This past week, we’ve seen one high-profile upload from Walt Disney Studios’ YouTube account and several smaller, better ones. While Mufasa: The Lion King was downvoted 323k times, the videos promoting Let It Be are faring better on a smaller scale.
Unsurprisingly, snippets from the Beatles documentary aren’t pulling in the kind of numbers that a Lion King trailer is, but they’re far more pleasing to the eyes and ears. After all, Disney and the Fab Four are an odd pairing.
Regardless, I’m looking forward to the fully resorted release of Let It Be. First released in 1970, the Michael Lindsay-Hogg-directed film follows John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr as they rehearse and record their final album together.
“First released in May 1970 amidst the swirl of The Beatles’ breakup, “Let It Be” now takes its rightful place in the band’s history. Once viewed through a darker lens,...
Unsurprisingly, snippets from the Beatles documentary aren’t pulling in the kind of numbers that a Lion King trailer is, but they’re far more pleasing to the eyes and ears. After all, Disney and the Fab Four are an odd pairing.
Regardless, I’m looking forward to the fully resorted release of Let It Be. First released in 1970, the Michael Lindsay-Hogg-directed film follows John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr as they rehearse and record their final album together.
“First released in May 1970 amidst the swirl of The Beatles’ breakup, “Let It Be” now takes its rightful place in the band’s history. Once viewed through a darker lens,...
- 5/5/2024
- by Mike Phalin
- Pirates & Princesses
Starting with “Rebel-‘Rouser” in 1958, Duane Eddy’s instrumental hits from the early rock & roll era made the guitar the star of the show. On that song and those to follow, like “Peter Gunn,” “Cannonball,” and “Forty Miles of Bad Road,” Eddy used vibrato and lent his guitar a deep sound by emphasizing bass strings. In doing so, he influenced an entire incoming generation of guitar players — including Bruce Springsteen, George Harrison, Jimi Hendrix, and John Fogerty. After the news of Eddy’s death was announced on Wednesday — he died...
- 5/2/2024
- by David Browne
- Rollingstone.com
Richard Tandy, Electric Light Orchestra’s keyboardist, has died at the age of 76.
The group’s co-founder Jeff Lynne announced Tandy’s on social media Wednesday, writing, “It is with great sadness that I share the news of the passing of my long-time collaborator and dear friend Richard Tandy.” Lynee called his bandmate a “remarkable musician & friend,” and said, “I’ll cherish the lifetime of memories we had together.”
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Tandy joined Elo in 1971 as a bassist, one year after Lynne,...
The group’s co-founder Jeff Lynne announced Tandy’s on social media Wednesday, writing, “It is with great sadness that I share the news of the passing of my long-time collaborator and dear friend Richard Tandy.” Lynee called his bandmate a “remarkable musician & friend,” and said, “I’ll cherish the lifetime of memories we had together.”
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A post shared by Jeff Lynne's Elo (@jefflynneselo)
Tandy joined Elo in 1971 as a bassist, one year after Lynne,...
- 5/2/2024
- by Charisma Madarang
- Rollingstone.com
Duane Eddy, the legendary guitarist who was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1994, has passed away at the age of 86. He died of cancer on Tuesday (April 30th), surrounded by family members at Williamson Health hospital in Franklin, Tennessee.
Eddy is considered the most commercially successful instrumental musician in the history of rock ‘n’ roll, thanks in large part to his signature tunes like “Rebel-‘Rouser,” “Peter Gunn,” and “Because They’re Young.” By 1963, he had sold an estimated 12 million records.
The guitarist was known for his twangy sound and his collaborative work with producer Lee Hazlewood. His extensive album discography spanned from his 1958 debut, Have ‘Twangy’ Guitar Will Travel, through 2011’s Road Trip.
John Fogerty once dubbed Eddy the “the first rock ‘n’ roll guitar god.” His 1987 album, Duane Eddy & The Rebels, truly showed his influence, as it featured guest appearances by Fogerty, George Harrison, Paul McCartney,...
Eddy is considered the most commercially successful instrumental musician in the history of rock ‘n’ roll, thanks in large part to his signature tunes like “Rebel-‘Rouser,” “Peter Gunn,” and “Because They’re Young.” By 1963, he had sold an estimated 12 million records.
The guitarist was known for his twangy sound and his collaborative work with producer Lee Hazlewood. His extensive album discography spanned from his 1958 debut, Have ‘Twangy’ Guitar Will Travel, through 2011’s Road Trip.
John Fogerty once dubbed Eddy the “the first rock ‘n’ roll guitar god.” His 1987 album, Duane Eddy & The Rebels, truly showed his influence, as it featured guest appearances by Fogerty, George Harrison, Paul McCartney,...
- 5/1/2024
- by Spencer Kaufman
- Consequence - Music
Duane Eddy, one of rock’s first guitar heroes and an idol of George Harrison, Jeff Beck, John Fogerty, Dan Auerbach, and many other guitar-slingers who followed, died Sunday at his home in Franklin, Tennessee. He was 86. A source close to the family confirmed Eddy’s death to Rolling Stone.
Released in 1958, Eddy’s “Rebel-’Rouser” wasn’t the first instrumental hit, but it was one of the most arresting. Arriving just a few years into the birth of rock & roll, “Rebel-’Rouser” announced that the raucous new genre was...
Released in 1958, Eddy’s “Rebel-’Rouser” wasn’t the first instrumental hit, but it was one of the most arresting. Arriving just a few years into the birth of rock & roll, “Rebel-’Rouser” announced that the raucous new genre was...
- 5/1/2024
- by David Browne
- Rollingstone.com
Duane Eddy, the twangy, Grammy-winning rock guitarist who had Top 10 instrumental hits including “Rebel Rouser” and “Forty Miles of Bad Road” and scored with a version of Henry Mancini’s “Peter Gunn,” died Wednesday of cancer at a hospital in Franklin, Tn, his wife Deed Abbate told The Associated Press. He had turned 86 last week.
Eddy, who influenced generations of guitar legends including George Harrison, John Fogerty, Bruce Springsteen, Ritchie Blackmore, Mark Knopfler and The Ventures’ Don Wilson, was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994.
Born on April 26, 1938, in Corning, NY, Eddy began playing guitar at age 5. He moved at 13 with his family to Arizona, where he met local DJ Lee Hazlewood, and the two would share a long, fruitful association. Eddy first recorded with Jimmy Delbridge as Duane & Jimmy in 1955, and his debut single as a solo act to dent the charts came three years...
Eddy, who influenced generations of guitar legends including George Harrison, John Fogerty, Bruce Springsteen, Ritchie Blackmore, Mark Knopfler and The Ventures’ Don Wilson, was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994.
Born on April 26, 1938, in Corning, NY, Eddy began playing guitar at age 5. He moved at 13 with his family to Arizona, where he met local DJ Lee Hazlewood, and the two would share a long, fruitful association. Eddy first recorded with Jimmy Delbridge as Duane & Jimmy in 1955, and his debut single as a solo act to dent the charts came three years...
- 5/1/2024
- by Erik Pedersen
- Deadline Film + TV
Disney+ has recently unveiled the trailer for the documentary ‘Let It Be’ by The Beatles. This marks the first time in over 50 years that the film will be available for public viewing.
First released in May 1970 amidst the swirl of The Beatles’ breakup, Let It Be now takes its rightful place in the band’s history. Once viewed through a darker lens, the film is now brought to light through its restoration and in the context of revelations brought forth in Peter Jackson’s multiple Emmy Award®-winning docuseries, The Beatles: Get Back. Released on Disney+ in 2021, the docuseries showcases the iconic foursome’s warmth and camaraderie, capturing a pivotal moment in music history.
Directed by Michael Lindsay-Hogg, stars John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr, with a special appearance by Billy Preston. The film was produced by Neil Aspinall with The Beatles acting as executive producers.
Also...
