The Beatles took over American music and the hearts of teenagers all around the country 45 years ago. John, Paul, Ringo and George became instant sensations, quickly turning into the artists with the most No. 1 albums and singles of all time. 1964 The Tribute, a premier cover band for the legendary quartet, blew the roof off the Tower Theatre in the Tower District of Fresno, March 22.
The Tribute has been critically acclaimed by Rolling Stone Magazine and Dick Clark as authentic Beatle impersonators. They opened the show with “I Saw Her Standing There,” after an introduction from FM 97.5 DJ Dave Luna.
They performed on a simple stage filled with only microphones, guitars and drums. Just like the Beatles, the band relied on their flawless vocals to capture the audience. As in the ’60s, The Tribute managed to get the women in the crowd to dance and scream to the beat of the music.
They continued the show with “From me, to You,” “8 Days a Week” and “A Hard Day’s Night,” before a short intermission. Following every song was a bow complete with huge applause from the listeners. The Tribute talked to the audience frequently like they were living in the ’60s. “Sing along with us everyone; I have a feeling you’re going to know all the words,” the McCartney impersonator joked.
After intermission the band opened the second half of the show with “Twist and Shout,” which got everyone in the building jamming along. People were heading to the aisles to show off their dance moves while the band played.
The only problem with the show was the confinement they put themselves in with holding the show in 1964. There were several Beatle singles after that year I would love to have heard. But the band was satisfied with their renditions of “Tax Man,” “Help!” and “Yesterday.”
This marks the band’s 25th year of touring. They have been invited to Carnegie Hall eight times. After doing 140 shows a year, it is obvious America is still fascinated by the Beatles’ music. The Tribute presents the essence of the Beatles which makes them endlessly entertaining. The level of respect these imitators have for their predecessors is apparent due to their attention to detail.
From the vocals to the movements, everything in The Tribute’s performance was spot on. 1964 The Tribute is continuing its tour in Ohio, Massachusetts and Illinois during the month of April.
For more information on The Beatles, read the Feb. 13 article, Beatles tribute triggers memories.
