Includes bibliographical references and index.

Introduction -- Timeline -- Beatles roots : covering American songs -- In their own write : rock-and-roll originals -- Never too much : more rock-and-roll originals -- Playing America's heart strings : love songs -- Live Beatles : The Ed Sullivan show and live concert songs -- A lighter side : folk-rock and country-rock songs -- Acting naturally : movie songs -- Broader horizons : world music songs -- Recording studio wizardry : psychedelic and electronic songs -- Orchestral dimensions : strings, woodwinds, and brass songs -- Gifted extras : guest musicians revealed.

"Brooke Halpin takes readers on a comprehensive tour behind the masterful instrumentation, timeless (yet sometimes mysterious) lyrics, and experimental recording techniques of the Beatles' American releases from 1964 through 1970. Halpin explores the rock covers from which the four lads launched their careers; the original rock 'n' roll and love songs that fueled Beatlemania; the theatrical, psychedelic, world music, and orchestral elements which continually surprised audiences about the depths of the band's talents, and the guest musicians whose contributions remain unknown to many listeners. Adding to the song analyses are personal vignettes to transport the reader back in time to experience the excitement of hearing the Beatles for the first time. Through their music, lyrics, and playful antics on stage and screen as well as in real life, the Beatles encapsulated the ups and downs of 1960s America. Halpin uncovers how the Beatles' music continues to be relevant to today's audiences, revealing little known facts and drawing exciting conclusions about the band, their eventual breakup, and their undiminished fame."--Page 4 of cover.