First released in May 1970 amidst the swirl of The Beatles’ breakup, Let It Be now takes its rightful place in the band’s history. Once viewed through a darker lens, the film is now brought to light through its restoration and in the context of revelations brought forth in Peter Jackson’s multiple Emmy Award®-winning docuseries, The Beatles: Get Back. Released on Disney+ in 2021, the docuseries showcases the iconic foursome’s warmth and camaraderie, capturing a pivotal moment in music history.
Directed by Michael Lindsay-Hogg, stars John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr, with a special appearance by Billy Preston. The film was produced by Neil Aspinall with The Beatles acting as executive producers.
Also...
- 4/30/2024
- by Zehra Phelan
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
Before Ringo Starr joined The Beatles, John Lennon, Paul McCartney, and George Harrison worked with a different drummer. Pete Best traveled to Germany with The Beatles when they played in Hamburg. Best never reaped the prolific benefits of the band’s success, though. They fired him just before hitting it big, which McCartney described as one of the most difficult things they ever had to do.
Paul McCartney said The Beatles had to make a difficult decision
In 1962, The Beatles auditioned for producer George Martin. While Martin saw potential in the band, he didn’t see a path forward for them with Best. He asked them to consider finding a new drummer.
“He agreed to audition us, and we had a not-very powerful audition in which he was not very pleased with Pete Best,” McCartney said in The Beatles Anthology. “George Martin was used to drummers being very ‘in time,...
Paul McCartney said The Beatles had to make a difficult decision
In 1962, The Beatles auditioned for producer George Martin. While Martin saw potential in the band, he didn’t see a path forward for them with Best. He asked them to consider finding a new drummer.
“He agreed to audition us, and we had a not-very powerful audition in which he was not very pleased with Pete Best,” McCartney said in The Beatles Anthology. “George Martin was used to drummers being very ‘in time,...
- 4/28/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The Beatles began recording Let It Be at Twickenham Studios, but they finished out the album at Apple Studios. They found the atmosphere at Apple to be more comfortable and tried to add to that feeling with a roaring fire. Unfortunately, this decision was not good for the music they were recording.
The Beatles couldn’t make the studio as comfortable as they wanted
While Apple Studios wasn’t technically finished, The Beatles decided to reconvene there for a change in atmosphere. They immediately ran into a problem with the building’s heating system.
“There was a central heating boiler in the office and it was not soundproofed. So somebody pointed this out: ‘There’s the central heating making a din,’ and The Beatles said: ‘We’ll turn it off when we’re in here. We’ll just have quiet fires,’” press officer Derek Taylor said in The Beatles Anthology.
The Beatles couldn’t make the studio as comfortable as they wanted
While Apple Studios wasn’t technically finished, The Beatles decided to reconvene there for a change in atmosphere. They immediately ran into a problem with the building’s heating system.
“There was a central heating boiler in the office and it was not soundproofed. So somebody pointed this out: ‘There’s the central heating making a din,’ and The Beatles said: ‘We’ll turn it off when we’re in here. We’ll just have quiet fires,’” press officer Derek Taylor said in The Beatles Anthology.
- 4/28/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The Beach Boys and The Monkees will forever be remembered as two of the best pop bands ever — even if they constantly get compared to The Beatles. During their peak era, The Beach Boys and The Monkees had the same number of chart-topping singles. One band managed to have another chart-topper years later.
The Beach Boys and The Monkees both evolved from bubblegum to psychedelia
The Beach Boys did very well for themselves in the 1960s. The Billboard Book of Number 1 Hits says they had three No. 1 singles during that decade. They were “I Get Around,” “Help Me, Rhonda,” and “Good Vibrations.” Those songs encapsulate the band’s pea period pretty well. The first two show off the band’s bubblegum/doo-wop side, while “Good Vibrations” is one of their prime psychedelic experimentations.
During the same decade, The Monkees also had three No. 1 hits. They were “Last Train to Clarksville,...
The Beach Boys and The Monkees both evolved from bubblegum to psychedelia
The Beach Boys did very well for themselves in the 1960s. The Billboard Book of Number 1 Hits says they had three No. 1 singles during that decade. They were “I Get Around,” “Help Me, Rhonda,” and “Good Vibrations.” Those songs encapsulate the band’s pea period pretty well. The first two show off the band’s bubblegum/doo-wop side, while “Good Vibrations” is one of their prime psychedelic experimentations.
During the same decade, The Monkees also had three No. 1 hits. They were “Last Train to Clarksville,...
- 4/27/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
In 1969, John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr recorded The Beatles song “Get Back.” In 1972, Ringo Starr released a solo song that had some strikingly similar elements to The Beatles’ hit. He admitted he copied part of the song.
Ringo Starr took inspiration from a Beatles song in his career as a solo artist
Much of The Beatles’ experience recording Let It Be was agonizing. Beatles producer George Martin said the album was such an “unhappy” one that he was surprised the band reunited to record Abbey Road (per The Beatles Anthology). Still, there were some bright spots in the recording process. Starr said they enjoyed working together when they felt they were recording a good track.
“‘Get Back’ was a good track. I felt, ‘This is a kick-a** track.’ ‘Don’t Let Me Down’ also,” Starr said. “They were two fine tracks. Quite simple and raw — back to basics.
Ringo Starr took inspiration from a Beatles song in his career as a solo artist
Much of The Beatles’ experience recording Let It Be was agonizing. Beatles producer George Martin said the album was such an “unhappy” one that he was surprised the band reunited to record Abbey Road (per The Beatles Anthology). Still, there were some bright spots in the recording process. Starr said they enjoyed working together when they felt they were recording a good track.
“‘Get Back’ was a good track. I felt, ‘This is a kick-a** track.’ ‘Don’t Let Me Down’ also,” Starr said. “They were two fine tracks. Quite simple and raw — back to basics.
- 4/25/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The Who may have popularized guitar smashing, but John Lennon said The Beatles were tearing up the stage long before the other band. Before The Beatles wore neatly matching suits and sang behind gates and police barricades, they played sweaty, chaotic shows. Lennon described these early performances as violent.
John Lennon said The Beatles were tearing up the stage years before The Who did
In The Beatles’ early years, they played in cramped clubs to frenzied audiences. In order to keep up with their grueling performance schedule — it had them playing multiple shows a day — they began taking stimulants. As they combined these with alcohol, they were often as agitated as their audience.
“We were frothing at the mouth,” George Harrison said in The Beatles Anthology. “Because we had all these hours to play and the club owners were giving us Preludins, which were slimming tablets. I don’t think they were amphetamine,...
John Lennon said The Beatles were tearing up the stage years before The Who did
In The Beatles’ early years, they played in cramped clubs to frenzied audiences. In order to keep up with their grueling performance schedule — it had them playing multiple shows a day — they began taking stimulants. As they combined these with alcohol, they were often as agitated as their audience.
“We were frothing at the mouth,” George Harrison said in The Beatles Anthology. “Because we had all these hours to play and the club owners were giving us Preludins, which were slimming tablets. I don’t think they were amphetamine,...
- 4/25/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
After being discovered in an attic, John Lennon’s famous Help! guitar is headed to auction as part of the upcoming “Music Icons” sale at Julien’s Auctions on May 29 and 30.
Both Lennon and George Harrison played the Framus 12-string Hootenanny acoustic guitar while making Help! — both the album and accompanying film — as well as Rubber Soul. Lennon can be seen strumming it in the performance of “You’ve Got To Hide Your Love Away” in the Help! movie, while it’s distinct 12-string shimmer also graced songs like “Help!”, “It’s Only Love,...
Both Lennon and George Harrison played the Framus 12-string Hootenanny acoustic guitar while making Help! — both the album and accompanying film — as well as Rubber Soul. Lennon can be seen strumming it in the performance of “You’ve Got To Hide Your Love Away” in the Help! movie, while it’s distinct 12-string shimmer also graced songs like “Help!”, “It’s Only Love,...
