Beat developed in the UK in the early 1960's and borrowed influences the USA and from R&B including artists like Buddy Holly and the Crickets and Chuck Berry.  It usually consists of rhythm guitar, bass guitar and drums with a driving back beat.

 

Beat developed in the UK in Liverpool and the name Merseybeat was coined based on its proximity to the Mersey.  A distinctive sound developed with bands being the order of the day.  Bands from Liverpool such as The Merseybeats, Gerry and the Pacemakers and The Beatles became well known on both sides of the Atlantic.


In Manchester The Hollies, Freddie and the Dreamers and Herman's Hermits were evolving, while in London The Kinks, The Rolling Stones and The Yardbirds became popular.  This sound influenced popular music throughout the sixties and was eventually replaced by more heavy rock, psychedelic and progressive rock sounds, but the style still defines pop and it was later revisited in the 90's with the Britpop revival with major bands like Oasis, Radiohead and Blur all competing to be top of the charts.


All of the early bands records can be found on vinyl 45's and LP's and these have become very collectable, particularly when they are in excellent condition.  Planet Earth Records specialise in this genre and can provide a wide range of vinyl collectables.