Few songs can encapsulate an era like ‘The Letter’ by ‘The Box Tops.’ The electrifying performance by the band captured the sound of 60s pop and rock with their charismatic 16-year-old lead singer, Alex Chilton.
‘The Box Tops’ are on the stage with bright primary colors as the backdrop. The camera pans to every instrument and the lead singer, Alex Chilton. He is wearing a suit with a t-shirt, yet he still ties his tie around his neck. His outfit and emotion add to his lead singer persona.
Alex is joined by two guitars, an organ, and a drummer. The band plays the first few verses and choruses until they near the song’s end. Alex brings out a tambourine and starts to move around a bit more while cool sound effects play over the music.
‘The Letter’ was written by Wayne Carson and recorded in 1967. The tune reached number 1 in America and Canada. It was also an international success, making it to the top ten in several other countries.
The song has inspired many cover versions, including a rendition by Joe Cocker that became his first top-ten single. ‘Rolling Stone’ magazine put ‘The Box Tops’ version at number 372 on the ‘500 Greatest Songs of All Time.’
‘The Box Tops’ are known for their other hits, including ‘Cry Like a Baby’ and ‘Choo Choo Train.’ They were known as a ‘major blue-eyed soul group’ of the late ’60s.
Alex Chilton went on to front the power pop band ‘Big Star.’ He launched a career as a solo artist while still performing hits from ‘The Box Tops.’ The group left its mark on American music history with infectious tunes that stood the test of time.
If you liked this, share it with a friend.