- 4/23/2024
- by Jon Blistein
- Rollingstone.com
John Lennon and the rest of The Beatles were the subject of fan obsession for years. Even today, The Beatles have fans who love to discuss and defend the band. Lennon was always appreciative of his fans, as they buoyed his success. Still, he couldn’t defend some of their behavior. He shared the type of fan he did not like to see at the band’s shows.
John Lennon found a fan irritating at a concert
The Beatles played their shows behind barriers and police protection in order to keep them safe from anyone who might storm the stage. Still, some people managed to get close to the band. Lennon recalled one show in which a fan stole his hat, which he found incredibly frustrating.
“It [the San Francisco show] was wild. Some little lad got my hat,” he said in The Beatles Anthology. “Somebody like him doesn’t really care about the show anyway,...
John Lennon found a fan irritating at a concert
The Beatles played their shows behind barriers and police protection in order to keep them safe from anyone who might storm the stage. Still, some people managed to get close to the band. Lennon recalled one show in which a fan stole his hat, which he found incredibly frustrating.
“It [the San Francisco show] was wild. Some little lad got my hat,” he said in The Beatles Anthology. “Somebody like him doesn’t really care about the show anyway,...
- 4/18/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The Rolling Stones‘ self-titled debut album came out on April 16, 1964. Sixty years later, it’s still great rock ‘n’ roll! More than that, there’s a lot of interesting facts behind this impactful album. It also boasts one awesome collaboration.
The Rolling Stones barely wrote any of the album
The cornerstone of The Rolling Stones is the songwriting partnership of Mick Jagger and Keith Richards. Only one song from The Rolling Stones was credited to Jagger and Richards: “Tell Me (You’re Coming Back).” Most of the album is composed of covers, including songs by rock ‘n’ roll icons like Bo Diddley, Buddy Holly, and Chuck Berry, although two tracks are credited to “Nanker Phelge,” a collective pseudonym for the track.
While Jagger and Richards only penned one track for the record what a track it is. “Tell Me (You’re Coming Back)” is an impressive ballad that shows...
The Rolling Stones barely wrote any of the album
The cornerstone of The Rolling Stones is the songwriting partnership of Mick Jagger and Keith Richards. Only one song from The Rolling Stones was credited to Jagger and Richards: “Tell Me (You’re Coming Back).” Most of the album is composed of covers, including songs by rock ‘n’ roll icons like Bo Diddley, Buddy Holly, and Chuck Berry, although two tracks are credited to “Nanker Phelge,” a collective pseudonym for the track.
While Jagger and Richards only penned one track for the record what a track it is. “Tell Me (You’re Coming Back)” is an impressive ballad that shows...
- 4/18/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Decades after their fathers last collaborated, John Lennon and Paul McCartney’s sons have put out a new song. James McCartney and Sean Ono Lennon have brought back the famous Lennon-McCartney songwriting credit on “Primrose Hill,” their new single. Here’s what James McCartney — and his father — have said about the song.
John Lennon and Paul McCartney’s sons have a new song
In 2024, James McCartney released “Primrose Hill,” a song he co-wrote with Sean Ono Lennon.
“I had a vision as a child in Scotland, on what was a lovely summer’s day,” he wrote in a post on Instagram. “Letting go, I saw my true love and saviour in my mind’s eye. ‘Primrose Hill’ is about getting the ball rolling with me & finding this person.”
James McCartney and Paul McCartney | Donna Ward/Getty Images
Both Sean and James have worked as solo artists for years, but “Primrose Hill” is their first collaboration.
John Lennon and Paul McCartney’s sons have a new song
In 2024, James McCartney released “Primrose Hill,” a song he co-wrote with Sean Ono Lennon.
“I had a vision as a child in Scotland, on what was a lovely summer’s day,” he wrote in a post on Instagram. “Letting go, I saw my true love and saviour in my mind’s eye. ‘Primrose Hill’ is about getting the ball rolling with me & finding this person.”
James McCartney and Paul McCartney | Donna Ward/Getty Images
Both Sean and James have worked as solo artists for years, but “Primrose Hill” is their first collaboration.
- 4/17/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Today, Disney+ announced that Let It Be, director Michael Lindsay-Hogg’s original 1970 film about The Beatles, will launch exclusively on Disney+ on May 8, 2024. This is the first time the film is available in over 50 years.
First released in May 1970 amidst the swirl of The Beatles’ breakup, Let It Be now takes its rightful place in the band’s history. Once viewed through a darker lens, the film is now brought to light through its restoration and in the context of revelations brought forth in Peter Jackson’s multiple Emmy Award-winning docuseries, The Beatles: Get Back. Released on Disney+ in 2021, the docuseries showcases the iconic foursome’s warmth and camaraderie, capturing a pivotal moment in music history.
Let It Be contains footage not featured in the Get Back docuseries, bringing viewers into the studio and onto Apple Corps’ London rooftop in January 1969 as The Beatles, joined by Billy Preston, write and...
First released in May 1970 amidst the swirl of The Beatles’ breakup, Let It Be now takes its rightful place in the band’s history. Once viewed through a darker lens, the film is now brought to light through its restoration and in the context of revelations brought forth in Peter Jackson’s multiple Emmy Award-winning docuseries, The Beatles: Get Back. Released on Disney+ in 2021, the docuseries showcases the iconic foursome’s warmth and camaraderie, capturing a pivotal moment in music history.
Let It Be contains footage not featured in the Get Back docuseries, bringing viewers into the studio and onto Apple Corps’ London rooftop in January 1969 as The Beatles, joined by Billy Preston, write and...
- 4/16/2024
- by Mirko Parlevliet
- Vital Thrills
Let It Be, the long-unavailable Holy Grail film among Beatles fans, will return for public consumption on May 8 with an exclusive launch on Disney+, the streamer announced today.
Directing by Michael Lindsay-Hogg, the 1970 film about The Beatles has been unavailable for broadcast or public screenings more than 50 years, leaving fans to scrounge around for old low-quality laserdiscs and VHS copies from the ’80s.
First released in May 1970 amidst the swirl of The Beatles’ breakup, Let It Be has been restored and will take its place in the context of revelations brought by Peter Jackson’s docuseries The Beatles: Get Back released on Disney+ in 2021.
Let It Be contains footage not featured in the Get Back docuseries, “bringing viewers into the studio and onto Apple Corps’ London rooftop in January 1969 as The Beatles, joined by Billy Preston, write and record their Grammy Award-winning album Let It Be, with its Academy Award-winning title song,...
Directing by Michael Lindsay-Hogg, the 1970 film about The Beatles has been unavailable for broadcast or public screenings more than 50 years, leaving fans to scrounge around for old low-quality laserdiscs and VHS copies from the ’80s.
First released in May 1970 amidst the swirl of The Beatles’ breakup, Let It Be has been restored and will take its place in the context of revelations brought by Peter Jackson’s docuseries The Beatles: Get Back released on Disney+ in 2021.
Let It Be contains footage not featured in the Get Back docuseries, “bringing viewers into the studio and onto Apple Corps’ London rooftop in January 1969 as The Beatles, joined by Billy Preston, write and record their Grammy Award-winning album Let It Be, with its Academy Award-winning title song,...
- 4/16/2024
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
The Beatles‘ The White Album is their most eclectic record. In spite of its mix of styles, one rock star said he influenced 75% of the album — and he has a quote from George Harrison to back that up. Notably, the star recalled helping John Lennon write an emotional ballad for the album.
The Beatles’ ‘White Album’ was inspired by the guitar playing style of another rock star
Donovan is a singer known for folk tunes like “Catch the Wind,” “There Is a Mountain,” and “Colours,” as well as psychedelic tracks like “Sunshine Superman,” “Hurdy Gurdy Man,” and “Mellow Yellow.” He was there during The Beatles’ storied trip to India to learn about meditation from the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. During a 2013 interview with Performing Songwriter, he discussed how he influenced The Beatles at that time.
