With a history dating back almost 30 years, 1964, The Tribute has been bringing Beatlemania back to both old and new fans alike. Sporting the attire, instruments and stage presence of the early touring Beatles, whose music grabbed the attention of an entire planet, this group is as authentic as any tribute comes. Even Rolling Stone magazine has labeled it as "The best Beatles tribute ever."
"As you can imagine, we were thrilled to get that kind of accolade from Rolling Stone," said Mark Benson, who represents John Lennon in the band. "You can't buy that kind of recognition."
But don't just take Rolling Stone's word for it. With a consistent touring schedule that still sees anywhere from 100 to 150 shows annually, 1964 continues to perform to sell-out crowds here in America and even internationally, including high-profile venues like Carnegie Hall.
Part of what makes 1964 so popular is its devotion to bringing fans the full Beatles experience. The members don't just play the songs, they commit to every detail of an early Beatles performance, including the onstage banter.
"We figured if we were going to go through the trouble of getting the haircuts, boots, instruments and all that, it's really going to remind people of The Beatles so much that everything we don't do like The Beatles would really stand out," Benson said. "And the crowd loves it."
Not only do original fans and attendees of some of The Beatles' early ‘60s concerts come out to enjoy the performances, but even the younger generations are taking part as well.
"A lot of people who came to see our earlier shows weren't even married at the time, and now they're coming back and bringing their 20-year-old children along with them," Benson said.
He attributes this to the recent re-popularization of The Beatles' music on television and even in video games. In fact, the band recently had a grandfather bring his grandson with him out to one of the shows, the connection being The Beatles: Rock Band game they had played together.
If you'd like to experience the touring years of The Beatles for yourself, 1964 will be visiting the Kalamazoo State Theatre this month, much to the delight of the band.
"I really love the State Theatre. We have a great relationship with them, and what's great is that it really looks like one of those places The Beatles would have performed."
