Introduction:
“Kind of a Drag” is a definitive song from the mid-1960s, a vibrant snapshot of American garage rock and pop-rock. Released as a single in December 1966, it quickly became a breakout hit for The Buckinghams, a band that originated in Chicago. The song served as the title track for their debut album, “Kind of a Drag,” which was subsequently released in 1967. This album featured a mix of original compositions and covers, showcasing the band’s blend of R&B influences, energetic rhythm, and distinctive brass arrangements.
The musical genre of “Kind of a Drag” can be best described as pop-rock with strong elements of garage rock and blue-eyed soul. While often associated with the broader “Sunshine Pop” sound of the era due to its bright, catchy melodies, the track also possesses a raw, driving energy characteristic of garage rock. The Buckinghams’ signature sound, particularly notable in “Kind of a Drag,” was defined by its prominent horn section, which gave them a more polished and sophisticated edge compared to many of their garage rock contemporaries. This “Chicago horn sound” became a hallmark of the band and helped them stand out in the crowded music scene of the time.
The achievements of “Kind of a Drag” were monumental for The Buckinghams. It marked their breakthrough into national consciousness, rocketing to number 1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart in February 1967, where it remained for two weeks. This made it the first number one single of the new calendar year. The song also achieved significant commercial success in Canada, reaching number 1 on the RPM Top Singles chart. Its widespread popularity earned it a gold disc, signifying over a million units sold. “Kind of a Drag” was the first of what would be several major hits for The Buckinghams in 1967, a year in which Billboard Magazine notably declared them “The Most Listened to Band in America.” The success of the single led to The Buckinghams signing with Columbia Records and solidified their place as one of the most prominent American pop-rock bands of the late 1960s, leaving an indelible mark on the sound of the era.