Some of the Best Songs and Albums in the National Library of Congress

Don McClean made more news a few weeks ago when it was revealed that his tune “American Pie” (the day the music died, Buddy Holly plane crash 19590) would be secured in the National Library of Congress. It’s where audio called the ‘National Recording Registry,’ or recordings that culturally or historically reflect life in the United States are admitted. Think of it as the Hall of Fame for audio that should be kept in a time capsule for the next thousand years.

Who or what else is in the National Library of Congress? The original Kate Smith’s “God Bless America,” songs from Ray Charles, Bob Dylan, Elvis, Frank Sinatra, “Respect” from Aretha Franklin, “Roll Over Beethoven,” from Chuck Berry, and Carole King’s “Tapestry” album have been enshrined.

“What’s Going On” from Marvin Gaye, the album “Pet Sounds” from the Beach Boys, Jerry Lee Lewis and “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Going On,” Jimi Hendrix and “Are You Experienced,” Stevie Wonder’s “Songs in the Key of Life,” “I Can’t Get No Satisfaction” from the Rolling Stones, Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” LP and more are also found in the registry.

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