Beatlemania is a term that originated during the 1960s to describe the intense fan frenzy directed toward The Beatles during the early years of their success. It is similar to the much earlier term Lisztomania used to describe fan reaction to the concerts of pianist Franz Liszt. Beatlemania became common in the United States after The Beatles performed on The Ed Sullivan Show in 1964.
It was characterized by intense levels of hysteria demonstrated by fans both at the actual concerts and during the band’s travels to and from hotels, concert venues, and the like. The extent of Beatlemania in the United States is evidenced by their single and album sales. The Beatles had the number one single for 59 weeks during their six and half years spanning from ‘I Want to Hold Your Hand,’ in 1964 to ‘Let It Be’ in 1970.
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