Tribute bands and parody bands weren’t really a thing in 1964, but with Beatlemania raging around the world, the time was ripe for those wishing to jump on the bandwagon. The manager of a group called the Ardells coaxed them into growing out their hair and changing their name to the American Beetles. It was a joke that paid off well for them, except for that time they were booked for a tour in Argentina as the Beatles.
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In the spring of 1964, as Beatlemania swept the world, newspaper headlines announced that The Beatles would be travelling to South America that summer. Millions awaited their arrival with bated breath – and in July, when four young moptops descended into Buenos Aires Airport, it seemed that teenage dreams were about to come true.
The Beatles were actually nowhere near Argentina at the time. The British group – who split 50 years ago this month – were back home in London, on a rare rest stop between concerts and recording. But with or without their knowledge, four young guys from Florida named Tom, Vic, Bill and Dave had taken their place.
After months of excitement, the deception was immediately apparent, and chaos ensued. Read the story of the American Beetles in Argentina at BBC Culture. -via Damn Interesting
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Source: neatorama