Before They Were Beatles

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This is the story of how one of the thousands of amateur schoolboy skiffle bands evolved into the beginnings of the greatest band in popular history. It’s a story of hope, creativity, and exploring musical boundaries. It’s also a story of tragedy, coincidence, and at times just sheer luck. It is a story of beginnings, the story of John, Paul, George, and Ringo - Before They Were Beatles.

Megrin Entertainment


    • Jun 1, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • monthly NEW EPISODES
    • 20m AVG DURATION
    • 41 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Before They Were Beatles

    Episode 13 - Jimmie Nicol

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 1, 2025 26:20


    This month we turn the spotlight on drummer Jimmie Nicol.--------------------Links mentioned in this episode Jimmie NicolJimmy Nichol - wikipedia entry https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jimmie_Nicol The Parlogram series 30 minute mini documentary on Jimmie's story - https://youtu.be/onKRSu5C3EI?si=-f4n9Ejh2OcHKTgt Finding The Fourth Beatle by David Bedford and Garry Popper https://www.amazon.com/Finding-Fourth-Beatle-Drummers-Behind/dp/3732398420 The Beatle Who Vanished by Jim Berkenstadt. - https://www.amazon.com/Beatle-Who-Vanished-Beatles-Anniversary/dp/B0D3BD4GS3/ General Beatles BooksBefore They Were Beatles - https://bookshop.org/a/10029/9781413430561 Tune In - https://bookshop.org/a/10029/9781101903292 The Beatles (biography) - https://bookshop.org/a/10029/9780316013314 Websites:Alan J. Porter - YouTube Channel - Forgotten Beatles related videos - https://www.youtube.com/@AlanPorterWriter **************Thanks for listening to this episode of Before They Were Beatles Presents: The Forgotten Beatles. If you would like to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform that would be great and don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can find me on most social media platforms @alanjporter or you can email me at alan@beforetheywerebeatles.comYou can also subscribe to the FREE monthly Before They Were Beatles newsletter at https://beforebeatles.substack.com/.Don't forget to join us next time when we turn the spotlight on keyboard player Billy Preston**************Some Other Guy performed by The Savage Young Beatles is used with permission.The Before They Were Beatles podcast series is a production of  Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC. 

    beatles jimmie david bedford jim berkenstadt jimmie nicol
    Episode 12 - Mason, Moore, and Newby

    Play Episode Listen Later May 1, 2025 18:48


    This month we turn the spotlight on trumpet player David Mason, drummer Tommy Moore, and bass player Chas Newby.*******Links mentioned in this episode Dave MasonWikipedia entry - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Mason_(trumpeter) Obituary - https://www.theguardian.com/music/2011/jun/08/david-mason-obituary Tommy MooreWikipedia - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tommy_Moore_(musician) Finding The Fourth Beatle - https://www.amazon.com/Finding-Fourth-Beatle-Drummers-Behind/dp/3732398420 Johnny Gentle and The Beatles - The First Tour  - https://www.amazon.com/Johnny-Gentle-Beatles-First-Ever-ebook/dp/B007L0JKEYThe Man Who Gave The Beatles Away - https://www.amazon.com/Man-Who-Gave-Beatles-Away/dp/0345270746 Chas NewbyWikipedia entry - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chas_Newby Obituary - https://www.theguardian.com/music/2023/may/23/chas-newby-one-time-beatles-bassist-dies YouTube interview - https://youtu.be/KIvghvlt1YI?si=YXLQEMb6nltp1bRH General Beatles BooksBefore They Were Beatles - https://bookshop.org/a/10029/9781413430561 Tune In - https://bookshop.org/a/10029/9781101903292 The Beatles (biography) - https://bookshop.org/a/10029/9780316013314 Websites:Alan J. Porter - YouTube Channel - Forgotten Beatles related videos - https://www.youtube.com/@AlanPorterWriter **************Thanks for listening to this episode of Before They Were Beatles Presents: The Forgotten Beatles. If you would like to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform that would be great and don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can find me on most social media platforms @alanjporter or you can email me at alan@beforetheywerebeatles.comYou can also subscribe to the FREE monthly Before They Were Beatles newsletter at https://beforebeatles.substack.com/.Don't forget to join us next time when we turn the spotlight on drummer Jimmy Nichol**************Some Other Guy performed by The Savage Young Beatles is used with permission.The Before They Were Beatles podcast series is a production of  Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC.

    Episode 11 - George Martin

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 1, 2025 16:28


    This month we turn the spotlight on the man who probably has the best claim to the title of “The 5th Beatle,” producer George Martin .*******Links mentioned in this episode George MartinAll You Need Is Ears memoir - https://bookshop.org/a/10029/9781250784049 Limited edition Playback autobiography - Copies for sale on Abe Books - https://www.abebooks.com/book-search/title/playback-illustrated-memoir/author/george-martin/ George Martin's wikipedia page - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_Martin David Bennet's excellent video on George's contributions to Beatles recordings  - https://youtu.be/YDYedISQ2JU?si=hEqorDj9xTxM39pf Websites:Alan J. Porter - YouTube Channel - Forgotten Beatles related videos - https://www.youtube.com/@AlanPorterWriter **************Thanks for listening to this episode of Before They Were Beatles Presents: The Forgotten Beatles. If you would like to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform that would be great and don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can find me on most social media platforms @alanjporter or you can email me at alan@beforetheywerebeatles.comYou can also subscribe to the FREE monthly Before They Were Beatles newsletter at https://beforebeatles.substack.com/.Don't forget to join us next time when we turn the spotlight on trumpet player David Mason and drummer Tommy Moore**************Some Other Guy performed by The Savage Young Beatles is used with permission.The Before They Were Beatles podcast series is a production of  Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC. 

    Episode 10 - Lomax and Lowe

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 1, 2025 14:49


    This month we turn the spotlight on singer Jackie Lomax and pianist John “Duff” Lowe.*******Links mentioned in this episode Jackie LomaxWikipedia entry - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jackie_Lomax Official website - http://www.jackielomax.com Obituary - https://www.theguardian.com/music/2013/sep/17/jackie-lomax John LoweWikipedia entry - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Lowe_(musician) Obituary - https://www.theguardian.com/music/article/2024/may/02/john-duff-lowe-obituary Websites:Alan J. Porter - YouTube Channel - Forgotten Beatles related videos - https://www.youtube.com/@AlanPorterWriter **************Thanks for listening to this episode of Before They Were Beatles Presents: The Forgotten Beatles. If you would like to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform that would be great and don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can find me on most social media platforms @alanjporter or you can email me atalan@beforetheywerebeatles.comYou can also subscribe to the FREE monthly Before They Were Beatles newsletter at https://beforebeatles.substack.com/.Don't forget to join us next time when we turn the spotlight on producer George Martin**************Some Other Guy performed by The Savage Young Beatles is used with permission.The Before They Were Beatles podcast series is a production of  Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC. 

