As we get older, we learn more and have more awareness of stuff that came before us. But as you point out, when you were a youth that wasn't really on your radar.

Santana and Clapton were great. No doubt. But they weren't really revolutionary. I think the Beatles will be remembered practically forever, just as Beethoven or Mozart are remembered today. Not that everyone will like them. I mostly don't like Mozart, even as I can recognize the genius in the music. It's just not my style.

I've been going down a rabbit hole recently. While tallying up my taxes, I'm listening to "reactions" on YouTube (as I've mentioned before)**. Rappers and other young people, and they all seem to be blown away by the Beatles. Which I find interesting, and may reinforce my point. I honestly didn't expect so much adoration. I figured I would be hearing a lot of "what is this crap?". But no. "It's amazing!" is much more common. It seems to transcend generations.

I am biased as I am a huge Beatles fan. I'm the guy who wins the Beatles trivia contests and "name that Beatles' tune" on cruise ships. Seriously, I crush it. I'm just reporting what the "reactors" are saying. Many seem mesmerized by Eleanor Rigby.

**I can listen without have to watch the video since it's music reaction (as opposed to movie reactions).