1968
in MusicAlbums
19
Artists
18
Milestones
16
Notable Releases
Take My Hand, Precious Lord
Mahalia JacksonGospel standard performed memorably at Martin Luther King Jr.'s funeral, demonstrating Jackson's emotional power and spiritual depth
Say It Loud – I'm Black and I'm Proud
James BrownSocial commentary hit that became an anthem during the civil rights era, demonstrating Brown's engagement with contemporary social issues.
I Heard It Through the Grapevine
Marvin GayeGaye's first No. 1 hit on Billboard Hot 100, staying at the top for seven consecutive weeks. The song sold over 4 million copies and remains one of his most iconic recordings.
Afrika Mokili Mobimba
Tabu LeyAfrican classic recorded with African Fiesta National that achieved over one million copies sold by 1970
Truth
Rod StewartFirst Jeff Beck Group album reaching number 15 on US charts; credited with developing Stewart's vocal abilities and sandpaper voice quality
(Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay
Otis ReddingPosthumously released single that became Redding's only number-one hit on Billboard Hot 100 and first posthumous number-one in U.S. chart history; sold approximately four million copies worldwide.
The Dock of the Bay
Otis ReddingFirst posthumous album to reach number one on UK Albums Chart; featured "(Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay" and other final recordings.
Sunshine of Your Love
Eric ClaptonIconic Cream composition featuring one of rock's most recognizable guitar riffs; defined heavy rock and became a classic rock staple.
Wheels of Fire
Eric ClaptonFinal Cream studio album, double LP featuring studio and live recordings; showcased blues-rock mastery and complex compositions.
Electric Ladyland
Jimi HendrixDouble album considered one of the greatest rock albums of all time
All Along the Watchtower
Jimi HendrixBob Dylan cover that became one of Hendrix's most famous recordings
Hey Jude
The BeatlesSeven-minute epic single that became their best-selling single in the UK
Significant Milestones
MLK Funeral Performance
RetirementJackson gave one of her most memorable performances of "Take My Hand, Precious Lord" at Martin Luther King Jr.'s funeral in Atlanta, after which she retired from political work and personal endorsements.
National Anthem Performance - 1968 World Series
DebutGaye sang the U.S. national anthem live for the first time during Game 4 of the 1968 World Series at Tiger Stadium in Detroit, marking a significant milestone in his career.
Co-founding Black Sabbath
AchievementOsbourne joined Geezer Butler, Tony Iommi, and Bill Ward to form Black Sabbath, revolutionizing heavy metal music with a pioneering blend of heavy blues and dark lyrics
