1. Electric guitar: It was a defining instrument in the oldies genre, particularly in rock 'n' roll.
2. Acoustic guitar: Used widely in folk, country, and rockabilly music.
3. Piano: A significant instrument that provided melodic and harmonic support in oldies music.
4. Saxophone: Especially the tenor sax, was commonly used in rhythm and blues, soul, and rock 'n' roll.
5. Trumpet: An essential component of many horn sections, contributing a bright and lively brass sound.
6. Drums: Drum kits, primarily consisting of a snare, bass, toms, and cymbals, helped propel the rhythm of oldies songs.
7. Bass guitar: Provided the low end and groove of the music, often with a prominent walking bass line.
8. Organ (Hammond organ in particular): Widely used in rhythm and blues, soul, and jazz-influenced oldies music.
9. Vibraphone: Played a significant role in creating the distinctive sound of 1950s pop music, adding texture and atmosphere.
10. Congas: Were often incorporated into Latin and Caribbean-inspired oldies songs, adding a rhythmic flavour.