How The Beatles Rocked The Kremlin: The Untold Story Of A Noisy Revolution by Leslie Woodhead (Bloomsbury, priced £12.99)
The Fab Four have had many accolades including being the most successful band of all time, had the most number one albums, and the most Christmas number one singles – but the claim that they were responsible for political and social reforms in Eastern Europe is perhaps surprising.
This book by award-winning documentary maker Leslie Woodhead explores how the surge of rock’n’roll music literally rocked the political boat in the then-USSR.
Comparing them to modern political activist band Pussy Riot, he examines the possibility of how this new music changed the mindset of the Soviet youth, leaving them to realise they were free even though they were living behind the Iron Curtain and helping people to overcome the fear of stepping out of line.
Whether you are a fan of the Sixties rockers or interested in political history, this book opens up the idea that music is more than just lyrics and notes, it's ideological.
Rebecca Flitton
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article