Released in late 1966 and hitting #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in February 1967, “Kind of a Drag” was the breakout hit for The Buckinghams, a pop-rock band from Chicago known for blending British Invasion energy with American horn-driven soul. It became one of the first major hits of 1967, signaling the start of “sunshine pop” and the brass rock sound that would influence bands like Chicago and Blood, Sweat & Tears.
Despite its upbeat groove and sunny horns, the lyrics tell a different story. “Kind of a Drag” is about heartbreak and disillusionment. The narrator laments how love turns sour, especially when someone he trusted has done him wrong.
The Buckinghams – Kind Of A Drag
It was The Buckinghams’ only #1 hit, but they followed up with several other Top 40 songs like “Don’t You Care” and “Susan.”
Their name was chosen to sound British—even though they were proudly American!
“Kind of a Drag” sold over 1 million copies, earning the band a gold record and establishing them nationally almost overnight.
