Remembering Lou Christie: 10 timeless tracks to pay tribute to the late Pittsburgh hitmaker

Lou Christie, the pop and soft rock singer-songwriter popularly known as the Pittsburgh hitmaker, died on June 17, 2025, USA Today reported. Christie's best-known songs included the US chart-topper, Lightnin' Strikes, and the 1969 hit, I'm Gonna Make You Mine.

Lou grew up in suburban Pittsburgh and had launched his music career there. He was also recognized for his dramatic falsetto voice, distinguishing him from other artists.

His heartfelt songwriting and memorable pop hits left a lasting impact on music in the 1960s. Here are the top 10 memorable hits of Christie.

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10 must-hear songs to celebrate Lou Christie's legacy

Lightnin’ Strikes

It was a 1966 hit and had charted #1 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song had Christie’s signature falsetto contrasts and soaring vocals. It was a bold song for its time as it centered around an individual staying in love and avoiding monogamy. The song was backed by vocals from the pop singer Peggy Santiglia.

The Gypsy Cried

This single was released in 1962 and was co-written by Twyla Herbert. Although recorded locally in Pittsburgh, the song got Christie a deal with Roulette Records. The song is catchy and has a melancholic vibe to it, and was a hit back in the day.

Two Faces Have I

This song was performed by Lou in his signature falsetto and had reached #6 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #11 on the R&B chart. The song was best known for its soulful organ and doo-wop influence. It was the song behind the singer Bruce Springsteen's Two Faces. Two Faces Have I was also one song among the Top Records of 1963.

Rhapsody in the Rain

This was a controversial track released in 1966, being one of the first pop songs that suggested teenage sexual experiences. It was banned on the radio. However, it had charted #16 on the Billboard Hot 100. Later, Lou re-recorded the opening lyrics of the song as a 'cleaner' version of the song.

I’m Gonna Make You Mine

This song was released in 1969 and was featured in Lou's album, I'm Gonna Make You Mine. The song had peaked the charts at #10 in the UK and at #14 in the US. The song has high energy, enthusiastic, and call-and-response vocals. It was produced by Tony Romeo, and was the song revived Lou's career.

She Sold Me Magic

This single came out in 1970, but was never released in the US. However, it went on to become a hit in the UK, where it charted #25, and in Japan, it reached No.1. The song has upbeat rhythm, magical lyrics, and a pop of glam energy.

Beyond the Blue Horizon

This song has a synth-heavy, orchestral disco vibe, and it charted at #80 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song has been used as a soundtrack in several films, including the 1988 comedy-drama film, Rain Man.

How Many Teardrops

It was Lou's third Roulette release, and it had charted #46 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song features Lou's aching vocal performance and has a doo-wop meets early pop style to it. Although it wasn't a big hit on the boards, it is a fan favourite.

Shy Boy

This song did not top the charts, but is a cult favourite. The lyrics are emotional and relatable. The song captures the vulnerability of teenage love in the early '60s, along with Christie’s falsetto shining through.

Outside the Gates of Heaven

A 1967 hit that charted #45 on the Billboard Hot 100. It is an emotional song with orchestral pop sounds. The song features mature and theatrical storytelling, and is centered around heartbreak, loss, and emotional isolation.

These were some of the timeless tracks by the legendary musician Lou Christie that blended youthful emotion with memorable musical production. These tracks will be forever cherished by his fans and music lovers alike.