“John looked at me playing guitar one day and said, [imitating Lennon] ‘How do you do that?...
The Beatles’ ‘White Album’ was inspired by the guitar playing style of another rock star
Donovan is a singer known for folk tunes like “Catch the Wind,” “There Is a Mountain,” and “Colours,” as well as psychedelic tracks like “Sunshine Superman,” “Hurdy Gurdy Man,” and “Mellow Yellow.” He was there during The Beatles’ storied trip to India to learn about meditation from the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. During a 2013 interview with Performing Songwriter, he discussed how he influenced The Beatles at that time.
“John looked at me playing guitar one day and said, [imitating Lennon] ‘How do you do that?...
- 4/7/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
In India, The Beatles were not regular tourists. They stayed at an ashram (monastery) in the holy city of Rishikesh to learn about spirituality from the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, the founder of Transcendental Meditation. One of The Beatles’ companions said the Fab Four had issues with the press. The Indian Army intervened, but even they couldn’t get rid of all of the reporters.
A guru got a local army in India to help The Beatles
Several other celebrities were present during The Beatles’ trip. They included actor Mia Farrow, Mike Love of The Beach Boys, and folk singer Donovan. Donovan had a string of hits between 1965 and 1969. They included “Hurdy Gurdy Man,” “Sunshine Superman,” “Catch the Wind,” “Mellow Yellow,” and “There Is a Mountain.”
During a 2016 interview with Vulture, Donovan shared some anecdotes from Rishikesh. “No press managed to break into the ashram when we were all there,” he said.
A guru got a local army in India to help The Beatles
Several other celebrities were present during The Beatles’ trip. They included actor Mia Farrow, Mike Love of The Beach Boys, and folk singer Donovan. Donovan had a string of hits between 1965 and 1969. They included “Hurdy Gurdy Man,” “Sunshine Superman,” “Catch the Wind,” “Mellow Yellow,” and “There Is a Mountain.”
During a 2016 interview with Vulture, Donovan shared some anecdotes from Rishikesh. “No press managed to break into the ashram when we were all there,” he said.
- 4/7/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
George Harrison was rarely a provocateur, however, he called his final album Brainwashed. Accusing anyone of being brainwashed is pretty bold! One of George’s British Invasion peers explained the origin of that memorable title. Notably, it had a connection to George’s spiritual views.
Donovan said George Harrison’s album ‘Brainwashed’ was a reaction to materialism
Two kindred spirits in the 1960s counterculture were George Harrison and Donovan. Both artists were folk-rockers who explored spirituality through their songs. George’s songs were often expressions of his Hindu faith, whereas Donovan sang about common New Age topics like Atlantis and witchcraft. Both of them were also environmentalists.
During a 2018 interview with Goldmine, the “Mellow Yellow” singer discussed his feelings about the planet and George’s — and what they both learned from the books they read. “That the older generation was destroying the ecosystem with no consideration whatsoever for the inner world of plants,...
Donovan said George Harrison’s album ‘Brainwashed’ was a reaction to materialism
Two kindred spirits in the 1960s counterculture were George Harrison and Donovan. Both artists were folk-rockers who explored spirituality through their songs. George’s songs were often expressions of his Hindu faith, whereas Donovan sang about common New Age topics like Atlantis and witchcraft. Both of them were also environmentalists.
During a 2018 interview with Goldmine, the “Mellow Yellow” singer discussed his feelings about the planet and George’s — and what they both learned from the books they read. “That the older generation was destroying the ecosystem with no consideration whatsoever for the inner world of plants,...
- 4/6/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Chris Pratt listened to a lot of old school music as his Guardians of the Galaxy character Peter Quill. But after a while, he didn’t enjoy the soundtrack nearly as much as his Star-Lord did.
Why Chris Pratt grew tired of Star-Lord’s music Chris Pratt | Anthony Harvey/Getty Images
Pratt did whatever he could to get into the head of his Star-Lord character in Guardians of the Galaxy. This meant working out rigorously for the role so he could get himself into superhero shape. But this also meant listening to Star-Lord’s music nonstop. When audiences are first introduced to Pratt’s Peter Quill in the first movie, the character is seen dancing around and listening to music. The music is a mix of songs Quill’s mother made for him back when he was still living on Earth.
To get into Quill’s headspace, Pratt spent...
Why Chris Pratt grew tired of Star-Lord’s music Chris Pratt | Anthony Harvey/Getty Images
Pratt did whatever he could to get into the head of his Star-Lord character in Guardians of the Galaxy. This meant working out rigorously for the role so he could get himself into superhero shape. But this also meant listening to Star-Lord’s music nonstop. When audiences are first introduced to Pratt’s Peter Quill in the first movie, the character is seen dancing around and listening to music. The music is a mix of songs Quill’s mother made for him back when he was still living on Earth.
To get into Quill’s headspace, Pratt spent...
- 4/5/2024
- by Antonio Stallings
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The best pop stars are full of surprises. Beyoncé surprised everyone by releasing her version of The Beatles’ “Blackbird.” Paul McCartney had a strong reaction to the cover on social media. Fascinatingly, the original song was inspired by the Civil Rights Movement.
Paul McCartney said Beyoncé understood the message of The Beatles’ ‘Blackbird’
So many classic artists across genres have put their own spin on Beatles songs. Some of the R&b icons who covered Fab Four tracks include Aretha Franklin, Marvin Gaye, Michael Jackson, and Prince. Beyoncé added her name to that canon with her cover of “Blackbird,” a folk ditty from The White Album.
In a 2024 Instagram post, Paul himself heaped praise on Queen B’s “Blackbird.” “I am so happy with @beyonce’s version of my song ‘Blackbird,'” he wrote. “I think she does a magnificent version of it and it reinforces the civil rights message...
Paul McCartney said Beyoncé understood the message of The Beatles’ ‘Blackbird’
So many classic artists across genres have put their own spin on Beatles songs. Some of the R&b icons who covered Fab Four tracks include Aretha Franklin, Marvin Gaye, Michael Jackson, and Prince. Beyoncé added her name to that canon with her cover of “Blackbird,” a folk ditty from The White Album.
In a 2024 Instagram post, Paul himself heaped praise on Queen B’s “Blackbird.” “I am so happy with @beyonce’s version of my song ‘Blackbird,'” he wrote. “I think she does a magnificent version of it and it reinforces the civil rights message...
- 4/4/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
A song from The Beatles‘ Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band is so old-fashioned it could have come out during the Victorian era. One of The Beatles’ rock ‘n’ roll peers said that he couldn’t have written the song because he had no sense of time. Regardless, that singer’s tunes have lasted over the course of generations.
Donovan on why Paul McCartney wrote a song from The Beatles’ ‘Sgt. Pepper’
One of The Beatles’ fellow British Invasion stars was Donovan. He contributed to psychedelia as much as they did with hits such as “Sunshine Superman,” “Atlantis, and “Hurdy Gurdy Man.” Donovan also accompanied the Fab Four on their fateful trip to India to meet the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi and learn about Transcendental Meditation.
During a 2013 interview with BusinessLive, Donovan discussed his own sense of time. “One couldn’t remember last Tuesday or think about next Tuesday,” he said,...
Donovan on why Paul McCartney wrote a song from The Beatles’ ‘Sgt. Pepper’
One of The Beatles’ fellow British Invasion stars was Donovan. He contributed to psychedelia as much as they did with hits such as “Sunshine Superman,” “Atlantis, and “Hurdy Gurdy Man.” Donovan also accompanied the Fab Four on their fateful trip to India to meet the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi and learn about Transcendental Meditation.
During a 2013 interview with BusinessLive, Donovan discussed his own sense of time. “One couldn’t remember last Tuesday or think about next Tuesday,” he said,...
- 4/4/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
During an interview about great songs, Bob Dylan discussed the effects that two Beatles songs had on him. He said one makes him feel like he’s levitating. The other gives him a clear picture in his mind’s eye. Interestingly, John Lennon wasn’t interested in co-writing one of those songs.