    Episode 9 - Jackson and Jones

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 1, 2025 10:56


    Welcome to the ninth episode of Before They Were Beatles presents: The Forgotten Beatles in which we turn the spotlight on singers Simone Jackson and Davy Jones ******* Links mentioned in this episode  Websites: Alan J. Porter - YouTube Channel - Forgotten Beatles related videos - https://www.youtube.com/@AlanPorterWriter  ************** Thanks for listening to this episode of Before They Were Beatles Presents: The Forgotten Beatles. If you would like to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform that would be great and don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes.  If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can find me on most social media platforms @alanjporter or you can email me at alan@beforetheywerebeatles.com You can also subscribe to the FREE monthly Before They Were Beatles newsletter at https://beforebeatles.substack.com/. Don't forget to join us next time when we turn the spotlight on singer Jackie Lomax and pianist John Lowe ************** Some Other Guy performed by The Savage Young Beatles is used with permission. The Before They Were Beatles podcast series is a production of  Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC. 

    jackie lomax
    Episode 8 - Hanton and Hutchinson

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 2025 18:32


    Welcome to the eighth episode of Before They Were Beatles presents: The Forgotten Beatles in which we turn the spotlight on on drummers Colin Hanton and Johnny Hutchinson ******* Links mentioned in this episode Books: The Quarrymen by Hunter Davis - https://www.amazon.com/Quarrymen-Hunter-Davies/dp/071198526X Before They Were Beatles by Alan J. Porter https://www.amazon.com/Before-They-Were-Beatles-1956-1960/dp/1413430562  Finding the Fourth Beatle by David Bedford and Gary Popper https://bookshop.org/a/10029/9783732398423  Pre:Fab! By Colin Hanton with Colin Hall - https://www.amazon.com/Pre-Lennon-McCartney-George-Harrison/dp/1912362570  Johnny Hutchinson Obituary - https://www.the-independent.com/news/obituaries/johnny-hutchinson-hutch-drummer-the-beatles-ringo-starr-big-three-a8882636.html    Websites: Alan J. Porter - YouTube Channel - Forgotten Beatles related videos - https://www.youtube.com/@AlanPorterWriter  ************** Thanks for listening to this episode of Before They Were Beatles Presents: The Forgotten Beatles. If you would like to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform that would be great and don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes.  If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can find me on most social media platforms @alanjporter or you can email me at alan@beforetheywerebeatles.com You can also subscribe to the FREE monthly Before They Were Beatles newsletter at https://beforebeatles.substack.com/. Don't forget to join us next time when we turn the spotlight on singers Simone Jackson and Davy Jones ************** Some Other Guy performed by The Savage Young Beatles is used with permission. The Before They Were Beatles podcast series is a production of  Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC. 

    Episode 7 - Graham, Griffiths, and Gustafson

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 1, 2024 20:30


    Welcome to the seventh episode of Before They Were Beatles presents: The Forgotten Beatles in which we turn the spotlight on drummer Bobby Graham, the Quarrymen's guitarist Eric Griffiths, and one-off bass player Johhny Gustafson ******* Links mentioned in this episode Books: The Quarrymen by Hunter Davis - https://www.amazon.com/Quarrymen-Hunter-Davies/dp/071198526X Before They Were Beatles by Alan J. Porter https://www.amazon.com/Before-They-Were-Beatles-1956-1960/dp/1413430562  Finding the Fourth Beatle by David Bedford and Gary Popper https://bookshop.org/a/10029/9783732398423  John Gustafson: the second most important bassist to come out of Liverpool by Scott McCormick . https://blog.discmakers.com/2018/07/john-gustafson-the-second-most-important-bassist-to-come-out-of-liverpool/    Websites: Alan J. Porter - YouTube Channel - Forgotten Beatles related videos - https://www.youtube.com/@AlanPorterWriter  ************** Thanks for listening to this episode of Before They Were Beatles Presents: The Forgotten Beatles. If you would like to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform that would be great and don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes.  If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can find me on most social media platforms @alanjporter or you can email me at alan@beforetheywerebeatles.com You can also subscribe to the FREE monthly Before They Were Beatles newsletter at https://beforebeatles.substack.com/. Don't forget to join us next time when we turn the spotlight drummers Colin Hanton and Johnny Hutchinson. ************** Some Other Guy performed by The Savage Young Beatles is used with permission. The Before They Were Beatles podcast series is a production of  Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC. 

    Episode 6 - Garry and Gentle

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 1, 2024 16:52


    Welcome to the sixth episode of Before They Were Beatles presents: The Forgotten Beatles in which we turn the spotlight on Quarrymen's Len Garry, and singer Johnny Gentle ******* Links mentioned in this episode Books: The Quarrymen by Hunter Davis - https://www.amazon.com/Quarrymen-Hunter-Davies/dp/071198526X Before They Were Beatles https://www.amazon.com/Before-They-Were-Beatles-1956-1960/dp/1413430562  John, Paul & Me: Before The Beatles  - Len Garry -  https://www.amazon.com/John-Paul-Me-Before-Beatles/dp/1784560782/  Johnny Gentle and The Beatles First Ever Tour - Johnny Gentle (eBook) https://www.amazon.com/Johnny-Gentle-Beatles-First-Ever-ebook/dp/B007L0JKEY/    Websites: Alan J. Porter - YouTube Channel - Forgotten Beatles related videos - https://www.youtube.com/@AlanPorterWriter  ************** Thanks for listening to this episode of Before They Were Beatles Presents: The Forgotten Beatles. If you would like to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform that would be great and don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes.  If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can find me on most social media platforms @alanjporter or you can email me at alan@beforetheywerebeatles.com You can also subscribe to the FREE monthly Before They Were Beatles newsletter at https://beforebeatles.substack.com/. Don't forget to join us next time when we turn the spotlight on  drummer Bobby Graham, the Quarrymen's guitarist Eric Griffiths, and bass player Johhny Gustafson ************** Some Other Guy performed by The Savage Young Beatles is used with permission. The Before They Were Beatles podcast series is a production of  Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC. 

    Episode 5 - Davis, Day, and Douglas

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 1, 2024 16:22


    Welcome to the fifth episode of Before They Were Beatles presents: The Forgotten Beatles in which we turn the spotlight on The Quarrymen's Rod Davis, and singers Tanya Day, and Craig Douglas ******* Links mentioned in this episode Books: The Quarrymen by Hunter Davis - https://www.amazon.com/Quarrymen-Hunter-Davies/dp/071198526X Before They Were Beatles https://www.amazon.com/Before-They-Were-Beatles-1956-1960/dp/1413430562  Websites: Alan J. Porter - YouTube Channel - Forgotten Beatles related videos - https://www.youtube.com/@AlanPorterWriter  The Original Quarrymen - Official Website - originalquarrymen.co.uk/. Craig Douglas - Wikipedia entry - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Craig_Douglas ************** Thanks for listening to this episode of Before They Were Beatles Presents: The Forgotten Beatles. If you would like to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform that would be great and don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes.  If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can find me on most social media platforms @alanjporter or you can email me at alan@beforetheywerebeatles.com You can also subscribe to the FREE monthly Before They Were Beatles newsletter at https://beforebeatles.substack.com/. Don't forget to join us next time when we turn the spotlight on the Quarrymen's Len Garry and singer Johnny Gentle ************** Some Other Guy performed by The Savage Young Beatles is used with permission. The Before They Were Beatles podcast series is a production of  Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC. 

    quarrymen tanya day
    Episode 4 - “Eddie Clayton” aka Eric Clapton

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 24, 2024 11:55


    This month we turn the spotlight on on the man on the weeping guitar originally credited as “Eddie Clayton” perhaps better known as Eric Clapton ******* Thanks for listening to this episode of Before They Were Beatles Presents: The Forgotten Beatles. If you would like to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform that would be great and don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes.  If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can follow the podcast Twitter account at @BeforeBeatles or you can email me at alan@beforetheywerebeatles.com Don't forget to join us next month when we turn the spotlight on the story of The Quarrymen's Rod Davis . ************** BTWB Newsletter You can also subscribe to the monthly Before They Were Beatles newsletter at https://beforebeatles.substack.com/. The news and updates sections each month will be FREE to all subscribers. Each month paid subscribers will get: Exclusive first look at in-progress updates to the updated and expanded 20th Anniversary edition of Before They Were Beatles Author's notes Play List Suggestions Recommended Reads —--------- Some Other Guy performed by The Savage Young Beatles is used with permission. The Before They Were Beatles podcast series is a production of  Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC. 

