What’s the Greatest Instrumental Pop Music Hit of All-Time?

 

 

AN UNCONVENTIONAL CONVENTION — EDITION 233

What’s the greatest *instrumental* pop music hit of all time?

Okay, first let’s set some parameters. Not Mozart. Not Gershwin. Yes, those are the ideal best answers.

But in this discussion, let’s stick with music and hit songs within the last 75 years — in other words, popular music.

The first record I remember ever tapping my 6-year-old foot to was Herb Albert and the Tijuana Brass and their monster mid-60s hit, “A Taste of Honey.” In fact, Alpert’s 1965 album Whipped Cream & Other Delights proved so popular — it was the number one album of the year 1966, outselling The Beatles, Frank Sinatra, and The Rolling Stones. Alpert’s unexpected hit and success turned the Tijuana Brass into an actual touring ensemble rather than just a studio band.

Bonus Questions: Feel free to list what you think is the GREATEST instrumental of all time. Then, list your PERSONAL FAVORITE instrumental of all time. Finally, for those who are ambitious, comment upon why *instrumentals” don’t seem to be in favor with music audiences today (assuming you agree with that statement).

I’m remembering Chuck Mangione’s monster album of the 1970’s — Feels So Good. But then 20 years later I also loved Fatboy Slim’s Weapon of Choice, if only for the epic dance video starring actor Christopher Walken. This is tough. So many great choices, it’s hard to choose.

Now, it’s your turn.

Note:  This is the TWO-HUNDRED AND THIRTY THIRD edition of A.U.C., a Facebook series launched four years ago to foster civil discussion and debate in these unfortunate times of division and derision. Thanks for participating!

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