While most will argue, and rightfully so, that Beatlemania in America started with The Beatles first appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show on February 9th, 1964, it was the event that occurred 60 years ago yesterday -- February 1st, 1964 -- that put the wheels in motion.
It was on that day that "I Want to Hold Your Hand" started a run of seven consecutive weeks atop the Billboard singles chart.
The band said they would not come to America until they had a number-one song, and they got the news from their manager, Brian Epstein.
After seven weeks, "She Loves You" took over the top spot for two weeks followed by "Can't Buy Me Love" with five, giving them 14 straight weeks atop the Hot 100.