    Episode 3 - Calandra, The Chants, and Chapman

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 6, 2024 16:02


    This month we turn the spotlight on n Vince Calandra, The Chants, and Norman Chapman If you want to know more about  Vince Calandra he did a four-hour interview for the Television Academy on his career which is available in their online archives. There are a few extracts from it on YouTube that refer to the Beatles' Ed Sullivan appearance. For info on The Chants, I recommend the Sixties City website which includes links to their full discography. There is also an extract on YouTube from the documentary "Get Back: The City That Rocked The World", with Joe Ankrah talking about meeting Paul and being invited to the Cavern. You can read more of Norman Chapman's story in The Fab One Hundred and Four by David Bedford, and Finding the Fourth Beatle by David Bedford & Gary Popper. ******* Thanks for listening to this episode of Before They Were Beatles Presents: The Forgotten Beatles. If you would like to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform that would be great and don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes.  If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can follow the podcast Twitter account at @BeforeBeatles or you can email me at alan@beforetheywerebeatles.com Don't forget to join us next month when we turn the spotlight on the story of ‘Eddie Clayton” (aka Eric Clapton) . ************** BTWB Newsletter You can also subscribe to the monthly Before They Were Beatles newsletter at https://beforebeatles.substack.com/. The news and updates sections each month will be FREE to all subscribers. Each month paid subscribers will get: Exclusive first look at in-progress updates to the updated and expanded 20th Anniversary edition of Before They Were Beatles Author's notes Play List Suggestions Recommended Reads —--------- Some Other Guy performed by The Savage Young Beatles is used with permission. The Before They Were Beatles podcast series is a production of  Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC. 

    Episode 2 - Ken Brown

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 7, 2024 14:45


    This month we turn the spotlight on guitarist Ken Brown of The Quarrymen and The Blackjacks If you want to know more about Ken Brown's story I recommend, The Beatles: The True Beginnings, published by Thomas Dunne Books in 2003 ******* Thanks for listening to this episode of Before They Were Beatles presents: The Forgotten Beatles. If you would like to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform that would be great and don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes.  If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can follow the podcast Twitter account at @BeforeBeatles or you can email me at alan@beforetheywerebeatles.com Don't forget to join us next month when we turn the spotlight on the stories of honorary Beatle Vince Calandra, vocal group The Chants, and drummer Norman Chapman. ************** BTWB Newsletter You can also subscribe to the monthly Before They Were Beatles newsletter at https://beforebeatles.substack.com/. The news and updates sections each month will be FREE to all subscribers. Each month paid subscribers will get: Exclusive first look at in-progress updates to the updated and expanded 20th Anniversary edition of Before They Were Beatles Author's notes Play List Suggestions Recommended Reads —--------- Some Other Guy performed by The Savage Young Beatles is used with permission. The Before They Were Beatles podcast series is a production of  Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC. 

    Episode 1 - Pete Best

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 3, 2024 16:43


    Welcome to the first episode of Before They Were Beatles presents: The Forgotten Beatles in which we turn the spotlight on drummer Pete Best If you want to know more about Pete Best's story we recommend,  Beatle! The Pete Best Story - Plexus Publishing  - Pete's autobiography  (although it is going for crazy money these days - if you can find a copy it is well over $200 for the paperback) The Beatles: The True Beginnings is a nice illustrated hardback on the history of the Casbah Club by Roag Best published by Thomas Dunne Books in 2003 Finding the Fourth Beatle by David Bedford and Gary Popper, published in 2013 is a great book on the various Beatles drummers (many of whom we will be covering in this podcast series) and includes an in-depth study of Pete's drumming technique.  And of course, there's Mark Lewishon's mammoth volume on The Beatles' early years, Tune In, which covers Pete's time with the group in Liverpool and Hamburg in great detail Pete also has his own official website at https://www.petebest.com and on Twitter / X @BeatlesPeteBest ******* You can check out some of Pete's post-Beatles recordings, plus enjoy his appearance on the Have I Got A Secret TV show on The Forgotten Beatles You Tube playlist. ******* Thanks for listening to this episode of Before They Were Beatles presents: The Forgotten Beatles. If you would like to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform that would be great and don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes.  If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can follow the podcast Twitter account at @BeforeBeatles or you can email us at alan@beforetheywerebeatles.com Don't forget to join us next month when we turn the spotlight on the story of The Quarrymen's Ken Brown ************** BTWB Newsletter You can also subscribe to the monthly Before They Were Beatles newsletter at https://beforebeatles.substack.com/. The news and updates sections each month will be FREE to all subscribers. Each month paid subscribers will get: Exclusive first look at in-progress updates to the updated and expanded 20th Anniversary edition of Before They Were Beatles Author's notes Play List Suggestions Recommended Reads —--------- Some Other Guy performed by The Savage Young Beatles is used with permission. The Before They Were Beatles podcast series is a production of  Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC. 

    Introducing THE FORGOTTEN BEATLES

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 16, 2023 6:40


    Coming to this podcast soon, a new series -  Before They Were Beatles presents:  The Forgotten Beatles  We all know the story of John, Paul, George, and Ringo, The Beatles - BUT, there are other tales still left to tell.  Who were Pete, Ken, Norman, Johnny, Colin, Rod, Stuart, Eric, and more who all played their part in the story of the greatest band in rock history? These will be the stories we share The stories of THE FORGOTTEN BEATLES =========== I hope you will join us for this fun trip to discover these fascinating stories. Tune in via the podcast platform of your choice. and don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes.  If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can follow the podcast Twitter account at @BeforeBeatles or you can email me at alan@beforetheywerebeatles.com You can also subscribe to the monthly Before They Were Beatles newsletter at https://beforebeatles.substack.com/. The news and updates sections each month will be FREE to all subscribers. Each month paid subscribers will get: Exclusive first look at in-progress updates to the updated and expanded 20th Anniversary edition of Before They Were Beatles Author's notes Play List Suggestions Recommended Reads =========== Some Other Guy performed by The Savage Young Beatles is used with permission -  ⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BXVCPXJuoG0⁠  ========== The Before They Were Beatles podcast series is a production of  Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC. 

    Episode 26 - Red & Blue

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 15, 2023 19:40


    In this episode, I share some thoughts on the recently released, remixed, and remastered extended Red and Blue albums, and wrap things up with my reactions to the “last Beatles song” Now & Then ************************ Thank you for joining us over the last three seasons and listening to the story of John, Paul, George, and Ringo - Before They Were Beatles.. - and I hope you also enjoyed this bonus episode. But there are other tales still left to tell.  Whatever happened to Pete, Ken, Norman, Johnny, Colin, Rod, Stuart, Eric, and more who all played their part? We will be sharing their stories when we return in the New Year with a new series of shows: The Forgotten Beatles. ******* Thanks for listening to this episode of the Before They Were Beatles podcast. If you would like to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform that would be great and don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes.  If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can follow the podcast Twitter account at @BeforeBeatles BTWB Newsletter You can also subscribe to the monthly Before They Were Beatles newsletter at https://beforebeatles.substack.com/. The news and updates sections each month will be FREE to all subscribers. Each month paid subscribers will get: Exclusive first look at in-progress updates to the updated and expanded 20th Anniversary edition of Before They Were Beatles Author's notes Play List Suggestions Recommended Reads The Before They Were Beatles Podcast is a production of  Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC. 

