Home
Categories
EXPLORE
True Crime
Comedy
Society & Culture
Business
Sports
History
News
About Us
Contact Us
Copyright
© 2024 PodJoint
00:00 / 00:00
Sign in

or

Don't have an account?
Sign up
Forgot password
https://is1-ssl.mzstatic.com/image/thumb/Podcasts116/v4/8e/90/13/8e9013b0-bf03-a1f7-de78-f2872eea84c6/mza_9960168172543455251.jpg/600x600bb.jpg
Before They Were Beatles
Megrin Entertainment
26 episodes
1 week ago
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. In Season 4 we take a look at the stories of The Forgotten Beatles - the often-overlooked artists who at one point shared the stage or the studio with The Beatles.
Show more...
Music History
Music
RSS
All content for Before They Were Beatles is the property of Megrin Entertainment and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
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. In Season 4 we take a look at the stories of The Forgotten Beatles - the often-overlooked artists who at one point shared the stage or the studio with The Beatles.
Show more...
Music History
Music
Episodes (20/26)
Before They Were Beatles
Episode 15 - Tony Sheridan

This month, we turn the spotlight on the man The Beatles referred to as “The Teacher,” 

guitarist and singer Tony Sheridan  

*******

Links mentioned in this episode 

Tony Sheridan

  • Wikipedia Page - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tony_Sheridan 

  • The Teacher: The Tony Sheridan Story by Alan Mann - https://www.amazon.com/Teacher-Sheridan-Story-Alan-Mann/dp/0957528507/ 

  • Tony Sheridan – The One The Beatles Called "The Teacher",  by Colin Crawley. - https://bookshop.org/a/10029/9781515092612 

  • RTE audio documentary Are You Tony Sheridan? - https://bookshop.org/a/10029/9781515092612https://www.rte.ie/radio/doconone/771586-are-you-tony-sheridan 

Websites:

Alan J. Porter - YouTube Channel - Forgotten Beatles related videos - https://www.youtube.com/@AlanPorterWriter 

**************

Thanks for listening to this episode of Before They Were Beatles Presents: The Forgotten Beatles. If you would like to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform that would be great and don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. 

If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can find me on most social media platforms @alanjporter or you can email me at alan@beforetheywerebeatles.com

You can also subscribe to the FREE monthly Before They Were Beatles newsletter at https://beforebeatles.substack.com/.

Don’t forget to join us next time when we turn the spotlight on Quarrymen Pete Shotton, and Bill Smith

**************

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. 

Show more...
1 month ago
15 minutes 7 seconds

Before They Were Beatles
Episode 14 - Billy Preston

This month, we turn the spotlight on  the “almost 5th Beatle,” keyboard player Billy Preston

Links mentioned in this episode 

Billy Preston

  • Billy Preston- He has his own wikipedia entry 

  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Billy_Preston 

  • BBC radio documentary Billy Preston; That’s the Way Go Planed It - https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b00wqb5d 

  • “The Friends of Billy Preston”, by Steve Bergsman - https://bookshop.org/a/10029/9781544957296 

General Beatles Books

  • Before They Were Beatles - https://bookshop.org/a/10029/9781413430561 

  • Tune In - https://bookshop.org/a/10029/9781101903292 

  • The Beatles (biography) - https://bookshop.org/a/10029/9780316013314 

Websites:

Alan J. Porter - YouTube Channel - Forgotten Beatles related videos - https://www.youtube.com/@AlanPorterWriter 

**************

Thanks for listening to this episode of Before They Were Beatles Presents: The Forgotten Beatles. If you would like to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform that would be great and don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. 

If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can find me on most social media platforms @alanjporter or you can email me at alan@beforetheywerebeatles.com

You can also subscribe to the FREE monthly Before They Were Beatles newsletter at https://beforebeatles.substack.com/.

Don’t forget to join us next time when we turn the spotlight on Tony Sheridan

**************

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. 

*******

Show more...
3 months ago
12 minutes 38 seconds

Before They Were Beatles
Episode 13 - Jimmie Nicol

This month we turn the spotlight on drummer Jimmie Nicol.

--------------------

Links mentioned in this episode 

Jimmie Nicol

  • Jimmy Nichol - wikipedia entry https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jimmie_Nicol 

  • The Parlogram series 30 minute mini documentary on Jimmie’s story - https://youtu.be/onKRSu5C3EI?si=-f4n9Ejh2OcHKTgt 

  • Finding The Fourth Beatle by David Bedford and Garry Popper https://www.amazon.com/Finding-Fourth-Beatle-Drummers-Behind/dp/3732398420 

  • The Beatle Who Vanished by Jim Berkenstadt. - https://www.amazon.com/Beatle-Who-Vanished-Beatles-Anniversary/dp/B0D3BD4GS3/ 

General Beatles Books

  • Before They Were Beatles - https://bookshop.org/a/10029/9781413430561 

  • Tune In - https://bookshop.org/a/10029/9781101903292 

  • The Beatles (biography) - https://bookshop.org/a/10029/9780316013314 

Websites:

Alan J. Porter - YouTube Channel - Forgotten Beatles related videos - https://www.youtube.com/@AlanPorterWriter 

**************

Thanks for listening to this episode of Before They Were Beatles Presents: The Forgotten Beatles. If you would like to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform that would be great and don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. 

