On November 4th in music history, one significant event occurred in 1963 when The Beatles performed at the Royal Variety Performance at the Prince of Wales Theatre in London. This was a momentous occasion for the band, as it marked their first appearance in front of the British royal family, including Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Margaret.
The Beatles, who were already enjoying tremendous success and popularity in the UK, were among a lineup of prestigious performers for the evening. Dressed in their iconic black suits, John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr took to the stage to perform a four-song set.
The band opened with "From Me to You," followed by a cover of "Till There Was You" from the musical "The Music Man." Next, they played their hit single "She Loves You," which had been released just a few months prior and had already topped the charts.
However, it was their final song of the evening that would go down in history. Before launching into "Twist and Shout," John Lennon famously addressed the audience, saying, "For our last number, I'd like to ask your help. The people in the cheaper seats, clap your hands. And the rest of you, if you'd just rattle your jewelry."
This cheeky remark, poking fun at the upper-class attendees, showcased Lennon's wit and the band's irreverent attitude. The crowd, including the royal family, responded with laughter and applause.
The Beatles' performance at the Royal Variety Performance helped cement their status as Britain's biggest band and showcased their charm, humor, and undeniable musical talent. It also foreshadowed the incredible international success that the group would achieve in the following years, forever changing the face of popular music.
