The Beatles’ Rise to Fame Led to a Revolution in Men’s Hairstyles and Barbers’ Protest
In the 1960s, the Beatles’ iconic hairstyles, particularly the "mop-top," became a status symbol, leading to a trend of men growing their hair longer and shunning their local barbers. A new documentary, "Beatles ’64," explores the band’s impact on American pop culture and uncovers the surprising reason behind the barbers’ protest.
As the Beatles’ popularity soared, their hairstyle inspired a generation of men to follow suit, abandoning the traditional buzz cuts and embracing longer locks. Barbers across the United States felt the brunt of the change, as men stopped frequenting their shops, resulting in a significant decline in business. The barbers took to the streets, protesting the Beatles’ influence on men’s hairstyles, claiming that the band’s popularity was starving them of business.
However, the trend of longer hair was not exclusively driven by the Beatles. The 1960s were marked by a rebellious attitude, fueled by the rise of the hippie movement, the Beat Generation, and the opposition to the Vietnam War. Rock bands like the Beatles were part of this anti-establishment movement, and their music and style helped to reflect the changing times.
The documentary "Beatles ’64," directed by David Tedeschi, features rare footage of the band’s 1964 visit to New York City and explores the transformative impact they had on music and culture. The film showcases the band’s rise to global fame, highlighting their ups and downs, and sheds light on the surprising reason behind the barbers’ protest. With a runtime of 108 minutes, "Beatles ’64" is a must-watch for fans of the iconic band and anyone interested in the cultural and social upheaval of the 1960s.
