Why The Beatles on iTunes is Important

Yesterday, Apple (Apple Computer, the company behind my beloved iPhone) changed their homepage to read that on Tuesday November 16th, a big announcement was coming from iTunes.  Over the years, Apple has made lots of big announcements but usually they are pretty easy to forecast.  For example, around “back to school” season, Apple usually has a music event where they’ll release new iPods and refresh iTunes software.  This big announcement, in the middle of November, was not really in keeping with Apple’s usual release cycle.  My first thought: The Beatles must be coming to iTunes.

The Beatles on iTunes
Screenshot of Apple.com announcement of Beatles on iTunes

And turns out, I was correct!  The Apple.com homepage changed to reveal that The Beatles have officially come to iTunes.  The new content available for purchase on iTunes now includes the fab four’s 13 studio albums as well as video content (concerts, commercials, and etc).  As a big Beatles fan, I’m really happy to see their catalog added to iTunes; but truthfully, it’s far more important than just making me happy.  A lot of folks on the internet (well, in my twitter-verse at least) are making noise about being somewhat disappointed by this announcement.  It’s actually a really big deal for The Beatles’ members and their estates, as well as a big deal for Apple Computer.  However, it’s a much bigger deal for music history. Continue reading “Why The Beatles on iTunes is Important”