Tommy James & The Shondells and The Box Tops

Tommy James, born in Dayton, Ohio, led the '60s band Tommy James & the Shondells, known for hits like "Hanky Panky" and "I Think We're Alone Now." Their style combined upbeat pop with rock & roll and later psychedelia. They collaborated with producers Ritchie Cordell and Bo Gentry. Despite chart success, they faced challenges with Roulette Records over royalties. Their legacy endures through covers by artists like Billy Idol and Joan Jett, and reissues of their music continue to keep their sound alive.

The Box Tops, a leading '60s blue-eyed soul group from Memphis, hit #1 with "The Letter." Led by Alex Chilton, they also charted with "Cry Like a Baby." Despite frustrations over artistic control, they blended pop and psychedelia, launching Chilton into Big Star fame.