Howard Stern, the King of All Media, and The Beatles: A Love Story (with a Twist!)
Radio icon Howard Stern, a self-proclaimed aficionado of The Beatles, often delves into the band's legacy on his show. He's interviewed Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr, soaking up behind-the-scenes stories like a sponge. But here's where it gets controversial: when asked to name his favorite Beatles song, Stern's response was surprisingly… brief.
While Stern clearly adores The Beatles, often ranking them above other rock giants like The Rolling Stones and Led Zeppelin, his specific favorite song remains a mystery. He's been fortunate enough to interview Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr on The Howard Stern Show.
When country star Jelly Roll asked Stern for his top pick in 2024, Stern simply replied, "Rubber Soul is such a great album, so maybe ‘Norwegian Wood’,” before shying away from a definitive answer. He then questioned the possibility of picking just one favorite, stating, "There’s no such thing as a favorite Beatles song. They’re all good. How do you write that many good songs?"
This response, while understandable, left some listeners wanting more. Considering Stern's deep knowledge of the band, a more detailed explanation of why he loves 'Norwegian Wood' (or any other song) would have been captivating. It would have also been interesting to hear his thoughts on Jelly Roll's favorite, 'Eleanor Rigby'.
But here's a thought: Perhaps Stern's favorite changes constantly. He's previously called 'Being For the Benefit of Mr Kite' a "religious experience" and acknowledged the brilliance of every song on Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band. Or, is it possible that Stern, known for his provocative style, simply offered a quick answer to avoid a more in-depth discussion?
And this is the part most people miss: Stern has a history of offering strong opinions, sometimes dismissing classic bands and albums. Did he clam up when asked for his own opinion, or is 'Norwegian Wood' truly his favorite?
What do you think? Do you agree with Stern's take on the Beatles' music? Share your favorite Beatles song in the comments below!