Bob Dylan said this Beatles song could be played many ways and still amaze him
In 2022, Dylan released his fascinating book, The Philosophy of Modern Song. In an interview on his website, he discussed his idea of musical greatness. “I think a great song has the sentiments of the people in mind,” he said. “When you hear it, you get a gut reaction and an emotional one at the same time.
“A great song follows the logic of the heart and stays in your head long after you’ve heard it, like ‘Taxman,’ it can be played with...
Bob Dylan said this Beatles song could be played many ways and still amaze him
In 2022, Dylan released his fascinating book, The Philosophy of Modern Song. In an interview on his website, he discussed his idea of musical greatness. “I think a great song has the sentiments of the people in mind,” he said. “When you hear it, you get a gut reaction and an emotional one at the same time.
“A great song follows the logic of the heart and stays in your head long after you’ve heard it, like ‘Taxman,’ it can be played with...
- 4/4/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Over the course of his life, Paul McCartney has been the subject of countless books about his life and time with The Beatles. Few upset him more than a book by longtime Beatles confidante Peter Brown. With writer Steven Gaines, Brown published The Love You Make, a book that spanned from the band’s teenage years to shortly after John Lennon’s death. McCartney took his copy of the book and burned it.
Paul McCartney felt betrayed by a book about The Beatles
In 1983, Brown and Gaines published The Love You Make, which pulled from Brown’s experiences as well as interviews with Beatles associates and the band themselves. Though many were happy to help with the book, the final product rankled. It detailed Lennon’s alleged sexual relationship with Beatles manager Brian Epstein and claimed McCartney had an illegitimate son, among other things. Brown sent out copies of the...
Paul McCartney felt betrayed by a book about The Beatles
In 1983, Brown and Gaines published The Love You Make, which pulled from Brown’s experiences as well as interviews with Beatles associates and the band themselves. Though many were happy to help with the book, the final product rankled. It detailed Lennon’s alleged sexual relationship with Beatles manager Brian Epstein and claimed McCartney had an illegitimate son, among other things. Brown sent out copies of the...
- 4/3/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
John Lennon was both the dreamer who wrote “Imagine” and someone with a dark side. One of his fellow 1960s rock stars discussed John’s “positively vitriolic” behavior at length. He still defended the former Beatle.
A rock star said John Lennon had a ‘dark side’ but Liverpool did too
Donovan is a rock star who evolved from Scotland’s Bob Dylan into a psychedelic mystic in a very short period of time. Donovan crossed paths with The Beatles several times during the 1960s. The Billboard Book of Number 1 Hits says he helped write The Beatles’ “Yellow Submarine,” which makes sense because many of Donovan’s songs feel like oddball nursery rhymes. In a way, Paul McCartney returned the favor by contributing vocals to Donovan’s own yellow-themed hit “Mellow Yellow.”
For some time, John has had a dual public image as both a troubled man and a saintly peace activist.
A rock star said John Lennon had a ‘dark side’ but Liverpool did too
Donovan is a rock star who evolved from Scotland’s Bob Dylan into a psychedelic mystic in a very short period of time. Donovan crossed paths with The Beatles several times during the 1960s. The Billboard Book of Number 1 Hits says he helped write The Beatles’ “Yellow Submarine,” which makes sense because many of Donovan’s songs feel like oddball nursery rhymes. In a way, Paul McCartney returned the favor by contributing vocals to Donovan’s own yellow-themed hit “Mellow Yellow.”
For some time, John has had a dual public image as both a troubled man and a saintly peace activist.
- 4/3/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The Beatles were the most popular and important act of the British Invasion, but no classic rock fan should ignore the achievements of Donovan. Notably, John Lennon was a big fan of one of Donovan’s songs, and he played it over and over. The “Hurdy Gurdy Man” singer revealed what he thought of John as a person. John felt that he and Donovan were on a similar wavelength.
John Lennon loved 1 of Donovan’s folk songs
Donovan is known for two types of songs: psychedelic ditties like “Mellow Yellow,” “Atlantis,” and “Sunshine Superman,” and folk tunes such as “Colours,” “Catch the Wind,” and “Universal Soldier.” A 2018 article from Goldmine says John was taken with Donovan’s folk song “Turquoise.” He had a vinyl copy of the song and played it repeatedly on a personal jukebox he brought with him on tour.
The “Season of the Witch” singer revealed what...
John Lennon loved 1 of Donovan’s folk songs
Donovan is known for two types of songs: psychedelic ditties like “Mellow Yellow,” “Atlantis,” and “Sunshine Superman,” and folk tunes such as “Colours,” “Catch the Wind,” and “Universal Soldier.” A 2018 article from Goldmine says John was taken with Donovan’s folk song “Turquoise.” He had a vinyl copy of the song and played it repeatedly on a personal jukebox he brought with him on tour.
The “Season of the Witch” singer revealed what...
- 4/2/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The Beatles‘ “Something” is one of George Harrison’s masterpieces. He probably couldn’t have made it alone. Another 1960s rock star taught George a musical trick that helped him write “Something.” John Lennon would later say that “Something” differed from all of George’s previous compositions.
The Beatles’ ‘Something’ was inspired by someone who was there with them in India
Donovan is a folk/psychedelic rock singer who became famous for 1960s tunes such as “Atlantis,” “Hurdy Gurdy Man,” “Sunshine Superman,” “Mellow Yellow,” and “Season of the Witch.” He famously went on The Beatles’ trip to India to study meditation. Donovan’s personal website says that he taught George a descending chord pattern that the Beatle would later use on the ballad “Something.”
Gold reports that, during a 2024 interview with Record Collector Magazine, Donovan discussed his influence on the “My Sweet Lord” singer. “I became George’s mentor for songwriting,...
The Beatles’ ‘Something’ was inspired by someone who was there with them in India
Donovan is a folk/psychedelic rock singer who became famous for 1960s tunes such as “Atlantis,” “Hurdy Gurdy Man,” “Sunshine Superman,” “Mellow Yellow,” and “Season of the Witch.” He famously went on The Beatles’ trip to India to study meditation. Donovan’s personal website says that he taught George a descending chord pattern that the Beatle would later use on the ballad “Something.”
Gold reports that, during a 2024 interview with Record Collector Magazine, Donovan discussed his influence on the “My Sweet Lord” singer. “I became George’s mentor for songwriting,...
- 4/2/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Even The Beatles didn’t always knock it out of the park. Case in point: John Lennon once said that George Harrison wasn’t hip anymore. Here’s a look at whether he was right.
John Lennon said George Harrison was ‘out’ the way The Beatles once were
The book Lennon on Lennon: Conversations With John Lennon features an interview from 1975. In it, John said he wasn’t impressed with one of George’s live shows. “Now it’s always The Beatles were great or The Beatles weren’t great, whatever opinion people hold,” he said. “There’s a sort of illusion about it. But the actual fact was The Beatles were in for eight months, The Beatles were out for eight months.
“The public, including the media, are sometimes a bit sheeplike and if the ball starts rolling, well, it’s just that somebody’s in, somebody’s out,...
John Lennon said George Harrison was ‘out’ the way The Beatles once were
The book Lennon on Lennon: Conversations With John Lennon features an interview from 1975. In it, John said he wasn’t impressed with one of George’s live shows. “Now it’s always The Beatles were great or The Beatles weren’t great, whatever opinion people hold,” he said. “There’s a sort of illusion about it. But the actual fact was The Beatles were in for eight months, The Beatles were out for eight months.
“The public, including the media, are sometimes a bit sheeplike and if the ball starts rolling, well, it’s just that somebody’s in, somebody’s out,...
