62 Years Ago Today: The Beatles Released the Song That Started It All

Sixty-two years ago today, on October 5, 1962, a single song marked the start of the most influential band in modern music history. “Love Me Do” introduced The Beatles to the world and launched a career that would transform popular music forever.

“Love Me Do” was released in the United Kingdom by Parlophone Records, under the catalogue number R4949, according to the official Beatles website. It was backed with “P.S. I Love You,” and became The Beatles’ debut single after years of performing in Liverpool and Hamburg clubs.

The song was one of the earliest originals from John Lennon and Paul McCartney, written several years before the group was signed. Early recordings featured three different drummers – Pete Best, Ringo Starr, and session player Andy White. Each one offered a slightly different sound that captured the band’s developing identity.

Though “Love Me Do” only reached No. 17 on the UK Singles Chart in December 1962, it was a big deal for an unknown band with no radio reputation. The harmonica-led tune and dual vocals by Lennon and McCartney gave the track a unique sound that set it apart from the heavily orchestrated pop that was dominating British airwaves at the time.

For The Beatles, “Love Me Do” was proof that original songwriting could connect with a mass audience. At the time, most new artists launched with cover songs, but this release showcased Lennon and McCartney’s ability to write and perform their own material.
The Beatles relaxing on a sofa during their early years in London.

When “Love Me Do” was reissued in the United States in 1964, at the height of Beatlemania, it reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, confirming that the little tune from 1962 had become a global phenomenon.

Plus, its influence extended beyond the charts. The single demonstrated the band’s signature blend of catchy melody and authentic charm, a formula that would soon define 1960s pop.

After “Love Me Do,” The Beatles released “Please Please Me,” “She Loves You” and “I Want to Hold Your Hand.” With each song, their popularity skyrocketed and before long, they became the biggest act in the world.

In 1982, to mark the single’s 20th anniversary, EMI reissued “Love Me Do” in the UK, where it climbed to No. 4 and was proof that the song’s appeal had continued across generations.

Today, “Love Me Do” is remembered as the song that opened the door. With just a few harmonica notes and two voices in harmony, The Beatles began the journey that cemented them in pop culture history.

Source: Whitney Danhauer/parade.com

Read More>>>