The Beatles were one of the most successful bands in the twentieth century. As young men just starting out, they took the industry by storm with their hit singles such as She Loves You, Love Me Do, and Let It Be among many others. While every group member had their own idols, it is safe to say that their very own childhood experiences are what influenced some of their music.
In the 60's, the Beatles traveled to Germany to perform because they thought that would be their ticket to fame but instead they were introduced to dirty clubs, unpleasant living situations, and many promiscuous women ("History of the Beatles" ). However, before they made attempts for fame or even met each other, they’ve had interesting childhood experiences; some of what most might consider very sad. John Lennon comes from a broken home and was left to be raised by his aunt, Mary. His sister Julia encouraged him to learn how to play the banjo and then the guitar. When John was 17, his sister Julia was killed by a car (BBC). Paul McCartney lost his mother at the age of fourteen. She died from complications after a mastectomy and that is something that he has in common with John Lennon; losing their moms at a very young age (Bio). George Harrison didn't lose his family members but he had a tough upbringing along with his band members. He did not grow up wealthy and like many teens, he lost interest in his studies and pursued music, especially after hearing Elvis Pressely's "Heartbreak Hotel" (Bio). Richard Starkey also ditched school but not for the reasons that George did. Richard had many illnesses and eventually stopped attending school when he was a teenager (Bio). Going through trials and triumphs helped bring them together because they all shared some sort of connection regarding heartbreak, loss of a loved one, or education and together, they made music that they knew everyone could relate to which is the reason why they are still a very popular band and one of the greatest ever known.
If their childhoods were different, their music would definitely be different. If they had to write music about heartbreak and losses and never experienced either of those, they wouldn’t be relatable and people would definitely be able to notice. When people sing about their lives and their struggles, you can hear the pain in their voices. The reason why their music is so popular is because everyone could relate to what they were singing about.
Works Cited
“History of the Beatles.” Beatles Tribute Bands. Web. 30 Jan 2016.
"Paul McCartney." Bio.com. A&E Networks Television. Web. 30 Jan. 2016.
"Ringo Starr." Bio.com. A&E Networks Television. Web. 30 Jan. 2016.
"John-Lennon.com - The Life Of John Lennon." John-Lennon.com - The Life Of John Lennon.
BBC News, 8 Dec. 2000. Web. 30 Jan. 2016.
