What is the best band ever?

I could tell by these posts that many of you were not around when the Beatles were spreading their influence. As a band, they transcended the music and influenced the entire planet. They changed the way people dressed and looked and more inportantly, the way people thought and all of this without a video media. You may get a glimpse of this on some old archive film, but you could not know how much they changed the world unless you were there. Until someone surpasses that influence, they remain head and shoulders above anyone else.

It was actually George who felt strongest about not touring. It's in all the books including the Lennon interviews.

Case closed.

No

Lennon wanted to work in the studio.

Sorry rookie.

they didn't call it beatlemania for nothin' truly bigger than 'you know who'.

Just to add two not mentioned if we are truly talking only about cumulative blazing talent:

Mahavishnu Orchestra (McLaughlin/Cobham/Hammer)
Weather Report (Zaiwanul/Pastorius/Shorter)

and support for:
Beatles (for breaking new ground)
Floyd (best Stadium guitar/angst rock)
ELP (instrumental speed and agility)
Supertramp (Rick Davies was a genius)
SRV dbltrbl (nobody touches Stevie and JMac on guitar, though Gilmour is close)

Traveling Wilburys - kind of an "all star" team

For raw talent;

The Sex Pistols.

The Audio-Fool Band should also be mentioned. However, many believe the band is very arrogant, self centered and obnoxious.

Yes but their knowledge and expertise far exceeds the AssMoon band.

Rookie.

The Grandpa Gang Band is also one to consider. The music is a bit thin on the top end however, and most believe they are over the hill.

Superior knowledge is never over the hill.

I see a rookie in my rear view mirror.

Way way back.

In a Yugo I think.

Get the gloves!

I'm surprised noboby has thrown in Santana...

Best single live performance I've ever experienced live:

Julien Lourau Groove Gang (french jazz/funk ensemble).

2nd place: Dick Dale

Honorable Mentions: Yes, Moody Blues, Page/Plant, Peter Gabriel.

Live: The Clash. Was a roadie on the 1982 tour. Very high energy. Have not seen another band match it. Close but still second: Bruce Springsteen and U2.