The Beatles: A look back at their U.S. debut

Beatlemania strikes the U.S.

Associated Press

The Beatles arrive at New York's Kennedy Airport on Feb. 7, 1964, for their first U.S. appearance. From left are John Lennon, Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr and George Harrison. Over the next two weeks, the Beatles stormed America, appearing on "The Ed Sullivan Show" three times (the first two live and the third on tape) and playing concerts in front of thousands of fervid fans. By the time they flew home, the Fab Four was the most famous band in the world, and the nature of celebrity had changed forever.

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After an appearance on CBS' "The Ed Sullivan Show," the Beatles shot to fame and forever became one of the world's most well-known bands. Here's a look back at their U.S. debut.