TOP-10 Iconic Vietnam War Songs - most famous anti war anthems
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TOP 10 Most Iconic Vietnam War Songs

ByMusicFan

The Vietnam War (Nov 1, 1955 – Apr 30, 1975) was not only a significant historical event that touched millions of lives. It also was a powerful source of inspiration and reflection in the music of the 1960s and 70s.

This era produced so many songs that captured the emotions, the feelings, protests, and stories of the time. Music provided comfort, it called for solidarity and questioned the established institutions. It served as a voice for both soldiers and protesters.

This is a list of TOP 10 most iconic Vietnam War songs. It consists of tracks that defined the whole generation, reflecting the unrest, hope, and struggle for change.

I chose these particular 10 songs because they vividly capture the very essence of the Vietnam War era. These songs reflect the emotions, struggles, and stories of that time. They come from a variety of genres and each offers unique perspective on the events.

This music continues to be iconic till this day. Many of the tracks were featured in films and media about the Vietnam War, which helps to keep the memories and lessons of that ear alive. Enjoy!

10. The Byrds – Turn! Turn! Turn!

  • Genre: Folk Rock
  • Release Year: 1965

Adapted by Pete Seeger from the Book of Ecclesiastes, this song became a timeless anthem for peace and reflection during the Vietnam War, advocating for change and hope.

9. The Rolling Stones – Gimme Shelter

  • Genre: Blues Rock
  • Release Year: 1969

Written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards this song captures the chaos and violence of the era. It became emblematic of the late 1960s. And it is featured in many Vietnam War films, with 1987 “Full Metal Jacket,” directed by Stanley Kubrick being the most famous one.

8. Jefferson Airplane – Volunteers

  • Genre: Rock
  • Release Year: 1969

“Volunteers” is a protest anthem by Jefferson Airplane, reflecting the radical and revolutionary spirit of the late 1960s. Written by band members Marty Balin and Paul Kantner, the song calls for a collective uprising and resistance against the establishment. The track gained further prominence when it was featured in the 1970 documentary “Woodstock” and the Vietnam War film “Forrest Gump”.

7. Buffalo Springfield – For What It’s Worth 

  • Genre: Folk Rock
  • Release Year: 1966

An anthem for the counterculture movement, this song reflects the social unrest and protests of the 1960s. It has been featured in numerous Vietnam War films and documentaries. A vivid highlight of its time.

6. The Doors – The End 

  • Genre: Psychedelic rock
  • Release Year: 1967

“The End” is one of The Doors’ most iconic and haunting tracks. It’s lengthy & has very experimental composition. It gained significant cultural exposure after being used in Francis Ford Coppola’s 1979 film “Apocalypse Now”. The opening scenes perfectly show the chaos and horror of the Vietnam War.

5. Barry McGuire – Eve Of Destruction 

  • Genre: Folk Rock
  • Release Year: 1965

This protest song was an instant hit. It reached #1 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and #3 on the UK Singles Chart in 1965. It captures the anxieties of the 1960s, addressing issues from the Vietnam War to civil rights. It was also featured in a video game Mafia 3.

4. The Box Tops – The Letter 

  • Genre: Pop
  • Release Year: 1967

“The Letter” is a soulful hit by The Box Tops. The song tells the story of a man yearning to return to his loved one, with the theme of separation being so prevailing during the Vietnam War era. It literally became an anthem for soldiers who were sent far from home. Many Vietnam vets stated that this song helped them to hold on, and keep the hope of returning back.

3. Country Joe and the Fish – I-Feel-Like-I’m-Fixin’-to-Die Rag 

  • Genre: Folk Rock
  • Release Year: 1967

A satirical anti-war song by Country Joe and the Fish, famously performed at the Woodstock Festival in 1969. This composition became a favorite among anti-war protesters and a definite anthem of the counterculture movement.

2. Marvin Gaye – What’s Going On 

  • Genre: Soul
  • Release Year: 1971

“What’s Going On” is a soulful and introspective song by Marvin Gaye, addressing the social and political issues of the time, including the Vietnam War. It was inspired by his brother’s experiences as a soldier. The song’s smooth, emotional delivery and poignant message made it a hit for the anti-war movement.

1. Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR) – Fortunate Son 

  • Genre: Rock
  • Release Year: 1969

“Fortunate Son” is a hard-hitting iconic and powerful protest song by Creedence Clearwater Revival, written by John Fogerty. The song criticizes the unfairness of the Vietnam War draft, pointing out how wealthy and privileged people often avoided fighting, while the less fortunate had to go. “Fortunate Son” quickly became an anthem for the anti-war movement and remains one of the most famous and recognizable songs associated with the Vietnam War era. It has been prominently featured in numerous films, including “Forrest Gump”.

And here’s the full playlist on YouTube:

Click here To Listen 10 best Songs Playlist

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