessee in 1967, emerged as a prominent and influential band during the golden age of rock and pop in the late 1960s. Their debut single, “The Letter,” propelled them into the limelight and became an instant classic. Led by the soulful and distinctive vocals of Alex Chilton, The Box Tops crafted a sound that seamlessly blended elements of blue-eyed soul, rock, and pop.

“The Letter,” released in 1967, soared to the top of the charts with its infectious melody and Chilton’s soul-drenched delivery. The song’s success established The Box Tops as a formidable force in the music scene. Their subsequent hits, including “Cry Like a Baby” and “Soul Deep,” showcased their versatility and ability to navigate different musical genres.

While The Box Tops faced internal conflicts and lineup changes, their impact on pop music endured. Alex Chilton, in particular, went on to have a significant career in the alternative and indie rock scenes. The Box Tops’ contribution to the 1960s music landscape, marked by their soulful sound and memorable hits, cements their place as a noteworthy band in the annals of rock history.

1. “The Letter”

“The Letter” is a classic song by The Box Tops, released in 1967. With its infectious melody and soulful delivery, the song became an iconic hit during the late 1960s. Led by the distinctive vocals of a young Alex Chilton, The Box Tops blended elements of blue-eyed soul and rock, creating a sound that resonated with a broad audience.

Written by Wayne Carson Thompson, “The Letter” tells the story of a man who receives a letter from his girlfriend, notifying him of her decision to leave him. The song’s catchy chorus, combined with Chilton’s soulful and passionate singing, contributed to its immediate success.

Upon its release, “The Letter” quickly climbed the charts, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1967. The song’s popularity was further solidified by its memorable appearance on various television shows and in films. Its distinctive guitar riff and Chilton’s soulful vocals make “The Letter” a timeless classic that continues to be celebrated and covered by artists across different genres.

“The Letter” remains a key piece of the 1960s musical landscape and is often remembered as one of The Box Tops’ signature songs, showcasing their ability to infuse rock with soulful, emotive performances.

2. “Cry Like a Baby”

“Cry Like a Baby” is a classic song by The Box Tops, released in 1968. The song became one of the band’s most recognizable hits, known for its catchy melody and soulful sound.

The song “Cry Like a Baby” is characterized by its upbeat tempo, soulful vocals by lead singer Alex Chilton, and a driving rhythm. The track features a blend of rock and soul elements, showcasing the band’s ability to create energetic and infectious music.

Lyrically, “Cry Like a Baby” portrays themes of heartache and vulnerability in relationships. The lyrics convey the feelings of pain and emotional distress associated with a breakup or a troubled romance, with the protagonist expressing vulnerability and longing for reconciliation.

The song’s memorable chorus, where Chilton sings “I wanna cry like a baby” encapsulates the emotional turmoil and longing for emotional release in the face of heartbreak.

“Cry Like a Baby” was a commercial success and remains a classic example of 1960s pop-rock music. Its catchy melody, soulful vocals, and relatable themes of heartache contributed to its popularity and made it a standout hit for The Box Tops.

3. “Soul Deep”

“Soul Deep” is a classic song by The Box Tops, released in 1969. It’s known for its soulful sound and heartfelt lyrics, showcasing the band’s ability to blend elements of rock, pop, and soul music.

The song “Soul Deep” is characterized by its smooth melody, soulful vocals by lead singer Alex Chilton, and a blend of horns and instruments that evoke a rich, soul-inspired sound.

Lyrically, “Soul Deep” expresses the depth of emotions and the intensity of romantic feelings. The lyrics convey the idea that the love felt by the singer goes beyond surface-level attraction, reaching deep into the soul. The protagonist expresses profound emotions and a strong connection to the person they love, emphasizing the depth and authenticity of their feelings.

The song’s chorus, with Chilton singing “I love you, it’s soul deep,” encapsulates the emotional depth and sincerity of the love being professed.

