The Beatles were one of the most influential bands of all time. They revolutionized the music industry and inspired countless musicians in the decades that followed. But who were The Beatles influenced by? In this article, we'll explore the various artists and genres that helped shape the sound of The Beatles.
Skiffle Music
Skiffle music was a popular genre in 1950s Britain that heavily influenced The Beatles. Skiffle was essentially a blend of jazz, blues, and folk music that was played on homemade instruments, such as washboards and tea-chest basses. The Beatles were particularly inspired by skiffle artist Lonnie Donegan, who had a string of hits in the late 1950s.
Elvis Presley
Elvis Presley was one of the biggest music stars of the 1950s, and his influence on The Beatles was undeniable. The Beatles were massive fans of Presley's rock and roll sound, and they often covered his songs in their early performances. It's no surprise that The Beatles' early music has a distinct rock and roll sound that can be traced back to Presley.
Buddy Holly
Buddy Holly was another major influence on The Beatles. Holly was a pioneering rock and roll artist who wrote and recorded some of the most iconic songs of the 1950s. The Beatles were particularly inspired by Holly's use of vocal harmonies, which became a hallmark of their own sound.
The Everly Brothers
The Everly Brothers were a popular American duo who had a string of hits in the late 1950s and early 1960s. The Beatles were big fans of The Everly Brothers' tight harmonies and catchy melodies, and they often incorporated those elements into their own music.
Chuck Berry
Chuck Berry was one of the most influential guitarists of all time, and his impact on The Beatles cannot be overstated. Berry's unique blend of blues and rock and roll inspired generations of musicians, including The Beatles. Many of The Beatles' early songs, such as "Roll Over Beethoven" and "Rock and Roll Music," were covers of Berry's hits.
The Beach Boys
The Beach Boys were a popular American band who were known for their intricate vocal harmonies and surf rock sound. The Beatles were big fans of The Beach Boys, and they often cited their influence on their own music. In fact, The Beatles' famous album "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" was heavily influenced by The Beach Boys' album "Pet Sounds."
Bob Dylan
Bob Dylan was one of the most important songwriters of the 1960s, and his influence on The Beatles cannot be overstated. Dylan's poetic lyrics and folk rock sound inspired The Beatles to explore more complex themes in their own music. In fact, The Beatles' later albums, such as "Rubber Soul" and "Revolver," were heavily influenced by Dylan's music.
The Byrds
The Byrds were another popular American band who were known for their folk rock sound. The Beatles were big fans of The Byrds, and they often cited their influence on their own music. The Beatles' song "If I Needed Someone" was actually written as a tribute to The Byrds' sound.
Indian Music
The Beatles' interest in Indian music was sparked by George Harrison's fascination with the sitar. Harrison began studying the sitar in the mid-1960s, and he incorporated its unique sound into many of The Beatles' songs. The Beatles' famous album "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" also featured Indian instruments and sounds.
Conclusion
The Beatles were influenced by a wide range of artists and genres, from skiffle to Indian music. Their music was a unique blend of these influences, and it continues to inspire musicians to this day. By understanding the artists and genres that influenced The Beatles, we can gain a deeper appreciation for their music and their impact on the music industry.