    Episode 25 - Beginnings and Endings

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 14, 2023 25:36


    In this episode, we complete our journey as The Beatles return to the recording studio, make their TV debut, and say goodbye to Hamburg. .********* This is the story of how one of the thousands of amateur British schoolboy skiffle bands in the mid-1950s evolved into the beginnings of the greatest band in popular history. It's a story of hope, creativity, and exploring musical boundaries. It's also a story of tragedy, coincidence, and at times just sheer luck. It is a story of beginnings, the story of John, Paul, George, and Ringo - Before They Were Beatles. .********* Before The Beatles 20th Anniversary edition newsletter To mark both the 20th anniversary of the original BEFORE THEY WERE BEATLES book's publication and the popularity of the podcast, we have decided to answer many long-standing requests for an updated and expanded version of the book with a new 20th Anniversary edition. if you'd like to keep up with the progress of the work on the 20th Anniversary edition of the Before They Were Beatles book you can sign up for a subscription to the new dedicated Substack monthly newsletter at https://beforebeatles.substack.com/  This newsletter will give you behind-the-scenes access to the development of that new edition with exclusive first looks at the new text, and more. Why Subscribe? The news and updates sections each month will be FREE to all subscribers. Each month paid subscribers will get: Exclusive first look at in-progress updates to the updated and expanded 20th Anniversary edition Author's notes Play List Suggestions Recommended Reads ******** The music heard in this episode included: The Beatles - Money (Intro from Decca auditions) The Beatles - How Do You Do It (Anthology) The Beatles - Love Me Do (Single) The Beatles - PS I Love You (Single) The Beatles - Love Me Do (People and Places - Granada TV) Mike Berry - Loneliness Craig Douglas - Our Favorite Melodies The Beatles - A Taste of Honey (People and Places - Granada TV) Tommy Quickly - Tip of My Tongue Frank Iflield - I Remember You The Beatles - Twist and Shout (Star Club - Hamburg) You can find full versions of the music heard in this episode in the dedicated Before They Were Beatles YouTube playlist ⁠https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLP0CDQdLe-G141LlqyBu8rC8ap6voBhZe⁠.- If you enjoy the early rock-n-roll years and the music that inspired the Fab Four you can now enjoy a great selection of songs from the period on the new Before They Were Beatles playlist on Spotify  - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0YlCxFBR3EFxuRaT864ft9  If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can follow the podcast Twitter account at @BeforeBeatles You can also find copies of the original Before They Were Beatles book on Amazon in hardcover, paperback, and Kindle editions ----------------- The Before They Were Beatles Podcast is a production of  Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC. 

    Episode 24 - Farewell Pete, Hello Ringo

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 7, 2023 23:25


    In this episode, we will take a deep dive into the events surrounding Pete Best's departure and Ringo's arrival as a member of The Beatles. .********* This is the story of how one of the thousands of amateur British schoolboy skiffle bands in the mid-1950s evolved into the beginnings of the greatest band in popular history. It's a story of hope, creativity, and exploring musical boundaries. It's also a story of tragedy, coincidence, and at times just sheer luck. It is a story of beginnings, the story of John, Paul, George, and Ringo - Before They Were Beatles. .********* Before The Beatles 20th Anniversary edition newsletter To mark both the 20th anniversary of the original BEFORE THEY WERE BEATLES book's publication and the popularity of the podcast, we have decided to answer many long-standing requests for an updated and expanded version of the book with a new 20th Anniversary edition. if you'd like to keep up with the progress of the work on the 20th Anniversary edition of the Before They Were Beatles book you can sign up for a subscription to the new dedicated Substack monthly newsletter at https://beforebeatles.substack.com/  This newsletter will give you behind-the-scenes access to the development of that new edition with exclusive first looks at the new text, and more. Why Subscribe? The news and updates sections each month will be FREE to all subscribers. Each month paid subscribers will get: Exclusive first look at in-progress updates to the updated and expanded 20th Anniversary edition Author's notes Play List Suggestions Recommended Reads ******** The music heard in this episode included: - The Beatles - Money (Intro from Decca auditions) You can find full versions of the music heard in this episode in the dedicated Before They Were Beatles Podcast YouTube channel If you enjoy the early rock-n-roll years and the music that inspired the Fab Four you can now enjoy a great selection of songs from the period on the new Before They Were Beatles playlist on Spotify  If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can follow the podcast Twitter account at @BeforeBeatles You can also find copies of the original Before They Were Beatles book on Amazon in hardcover, paperback, and Kindle editions The Before They Were Beatles Podcast is a production of  Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC. 

    Episode 23a - Dinner and a Show

    Play Episode Listen Later May 11, 2023 4:55


    In this short bonus episode I'm delighted to announce the first in-person “Before They Were Beatles” event. ***************** Stereo Dinner and Pershing present “Before They Were Beatles” a one-night-only celebration of the Fab Four's early days with historian and author Alan J Porter. The event on June 2 will feature an intimate multi-course ticketed dinner followed by access to the after-dinner concert with Liverpool's The Savage Young Beatles.  Before they were The Beatles, a pre-Fab Four John, Paul, George, (and even a bit of Ringo) were infamous for their brand of raucous, rough, hard rocking shows they performed during their residencies in Hamburg and at the Cavern Club Liverpool from 1960-1963. In celebration of a night with Liverpool's tribute “The Savage Young Beatles” on Friday, June 2, 2023 at Pershing in East Austin, be the guest of their Fab Four historian Alan J. Porter.  The pop-culture writer, podcaster, and author of the acclaimed book “Before They Were Beatles'' will host an intimate three-course tasting menu dinner crafted by Chef Chris Galluccio and inspired by the amphetamine-fueled, underfed, leather-clad, sweaty, beautiful noise of the pre-Fab Four. For more information and to reserve a ticket see https://www.stereodinner.com/events/beforetheywerebeatles ******************* If you'd like to keep up with the progress of the work on the 20th Anniversary edition of the Before They Were Beatles book you can sign up for a subscription to the new dedicated Substack monthly newsletter at https://beforebeatles.substack.com/  This newsletter will give you behind-the-scenes access to the development of that new edition with exclusive first looks at the new text, and more. Why Subscribe? The news and updates sections each month will be FREE to all subscribers. Each month paid subscribers will get: Exclusive first look at in-progress updates to the updated and expanded 20th Anniversary edition Author's notes Play List Suggestions Recommended Reads ****************************** The Before They Were Beatles Podcast is a production of  Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC. 

