The Beatles' Enduring Influence on Modern Music

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How The Beatles Still Influence Contemporary Music

Jake Zelinger

We’ve all heard innumerable times that The Beatles are the most influential pop group ever. They were the first to intentionally put guitar feedback on a record, roll a tape backward and personally compose orchestral arrangements for their tracks. Their influence is far reaching, seen especially in artists such as David Bowie, Dr. Dog and Tame Impala.

But is their musical influence really all that relevant to today’s music? Let’s examine, shall we?

1. The first rock record to feature all original works: A Hard Day’s Night

The 1964 hit record A Hard Day’s Night did more for The Beatles and the music industry than anyone could have expected. This was the first rock record to feature …show more content…

Arrangements and Lyrics that Broke Down Pop Standards: Rubber Soul

I’m going to go ahead and lump the entirety of Rubber Soul into its own moment. This album was revolutionary at the time, featuring musical arrangements and lyrics that broke down all pop standards. Tracks like “We Can Work It Out,” “Girl,” “I’m Looking Through You,” and “If I Needed Someone” expressed a mature perspective toward relationships. This paved the way for other artists to produce deeper lyrics. “Drive My Car” and “Norwegian Wood” opened the door to the ideas of women in power, reversed gender roles and the dark, adulterous side of tour life. Tracks like “Single Ladies” by Beyonce or even Father John Misty’s “Tee-Pee’s 1-12” come to mind.

“Nowhere Man” is absolutely pivotal, marking the very first pop song to contemplate existential themes. The track also begins Lennon’s philosophical writing style, which would later lead to other pop artists exploring similar styles. “The Word” and “Think For Yourself” began The Beatles’ "Voice of a Generation" label as they answered the call of the zeitgeist or "spirit of the times." Can you think of anyone now who considers themselves such? (cough -- Kanye -- cough)?

3. Nonsensical Titles:

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