At the time of this post, there are over 56,700 (and counting) updates on Facebook, Twitter and other social networks about the Beatles now being available on iTunes. It’s the news of the day and obviously trumps Zuckerberg’s big Facebook email announcement (which was kind of a sleeper anyway, IMHO).
But what is all the hype about? Is it because the Beatles have held out on the idea of selling out to iTunes for so long that this is one of Steve Jobs’ biggest personal coup d'états? Is it the fact that this marks the end of a “long and winding road” (so to speak) between EMI and Apple and their seemingly ceaseless trademark dispute? Or, is it because after 50 years, the Beatles are still massively relevant, despite the fact they haven’t released an album in over 40 years and two of the four band members have gone to that 'Yellow Submarine' in the sky?
I see some interesting parallels in this whole thing. The Beatles impacted a generation; the iPod and iTunes impacted a generation. Now, both are making a huge impact on current and future generations. Both revolutionized music and the way we listen to it - either by the nature of the content or the way it’s delivered.
The Beatles “came to be perceived as the embodiment of progressive ideals, seeing their influence extend into the social and cultural revolutions of the 1960s.”1 They became the icons of 1960’s pop culture. Cut to modern-day, Apple has undoubtedly become the embodiment of progressive technology, and the iPod has absolutely played an integral role in the present-day cultural revolution - changing the hearts and minds of music lovers across the globe, becoming an icon of modern pop culture.
Apple’s announcement with EMI today brings the past to the present: what was once only available on vinyl is now available in digital, all from the comfort of your iTunes library. The remaining Beatles seem to be excited about it:
Sir Paul McCartney: "We're really excited to bring the Beatles' music to iTunes. It's fantastic to see the songs we originally released on vinyl receive as much love in the digital world as they did the first time around."
Ringo Starr: "I am particularly glad to no longer be asked when the Beatles are coming to iTunes. At last, if you want it--you can get it now--The Beatles from Liverpool to now! Peace and Love, Ringo."
Personally, I am not a huge Beatles fan, but I absolutely appreciate their music. It was groundbreaking to say the least, not to mention the impact the band itself had on society as a whole. I think the fervor around today’s announcement mirrors the frenzy the Beatles caused back in the day. It’s rather apropos that there would be so much ado about them. No other band or musician has received this much attention without it involving rehab or the police. I just wonder what would have happened if Michael Jackson’s estate had held out for another 20, 30 years…
1. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Beatles
Thank you for sharing it which make me more confidence on my stand.
Posted by: Air Jordans | December 10, 2010 at 05:20 PM
Good post. I like to read your posts. well written. thank you.
Posted by: Polatlı | January 04, 2011 at 10:22 AM