    Episode 23 - I'm With The Band

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 24, 2023 38:59


    In this special episode, we take a look at what it takes to start a new Beatles tribute band with interviews with the folks behind The Savage Young Beatles and the organizers of the Abbey Road on the Road Festival. .********* This is the story of beginnings, the story of Tom, George, Booby, and Ed - The Savage Young Beatles. .********* Links mentioned in this episode. Tom's “Mean Mr. Mustard” Beatles' covers - https://www.youtube.com/@meanmrmustard6184  Little Triggers YouTube page - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvkklUXhPasw15cGTOhmIUw Abbey Road on the River - http://arotr.com  Savage Young Beatles links Website - https://www.thesavageyoungbeatles.com/  YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheSavageYoungBeatles-hz7se  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thesavageyoungbeatles/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/thesavageyoungbeatles  .********* The Savage Young Beatles US tour dates. Abbey Road on the River festival  - May 25 - 29 Austin TX The High Ball, S. Lamar, Blvd - Tuesday, May 30th at 7:00pm Sour Duck Market - E. MLK Blvd - Wednesday, May 31st at 6:00pm Carousel Lounge - E. 52nd St - Wednesday, May 31st at 8:00pm The Little Darlin' - Circle S Rd - Thursday, June 1st at 7:00pm The Pershing - E 5th St - Friday, June 2nd at 8:00pm .********* Before The Beatles 20th Anniversary edition newsletter To mark both the 20th anniversary of the original BEFORE THEY WERE BEATLES book's publication and the popularity of the podcast, we have decided to answer many long-standing requests for an updated and expanded version of the book with a new 20th Anniversary edition. if you'd like to keep up with the progress of the work on the 20th Anniversary edition of the Before They Were Beatles book you can sign up for a subscription to the new dedicated Substack monthly newsletter at https://beforebeatles.substack.com/  This newsletter will give you behind-the-scenes access to the development of that new edition with exclusive first looks at the new text, and more. Why Subscribe? The news and updates sections each month will be FREE to all subscribers. Each month paid subscribers will get: Exclusive first look at in-progress updates to the updated and expanded 20th Anniversary edition Author's notes Play List Suggestions Recommended Reads ******** The music heard in this episode included: The Beatles - Money (Intro from Decca auditions) Tom Hamilton - Rock-n-Roll Music Little Triggers - High Time The Savage Young Beatles - Some Other Guy You can find full versions of the music heard in this episode in the dedicated Before They Were Beatles YouTube channel. If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can follow the podcast Twitter account at @BeforeBeatles You can also find copies of the original Before They Were Beatles book on Amazon in hardcover, paperback, and Kindle editions The Before They Were Beatles Podcast is a production of  Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC. 

    Episode 22 - Studio Two

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 17, 2023 21:40


    The Beatles make their first visit to Studio Two at Abbey Road, continue to expand their gig schedule, make their final line-up change, and attract the attention of a local TV station. .********* This is the story of how one of the thousands of amateur British schoolboy skiffle bands in the mid-1950s evolved into the beginnings of the greatest band in popular history. It's a story of hope, creativity, and exploring musical boundaries. It's also a story of tragedy, coincidence, and at times just sheer luck. It is a story of beginnings, the story of John, Paul, George, and Ringo - Before They Were Beatles. The music heard in this episode included: The Beatles - Money (Intro from Decca auditions) The Beatles - Love Me Do (Anthology 1) The Beatles - Ask Me Why (Teenager's Turn radio show) Bruce Channel - Hey Baby Joe Brown - A Picture of You Johnny Kid & The Pirates - Shakin' All Over The Beatles - Some Other Guy (Granada TV recording) You can find full versions of the music heard in this episode in the dedicated Before They Were Beatles Podcast YouTube channel. If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can follow the podcast Twitter account at @BeforeBeatles You can also find copies of the original Before They Were Beatles book on Amazon in hardcover, paperback, and Kindle editions The Before They Were Beatles Podcast is a production of Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC.

    Episode 21 - Suits and Star Club

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 17, 2023 19:07


    The Beatles make their radio debut, change leather for suits, and make a return to Hamburg. .********* This is the story of how one of the thousands of amateur British schoolboy skiffle bands in the mid-1950s evolved into the beginnings of the greatest band in popular history. It's a story of hope, creativity, and exploring musical boundaries. It's also a story of tragedy, coincidence, and at times just sheer luck. It is a story of beginnings, the story of John, Paul, George, and Ringo - Before They Were Beatles. The music heard in this episode included: The Beatles - Money (Intro from Decca auditions) The Beatles - Dream Baby (How Long Must I Dream) Royal Waterford Showband - Hucklebuck Emile Ford & The Checkmates - What Do You Want To Make Those Eyes At Me For? Roy Young - Hey Little Girl Gene Vincent - Be Bop Lula ‘62 Tony Sheridan & The Beat Brothers - Sweet Georgia Brown Tony Sheridan - Swanee River Tony Sheridan - Skinnie Minny You can find full versions of the music heard in this episode in the dedicated Before They Were Beatles Podcast YouTube channel - If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can follow the podcast Twitter account at @BeforeBeatles You can also find copies of the original Before They Were Beatles book on Amazon in hardcover, paperback, and Kindle editions The Before They Were Beatles Podcast is a production of Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC.

    Episode 20 - Decca Demos

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 11, 2023 19:58


    It's early 1962 and John, Paul, George, and Pete, are headed down to London to audition for a major record label. Will they land that much desired recording contract? .********* This is the story of how one of the thousands of amateur British schoolboy skiffle bands in the mid-1950s evolved into the beginnings of the greatest band in popular history. It's a story of hope, creativity, and exploring musical boundaries. It's also a story of tragedy, coincidence, and at times just sheer luck. It is a story of beginnings, the story of John, Paul, George, and Ringo - Before They Were Beatles. The music heard in this episode included: The Beatles - Money (Intro from Decca auditions) Beatles - Memphis Tennessee (Decca auditions) Brian Poole & The Tremeloes - Do You Love Me The Beatles - Like Dreamers Do The Beatles - Hello Little Girl Dick James - The Adventures of Robin Hood Temperance Seven - You're Driving Me Crazy You can find full versions of the music heard in this episode in the dedicated Before They Were Beatles Podcast YouTube channel - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLP0CDQdLe-G141LlqyBu8rC8ap6voBhZe. If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can follow the podcast Twitter account at @BeforeBeatles You can also find copies of the original Before They Were Beatles book on Amazon in hardcover, paperback, and Kindle editions The Before They Were Beatles Podcast is a production of Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC.

    Episode 19 - Mr Epstein

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 17, 2022 26:47


    The Beatles' wild ride continues with the formation of a one-off Liverpool ‘supergroup,' and a momentous lunchtime visit to the Cavern by a local record store owner .********* This is the story of how one of the thousands of amateur British schoolboy skiffle bands in the mid-1950s evolved into the beginnings of the greatest band in popular history. It's a story of hope, creativity, and exploring musical boundaries. It's also a story of tragedy, coincidence, and at times just sheer luck. It is a story of beginnings, the story of John, Paul, George, and Ringo - Before They Were Beatles. The music heard in this episode included: The Beatles - Cry For A Shadow Johnny Hallyday - Tout Bas-Tout Bas (All Low, All Low) The Beatles - A Taste of Honey The Beatles - Twist & Shout Davy Jones - Amapola Danny Williams - Moon River You can find full versions of the music heard in this episode in the dedicated Before They Were Beatles Podcast YouTube channel - If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can follow the podcast Twitter account at @BeforeBeatles You can also find copies of the original Before They Were Beatles book on Amazon in hardcover, paperback, and Kindle editions The Before They Were Beatles Podcast is a production of Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC.

    Episode 18 - The Savage Young Beatles

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 13, 2022 15:53


    The leather-clad “Savage Young Beatles” continue to take Liverpool by storm. .********* This is the story of how one of the thousands of amateur British schoolboy skiffle bands in the mid-1950s evolved into the beginnings of the greatest band in popular history. It's a story of hope, creativity, and exploring musical boundaries. It's also a story of tragedy, coincidence, and at times just sheer luck. It is a story of beginnings, the story of John, Paul, George, and Ringo - Before They Were Beatles. The music heard in this episode included: The Beatles - Cry For A Shadow Bobby Day - Rockin' Robin Cilla Black - Love of The Loved Kenny Ball and His Jazz Men - Rampart Street Blues Acker Bilk - Strangers on the Shore Ray Charles - What I'd Say Ken Dodd - We Are The Diddymen You can find full versions of the music heard in this episode in the dedicated Before They Were Beatles Podcast YouTube channel - If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can follow the podcast Twitter account at @BeforeBeatles You can also find copies of the original Before They Were Beatles book on Amazon in hardcover, paperback, and Kindle editions The Before They Were Beatles Podcast is a production of Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC.