“Soul Deep” was well-received and became another notable hit for The Box Tops. Its soulful sound, heartfelt lyrics, and Chilton’s emotive vocals contributed to its success and made it a cherished track among fans of 1960s music.

4. “Neon Rainbow”

“Neon Rainbow” is another notable song by The Box Tops, released in 1967. Following the success of “The Letter,” the band continued to make an impact with this psychedelic-tinged track. The song was written by Wayne Carson Thompson, who also penned “The Letter.”

“Neon Rainbow” features a distinct blend of pop, rock, and a touch of psychedelia. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the city life, using colorful and evocative imagery. The chorus, with its catchy repetition of the phrase “Neon Rainbow,” adds to the song’s memorable quality.

While “Neon Rainbow” didn’t quite reach the same chart-topping heights as “The Letter,” it still performed well and showcased The Box Tops’ versatility. The band’s ability to navigate different musical styles and deliver engaging, well-crafted songs solidified their status as a notable presence in the late 1960s music scene.

With its energetic sound and evocative lyrics, “Neon Rainbow” remains a noteworthy piece of The Box Tops’ catalog and a representation of the diverse musical landscape of the late 1960s.

5. “Choo Choo Train”

“Choo Choo Train” is a song by The Box Tops, released in 1968. It’s one of the tracks from their second studio album, “Cry Like a Baby.” The song is known for its catchy and upbeat melody, typical of the pop and blue-eyed soul sound that characterized The Box Tops’ music.

“Choo Choo Train” was penned by Gary Zekley and Mitchell Bottler, the same songwriting duo responsible for the band’s hit “Cry Like a Baby.” The song features the soulful vocals of Alex Chilton, and its lyrics convey a sense of romantic longing and the anticipation of love, using the metaphor of a “choo choo train” to evoke a sense of motion and excitement.

While “Choo Choo Train” didn’t achieve the same level of chart success as some of The Box Tops’ earlier hits,

it remains a fan favorite and a testament to the band’s ability to craft infectious pop tunes with soulful undertones. The song’s whimsical lyrics and upbeat instrumentation capture the spirit of the late 1960s pop-rock scene.

“Choo Choo Train” reflects The Box Tops’ knack for delivering catchy, radio-friendly tracks, and it stands as a charming addition to their body of work. The band’s brief but impactful presence in the late 1960s left an indelible mark on pop and blue-eyed soul music, and “Choo Choo Train” is a delightful example of their contribution to that era.

6. “Sweet Cream Ladies, Forward March”

“Sweet Cream Ladies, Forward March” is a song by The Box Tops, featured on their album “Dimensions” released in 1969. The song showcases the band’s eclectic style, blending elements of rock, soul, and psychedelia prevalent during the late 1960s.

“Sweet Cream Ladies, Forward March” is characterized by its upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and psychedelic influences. The song’s title and lyrics carry an enigmatic quality, with interpretations often revolving around various themes of social commentary, metaphorical imagery, and the countercultural movements of the era.

The song’s lyrics depict vivid and abstract imagery, painting scenes of a surreal and dreamlike carnival atmosphere. The title itself, “Sweet Cream Ladies, Forward March,” adds to the song’s enigmatic nature, leaving room for interpretation and speculation among listeners.

Musically, the track features a blend of diverse instruments, including horns and unconventional percussive elements, creating a distinct sound that adds to the song’s eclectic vibe.

“Sweet Cream Ladies, Forward March” is regarded as a departure from The Box Tops’ more straightforward pop-soul sound, representing their experimentation with psychedelic and eclectic elements prevalent in late ’60s music. The song stands as a testament to the band’s versatility and willingness to explore different musical styles during that era.

7. “I Met Her in Church”

“I Met Her in Church” is a song by The Box Tops, released in 1968. It’s a track from their second studio album, “Cry Like a Baby.” Written by Wayne Carson Thompson, who also wrote their earlier hit “The Letter,” the song showcases The Box Tops’ blend of pop, soul, and rock elements.

