Who would you rather be, The Beatles or The Rolling Stones? This can soon be added to the list of definitive questions. Frequently asked and passionately answered, it has become a hot topic for debate. It has inspired countless blogs and even made it onto the how to website “eHow” (How to win a Beatles vs. Rolling Stones argument). But what is this question really asking? Does the answer simply classify your taste in music, or is it deeper than that?

Both The Beatles and The Stones came out of similar backgrounds in the UK to invade North America in the 60’s. The cumulative impact that both bands had on music is undeniable.

The difference in their sounds diversified the definition of Rock and Roll, and solidified its place in pop culture. On one side you have a song writing pop quartet with heart throb status, backed by a legion of screaming fans dressed in lee jeans and penny loafers. On the other side is a crew of gritty rockstars with a mob of leather clad rebels hanging off their every note. So, you could say that what this question is really asking is, what type of person are you? The prep or the rebel? (That’s why I have to choose the Beatles, from what I define ‘the rebellious preps’)  Emily Haines of Metric asked you in her single “Gimme Sympathy” but you know she never answered the question herself.

But the Awesome people of Calgary have some thoughts

Brock Mitchell (Producer/Director ‘Shot at the Dark’) – I can’t take away any credibility that the Beatles had on the influence of music as both an art form, and a way of story telling. But let’s face it, who’s got the better dance moves? The Rolling Stones.

Jeff Thorburn (Managing Editor)- I have to go with The Beatles, no question. I have all of their full lengths and none of The Rolling Stones’. The Stones are remembered and revered more for the partying and the girls, but you can bet The Beatles had their share of both. The only difference is that The Beatles didn’t flaunt it like the Stones did. Musically, no one can even come close to the innovation and the variety of The Beatles. The Stones have their sound, which is great, but it doesn’t come close to comparing to what The Beatles did.

Jeremy Pavka (Colourdesign.ca) - Rolling Stones, I just love their attitudes and music a bit more than the Beatles. Plus its a good indication that I can still wear skinny jeans into my 60’s

Kelsy Norman (Graphics Designer) – The Beastie Boys

Robyn Raymond (40 Gun Flagship) – Hands down ‘The Rolling Stones’

Survey results from over a 100 Calgarians: ?The Beatles – 61%?The Rolling Stones – 39%