8. Martha & The Vandellas - Dancing In The Street; 2:38

This 1964 hit by Martha & The Vandellas became an anthem-like song during the unpredictable decade of the '60's. Singing to a globally-conscious generation, the group announced, "Calling out around the world are you ready for a brand new beat?". Dancing in the Street gave Martha & The Vandellas the reputation of a gutsy black girl group. This track singles out cities across the country urging everyone to have a good time no matter where you live. This inclusion of various locations provides a sense of intimacy between the group and the listeners and gives them a sense of a trans-local community while listening to this song. The Funk Brothers provided the background music for this track, featuring Benny Benjamin and Marvin Gaye on the drums. In addition to the oddity of having two drummers, another member created a dramatic drum beat for the track by banging a crowbar against the cement floor. This song, which for many became an anthem for social change and civil rights, reached #2 on the pop charts.