“I Met Her in Church” follows a narrator who recounts meeting a romantic interest in a church setting. The song features soulful vocals by Alex Chilton, and its lyrics convey the emotions of a romantic encounter within the context of a place traditionally associated with spirituality.

While “I Met Her in Church” may not be as widely recognized as some of The Box Tops’ major hits, it reflects the band’s versatility in exploring different themes and musical styles. The soulful delivery and engaging melodies align with the band’s signature sound.

The Box Tops’ ability to infuse soulful elements into their pop and rock compositions contributed to their appeal during the late 1960s, and “I Met Her in Church” is an example of their exploration of diverse musical influences.

8. “You Keep Tightening Up on Me”

“You Keep Tightening Up on Me” is a song by The Box Tops from their album “Cry Like a Baby,” released in 1968. The track exemplifies the band’s soulful sound and energetic performances that characterized their music during the late 1960s.

The song “You Keep Tightening Up on Me” features an infectious rhythm, soulful vocals by lead singer Alex Chilton, and a lively musical arrangement. It showcases The Box Tops’ ability to create upbeat and danceable tunes within the realm of pop-soul.

Lyrically, the song addresses the tension and conflict within a relationship. The lyrics express the frustration and feelings of being restricted or confined within the confines of the relationship, as suggested by the phrase “tightening up on me.” The protagonist appears to feel constrained and seeks a sense of freedom from the emotional constraints imposed within the relationship.

“You Keep Tightening Up on Me” highlights the band’s ability to deliver catchy, soul-infused tunes that resonate with audiences. Its infectious energy, lively instrumentation, and Chilton’s emotive vocals contributed to the song’s appeal and its place among The Box Tops’ repertoire of soulful hits.

9. “Turn on a Dream”

“Turn on a Dream” is a song by The Box Tops, featured on their album “Dimensions,” released in 1969. The track reflects the band’s experimentation with different musical styles prevalent during the late 1960s.

“Turn on a Dream” embodies psychedelic and experimental elements, showcasing a departure from The Box Tops’ more traditional pop-soul sound. The song features dreamy and trippy musical arrangements, incorporating psychedelic effects, echoing vocals, and unconventional instrumentation.

Lyrically, “Turn on a Dream” explores themes of escapism, imagination, and the surreal experiences associated with dreams. The lyrics convey a sense of drifting into a dreamlike state, inviting listeners into an abstract and whimsical world.

The song’s title, “Turn on a Dream,” coupled with its psychedelic soundscapes, suggests an exploration of altered states of consciousness and the dreamlike nature of the human psyche.

“Turn on a Dream” represents The Box Tops’ experimentation with psychedelic music and unconventional sounds, marking a shift towards more experimental and eclectic styles during the late ’60s. While different from their earlier hits, the song demonstrates the band’s willingness to embrace diverse musical influences and venture into new sonic territories.

10. “I Must Be the Devil”

“I Must Be the Devil” is a song by The Box Tops from their album “Non-Stop,” released in 1968. The track showcases the band’s soulful sound and reflects the style that characterized their music during the late 1960s.

“I Must Be the Devil” features a soul-infused musical arrangement, with emotive vocals by lead singer Alex Chilton and a dynamic instrumentation typical of the band’s style.

Lyrically, the song delves into themes of introspection, self-doubt, and personal reflection. The title itself suggests a sense of inner turmoil or conflict, with the lyrics exploring the protagonist’s feelings of guilt or self-perceived wrongdoing. The song portrays a sense of self-examination and contemplation about one’s actions and their consequences.

“I Must Be the Devil” resonated with audiences due to its soulful sound, Chilton’s expressive vocals, and the introspective nature of the lyrics. It remains a notable track within The Box Tops’ repertoire, showcasing their ability to deliver emotionally resonant songs that capture the spirit of the late ’60s soul and pop music.