Age-Old Dilemma

The classic Beatles vs. Rolling Stones battle is a useless, hopeless, no-win exercise for a demographic bulge that is madly in love with nostalgia and all things ‘60s (Letters, Dec. 19). You can almost hear the screams of “Get a life” from the younger generations that could care less whether it’s Lennon/McCartney, Jagger/Richards or Sylvester/Tweety Bird that have contributed more to our collective consciousness, musical or otherwise.

Clearly, it’s ridiculous to attempt to measure the contributions of the two distinct and significant groups. While the Beatles soared high and broke new ground in harmony, studio wizardry and song craftsmanship, the Stones were more interested in emulating their R&B; heroes and exploring darker, grittier tones that eventually defined what great rock should sound and feel like. I find the Stones’ continued touring and recording both inspiring and motivating.

BENJAMIN KREPACK

Los Angeles