On This Date-Zac Byrd

On October 5^th in 1962, The Beatles released their first single “Love Me Do”.  “Love Me Do” climbed to number 17 on the chart in England on its release and put the Beatles on the road to becoming the most famous band of all time.  Paul McCartney co-wrote this song with John Lennon as a 16 year old in high school.  It stretched the ideas of music in the 1960’s and opened people to a more upbeat, swing/rock style.  The release of this single skyrocketed The Beatles into a career of music.  After a few more singles The Beatles would have masses of people coming to watch concert in stadiums. 

By trying a new style of music they opened up Europe to try new things. Their willingness to continue writing new songs after “Love Me Do” further enhanced their image as the best band in the land.  The Beatles are the best-selling band in the United States. They have had more number-one albums on the British charts and sold more singles in the UK than any other band.  In Time magazine's rankings of the 20th century's 100 most influential people, the Beatles are the best-selling band in history. EMI Records, The Beatles recording company, had estimated sales of over one billion songs/albums. Rolling Stone ranked the Beatles as the best artist of all-time in 2004.  They left a lasting impression on the music industry and united people with their music across the globe.  After “Love Me Do” they continued to inspire and influence artists globally.

One of my very first CDs was The Beatles number 1 hits CD.  The change in music from the old laid back swing to rock to metal to rap was heavily influenced by The Beatles.  I appreciate this because The Beatles are one of my favorite bands and have continued to influence my playing as a musician.