If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can find me on most social media platforms @alanjporter or you can email me at alan@beforetheywerebeatles.com

You can also subscribe to the FREE monthly Before They Were Beatles newsletter at https://beforebeatles.substack.com/.

Don’t forget to join us next time when we turn the spotlight on keyboard player Billy Preston

**************

Some Other Guy performed by The Savage Young Beatles is used with permission.

The Before They Were Beatles podcast series is a production of  Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC. 

Show more...
5 months ago
26 minutes 20 seconds

Before They Were Beatles
Episode 12 - Mason, Moore, and Newby

This month we turn the spotlight on trumpet player David Mason, drummer Tommy Moore, and bass player Chas Newby.*******

Links mentioned in this episode 

Dave Mason

  • Wikipedia entry - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Mason_(trumpeter) 

  • Obituary - https://www.theguardian.com/music/2011/jun/08/david-mason-obituary 

Tommy Moore

  • Wikipedia - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tommy_Moore_(musician) 

  • Finding The Fourth Beatle - https://www.amazon.com/Finding-Fourth-Beatle-Drummers-Behind/dp/3732398420 

  • Johnny Gentle and The Beatles - The First Tour  - https://www.amazon.com/Johnny-Gentle-Beatles-First-Ever-ebook/dp/B007L0JKEY

  • The Man Who Gave The Beatles Away - https://www.amazon.com/Man-Who-Gave-Beatles-Away/dp/0345270746 

Chas Newby

  • Wikipedia entry - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chas_Newby 

  • Obituary - https://www.theguardian.com/music/2023/may/23/chas-newby-one-time-beatles-bassist-dies 

  • YouTube interview - https://youtu.be/KIvghvlt1YI?si=YXLQEMb6nltp1bRH 

General Beatles Books

  • Before They Were Beatles - https://bookshop.org/a/10029/9781413430561 

  • Tune In - https://bookshop.org/a/10029/9781101903292 

  • The Beatles (biography) - https://bookshop.org/a/10029/9780316013314 

Websites:

Alan J. Porter - YouTube Channel - Forgotten Beatles related videos - https://www.youtube.com/@AlanPorterWriter 

**************

Thanks for listening to this episode of Before They Were Beatles Presents: The Forgotten Beatles. If you would like to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform that would be great and don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. 

If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can find me on most social media platforms @alanjporter or you can email me at alan@beforetheywerebeatles.com

You can also subscribe to the FREE monthly Before They Were Beatles newsletter at https://beforebeatles.substack.com/.

Don’t forget to join us next time when we turn the spotlight on drummer Jimmy Nichol

**************

Some Other Guy performed by The Savage Young Beatles is used with permission.

The Before They Were Beatles podcast series is a production of  Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC.

Show more...
6 months ago
18 minutes 48 seconds

Before They Were Beatles
Episode 11 - George Martin

This month we turn the spotlight on the man who probably has the best claim to the title of “The 5th Beatle,” producer George Martin .

*******

Links mentioned in this episode 

George Martin

  • All You Need Is Ears memoir - https://bookshop.org/a/10029/9781250784049 

  • Limited edition Playback autobiography - Copies for sale on Abe Books - https://www.abebooks.com/book-search/title/playback-illustrated-memoir/author/george-martin/ 

  • George Martin’s wikipedia page - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_Martin 

  • David Bennet’s excellent video on George’s contributions to Beatles recordings  - https://youtu.be/YDYedISQ2JU?si=hEqorDj9xTxM39pf 

Websites:

Alan J. Porter - YouTube Channel - Forgotten Beatles related videos - https://www.youtube.com/@AlanPorterWriter 

**************

Thanks for listening to this episode of Before They Were Beatles Presents: The Forgotten Beatles. If you would like to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform that would be great and don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. 

If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can find me on most social media platforms @alanjporter or you can email me at alan@beforetheywerebeatles.com

You can also subscribe to the FREE monthly Before They Were Beatles newsletter at https://beforebeatles.substack.com/.

Don’t forget to join us next time when we turn the spotlight on trumpet player David Mason and drummer Tommy Moore

**************

Some Other Guy performed by The Savage Young Beatles is used with permission.

The Before They Were Beatles podcast series is a production of  Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC. 

Show more...
7 months ago
16 minutes 28 seconds

Before They Were Beatles
Episode 10 - Lomax and Lowe

This month we turn the spotlight on singer Jackie Lomax and pianist John “Duff” Lowe.

