Beatles music

Dear Editor:In response to the letter printed by Mr. Tony Tinajero last week, if a person were to do his or her own personal research, instead of believing everything they read on the Internet, they would see that the grand majority of songs made by the Beatles were of love, peace and harmony. This group, born in the rebellious era of the 1960s, stayed in the course of peace. In their later years, yes, a limited amount of songs on the subject of drugs were made, but they are known for their fun ("Yellow Submarine"), inspirational ("Imagine") and love ("Something") songs. Also on the subject of influencing people, the Downey Library would have to clear out all the DVDs that show violence, war drug use and, not to mention, magazines and books. Clear out Elvis, Buddy Holly (who in the '50s was said to be a bad influence on teenagers), not to mention "Wooly Bully", a song that was supposed to send a message to the Communists. Where would it all end? I know one of our basic freedoms as Americans would come into play. We are lucky to be able to have a place like the Downey Library, in a land of freedom. Vincent Diaz Downey

Dear Editor: How ridiculous for somebody to attack the Downey City Library for having a display of books on the Beatles. How many other bands and singers have used drugs and sang about them? This isn't exactly an original theme exclusive to the Beatles. I also highly doubt that any murderers have used the defense that a Beatles song led them to believe that murder is "cute." Give me a break! I then read on in the Letters to the Editor and see that the "reverend" Audie Derryberry has retracted his apology. First of all, who cares enough to even regard his apology or retraction? Second of all, he is appropriately named because he is definitely odd. If you ask me, he has consumed one too many derryberries. Shelly Wilson Downey

Dear Editor: When I saw Mr. Tinajero's letter regarding the "harmful" influence of the Beatles, I thought it was a joke. I had to read his letter twice to believe that someone would take time out to critique the amazing musical journey paved by the Beatles. Rock bands (and other music forms) have historically been subjected to criticism from conservatives, the older generation, and folks who simply do not understand the music and its culture. To claim that the Beatles have a "harmful influence" is not only preposterous, it's a critique that's 54 years too late. As a Beatles music fan, I cannot think of a better way for the Downey Library to show their respect for the most popular band in the entire world than to showcase written works that capture Beatlemania and what it was like to be part of the Fab Four. Giovanni Hortua Downey

********** Published: March 6, 2014 - Volume 12 - Issue 47