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Before They Were Beatles

Before They Were Beatles

By Megrin Entertainment

In Seasons 1 -3 we uncover 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.

In Season 4 we take a look at the stories of many others who all played their part in the story of the greatest band in rock history - the stories of The Forgotten Beatles

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Episode 1 - Strawberry Fields - Introduction

Before They Were BeatlesMar 17, 2021

00:00
10:30
Episode 3 - Calandra, The Chants, and Chapman

Episode 3 - Calandra, The Chants, and Chapman

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. 

Mar 06, 202416:02
Episode 2 - Ken Brown

Episode 2 - Ken Brown

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. 

Feb 07, 202414:46
Episode 1 - Pete Best

Episode 1 - Pete Best

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, 

*******

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. 

Jan 03, 202416:43
Introducing THE FORGOTTEN BEATLES

Introducing THE FORGOTTEN BEATLES

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. 



Dec 16, 202306:41
Episode 26 - Red & Blue

Episode 26 - Red & Blue

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. 

Nov 15, 202319:41
Episode 25 - Beginnings and Endings

Episode 25 - Beginnings and Endings

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. 


Jul 14, 202325:36
Episode 24 - Farewell Pete, Hello Ringo

Episode 24 - Farewell Pete, Hello Ringo

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. 

Jun 07, 202323:25
Episode 23a - Dinner and a Show

Episode 23a - Dinner and a Show

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. 


May 11, 202304:56
Episode 23 - I'm With The Band

Episode 23 - I'm With The Band

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. 

Apr 24, 202338:60
Episode 22 - Studio Two
Mar 17, 202321:40
Episode 21 - Suits and Star Club
Feb 17, 202319:07
Episode 20 - Decca Demos

Episode 20 - Decca Demos

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.

Jan 11, 202319:59
Episode 19 - Mr Epstein
Nov 17, 202226:47
Episode 18 - The Savage Young Beatles
Oct 13, 202215:53
Episode 17 - Top Ten
Sep 27, 202221:35
Episode 16 - Three Gigs A Day

Episode 16 - Three Gigs A Day

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.

Aug 21, 202220:45
Episode 15 - Hamburg Days

Episode 15 - Hamburg Days

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.

Jul 27, 202221:10
Episode 14 - Hamburg Bound

Episode 14 - Hamburg Bound

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.

May 04, 202229:30
Episode 13 - First Tour

Episode 13 - First Tour

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.

Apr 15, 202228:34
Episode 12 - A Man On A Flaming Pie

Episode 12 - A Man On A Flaming Pie

Mar 16, 202216:22
Episode 11 - Rocking The Casbah

Episode 11 - Rocking The Casbah

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.

Feb 10, 202217:13
Episode 10 - Three Cool Cats

Episode 10 - Three Cool Cats

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.

Jan 21, 202217:49
Episode 9 - A “Get Back” Special

Episode 9 - A “Get Back” Special

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.

Dec 26, 202142:29
Episode 8 - Tragedy & First Recording

Episode 8 - Tragedy & First Recording

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.

Nov 19, 202128:56
Episode 7 - Changes
Oct 22, 202125:06
Episode 6 - The Day Paul Met John

Episode 6 - The Day Paul Met John

Sep 08, 202122:44
Episode 5 - The Boys Began To Play
Aug 16, 202122:44
Episode 4 - "Quarrymen old before our birth"
Jun 08, 202119:18
Episode 3 - George, Paul, & Richie
May 12, 202123:09
Episode 2 - Beginnings: Elvis, Lonnie & John
Apr 14, 202122:01
Episode 1 - Strawberry Fields - Introduction

Episode 1 - Strawberry Fields - Introduction

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


Mar 17, 202110:30