Three Musicians Who Weren't Fans of The Beatles

Despite The Beatles' monumental influence on music history, not every musician looked upon them favorably. They might be considered rock legends, but some of their contemporaries did not share the widespread adoration for the Fab Four's work or influence.

Elvis Presley

Elvis Presley, the 'King of Rock and Roll', had his own reasons for taking issue with the Liverpool quartet. Known for his deeply patriotic stance, Presley expressed concern that The Beatles represented a counter-cultural movement that he felt was detrimental to America's spirit. At a meeting with President Nixon, Presley didn't hold back his thoughts, accusing The Beatles of fostering anti-American sentiment after making their fortune in the States.

Ginger Baker

Ginger Baker, the powerhouse drummer from the band Cream, was critical of The Beatles on professional grounds. He was particularly dismissive of Paul McCartney's view that classical music training wasn't necessary for success. Baker, valuing musical education, believed The Beatles' lack of formal training showed in their music, which to his ears, lacked sophistication.

Lou Reed

Lou Reed of The Velvet Underground starkly contrasted The Beatles in both style and substance. Reed was unabashed in his disdain for the group, once calling them 'garbage' and declaring all their work as 'painfully stupid and pretentious.' His preference for music was well outside the mainstream appeal that The Beatles so effectively tapped into.

Elvis, Baker, Reed