The Byrds

Calling Californian band The Byrds “pop-rock” is selling them way short. With early hits covering Bob Dylan songs and a series of timeless albums, The Byrds helped define what we call The Sixties. Their command of close harmonies and memorable melodies made them popular around the world.

 

Although there were many, many personnel changes after The Byrds formed in 1964, the constant was Roger (aka Jim) McGuinn. His jangling Rickenbacker 12-string guitar defined the Byrds sound, as they played—or perhaps even invented—the genres of folk-rock, psychedelic folk, and country rock. Former Byrds members who made a mark after leaving the nest include David Crosby, Gram Parsons and Chris Hillman.

The Greatest Hits makes a fine introduction. If you enjoy what you hear, the first five albums are often described as "core curriculum" of Sixties pop-rock.