    Episode 17 - Top Ten

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 27, 2022 21:34


    The Beatles return to Hamburg under promises to behave, take up residence at a new venue, make a record, sack their manager, and discover a haircut. .********* This is the story of how one of the thousands of amateur British schoolboy skiffle bands in the mid-1950s evolved into the beginnings of the greatest band in popular history. It's a story of hope, creativity, and exploring musical boundaries. It's also a story of tragedy, coincidence, and at times just sheer luck. It is a story of beginnings, the story of John, Paul, George, and Ringo - Before They Were Beatles. The music heard in this episode included: The Beatles - Cry For A Shadow Donna Lynn - My Boyfriend Got A Beatle Haircut Bert Kaempfert - Wonderland By Night Elvis Presley - Wooden Heart Tony Sheridan and The Beat Brothers - My Bonnie Tony Sheridan and The Beat Brothers - The Saints The Beatles - Ain't She Sweet You can find full versions of the music heard in this episode in the dedicated Before They Were Beatles Podcast YouTube channel If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can follow the podcast Twitter account at @BeforeBeatles You can also find copies of the original Before They Were Beatles book on Amazon in hardcover, paperback, and Kindle editions The Before They Were Beatles Podcast is a production of Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC.

    Episode 16 - Three Gigs A Day

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 21, 2022 20:45


    Before They Were Beatles - Episode 16 - Three Gigs A Day In this episode - The experience of playing extended sets in Hamburg pays off as The Beatles chase every opportunity to play in front of the newly appreciative Liverpool audiences. Soon they are playing as many as three gigs in a single day including kicking off their legendary run at The Cavern. . ********* This is the story of how one of the thousands of amateur British schoolboy skiffle bands in the mid-1950s evolved into the beginnings of the greatest band in popular history. It's a story of hope, creativity, and exploring musical boundaries. It's also a story of tragedy, coincidence, and at times just sheer luck. It is a story of beginnings, the story of John, Paul, George, and Ringo - Before They Were Beatles. The music heard in this episode included: The Beatles - Cry For A Shadow The Olympics - Hully Gully Stuart Sutcliffe? - Love Me Tender Elvis - Wooden Heart The Beatles - Besame Mucho Swinging Bluejeans - The Hippy Hippy Shake You can find full versions of the music heard in this episode in the dedicated Before They Were Beatles Podcast YouTube channel - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLP0CDQdLe-G141LlqyBu8rC8ap6voBhZe. If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can follow the podcast Twitter account at @BeforeBeatles You can also find copies of the original Before They Were Beatles book on Amazon in hardcover, paperback, and Kindle editions The Before They Were Beatles Podcast is a production of Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC.

    Episode 15 - Hamburg Days

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 27, 2022 21:10


    Welcome to Season Two of the Before They Were Beatles podcast. This season we take a look at the group's first few trips to Hamburg, Germany, and their rise to the most popular band in Liverpool. As we start Season Two - John, Paul, George, Pete, and Stuart have arrived in Hamburg, Germany. But what awaits these young men from Liverpool?. ********* This is the story of how one of the thousands of amateur British schoolboy skiffle bands in the mid-1950s evolved into the beginnings of the greatest band in popular history. It's a story of hope, creativity, and exploring musical boundaries. It's also a story of tragedy, coincidence, and at times just sheer luck. It is a story of beginnings, the story of John, Paul, George, and Ringo - Before They Were Beatles. The music heard in this episode included: The Beatles - Cry For A Shadow Judy Garland - Somewhere Over The Rainbow Duane Eddy - 3:30 Blues Reelin & Rockin' - Chuck Berry More Than I Can Say - Bobby Vee Jambalaya - Hank Williams The Beatles - Long Tall Sally You can find full versions of the music heard in this episode in the dedicated Before They Were Beatles Podcast YouTube channel - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLP0CDQdLe-G141LlqyBu8rC8ap6voBhZe. If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can follow the podcast Twitter account at @BeforeBeatles You can also find copies of the original Before They Were Beatles book on Amazon in hardcover, paperback, and Kindle editions The Before They Were Beatles Podcast is a production of Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC.

    Episode 14 - Hamburg Bound

    Play Episode Listen Later May 4, 2022 29:30


    With their first tour behind them, the Silver Beatles start to get regular gigs in and around Liverpool leading to an invitation to play in Hamburg, Germany; but first, the boys must find that most elusive of creatures, a permanent drummer. ********* This is the story of how one of the thousands of amateur British schoolboy skiffle bands in the mid-1950s evolved into the beginnings of the greatest band in popular history. It's a story of hope, creativity, and exploring musical boundaries. It's also a story of tragedy, coincidence, and at times just sheer luck. It is a story of beginnings, the story of John, Paul, George, and Ringo - Before They Were Beatles. The music heard in this episode included: The Quarrymen - In Spite of All The Danger Royston Ellis & The Shadows Paul McCartney - Michelle Gerhard Gschossmann - Summertime Tommy Steele - Teenage Party Tony Sheridan - I Like Love Derry & The Seniors - Double Twist Paul McCartney on Drums Johnny Kid and the Pirates - Shakin' All Over The Beatles - Kansas City (Live in Hamburg) You can find full versions of the music heard in this episode in the dedicated Before They Were Beatles Podcast YouTube channel - for which I'll add the link in the show notes. If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can follow the podcast Twitter account at @BeforeBeatles You can also find copies of the original Before They Were Beatles book on Amazon in hardcover, paperback, and Kindle editions The Before They Were Beatles Podcast is a production of Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC.

    Episode 13 - First Tour

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 15, 2022 28:34


    Ringo gives up the day job, while the Silver Beetles find another drummer, fail a major audition, but still end up going on their first tour. Before They Were Beatles - Episode 13 - First Tour ========== This is the story of how one of the thousands of amateur British schoolboy skiffle bands in the mid-1950s evolved into the beginnings of the greatest band in popular history. It's a story of hope, creativity, and exploring musical boundaries. It's also a story of tragedy, coincidence, and at times just sheer luck. It is a story of beginnings, the story of John, Paul, George, and Ringo - Before They Were Beatles. ================== The music heard in this episode included: The Quarrymen - In Spite of All The Danger Gene Vincent - Somewhere Over The Rainbow Casey Jones & The Governers - Dizzy Miss Lizzie Kingsize Taylor & The Dominies - Clarabella Sensational Alex Harvey Band - Boston Tea Party Johnny Gentle - Wendy Lindsay Ross & His Dance Band - title unknown (Scottish traditional) Darren Young (Johhny Gentle) - I've Just Fallen For Someone You can find full versions of the music heard in this episode in the dedicated Before They Were Beatles Podcast YouTube channel - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLP0CDQdLe-G141LlqyBu8rC8ap6voBhZe If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can follow the podcast Twitter account at @BeforeBeatles You can also find copies of the original Before They Were Beatles book on Amazon in hardcover, paperback, and Kindle editions ================== The Before They Were Beatles Podcast is a production of Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC.

    Episode 12 - A Man On A Flaming Pie

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 16, 2022 16:22


    The first half of 1960 turned out to be a significant one for John, Paul, and George as they find a new bandmate, a manager, and even a new name for their band. Before They Were Beatles - Episode 12 - A Man On A Flaming Pie This is the story of how one of the thousands of amateur British schoolboy skiffle bands in the mid-1950s evolved into the beginnings of the greatest band in popular history. It's a story of hope, creativity, and exploring musical boundaries. It's also a story of tragedy, coincidence, and at times just sheer luck. It is a story of beginnings, the story of John, Paul, George, and Ringo - Before They Were Beatles. ************** The music heard in this episode included: The Quarrymen - In Spite of All The Danger Eddie Cochran - Come On Everybody The Crickets - I Fought The Law The Beatles (with Stuart Sutcliffe) - Hallelujah I Lover Her So / You'll Be Mine / Cayenne You can find full versions of the music heard in this episode in the dedicated Before They Were Beatles Podcast YouTube channel - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLP0CDQdLe-G141LlqyBu8rC8ap6voBhZe . If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can follow the podcast Twitter account at @BeforeBeatles You can also find copies of the original Before They Were Beatles book on Amazon in hardcover, paperback, and Kindle editions ************* The Before They Were Beatles Podcast is a production of Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC.

