The Beatles: A History of Music

During the early 1960’s some of the most influential music began to bloom. Artists such as The Rolling Stones and Bob Dylan were entering the beginning stages of their musical careers. One of these bands in particular, whose music would inspire a generation, was The Beatles. Although they were earlier dismissed as an average band, with every new album and song they released their ability to create and inspire would improved. With an insatiable desire to be creative and improve their music, the Beatles music was fluidly evolving. The Beatles created music that was unique, and they would become one of the most culturally and musically influencing bands of all time.

The Beatles’ rise to fame rocked the foundations of music and culture in the 1960’s. For instance, they were a primary proponent of the British Invasion, which was the musical/cultural migration, of British pop and rock music, from Britain to the United States. The Beatles’ effects reached farther than music. After the release of A Hard Day’s Night feature film, the film industry began implementing techniques used in the film. With their straggly hair, they were able to help create a sense of cultural identity for youths in the 1960’s, which would later evolve into the counter-culture movement. There popularity was further portrayed with the help of millions of screaming girls, in what we know today as “Beatle-mania”. No where in recorded history has there been as much excitement generated by a single band before or after the Beatles. The excitement unfortunately made touring difficult, so they subsequently vowed to never tour again. This, in all actuality, was a major benefit to the future of the Beatles. With the Beatles making no money on the road Parlophone Records gave The Beatles full access to their recording studios. With an unlimited amount of recourses, combined with their love and skill of and for their trade, the Beatles were able to create the most original music.

Although The Beatles are typically credited for their role in music as a group, each member donated major contributions to the success of the band. For instance, John Lennon developed a unique style of songwriting in the 60’s that he contributed to his music with The Beatles as well as his solo work. Lennon was a pessimist at heart and that developed itself in his music. The style that developed in his later years with the Beatles was a unique blend of psychedelic and folk lyrics. Due to his work with the Beatles, Lennon is credited as one of the greatest songwriters of all time. He is forever caricatured as a “live and let live” artist. His work with “Flower Power” and numerous Anti-Vietnam War protests led to a cultural revolution in the 1970’s. Paul McCartney was the other half of the McCartney/Lennon writing team that spanned eight years and over 150+ songs. He was a perfect balance to the team, adding optimistic and often quirky strings and lyrics to Lennon’s more melancholy method. It was this songwriting combination that made The Beatles unique. George Harrison is, in my opinion, the most under-rated of the four. His musical peak was evident in the 1969 album Abbey Road. One of the most innovative and influential guitar players ever, he helped to pave the way for years of great music. Songs like “Something” will forever rank him among the most creative guitarists. At the time of the Beatles creation Richard Starkey, better known as Ringo Star, was already a member of a successful band. Star was the drummer of the band Rory Storm and the Hurricanes which played a few gigs with The Beatles when they were originally known as The Quarrymen. What attracted the Beatles to Star was his proficiency with drumming. His innovative drumming style would later lead to songs like “Rain”.

Due to The Beatles popularity they have become one of the most successful artists in history. As of 2009, The Beatles have sold over a billion records worldwide, and due to their contributions to music The Beatles are often referenced for their impact on future musical talent. The band Oasis, the artists Jimi Hendrix, Joe Cocker, David Bowie, Keith Moon and Peter Sellers, among thousands of others, all considered The Beatles to be a primary influence in their music and life. Rolling Stone Magazine named them the greatest artist of all time, and four of their albums were ranked in the top 10 of the “500 Greatest albums of All Time” as well as Sgt. Pepper’s… being ranked the #1 album.

The Beatles are likely the most recognized band in history, and for good reason. They were the pioneers of “think outside the box” music. They demonstrated the necessity of experimentation in the pursuit of fresh music. Whether or not The Beatles were the greatest band of all time is still up for debate, the fact that they have a major influence on music is not. They had a unique opportunity to influence music for the better and that is what they did. They helped music to change and become something better, which is why I have such respect and love for these guys.