The songwriting takes us to approximately April 1962, with an original Lennon idea presented to McCartney.

Although this group, which featured the songwriting and singing of Smokey Robinson, were relatively new as of the spring of 1962 (they only had two charted singles at the time, including the huge hit “Shop Around”), it was enough to influence Lennon to co-write “Ask Me Why,” the first of many songs to be credited with The Miracles’ influence. One of Lennon’s favorite artists was “ The Miracles,” as they were then known. But the influence of that unique sound from Detroit permeated their songwriting as well. Among their favorites were the sounds coming from Detroit, Michigan, which were being crafted by the newly formed label known as Motown.ĭuring their early performing days, they had chosen many Motown hits, as well as other R&B classics, to cover.

They spent much time foraging through NEMS record department, run by Brian Epstein, as well as listening to radio programs and going to concerts to find suitable music to perform in their “stage act.” They, in turn, became great fans of American music. The Beatles were very keen students of popular music.

The beatles tell me why 45