The British Invasion: A Seismic Shift or a Passing Fad?

The Beatles' arrival in the US in 1964 marked a seismic shift in popular music, with many existing artists failing to adapt to the new sound, though the long-term impact on their careers remains debated.

• The Beatles' arrival in the US in 1964 marked a significant shift in popular music, with many older artists failing to adapt to the new sound.
• 50% of acts who had a top 40 hit in 1963 never had another top 40 hit after 1964, suggesting that the British Invasion had a major impact on the careers of existing artists.
• However, the author argues that looking at a single year may be biased, and that the impact of the British Invasion on existing artists' careers may not have been as severe as initially suggested.