- 3/31/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
“Mellow Yellow” by Donovan is the most beloved 1960s song with the word “yellow” in the title that wasn’t released by The Beatles. During an interview, the “Atlantis” singer opined that his catalog was a lot more diverse than The Beatles’, to the point where he sounded like a completely different artist from song to song. Donovan also said something about his background made him similar to George Harrison, John Lennon, and Paul McCartney. While “Mellow Yellow” might be one of the most unusual hits of the period, it wouldn’t be the same without a little help from Paul.
Donovan said ‘Mellow Yellow’ and ‘Barabajagal’ were more original than any Beatles songs
During a 2016 interview with Best Classic Bands, a reporter asked Donovan why “Mellow Yellow” was so different from the rest of his catalog. “Why were they all so different?” he replied. “I displayed more of the painterly,...
Donovan said ‘Mellow Yellow’ and ‘Barabajagal’ were more original than any Beatles songs
During a 2016 interview with Best Classic Bands, a reporter asked Donovan why “Mellow Yellow” was so different from the rest of his catalog. “Why were they all so different?” he replied. “I displayed more of the painterly,...
- 3/27/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Taylor Swift and Prince are two of the biggest pop stars in American history, but their musical styles could not be more different. Despite this, Swift compared one of the hit songs she wrote to Prince’s “Manic Monday.” Notably, Swift gave the song away to another pop icon.
Taylor Swift’s ‘This Is What You Came For’ was inspired by Prince’s ‘Manic Monday’
Every great pop star has written at least one hit song for another artist. For example, George Harrison co-wrote Ringo Starr’s “Photograph,” Kesha co-wrote Britney Spears’ “Till the World Ends,” and Charli Xcx co-wrote Selena Gomez’s “Same Old Love.” Swift checked that off of her pop star bucket list when she wrote Rihanna’s “This Is What You Came For” with Calvin Harris. At first, Swift was credited under the name Nils Sjöberg. At this point, her role in writing the song has been widely reported.
Taylor Swift’s ‘This Is What You Came For’ was inspired by Prince’s ‘Manic Monday’
Every great pop star has written at least one hit song for another artist. For example, George Harrison co-wrote Ringo Starr’s “Photograph,” Kesha co-wrote Britney Spears’ “Till the World Ends,” and Charli Xcx co-wrote Selena Gomez’s “Same Old Love.” Swift checked that off of her pop star bucket list when she wrote Rihanna’s “This Is What You Came For” with Calvin Harris. At first, Swift was credited under the name Nils Sjöberg. At this point, her role in writing the song has been widely reported.
- 3/27/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Pattie Boyd was the subject of love songs by both George Harrison and Eric Clapton. She married each musician and collected piles of love letters from them. Recently, Boyd decided to place several of these letters up for auction. Here’s why she came to this decision and the amount of money the items are expected to bring.
Pattie Boyd has compiled her love letters from George Harrison and Eric Clapton
After years of carefully storing photographs and love letters from her time with Clapton and Harrison, Boyd has decided to auction them off to the public.
“I’m sure I would not like these to go on sale while I’m on my deathbed,” she said, per The Independent. “I think the time is right. I’ve lived with them for 40, 50 years or more and it’s time to move on to let other people share my treasures.”
She...
Pattie Boyd has compiled her love letters from George Harrison and Eric Clapton
After years of carefully storing photographs and love letters from her time with Clapton and Harrison, Boyd has decided to auction them off to the public.
“I’m sure I would not like these to go on sale while I’m on my deathbed,” she said, per The Independent. “I think the time is right. I’ve lived with them for 40, 50 years or more and it’s time to move on to let other people share my treasures.”
She...
- 3/26/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Elvis Presley‘s “Suspicious Minds” is the best song ever written about the concept of suspicion. It wasn’t the first time the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll tackled the subject. Elvis recorded a song that later became a hit by an artist whose singing voice was extremely similar to his own. The song in question was allegedly crafted by one of The Beatles’ producers.
Elvis Presley’s ‘Suspicion’ is ‘Suspicious Minds’ on its head
Covers were a huge part of the “All Shook Up” singer‘s catalog from the very beginning. His debut album is nothing but covers! It was only fair that other artists should take shots at recording Elvis originals. Terry Stafford was an Elvis soundalike who had one hit song. It was a cover of Elvis’ “Suspicion.”
“Suspicion” doesn’t have the monster hook or gospel textures of “Suspicious Minds.” Like a lot of early 1960s dance music,...
Elvis Presley’s ‘Suspicion’ is ‘Suspicious Minds’ on its head
Covers were a huge part of the “All Shook Up” singer‘s catalog from the very beginning. His debut album is nothing but covers! It was only fair that other artists should take shots at recording Elvis originals. Terry Stafford was an Elvis soundalike who had one hit song. It was a cover of Elvis’ “Suspicion.”
“Suspicion” doesn’t have the monster hook or gospel textures of “Suspicious Minds.” Like a lot of early 1960s dance music,...
- 3/25/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The Beatles and The Rolling Stones will be compared to each other until the planet Earth is destroyed and any extraterrestrial life will have no chance of knowing that rock ‘n’ roll ever existed. One of Mick Jagger’s girlfriends revealed what the frontman thought of The Beatles’ “Yellow Submarine.” John Lennon also had plenty to say about The Rolling Stones.
Mick Jagger felt The Beatles’ ‘Yellow Submarine’ was ‘silly’
Marianne Faithfull was Jagger’s girlfriend and muse in the 1960s. She’s most known for her solo ballad “As Tears Go By,” which Jagger co-wrote with Keith Richards. In her 2008 book Memories, Dreams & Reflections, Faithfull recalled the way that Jagger reacted to some of The Beatles’ songs.
“Mick might, very occasionally, put The Beatles down for their provincialism, which, if you’re from London and they’re from Liverpool, is a very natural reaction,” he said. “But he’d never put their music down.
Mick Jagger felt The Beatles’ ‘Yellow Submarine’ was ‘silly’
Marianne Faithfull was Jagger’s girlfriend and muse in the 1960s. She’s most known for her solo ballad “As Tears Go By,” which Jagger co-wrote with Keith Richards. In her 2008 book Memories, Dreams & Reflections, Faithfull recalled the way that Jagger reacted to some of The Beatles’ songs.
“Mick might, very occasionally, put The Beatles down for their provincialism, which, if you’re from London and they’re from Liverpool, is a very natural reaction,” he said. “But he’d never put their music down.
- 3/25/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The Beatles’ record label could boast about their ability to sell albums from the biggest band in the world. Beginning in 1963, the band became an undeniable success in the United Kingdom, with records flying off the shelves and an increasingly rabid fan base. Capitol Records, which would eventually become the band’s American record label, initially wanted nothing to do with the group. They were certain they would sell well in the country.
The Beatles’ record label didn’t think the band would do well in America
In 1963, “From Me to You” brought The Beatles their first Number One hit in the United Kingdom. It was their third single and marked the start of their rapid rise to success.
“It was very difficult in 1963 to think The Beatles were going to last forever and that I would be talking about them thirty years on. But it was very gratifying that they had made Number One,...
The Beatles’ record label didn’t think the band would do well in America
In 1963, “From Me to You” brought The Beatles their first Number One hit in the United Kingdom. It was their third single and marked the start of their rapid rise to success.
“It was very difficult in 1963 to think The Beatles were going to last forever and that I would be talking about them thirty years on. But it was very gratifying that they had made Number One,...
- 3/25/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
In the 1970s, Pattie Boyd lived the unique experience of having two rock stars, George Harrison and Eric Clapton, fight over her. She married Harrison in 1966 and soon, Clapton began expressing interest in her. According to her, the two men were emotionally immature. They dealt with the complicated situation in the only way they knew: by having a guitar battle.
Pattie Boyd said George Harrison and Eric Clapton were immature
By the time The Beatles broke up, Boyd and Harrison’s relationship had reached a rough patch. He treated her coldly and was far more interested in his spiritual development than in their marriage.
“My diary is full of entries about my unhappiness and the disintegration of our relationship,” she wrote in her book Wonderful Tonight. “On July 24 it simply says, ‘Silence reigns and my cheeks get wet.’ I felt so helpless.”
