Billboard Hot 100 | Top 5 – Week of November 11, 1967
The Billboard Hot 100 for November 11, 1967 remained under the control of “To Sir With Love” by Lulu, which spent a fourth consecutive week at #1. What began as a hit tied to a successful motion picture had become one of the year’s defining singles. Its message of appreciation, maturity, and respect continued to resonate with listeners during a period when popular music was rapidly expanding in every direction.
While Lulu held the top spot, the real battle was taking place just below her. Sam & Dave’s “Soul Man” remained firmly at #2 and continued to build momentum. Vikki Carr held steady at #3 with the dramatic ballad “It Must Be Him,” while Strawberry Alarm Clock’s psychedelic anthem “Incense And Peppermints” surged into the Top 5. Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell rounded out the week’s Top 5 with one of Motown’s finest duets.
The chart reflected the extraordinary variety of late-1967 radio. Psychedelic rock, soul, orchestral pop, Motown, and traditional vocal performances all found room within the Top 10. It was a reminder that listeners were embracing a wider range of music than ever before.
Top 5 Songs (November 11, 1967)
1. To Sir With Love – Lulu
“To Sir With Love” remained at #1 for a fourth week, continuing one of the strongest chart runs of the year. The song’s heartfelt message distinguished it from many contemporary hits and helped it connect with audiences of all ages.
Lulu delivered the song with sincerity and confidence, creating a performance that felt both personal and universal. Listeners responded to its warmth and emotional honesty, helping it maintain its hold on the top position.
Its continued success confirmed its place among the most memorable songs of 1967.
2. Soul Man – Sam & Dave
Holding at #2, “Soul Man” continued its remarkable rise. Sam & Dave delivered one of the most energetic and influential soul records of the decade, blending powerful vocals with the unmistakable Stax Records sound.
The song’s driving rhythm and unforgettable chorus made it a favorite on both radio and jukeboxes. It captured the excitement and confidence that defined much of the best soul music of the era.
Its position near the top suggested that an even bigger breakthrough could be just around the corner.
3. It Must Be Him – Vikki Carr
Vikki Carr remained at #3 with “It Must Be Him,” continuing the strongest chart run of her career. The dramatic arrangement and emotional intensity of the record helped it stand apart from many contemporary pop songs.
The song captured the anticipation and uncertainty of waiting for an important phone call, a simple premise elevated by Carr’s passionate vocal performance.
Its staying power demonstrated that traditional vocal pop still had a significant audience in late 1967.
4. Incense And Peppermints – Strawberry Alarm Clock
Jumping from #7 to #4, “Incense And Peppermints” became one of the fastest-rising songs on the chart. Its psychedelic sound captured the spirit of the era and reflected the growing influence of West Coast rock.
The song’s unusual lyrics, swirling production, and distinctive atmosphere made it unlike anything else in the Top 10. For many listeners, it represented the adventurous side of late-1960s music.
Its rapid climb suggested that psychedelic rock was becoming an increasingly powerful force on the Hot 100.
5. Your Precious Love – Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell
Holding steady at #5, “Your Precious Love” remained one of the most elegant records on the chart. Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell shared a chemistry that few vocal duos could match.
The song blended romance, melody, and emotional warmth into a performance that felt completely natural. Their voices complemented one another perfectly, creating a record that remains a Motown classic.
Its continued success reinforced Motown’s dominance during one of the label’s greatest periods.
More Weeks at #1 for “To Sir With Love”
This song spent multiple weeks at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100. Explore each chart week below:
🎂 What Was the #1 Song on Your Birthday?
If you were born during the week ending November 11, 1967, this was your birthday song:
🎵 To Sir With Love by Lulu
▶ Watch and experience this song →
🎂 Born in the 60s? Try your own birthday:
Top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 This Week
- To Sir With Love – Lulu
- Soul Man – Sam & Dave
- It Must Be Him – Vikki Carr
- Incense And Peppermints – Strawberry Alarm Clock
- Your Precious Love – Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell
- The Rain, The Park & Other Things – The Cowsills
- Please Love Me Forever – Bobby Vinton
- (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman – Aretha Franklin
- Expressway (To Your Heart) – Soul Survivors
- Never My Love – The Association
Chart Movers This Week
Looking Back at November 1967
The November 11, 1967 chart demonstrated how rapidly popular music was evolving. Lulu’s soundtrack ballad remained at #1, but psychedelic rock and soul music were becoming increasingly dominant forces within the Top 10.
The rise of “Incense And Peppermints” and the continued strength of “Soul Man” reflected two very different but equally important musical movements. One represented the experimental side of rock, while the other showcased the growing influence of soul music on mainstream audiences.
Looking back today, this chart serves as a snapshot of a remarkable moment in music history. The variety of sounds represented within the Top 10 illustrates why 1967 remains one of the most celebrated years in popular music.
