'We’re getting worse!’


By 1966 the group hates touring. They are the first group to play large stadiums but in the 1960s amplification is very poor. During the concerts, screaming drowns out the music. ‘We can’t hear ourselves,’ Ringo complains. ‘And we’re getting worse.’

Touring is also dangerous. The crowds are often out of control. On one occasion sreaming girls almost overturn their car.



This clip from a concert in Germany 1966 shows the problems The Beatles had with live performances at this time.

Last Live Concert


Most worrying of all is the threat of assassination. Like President Kennedy The Beatles perform in front of large crowds in the USA. And though incredibly popular, they do have enemies. After a remark about religion by John there have been demonstrations in some southern states. There have even been death threats.

Brian Epstein tries to persuade the band to continue touring. But The Beatles play their last live concert in August 1966.

Now all their creative energy goes into making records.

She Loves You
I Want to Hold Your Hand
A Hard Day's Night
Help!