    Episode 11 - Rocking The Casbah

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 10, 2022 17:13


    It's late 1959 and The Quarry Men have a new gig, but not for long, while Ringo continues to rock the joint with The Hurricanes. The Quarry Men transform into The Moondogs and John gets persuasive with his friend Stuart. Before They Were Beatles - Episode 11 - Rocking The Casbah This is the story of how one of the thousands of amateur British schoolboy skiffle bands in the mid-1950s evolved into the beginnings of the greatest band in popular history. It's a story of hope, creativity, and exploring musical boundaries. It's also a story of tragedy, coincidence, and at times just sheer luck. It is a story of beginnings, the story of John, Paul, George, and Ringo - Before They Were Beatles. ************** The music heard in this episode included: The Quarrymen - In Spite of All The Danger Acker Bilk & The Paramount Jazz Band - Ackers Away Rory Storm & The Hurricanes (feat Ringo Starkey) - Something Else Buddy Holly - It's So Easy / Think It Over / Rave On / Words of Love The Hollies - Bus Stop Billy Fury - Don't Jump Freddie & The Dreamers - You Were Made For Me You can find full versions of the music heard in this episode in the dedicated Before They Were Beatles Podcast YouTube channel - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLP0CDQdLe-G141LlqyBu8rC8ap6voBhZe . If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can follow the podcast Twitter account at @BeforeBeatles You can also find copies of the original Before They Were Beatles book on Amazon in hardcover, paperback, and Kindle editions ************* The Before They Were Beatles Podcast is a production of Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC.

    Episode 10 - Three Cool Cats

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 21, 2022 17:49


    We pick up our journey in early 1959 when we find “Three Cool Cats” anxious to find somewhere to continue playing, while some other guy with a drum set finds himself in high demand. ******* This is the story of how one of the thousands of amateur British schoolboy skiffle bands in the mid-1950s evolved into the beginnings of the greatest band in popular history. It's a story of hope, creativity, and exploring musical boundaries. It's also a story of tragedy, coincidence, and at times just sheer luck. It is a story of beginnings, the story of John, Paul, George, and Ringo - Before They Were Beatles. *********** The music heard in this episode included: The Quarrymen - In Spite of All The Danger Anthony Newley - Personality Gene Vincent - Wedding Bells Paul McCartney - I'll Follow The Sun The Clash - Rock The Casbah The Beatles - Three Cool Cats (from Anthology Vol. 1) You can find full versions of the music heard in this episode in the dedicated Before They Were Beatles Podcast YouTube channel - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLP0CDQdLe-G141LlqyBu8rC8ap6voBhZe ********** Thanks for listening to this episode of the Before They Were Beatles podcast. If you would like to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform that would be great, and don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can follow the podcast Twitter account at @BeforeBeatles You can also find copies of the original Before They Were Beatles book on Amazon in hardcover, paperback, and Kindle editions The Before They Were Beatles Podcast is a production of Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC.

    Episode 9 - A “Get Back” Special

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 26, 2021 42:28


    In this episode, we take a break on our journey through the Beatles' past and jump ahead to 1969 and the tail end of the group's creative output as we will discuss the “Get Back” project. We'll be dividing the discussion into three parts: The TV documentary series The “Let It Be / Get Back” vinyl box set The “Get Back” book ******* Thanks for listening to this episode of the Before They Were Beatles podcast. If you would like to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform that would be great, and don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. The music heard in this episode included: The Quarrymen - In Spite of All The Danger Paul McCartney - Get Back (initial creation) George Harrison - I Me Mine (first demo) The Beatles - Come Together (intro) Yoko Ono (with John Lennon and Paul McCartney) - Freak Out Jam The Beatles with Billy Preston - Don't Let Me Down - (rehearsal) Streetband - Toast The Beatles - Let It Be (2021 Mix) The Beatles - One After 909 (1969 Get Back mix) George Harrison with Paul McCartney, John Lennon & Ringo Starr - All Things Must Pass (intro and first rehearsal) The Beatles - Across the Universe (1970 Get Back mix) You can find full versions of the music heard in this episode in the dedicated Before They Were Beatles Podcast YouTube channel - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLP0CDQdLe-G141LlqyBu8rC8ap6voBhZe If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can follow the podcast Twitter account at @BeforeBeatles You can also find copies of the original Before They Were Beatles book on Amazon in hardcover, paperback, and Kindle editions The Before They Were Beatles Podcast is a production of Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC.

    Episode 8 - Tragedy & First Recording

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 19, 2021 28:56


    In this episode, we enter 1958, a year of personal tragedy and the first few steps towards recording for The Quarrymen. ******* This is the story of how one of the thousands of amateur British schoolboy skiffle bands in the mid-1950s evolved into the beginnings of the greatest band in popular history. It's a story of hope, creativity, and exploring musical boundaries. It's also a story of tragedy, coincidence, and at times just sheer luck. It is a story of beginnings, the story of John, Paul, George, and Ringo - Before They Were Beatles. ******* Thanks for listening to this episode of the Before They Were Beatles podcast. If you would like to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform that would be great, and don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. The music heard in this episode included: The Quarrymen - In Spite of All The Danger Quarrymen ‘58 - Raunchy Buddy Holly & The Crickets - Live - Peggy Sue Paul McCartney - Cats Walk John Lennon - Julia Quarrymen - First recording - That'll Be The Day Quarrymen - First recording - In Spite Of All The Danger Trinidad Steel Band: - "Steel Meringue" (1957) Paul McCartney (on piano at his childhood home) - When I'm 64 You can find full versions of the music heard in this episode in the dedicated Before They Were Beatles Podcast YouTube channel - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLP0CDQdLe-G141LlqyBu8rC8ap6voBhZe If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can follow the podcast Twitter account at @BeforeBeatles You can also find copies of the original Before They Were Beatles book on Amazon in hardcover, paperback, and Kindle editions The Before They Were Beatles Podcast is a production of Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC.

    Episode 7 - Changes

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 22, 2021 25:06


    In this episode we look at a vital three months in our story as the boys face changes in their lives, and John and Paul start their song-writing partnership. This is the story of how one of thousands of amateur British schoolboy skiffle bands in the mid 1950s evolved into the beginnings of the greatest band in popular history. It's a story of hope, creativity and exploring musical boundaries. It's also a story of tragedy, coincidence and at times just sheer luck. It is a story of beginnings, the story of John, Paul, George and Ringo - Before They Were Beatles. The music heard in this episode includes: The Quarrymen - In Spite of All The Danger John Lennon - Hound Dog The Beatles - Bye Bye Love The Beatles - Long Tall Sally Les Paul - Guitar Boogie The Goons - Eh! Ah! Oh! Ooh! You can find full versions of the music heard in this episode in the dedicated Before They Were Beatles Podcast YouTube channel - If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can follow the podcast Twitter account at @BeforeBeatles You can also find copies of the original Before They Were Beatles book on Amazon in hardcover, paperback, and Kindle editions

