The Beatles Influence

The Beatles Influence

The 1960's were a time of change. Our innocence was gone and the music of the 60's was changing to reflect the times. In 1963 a British group called "The Beatles" 'invaded' the United States. Their talent and personalities took them right to the top. "Beatlemania" was here. The Beatles were probably the most influential band of the 60's and today. Music and rock and roll was changed forever. People young and old listen to the Beatles, watch their films, and it never seems "dated". Their sound and attitudes influenced everything that came afterwards--even today.

There was much upheaval in the 1960's. From the war in Viet Nam, to the assassination of President Kennedy, to the Civil Rights movement, our world would never be the same. Young people wanted change in the way things were done. They did not feel like the adults were protecting their human and constitutional rights. There were many protests against the Viet Nam war, and protests for civil rights. (Madani).

The Beatles influence included their music, fashion, and the way albums were produced. The Beatles introduced a new sound, beat music, which conquered the world of popular music. Their music influenced many other artists. Their hairstyle, the "mop-top" cut became very popular. The suits they wore were adopted by the mod youth cult, and many other bands copied them. The Beatles changed the importance of albums rather than single songs. Young people, especially girls, were very attracted, and huge fans to The Beatles. "Three thousand lusty screams rained down upon the four Beatles, each of whom was pondering why they should be so welcomed...What the Beatles didn't realize was that America, in her post-Kennedy assassination gloom, was more than ready to embrace this welcome diversion" (Lewisohn 136). During their concert tour there were mobs of people just hoping to get a glimpse of them. At that time, most adults did not understand The Beatles, and only looked at them, as trouble. The times were changing and the adults refused to change with it. Society changed for the good and bad. A good change, was that people were questioning our leaders, when we didn't think things were right. A bad change, was the influence drugs and disrespect.

The Beatles are still popular today; there have been many books and documentaries