FLASHBACK: The Beatles Land At JFK Airport

Author Erica Banas // Rock Music Reporter

February 7th, 2020 6:30 AM

John, Paul, George and Ringo didn’t quite know what to expect when they arrived at New York City’s JFK Airport on February 7, 1964 on The Beatles’ first trip to America, but it’s a moment that’s permanently etched in music history thanks to the photos and video captured that day.

“Beatlemania” was a force, and after the shocking tragedy of President John F. Kennedy’s assassination, it was just what America needed.

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  The newsreel above states that George Harrison didn't join the band on their outdoor excursion due to a sore throat. Well, perhaps he shouldn't have been smoking during the press conference, but we digress. Imagine being the police detail assigned to make sure The Beatles were safe while driving a horse and carriage in Central Park. The Beatles coming to America really was a trip for so many people.

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  Why does it feel like this photo was John, Paul and Ringo practicing bits for 'A Hard Day's Night'? Seriously, this still could have been taken from the movie, which still holds up. It's still amazing that New York police were able to keep fans at bay during this visit to Central Park. It feels like there should have been a mob scene.

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  One of the best things about The Beatles' first visit to America are all of the photos of the fans. The sheer joy on their faces still can warm your soul. These two young ladies and their Beatles wigs are especially charming. It just makes you long for the days of our youth and that unique joy music could bring you as a young person. There's nothing quite like it.
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  The frenzy of Beatles fans is one thing. However, this photo truly captures the intensity from the press. Again, the fact that a band visiting America warranted a press conference like this is pretty much unheard of today. We sure would love to know how many media outlets were present for this iconic press conference.

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  Again, the sheer joy and excitement seen on the faces of the fans in these photos. We'd love to know where these young girls are today and if they had this photo somewhere in their home afterwards. It has to be one of those family photos that gets handed down through the generations. What a beautiful moment in time to hold onto forever!

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Author Erica Banas // Rock Music Reporter

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The Beatles