The Beatles and Economics

 "Sam Staley's book is thought provoking and well written. It will be a good addition to the Beatles book shelf." 

 "Even if you are not a [Beatles] fan, this book will keep you glued to it." 

"The Beatles and Economics offers a creative way to apply the story of the Beatles to the principles of economic behavior." 

 “Sam Staley’s new book does something unique: It explains core principles of cultural entrepreneurship, not by statistical analysis (as in the research literature) or by sketchy anecdotes, but by a sustained, detailed analysis of a team of cultural entrepreneurs, namely The Beatles. As such, it fills an important gap in modern writing on cultural economics and entrepreneurship. The book is extremely well-written, and although it makes use of much economics and management theory it is highly accessible.”

 "A fresh look at The Beatles from the viewpoint of basic economic theory, which provides a concise interpretation of the band’s success and internal dynamics in terms of human capital and decision making."

“If you think business is just money and greed, you’ll be sadly oblivious to most of what goes on in the world. In The Beatles and Economics, Sam Staley explains that even in the business end of arts and culture, exciting and even inspirational developments define daily life. For both personal fulfillment and a flourishing, vibrant society, nothing beats economic freedom” 

 "Can’t Buy Me Love? Over 100 million albums sold say otherwise. Sam Staley uses the lens of economics as your Ticket to Ride from Penny Lane to Taxman. You can’t buy love…but you can buy this book!" 

 "This book provides a valuable and accessible introduction to the Beatles and economic theory. Summing Up: Recommended. All levels"

The Beatles (1960-1970) is considered the most influential popular music act of the 20th century, widely recognized for its influence on popular culture, revolutionizing popular music, and reshaping the industry. In fact, their more than 200 studio recordings contributed to 60 distinct music genres and sub-genres. As the number one selling popular music act, the members of the Beatles have iconic status and an unparalleled global fan base. Their influence, and the inability of other bands and artists to replicate their success, has prompted questions such as: How did the Beatles become so successful? What factors contributed to their success? Why did they break up? Would the Beatles ever re-unite as a band? Would their innovative ways continued if they stayed together? Could another band ever replicate their success?

The Beatles and Economics: Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and the Making of a Cultural Revolution (Routledge, April 2020) will answer these questions and more using the lens of economics and entrepreneurship. Click here for more information from the publisher.

For something a little closer to our times, check out my review of the movie "Yesterday."

The Beatles and Economics: Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and the Making of a Cultural Revolution will answer several controversial questions that have dogged popular discussions of the Beatles since the band’s break up in 1970. Using the lens of economics this book will explore how...

• The emergence of the Beatles was not serendipitous, but instead a rational (although not inevitable) outgrowth of the economic and social conditions of the post-War generation.
• The Beatles’ artistic impact was tenuous until 1966.
• The Beatles’ artistic impact was virtually assured after 1966.
• The Beatles break-up was inevitable, logical, and rational.
• Their artistic influence was not contingent on myth and legend built after the tragic death of John Lennon in 1980.
• The Beatles break up was predictable, rational, and good for each of the Beatles and for popular music.
• The Beatles phenomenon, while revolutionary, did not represent a “black swan event” in popular music and the industry. In fact, it was an organic, evolutionary building reinforced by entrepreneurial pivoting in music and leveraging the wealth of its brand through incremental innovation.