On February 9th, 1964, my life changed. America was getting their first live look at four English musicians with unusually long hair on Ed Sullivan’s Sunday night show. As I huddled around my parents’ black and white TV, I was immediately transformed into a new world.
The group’s performance on the program was seen by over 73,000,000 people, people, setting a record at the time for the largest television audience in America.
Soon the whole world was to become obsessed with what was known as the Fab Four: John, Paul, George and Ringo. John was the founder, leader co-lead singer of the band. He had his own microphone while Paul and George shared one.
There was something special about John. Even then I recognized he had star power and wanted to look like him.
Everyone had their favorite Beatle. My best friend chose Paul. Arguments would break out between us. But it was a friendly rivalry, for we loved them all. Boys generally preferred John and George; girls, Paul and Ringo.
My parents let me grow my hair longer and I became conscious of how I dressed. I even wore Beatle Boots playing kickball in the 5th grade.
Today, John and Paul are regarded as the greatest composers in pop and rock history.
John Lennon’s life ended in December 1980 in New York City, approximately at 11:15. He was shot twice in the back and twice in the shoulder by a lone assailant. John was 40 years old.
RIP: John.
Your music and legacy lives on.
