Alright, I was thinking about this on the drive in this morning, the news on the radio was to depressing to listen to. Name one song from a decade, regardless if you like the song or the artist, that in your opinion really sums up that decade.
The 50s - (the lord has an older sister - lol). Del Shannon - Runaway. I always loved this song and thought it was way ahead of its time. High wa wa wa wonder chorus is vintage true 50s. I never could figure what the instrument in the middle part is, but a true classic song. Sad ending for Del.
The 60s - Time of the Season by the Zombies. Classic keyboards and great vocals. I love the refrain (who's your daddy) and the ch ha after the bass lines.
Beautiful Morning by the Rascals gets honorable mention, both feel good songs.
The 70s - This one was the hardest, since I really grew up in this decade. I refuse to let a disco song be the flagship for this decade. Although it is far from my favorite tune, Stairway to Heaven is the one by Led Zep. Probably because I heard every day of my life during that time.
The 80s - Tears for Fears - Everybody wants to rule the world. Love the song and very 80s feeling without using to much of the studio tricks (drum machines, etc) from the era.
The 90s - Fast Car by Tracy Chapman. Has that depressing sort of thing going on with that simplistic guitar riff throughout the song. I liked the recording.
The 00s - got to think some more on this one.....