February 9, 1964 might not be a date typically memorized in U.S. history classes, yet in terms of American cultural chronology, it was one of the most revolutionary days of the 20th century.  It was on this date that the CBS auditorium erupted in the shrill screams of star-struck girls at the utterance of the phrase, “Ladies and gentlemen, the Beatles!”  While the Fab Four was already a sensation in Europe, neither they nor their entourage were expecting such a reaction across the pond –  their trip to the States was to consist merely of the Ed Sullivan show appearance and a rather short concert tour.  Instead, the performance sparked a whole new wave of Beatlemania.  Nearly half of the country tuned in to watch the bands, making this episode of Ed Sullivan one of the most-watched television programs to this day.

To honor this achievement of the suit-clad quartet, the Ludwig drum company is reproducing the drum kit used by Ringo Starr on the Sullivan set.  Known as the Liverpool 4, the classic simple design consists of four drums (bass, snare, and two toms), featuring the retro 3-ply Ludwig shell and trademark Black Oyster finish.  True fans will want to get their hands on one of the first 100 kits released, which will feature commemorative Ludwig 100th Anniversary emblems.  The recommended retail value of the Liverpool 4 is $4285, excluding hardware.