Just about every aspect of existence in the United States suffered a cathartic shock when John Kennedy was killed. Despite the fear of the Cold War, the country conveyed an incredible sense of strength and optimism, both of which vanished in a heartbeat on November 22, 1963.

Youth in particular were struck hard and a helpless sense of loneliness crept into all aspects of American life, including pop music. As 1963 drew to an end, American culture felt as though it had lost its momentum. In many ways, we were searching for solace and distraction from our pain. That relief came from a very unlikely source, and (perhaps by definition) turned out to be not even American.

A group of four long-haired young men from Liverpool, England had taken Europe by storm for the entirety of 1963, but America ignored them until January 1964. Now it was our turn, and we had a lot of catching up to do.

Featured tracks include:

Cry to Me – Betty Harris

Louie, Louie – The Kingsmen

Since I Fell for You – Lenny Welch

Little Red Rooster – Sam Cooke

Can I Get a Witness – Marvin Gaye

In My Room – The Beach Boys

Surfin’ Bird – The Trashmen

I Want to Hold Your Hand – The Beatles

I Saw Her Standing There – The Beatles

Java – Al Hirt

Anyone Who Had a Heart – Dionne Warwicke

Baby I Love You – The Ronettes

She Loves You – The Beatles

Please Please Me – The Beatles