Pattie Boyd and George Harrison | Afp via Getty Images
Around this time,...
Pattie Boyd said George Harrison and Eric Clapton were immature
By the time The Beatles broke up, Boyd and Harrison’s relationship had reached a rough patch. He treated her coldly and was far more interested in his spiritual development than in their marriage.
“My diary is full of entries about my unhappiness and the disintegration of our relationship,” she wrote in her book Wonderful Tonight. “On July 24 it simply says, ‘Silence reigns and my cheeks get wet.’ I felt so helpless.”
Pattie Boyd and George Harrison | Afp via Getty Images
Around this time,...
- 3/24/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Pattie Boyd, the former wife of George Harrison and Eric Clapton and the inspiration for the latter’s “Layla,” sold her private collection of letters, photos and more – including items from the two rock legends – at auction for $3.6 million.
Boyd’s stunning collection of 111 artifacts tells the story of her whirlwind romance with Harrison after they met on a set of A Hard Day’s Night in 1964, their time together at the height of Beatlemania, her disillusionment with him in the late Sixties, and Clapton’s attempts to steal her away...
Boyd’s stunning collection of 111 artifacts tells the story of her whirlwind romance with Harrison after they met on a set of A Hard Day’s Night in 1964, their time together at the height of Beatlemania, her disillusionment with him in the late Sixties, and Clapton’s attempts to steal her away...
- 3/24/2024
- by Andy Greene
- Rollingstone.com
In 1963, John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr played the Royal Variety Show, one of their most stressful shows to date. Their popularity was on the rise and, suddenly, they found themselves performing for a large, wealthy audience. Lennon channeled his nerves into joking with the audience. Harrison rolled his eyes at parts of Lennon’s performance.
George Harrison said John Lennon was over the top during one show
In 1963, The Beatles nervously prepared to play the Royal Variety Show. Everyone in the audience bought expensive tickets and the Queen Mother was in attendance. Lennon pointed out their wealth as he introduced the band’s final song.
“For our last number, I’d like to ask your help,” he said, per The Beatles Anthology. “The people in the cheaper seats clap your hands, and the rest of you, if you’d just rattle your jewelry. We’d like...
George Harrison said John Lennon was over the top during one show
In 1963, The Beatles nervously prepared to play the Royal Variety Show. Everyone in the audience bought expensive tickets and the Queen Mother was in attendance. Lennon pointed out their wealth as he introduced the band’s final song.
“For our last number, I’d like to ask your help,” he said, per The Beatles Anthology. “The people in the cheaper seats clap your hands, and the rest of you, if you’d just rattle your jewelry. We’d like...
- 3/22/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
In 1963, John Lennon cracked jokes onstage when The Beatles performed in the Royal Variety Performance. The band nervously took the stage and played for their large, wealthy audience. According to Lennon, they received multiple other requests to play the same show over the years. He shared why they turned all of them down.
John Lennon said The Beatles often turned down requests to play for the royal family
After several years of working together, The Beatles’ popularity took off in 1963. Their fanbase was growing exponentially and, soon, they were performing for the Queen Mother.
“The fame really started from when we played the Palladium,” Paul McCartney said in The Beatles Anthology. “Then we were asked to do the Royal Command Performance and we met the Queen Mother, and she was clapping.”
The Beatles and the Queen Mother | George Freston/Fox Photos/Getty Images
Lennon said that in the years after their performance,...
John Lennon said The Beatles often turned down requests to play for the royal family
After several years of working together, The Beatles’ popularity took off in 1963. Their fanbase was growing exponentially and, soon, they were performing for the Queen Mother.
“The fame really started from when we played the Palladium,” Paul McCartney said in The Beatles Anthology. “Then we were asked to do the Royal Command Performance and we met the Queen Mother, and she was clapping.”
The Beatles and the Queen Mother | George Freston/Fox Photos/Getty Images
Lennon said that in the years after their performance,...
- 3/21/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The Beatles‘ “I Am the Walrus” might seem like a psychedelic novelty today, but John Lennon adored it. He said it would appeal to fans of the Electric Light Orchestra. Interestingly, Elo has some deep connections to the Fab Four — particularly George Harrison during his solo era.
John Lennon explained why The Beatles’ ‘I Am the Walrus’ was a personal favorite
The book Lennon on Lennon: Conversations With John Lennon features the text of a radio interview from 1974. “And now we’re gonna play a track from Magical Mystery Tour, which is one of my favorite albums because it was so weird, and it’s ‘I Am the Walrus,'” he said. While Magical Mystery Tour is a classic, it’s generally not as acclaimed as other Beatles records such as Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, Revolver, or The White Album. It’s interesting that John valued Magical Mystery Tour so highly.
John Lennon explained why The Beatles’ ‘I Am the Walrus’ was a personal favorite
The book Lennon on Lennon: Conversations With John Lennon features the text of a radio interview from 1974. “And now we’re gonna play a track from Magical Mystery Tour, which is one of my favorite albums because it was so weird, and it’s ‘I Am the Walrus,'” he said. While Magical Mystery Tour is a classic, it’s generally not as acclaimed as other Beatles records such as Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, Revolver, or The White Album. It’s interesting that John valued Magical Mystery Tour so highly.
- 3/20/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The Monkees didn’t always see eye-to-eye, but two of them agreed on the identity of their favorite Beatle. The Monkees’ Micky Dolenz and Peter Tork both referred to the same Beatle as their favorite. They both explained why one member of the band connected to them the most. Notably, the Beatle in question has a reputation for being charismatic.
1 of The Monkees was drinking buddies with 2 Beatles
The Monkees and The Beatles are often compared to one another and they followed similar career trajectories. Both groups started out making bubblegum pop before going psychedelic and breaking up in the early 1970s. Beyond that, the bands crossed paths interpersonally.
During a 2017 interview with Cleveland Scene, Dolenz discussed interacting with three of The Beatles. “I would say by far the person I spent the most time with probably would have been Ringo,” Dolenz shares. “He moved out to LA and spent...
1 of The Monkees was drinking buddies with 2 Beatles
The Monkees and The Beatles are often compared to one another and they followed similar career trajectories. Both groups started out making bubblegum pop before going psychedelic and breaking up in the early 1970s. Beyond that, the bands crossed paths interpersonally.
During a 2017 interview with Cleveland Scene, Dolenz discussed interacting with three of The Beatles. “I would say by far the person I spent the most time with probably would have been Ringo,” Dolenz shares. “He moved out to LA and spent...
- 3/19/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Jeff Lynne’s Electric Light Orchestra are going to call it quits after one final run they’re dubbing The Over and Out Tour. The 27-date tour kicks off Aug, 24 in Palm Desert, California, and wraps up Oct, 25 in Los Angeles, California, though it’s possible they’ll add additional legs before it ends. Ticket sales begin March 22.
The original incarnation of Electric Light Orchestra ran from 1970 to 1986, landing timeless hits on the charts like “Mr. Blue Sky,” “Evil Woman,” “Strange Magic,” “Don’t Bring Me Down,” and “Turn to Stone.
The original incarnation of Electric Light Orchestra ran from 1970 to 1986, landing timeless hits on the charts like “Mr. Blue Sky,” “Evil Woman,” “Strange Magic,” “Don’t Bring Me Down,” and “Turn to Stone.
- 3/18/2024
- by Andy Greene
- Rollingstone.com
After John Lennon completed his album Two Virgins, he took the cover photo to Ringo Starr to view. This was a moment The Beatles drummer said he would never forget. He was shocked by the nudity in the image and slightly annoyed that he’d likely have to answer questions about it. Still, his first instinct was to point to an extremely minor detail in order to draw attention away from Lennon’s nudity.