    Episode 6 - The Day Paul Met John

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 8, 2021 22:43


    For this episode, we focus on one single day. The date is 6th July 1957 - some say the most imporatnt day in the Beatles story. The day that Paul McCartney was introduced to John Lennon. This is the story of how one of the thousands of amateur British schoolboy skiffle bands in the mid-1950s evolved into the beginnings of the greatest band in popular history. It's a story of hope, creativity, and exploring musical boundaries. It's also a story of tragedy, coincidence, and at times just sheer luck. It is a story of beginnings, the story of John, Paul, George, and Ringo - Before They Were Beatles. The music heard in this episode included: The Quarrymen - In Spite of All The Danger The Original Quarrymen (2017) - Midnight Special John Lennon - Blue Suede Shoes Quarrymen (recreation from the movie Nowhere Boy) - Maggie Mae Quarrymen (from Beatles Anthology) - That'll Be The Day Paul McCartney - TwentyFlight Rock Eddie Cochran - Twenty Flight Rock (from The Girl Can't Help It) Quarrymen - Puttin on the Style & Baby Let's Play House (recorded on 6th July 1957) You can find full versions of the music heard in this episode in the dedicated Before They Were Beatles Podcast YouTube channel If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can follow the podcast Twitter account at @BeforeBeatles, or email me at alan@beforetheywerebeatles.com You can also find copies of the original Before They Were Beatles book on Amazon in hardcover, paperback, and Kindle editions

    Episode 5 - The Boys Began To Play

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 16, 2021 22:44


    It's 1957 and the boys start to take the stage with the first public performances by the Quarrymen (John), The Rebels (George), and the Eddie Clayton Skiffle Group (Ringo). This is the story of how one of the thousands of amateur British schoolboy skiffle bands in the mid-1950s evolved into the beginnings of the greatest band in popular history. It's a story of hope, creativity, and exploring musical boundaries. It's also a story of tragedy, coincidence, and at times just sheer luck. It is a story of beginnings, the story of John, Paul, George, and Ringo - Before They Were Beatles. The music heard in this episode includes: The Quarrymen - In Spite of All The Danger The Merseysippi Jazz Band - Snake Rag George Harrison & Eric Clapton - While My Guitar Gently Weeps The New Rebels - Young Blood Elvis Presley - All Shook Up You can find full versions of the music heard in this episode in the dedicated Before They Were Beatles Podcast YouTube channel - If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can follow the podcast Twitter account at @BeforeBeatles, or email me at alan@beforetheywerebeatles.com You can also find copies of the original Before They Were Beatles book on Amazon in hardcover, paperback, and Kindle editions

    Episode 4 - "Quarrymen old before our birth"

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 8, 2021 19:18


    It's fall 1956 and a return to school means new friends and new ideas for John Lennon - and one idea, in particular, that will be the catalyst for everything that follows - the formation of a schoolboy skiffle group - The Quarrymen. This is the story of how one of the thousands of amateur British schoolboy skiffle bands in the mid-1950s evolved into the beginnings of the greatest band in popular history. It's a story of hope, creativity, and exploring musical boundaries. It's also a story of tragedy, coincidence, and at times just sheer luck. It is a story of beginnings, the story of John, Paul, George, and Ringo - Before They Were Beatles. The music heard in this episode included: The Quarrymen - In Spite of All The Danger The Vipers - Don't You Rock Me Daddy'O The Stanley Brothers and the Clinch Mountain Boys - Worried Man Blues Paul McCartney - I Lost My Little Girl Lonnie Donigan - John Henry You can find full versions of the music heard in this episode in the dedicated Before They Were Beatles Podcast YouTube channel - If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can follow the podcast Twitter account at @BeforeBeatles, or email me at alan@beforetheywerebeatles.com You can also find copies of the original Before They Were Beatles book on Amazon in hardcover, paperback, and Kindle editions

    Episode 3 - George, Paul, & Richie

    Play Episode Listen Later May 12, 2021 23:08


    Our journey continues as we meet the teenage George Harrison, James Paul McCartney, and Richard Starkey, plus take a side trip to discuss the impact on British rock of guitar virtuoso Bert Whedon. This is the story of how one of thousands of amateur British schoolboy skiffle bands in the mid-1950s evolved into the beginnings of the greatest band in popular history. It's a story of hope, creativity, and exploring musical boundaries. It's also a story of tragedy, coincidence, and at times just sheer luck. It is a story of beginnings, the story of John, Paul, George, and Ringo - Before They Were Beatles. The music heard in this episode included: The Quarrymen - In Spite of All The Danger (Harrison & McCartney) Burt Weedon - Guitar Boogie Shuffle The Beatles - extract from A Day in the Life (Lennon & McCartney) Louis Armstrong - When The Saints Go Marching In (trad.) Gerry & The Pacemakers - Ferry Across the Mersey (Gerry Marsden) You can find full versions of the music heard in this episode in the dedicated Before They Were Beatles Podcast YouTube channel If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can follow the podcast Twitter account at @BeforeBeatles, or email me at alan@beforetheywerebeatles.com You can also find copies of the original Before They Were Beatles book on Amazon in hardcover, paperback, and Kindle editions

    Episode 2 - Beginnings: Elvis, Lonnie & John

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 14, 2021 22:00


    We begin our journey in January 1956, with the rise of Elvis and the beginnings of rock-n-roll, the British skiffle craze, and the impact they had on the young John Winston Lennon. This is the story of how one of the thousands of amateur British schoolboy skiffle bands in the mid-1950s evolved into the beginnings of the greatest band in popular history. It's a story of hope, creativity, and exploring musical boundaries. It's also a story of tragedy, coincidence and at times just sheer luck. It is a story of beginnings, the story of John, Paul, George, and Ringo - Before They Were Beatles. The music heard in this episode included: The Quarrymen - In Spite of All The Danger Bill Haley - Rock Around The Clock Lonnie Donegan - Rock Island Line Elvis Presley - Heartbreak Hotel Fats Domino - Ain't That A Shame Little Richard - Long Tall Sally You can find full versions of the music heard in this episode in the dedicated Before They Were Beatles Podcast You Tube channel If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can follow the podcast Twitter account at @BeforeBeatles, or email me at alan@beforetheywerebeatles.com You can also find copies of the original Before They Were Beatles book on Amazon in hardcover, paperback, and Kindle editions

    Episode 1 - Strawberry Fields - Introduction

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 17, 2021 10:30


    In Liverpool , England, October 1956. Schoolboy John Lennon and his best friend, Peter Shotton, decide to start a skiffle group as “a bit of a lark.” Four years later John, now accompanied by Paul McCartney, George Harrison, Stuart Sutcliffe, and Pete Best, left Liverpool to start a series of near-legendary gigs in Hamburg, Germany. His group now performing under their newly acquired name – THE BEATLES. This is the story of those four years. The story of how one of the thousands of amateur schoolboy skiffle bands evolved into the beginnings of the greatest band in popular history. It's a story of hope, creativity, and exploring musical boundaries. It's also a story of tragedy, coincidence and at times just sheer luck. It is a story of beginnings, the story of John, Paul, George, and Ringo - Before They Were Beatles. The first introductory episode covers host Alan J. Porter's personal connections with Strawberry Fields and how the genesis of his original Before They Were Beatles book. The music heard in this episode includes: The Quarrymen - In Spite of All The Danger John Lennon - Strawberry Fields For Ever (acoustic) Various voices - Imagine (John Lennon) Lonnie Donegan - Rock Island Line You can find full versions of the music heard in this episode in the dedicated Before They Were Beatles Podcast YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLP0CDQdLe-G141LlqyBu8rC8ap6voBhZe If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can follow the podcast Twitter account at @BeforeBeatles, or email me at alan@beforetheywerebeatles.com You can also find copies of the original Before They Were Beatles book on Amazon in hardcover, paperback, and Kindle editions

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