How The Beatles’ Love For Doo-Wop Influenced “This Boy”

March 20, 2025

In the bustling streets of Liverpool during the early 1960s, a group of four young men were carving out their dreams in the vibrant world of music. Among them were John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr—better known as The Beatles. They were just starting to gather a following, but their hearts were already captured by a unique sound that turned their world upside down: doo-wop. This catchy genre, filled with harmonies and heartfelt melodies, would inspire them to write one of their most beloved songs, “This Boy.”

The Beatles were influenced by the American artists who made doo-wop famous. Groups like The Drifters and The Platters sang songs that told stories of love, heartbreak, and hope. John and Paul would listen to these tunes over and over, their imaginations swirling with ideas. They would often sit in their small rooms, strumming guitars and harmonizing, a passion igniting within them. It was during one of these late-night sessions that the two began to dream up the hauntingly beautiful melodies and poignant lyrics that would become “This Boy.”

As they crafted the song, they drew on the themes of longing and lost love that doo-wop conveyed so beautifully. The Beatles weren’t just copying the sound; they were pouring their own experiences and emotions into it. John, whose own complicated relationships often brought him pain, infused “This Boy” with raw sincerity. He wanted to express that deep ache of watching someone you love drift away. It was a moment of vulnerability that resonated deeply with listeners, allowing them to feel they weren’t alone in their heartaches.

When “This Boy” was finally released, it struck a chord with the world. The harmonies, reminiscent of the doo-wop groups they adored, intertwined perfectly with the lyrics that spoke to the heart. The Beatles’ take on doo-wop offered a fresh flavor that captivated millions. People from all walks of life found solace in the song, singing along in cafes, at dance halls, and in their bedrooms. The success of “This Boy” cemented The Beatles’ place in music history, but it was also a turning point for the band members themselves. They realized how powerful music could be in connecting people and sharing their stories.

The journey of The Beatles through doo-wop and into the hearts of fans was not just a tale of fame; it was a testament to their resilience and passion for music. Even when times were tough, and the pressures of fame began to build, the essence of that doo-wop sound and the emotions they captured in “This Boy” would remind them of why they started making music in the first place. It was about expressing their feelings and connecting with others—an inspiration that would continue to fuel their creativity for years to come.

As we listen to “This Boy” today, we can feel the heartbeat of those early moments in Liverpool. The Beatles’ love for doo-wop taught them to embrace their vulnerability, to pour their souls into their art, and to connect with others through shared experiences. Their journey is a reminder that music has the power to heal, to inspire, and to bridge the gaps between our hearts. And that, perhaps, is the most beautiful legacy they could ever leave behind.