It is hard to believe that almost fifty years have elapsed since The Beatles invaded the American scene to create some of the most innovative, legendary, and unforgettable lyrics ever sung by four mop-top boys from Liverpool. From the first moment that these pop sensations crooned on the Ed Sullivan Show" I Want to Hold Your Hand", something in the air was brewing a new generation of teenagers who questioned their parents and any other authority figures. There is no doubt that any band of that generation surpasses the Beatles in creating a climate of change, rebellion, and a new way of looking at the world and music.
For us baby boomers, we came of age singing the lyrics to all of their songs. If you trace the maturity of the Beatles songs, from "Meet the Beatles" where the songs were upbeat little ditties devoted to love and teenage heartbreak, to "Let it Be" where the complicated lyrics spoke of a new way of looking at life's issues, we actually grew up with this band. They were the only group who tried to evolve their music to go along with the times.
The sixties were all about the Civil Rights movement, the Vietnam War, "dropping out and tuning in", and re-evaluating who we wanted to be as people and a nation. It is amazing that an English band had such an impact on our culture, our music, and our attitudes. The Beatles defined a new generation, and because of them, other bands such as The Rolling Stones, The Who, and many others flourished after John, Paul, Ringo, and George forged the way.
When The Beatles still continue to entertain us with their songs, it shows just what staying power this band possesses, and the memories they created for us. Most baby boomers can still remember the lyrics to most, if not all, of their melodies. Now, with the anniversary coming, the greatest band that ever existed should remind all of us of just how prolific and profound they were to an entire generation. Let's celebrate and remember how young and idealistic we were then and try to recapture that same joy and freedom now.
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