Ringo Starr recalled how he felt when John Lennon showed him the ‘Two Virgins’ cover
In 1968, Lennon and Yoko Ono released Two Virgins. They worked on the album at the very start of their relationship and wanted to express that they were freshly in love. They also wanted to use the album to bare themselves to the public. To achieve this, they took a very literal route, posing completely naked on the album cover.
‘Two Virgins...
Ringo Starr recalled how he felt when John Lennon showed him the ‘Two Virgins’ cover
In 1968, Lennon and Yoko Ono released Two Virgins. They worked on the album at the very start of their relationship and wanted to express that they were freshly in love. They also wanted to use the album to bare themselves to the public. To achieve this, they took a very literal route, posing completely naked on the album cover.
‘Two Virgins...
- 3/17/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
In The Beatles’ early days of success, John Lennon set himself apart from his bandmates by publishing two books. He published his first book, In His Own Write, in 1964. His second, A Spaniard in the Works, came out the following year. After these two, Lennon said he felt he needed to take a break from writing books. He did not like the headspace into which writing brought him.
John Lennon shared why he lost interest in writing books
When Lennon compiled In His Own Write, he was able to pull from years worth of writing and artwork. For A Spaniard in the Works, he had to sit down and work on new material.
“The second book was more disciplined because it was started from scratch,” Lennon said in The Beatles Anthology. “They said, ‘You’ve got so many months to write a book in.’ I wrote In His Own Write...
John Lennon shared why he lost interest in writing books
When Lennon compiled In His Own Write, he was able to pull from years worth of writing and artwork. For A Spaniard in the Works, he had to sit down and work on new material.
“The second book was more disciplined because it was started from scratch,” Lennon said in The Beatles Anthology. “They said, ‘You’ve got so many months to write a book in.’ I wrote In His Own Write...
- 3/17/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
John Lennon notoriously spoke out against much of Paul McCartney’s post-Beatles music. He even criticized the work McCartney did while in the band. McCartney took a similar stance against one of Lennon’s albums. Though he wrote liner notes for Two Virgins, McCartney didn’t think the album was all that good. Still, he took credit for parts of it.
Paul McCartney wasn’t a fan of one John Lennon album
In 1968, Lennon and Yoko Ono released Two Virgins, the first of three experimental albums they put out as a couple. The album drew major controversy for its cover; Lennon and Ono posed fully naked for it. The other Beatles fielded questions from reporters about it, to their frustration.
McCartney claimed that the cover raised his eyebrows, but he didn’t find it overly shocking. His bigger problem was that he didn’t much like the contents of the album.
Paul McCartney wasn’t a fan of one John Lennon album
In 1968, Lennon and Yoko Ono released Two Virgins, the first of three experimental albums they put out as a couple. The album drew major controversy for its cover; Lennon and Ono posed fully naked for it. The other Beatles fielded questions from reporters about it, to their frustration.
McCartney claimed that the cover raised his eyebrows, but he didn’t find it overly shocking. His bigger problem was that he didn’t much like the contents of the album.
- 3/15/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
When The Beatles traveled to India in 1968, Ringo Starr made sure to pack a lot of food. Starr has a multitude of food allergies that limit his diet. He worried about having his food choices out of his control while training with the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. As a result, he packed an entire suitcase full of beans.
Ringo Starr brought a full suitcase full of this food when The Beatles went to India
The Beatles attended a seminar on transcendental meditation in 1967. They decided to further their education in 1968 with a trip to visit the Maharishi in India. George Harrison had the greatest interest in meditation, but his bandmates all joined him. Harrison took note of Starr’s packing choices.
“John came, and Paul came after him, and then Richard [Ringo] followed with fifteen Sherpas carrying Heinz baked beans,” Harrison said in The Beatles Anthology. “There was also the world...
Ringo Starr brought a full suitcase full of this food when The Beatles went to India
The Beatles attended a seminar on transcendental meditation in 1967. They decided to further their education in 1968 with a trip to visit the Maharishi in India. George Harrison had the greatest interest in meditation, but his bandmates all joined him. Harrison took note of Starr’s packing choices.
“John came, and Paul came after him, and then Richard [Ringo] followed with fifteen Sherpas carrying Heinz baked beans,” Harrison said in The Beatles Anthology. “There was also the world...
- 3/15/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Elvis Presley‘s Graceland visitors regularly leave tokens at the King of Rock and Roll’s gravesite. Many items, from teddy bears to flowers, have been placed upon Presley’s grave. However, when Paul McCartney visited the rock and roll icon’s home, he left a touching tribute behind. Here are all the details.
What was the tribute Paul McCartney placed at Elvis Presley’s grave?
Paul McCartney visited Elvis Presley’s Graceland home in 2013. He toured the premises, seeing how the King of Rock and Roll lived during the almost 20 years he occupied the Memphis estate.
All Graceland tours end at the Meditation Garden. This is where Presley, his father Vernon, his mother Gladys, and grandmother Minnie May are buried. In 2020, Presley’s grandson Benjamin Keough was interred opposite his grave, followed by his daughter, Lisa Marie Presley, in 2023.
During this moment, McCartney, just like thousands of Presley fans before him,...
What was the tribute Paul McCartney placed at Elvis Presley’s grave?
Paul McCartney visited Elvis Presley’s Graceland home in 2013. He toured the premises, seeing how the King of Rock and Roll lived during the almost 20 years he occupied the Memphis estate.
All Graceland tours end at the Meditation Garden. This is where Presley, his father Vernon, his mother Gladys, and grandmother Minnie May are buried. In 2020, Presley’s grandson Benjamin Keough was interred opposite his grave, followed by his daughter, Lisa Marie Presley, in 2023.
During this moment, McCartney, just like thousands of Presley fans before him,...
- 3/15/2024
- by Lucille Barilla
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
When John Lennon released the album Two Virgins in 1968, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr were politely shocked. While they tried not to get caught up in the public outcry over the album cover — which featured full frontal nudity from Lennon and Yoko Ono — they didn’t approve of it. Lennon said it surprised him that McCartney and Harrison were so prudish.
John Lennon said Paul McCartney and George Harrison were surprisingly prudish
Lennon and Ono chose to pose naked on the cover of Two Virgins because they wanted to reveal all of themselves to the public. It was a bold choice that brought the couple a great deal of blowback.
“It was insane!” Lennon said in The Beatles Anthology. “People got so upset about it — the fact that two people were naked. I didn’t think there’d be such a fuss. I guess the world thinks we’re an ugly couple.
John Lennon said Paul McCartney and George Harrison were surprisingly prudish
Lennon and Ono chose to pose naked on the cover of Two Virgins because they wanted to reveal all of themselves to the public. It was a bold choice that brought the couple a great deal of blowback.
“It was insane!” Lennon said in The Beatles Anthology. “People got so upset about it — the fact that two people were naked. I didn’t think there’d be such a fuss. I guess the world thinks we’re an ugly couple.
- 3/14/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
While John Lennon was still in The Beatles, he put out an album with a cover that shocked people around the world. His bandmates even had to field calls from reporters about it. On the cover of Two Virgins, one of three experimental albums Lennon released with Yoko Ono, the couple posed naked. When his aunt saw the image, she complained that Lennon looked ugly. This, he said, was his intention.
John Lennon surprised people with one album cover
In 1968, Lennon and Ono released Two Virgins. The cover featured full frontal nudity, prompting many record stores to put the album in a paper bag in order to sell it. Lennon shared the intention behind the photograph.
“We were both a bit embarrassed when we peeled off for the picture, so I took it myself with a delayed-action shutter,” he said in The Beatles Anthology. “The picture was to prove that...
John Lennon surprised people with one album cover
In 1968, Lennon and Ono released Two Virgins. The cover featured full frontal nudity, prompting many record stores to put the album in a paper bag in order to sell it. Lennon shared the intention behind the photograph.
“We were both a bit embarrassed when we peeled off for the picture, so I took it myself with a delayed-action shutter,” he said in The Beatles Anthology. “The picture was to prove that...
- 3/13/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
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