The Beatles
Kevin Li
Roots of Rock and Roll
Changing Music
- They were the first British Band to gain worldwide recognition, making Rock and Roll truly international.
- They were the first group to use a recording studio as a writing tool.
- The Beatles were extremely innovative in their musical styles and used a variety of instruments.
- Changed the acceptable length of usual singles (they released various songs from 4 - 8 mins long)
- Generally broke all the rules and standards accepted for pop music before.
The Popularity of the Beatles
- were talented, handsome, and charming
- had the luck of being born at the right time (they wouldn't have existed if they were born a few years earlier, due to the England Compulsory National Service Program)
- existed during a time of unprecedented economic prosperity
- behaved as they saw themselves (tight-knit group)
- were humorous
- were distinctive in their relations with various fans and supporters
- used personal pronouns and appealed to the audience
- took advantage when culture became more sexualized and Beetles appealed to their female audience
The Beetles are still popular not only do to their skill and talent, but also because their quality of music came from an era that is often reflected back upon and looked upon with nostalgia. Therefore, they are still appealing to many.
Five Key Events of the Beatles' Career
- 1956 - John Lennon gathers some friends from school to form a band called Quarrymen.
- 1957 - Paul McCartney is asked to join the Quarrymen.
- 1958 - George Harrison joins the Quarrymen.
- 1960 - Stuart Sutcliffe joins the band and they eventually change their band name to the Beatles.
- 1963 - The Beatles release numerous songs and holds top charts for a significant period of time. During this time, they essentially dominate the music industry.
Top Songs of the Beatles
- Here Comes the Sun
- Come Together
- Twist and Shout
- Don't Let me Down
- I Want to Hold Hand