The small collection of 45 RPM records on this page was released between 1966 and 1969, representing a vibrant cross-section of the East Los Angeles music scene during that period. These records capture the richness of local sounds and reflect the creativity and energy of East L.A. musicians. At the East Los Angeles Music Experience, our musical archives are filled with songs that ignite nostalgia and transport listeners back to a time when music was everything.
However, activity in the East Los Angeles music scene began to decline starting in 1966. The government’s acceleration of the military draft due to increased involvement in the Vietnam War pulled many talented musicians into service, directly affecting local bands and performances. A fan comment on a video of The Premiers performing “Farmer John” highlights this impact:
“My uncle Frankie sang in this group. He’s the one on the left. I miss him. They would have made more songs, but the Vietnam War came. They all went.”
Despite these challenges, music continued in East Los Angeles, though the number of bands and events decreased. Musical styles evolved toward upbeat rock, influenced by the British Invasion, but the rhythm and spirit of the Eastside Sound endured—the beat went on.
The jukebox below requires no quarters, just a keen interest and appreciation of the East Los Angeles Golden Era of Music.
The photos of the four music record stores below are a small sample of the many places where young and old alike discovered a universe dedicated to music lovers. Unlike today, these music havens were free of cellphones and laptops; they were free of complicated brews of coffee. The record stores had phone booths to conduct private conversations and listening booths where you could sample a record before you bought it. The music stores of this era ranged from the emergence of large chain conglomerates to small mom-and-pop neighborhood establishments that carried less inventory. Regardless of size, they were packed with interested and curious music lovers who could barely contain themselves while tapping their feet and longing for a spacious dance floor. The photos below are no longer just a trip down Whittier Boulevard, but also a trip down Memory Lane.
White Front
Zodys
Phillips Music Company
Sam Goody
