“Kind of a Drag” by The Buckinghams: A Breakthrough Hit That Defined an Era
In February 1967, The Buckinghams skyrocketed to fame with their soulful, brass-infused single “Kind of a Drag”. Written by Chicago musician Jim Holvay, the song became an unexpected sensation, climbing to No. 1 on the U.S. Hot 100, where it reigned for two weeks. It was a defining moment for the band, earning them a gold disc and heralding their arrival as one of the most exciting acts of the burgeoning sunshine pop movement.
At its heart, “Kind of a Drag” is a bittersweet ode to heartbreak, wrapped in an irresistibly catchy melody. The song’s title might suggest melancholy, but its lush arrangement and upbeat rhythm create a vibrant contrast, capturing the complexity of love and loss. Holvay’s songwriting, inspired by his roots in Chicago’s thriving music scene, combined Motown-style hooks with a pop sensibility, making the track both emotionally resonant and radio-friendly.
The Buckinghams’ performance brought Holvay’s composition to life with a distinctive flair. Dennis Tufano’s smooth lead vocals conveyed just the right mix of longing and optimism, while the band’s innovative use of horns added a dynamic energy rarely heard in pop music at the time. This brass-driven sound would become a signature of the band, setting them apart from their contemporaries and influencing the evolution of late-’60s pop-rock.
“Kind of a Drag” wasn’t just a one-hit wonder—it was the opening chapter of an extraordinary year for The Buckinghams. In 1967 alone, the band would achieve three Top 10 hits and five Top 40 entries, solidifying their status as pop royalty. Tracks like “Don’t You Care” and “Mercy, Mercy, Mercy” followed in the wake of their debut success, further showcasing their ability to blend heartfelt lyrics with innovative arrangements.
Jim Holvay, who penned the track, had been performing with the Chicago-based group The Mob before stepping into songwriting. His connection to the city’s rich musical landscape is evident in “Kind of a Drag”, which draws on the rhythmic vitality and soulful depth of Chicago’s music scene. Holvay’s contributions to The Buckinghams’ early success highlight the importance of collaboration between performers and songwriters in shaping a band’s identity.
Decades later, “Kind of a Drag” remains a quintessential example of 1960s pop innovation—a song that captured the spirit of its time while paving the way for future musical experimentation. For fans and newcomers alike, it serves as a reminder of The Buckinghams’ enduring charm and their pivotal role in crafting the sound of a generation.