Beatles 66 [Large Print]

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This annotation offers a captivating exploration of a pivotal year in the lives and careers of a legendary group whose influence reshaped music and popular culture. Beginning as pop icons adored by screaming fans, they evolved into musical visionaries credited with initiating a new era. The transformative year was 1966, marked by their final concert and the release of "Revolver," an album designed for listening rather than performance. This year, the group took significant risks by retiring from live shows, delving into themes of consciousness, and expressing their views on politics, war, and religion. It was a tumultuous time, highlighted by John’s controversial remark about their popularity surpassing Jesus, record burnings in America, a scandal in the Philippines, John’s meeting with Yoko Ono, and Paul’s inspiration for "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band." On the fiftieth anniversary of this crucial year, music journalist Steve Turner meticulously examines the profound changes in the Beatles' lives and music during 1966. He delves into historical events that influenced the group and the cultural impact of their work, drawing insights from interviews with key figures and those close to the band. This account reveals how four young men from Liverpool became pioneers for future artists across genres.