The 1964 song Phil Collins, Brian Wilson, and Bono were in awe of: “Really great”

The article looks back at The Beatles’ 1964 hit “I Want To Hold Your Hand” and the lasting impact it had on musicians including Brian Wilson, Phil Collins and Bono. Their admiration for the song illustrates how its direct, exuberant sound helped define Beatlemania and influenced later generations of pop and rock artists.

Wilson was already pushing The Beach Boys beyond surf music when he heard the Beatles and recognised the challenge they posed. Collins said the song captured Beatlemania, though he still could not count its introduction; Bono recalled hearing it in spring 1964 as an exhilarating moment that made him feel newly alive. The article presents the track as a touchstone whose appeal endured across contrasting musical styles.