After the controversy, what happened to Beatles' airplay and tours?

• A. Radio DJs removed the band from air and tours were cancelled
• B. They gained a larger audience on television
• C. They immediately resumed touring with tightened security
• D. No major impact occurred

Answer: (A)

When a major public controversy hits a band, the immediate impact often shows up in both radio airplay and live appearances. After John Lennon’s remark about the Beatles being more popular than Jesus, there was significant backlash, especially in the United States. That backlash led some radio stations to pull Beatles records from the air, and promoters canceled or shortened tour dates because of safety concerns. The result was a real disruption to touring schedules and a reduction in exposure on the radio, with the band ultimately stepping back from full-scale touring for several years and focusing more on studio work. This is why the option describing radio DJs removing them from air and tours being canceled best fits the situation. The other choices don’t align with what happened: the controversy didn’t simply boost television exposure, touring wasn’t immediately resumed with tightened security, and there clearly was a major impact rather than none at all.