The Buckinghams – Kind Of A Drag (1967)
The Buckinghams, remember widely for their single “Kind of a Drag,” made a significant mark in the world of pop and rock music during the 1960s. Emerging from Chicago, Illinois, The Buckinghams were quintessential to the sunshine pop music movement, bringing a fresh and energetic sound to the pop rock genre. Their breakthrough with “Kind of a Drag” came when the song reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in early 1967, adding to the vibrancy of the musical landscape of the time. This track displayed not only the group’s keen pop sensibilities but also their ability to infuse soulful melodies with a rock and roll edge that captivated listeners across America.
The song was penned by songwriter Jim Holvay, whose talent for crafting catchy melodies and relatable lyrics was evident in “Kind of a Drag.” Holvay had been impressed by The Buckinghams’ talent and rising popularity, and he brought them a tune that perfectly aligned with their style. The lyrics of “Kind of a Drag” explore the emotional complexities of love and heartache. The protagonist grapples with feelings of betrayal and longing, capturing the quintessential teenage emotion of the era with phrases like “kind of a drag, when your baby don’t love you.” Its lyrical simplicity combined with an upbeat melody resonated widely, appealing to a broad audience who found familiarity in its emotional authenticity.
One of the factors that set The Buckinghams apart from other bands was their adept use of brass instrumentation, which gave “Kind of a Drag” a distinctive sound. The lush, horn-driven arrangement complemented the song’s pop-oriented structure while adding a layer of richness and depth. This approach not only highlighted the band’s innovative spirit but also set a precedent for other bands of the time to experiment with orchestration in rock and pop music. The arrangement contributed significantly to the song’s success and wide appeal, blending rock sensibilities with the big band sound that appealed to a more mainstream audience.
Throughout its history, “Kind of a Drag” has been a staple of The Buckinghams’ live performances. The song’s infectious energy translates effectively in concert settings, engaging audiences with its catchy chorus and dynamic instrumentation. The success of the song propelled the band into touring circuits across the United States, sharing stages with notable acts of the 1960s. Their performances retained the vibrancy of the recorded track, often enhanced by the live brass sections that became synonymous with their concerts. The band’s dedication to recreating the studio-quality sound in a live environment contributed to their reputation as gifted musicians and performers.
The cultural impact of “Kind of a Drag” can be observed through its influence on both fans and aspiring musicians of the era. It contributed to the rich tapestry of 1960s pop culture, which was marked by rapid musical experimentation and the breaking down of genre barriers. The Buckinghams’ ability to effectively blend various musical elements into a cohesive and appealing sound inspired other musicians to explore similar creative avenues, which helped to further evolve the pop and rock genres. The song’s success also contributed to the British Invasion’s effect on American bands, highlighting that domestic acts could also achieve commercial success with innovative approaches.
The success of “Kind of a Drag” opened doors for The Buckinghams, enabling them to secure a contract with Columbia Records and produce subsequent hits such as “Don’t You Care,” “Mercy, Mercy, Mercy,” and “Susan.” These follow-up singles solidified the band’s place in music history and built upon the musical sophistication that “Kind of a Drag” introduced. Their influence extended into the development of the Chicago rock sound, blending intricate vocal harmonies with rich instrumentation—a blueprint that many future bands from the region would follow.
In later years, “Kind of a Drag” continued to be a touchstone for nostalgia and celebration of 1960s music. Its enduring appeal has seen it featured in various media formats, including film soundtracks and period-piece compilations, often bringing the sound of The Buckinghams to new generations. The timeless qualities of the song’s melodies and themes have ensured its place in pop culture, demonstrating the lasting impact that an evocative, well-crafted pop song can have.
Despite the shifts in musical trends over the decades, The Buckinghams and their hit “Kind of a Drag” remain relevant, celebrated for their contributions to the music world and their demonstration of the evolving soundscape of the 1960s. The band’s ability to capture and convey the spirit of the time through song has cemented “Kind of a Drag” as not only a moment of triumph within their career but also a notable chapter in the history of popular music.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ErT4Fg4bGZw