*******

Links mentioned in this episode 

Jackie Lomax

Wikipedia entry - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jackie_Lomax 

Official website - http://www.jackielomax.com 

Obituary - https://www.theguardian.com/music/2013/sep/17/jackie-lomax 

John Lowe

Wikipedia entry - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Lowe_(musician) 

Obituary - https://www.theguardian.com/music/article/2024/may/02/john-duff-lowe-obituary 

Websites:

Alan J. Porter - YouTube Channel - Forgotten Beatles related videos - https://www.youtube.com/@AlanPorterWriter 

**************

Thanks for listening to this episode of Before They Were Beatles Presents: The Forgotten Beatles. If you would like to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform that would be great and don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. 

If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can find me on most social media platforms @alanjporter or you can email me atalan@beforetheywerebeatles.com

You can also subscribe to the FREE monthly Before They Were Beatles newsletter at https://beforebeatles.substack.com/.

Don’t forget to join us next time when we turn the spotlight on producer George Martin

**************

Some Other Guy performed by The Savage Young Beatles is used with permission.

The Before They Were Beatles podcast series is a production of  Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC. 

Show more...
8 months ago
14 minutes 49 seconds

Before They Were Beatles
Episode 9 - Jackson and Jones

Welcome to the ninth episode of Before They Were Beatles presents: The Forgotten Beatles in which we turn the spotlight on singers Simone Jackson and Davy Jones

*******

Links mentioned in this episode 

Websites:

Alan J. Porter - YouTube Channel - Forgotten Beatles related videos - https://www.youtube.com/@AlanPorterWriter 

**************

Thanks for listening to this episode of Before They Were Beatles Presents: The Forgotten Beatles. If you would like to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform that would be great and don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. 

If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can find me on most social media platforms @alanjporter or you can email me at alan@beforetheywerebeatles.com

You can also subscribe to the FREE monthly Before They Were Beatles newsletter at https://beforebeatles.substack.com/.

Don’t forget to join us next time when we turn the spotlight on singer Jackie Lomax and pianist John Lowe

**************

Some Other Guy performed by The Savage Young Beatles is used with permission.

The Before They Were Beatles podcast series is a production of  Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC. 

Show more...
9 months ago
10 minutes 56 seconds

Before They Were Beatles
Episode 8 - Hanton and Hutchinson

Welcome to the eighth episode of Before They Were Beatles presents: The Forgotten Beatles in which we turn the spotlight on on drummers Colin Hanton and Johnny Hutchinson

*******

Links mentioned in this episode

Books:

The Quarrymen by Hunter Davis - https://www.amazon.com/Quarrymen-Hunter-Davies/dp/071198526X

Before They Were Beatles by Alan J. Porter

https://www.amazon.com/Before-They-Were-Beatles-1956-1960/dp/1413430562 

Finding the Fourth Beatle by David Bedford and Gary Popper

https://bookshop.org/a/10029/9783732398423 

Pre:Fab! By Colin Hanton with Colin Hall - https://www.amazon.com/Pre-Lennon-McCartney-George-Harrison/dp/1912362570 

Johnny Hutchinson Obituary - https://www.the-independent.com/news/obituaries/johnny-hutchinson-hutch-drummer-the-beatles-ringo-starr-big-three-a8882636.html 

 

Websites:

Alan J. Porter - YouTube Channel - Forgotten Beatles related videos - https://www.youtube.com/@AlanPorterWriter 

**************

Thanks for listening to this episode of Before They Were Beatles Presents: The Forgotten Beatles. If you would like to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform that would be great and don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. 

If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can find me on most social media platforms @alanjporter or you can email me at alan@beforetheywerebeatles.com

You can also subscribe to the FREE monthly Before They Were Beatles newsletter at https://beforebeatles.substack.com/.

Don’t forget to join us next time when we turn the spotlight on singers Simone Jackson and Davy Jones

**************

Some Other Guy performed by The Savage Young Beatles is used with permission.

The Before They Were Beatles podcast series is a production of  Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC. 

Show more...
10 months ago
18 minutes 32 seconds

Before They Were Beatles
Episode 7 - Graham, Griffiths, and Gustafson

Welcome to the seventh episode of Before They Were Beatles presents: The Forgotten Beatles in which we turn the spotlight on drummer Bobby Graham, the Quarrymen’s guitarist Eric Griffiths, and one-off bass player Johhny Gustafson

*******

Links mentioned in this episode

Books:

The Quarrymen by Hunter Davis - https://www.amazon.com/Quarrymen-Hunter-Davies/dp/071198526X

Before They Were Beatles by Alan J. Porter

https://www.amazon.com/Before-They-Were-Beatles-1956-1960/dp/1413430562 

Finding the Fourth Beatle by David Bedford and Gary Popper

https://bookshop.org/a/10029/9783732398423 

John Gustafson: the second most important bassist to come out of Liverpool by Scott McCormick .

https://blog.discmakers.com/2018/07/john-gustafson-the-second-most-important-bassist-to-come-out-of-liverpool/ 

 

Websites:

Alan J. Porter - YouTube Channel - Forgotten Beatles related videos - https://www.youtube.com/@AlanPorterWriter 

**************

Thanks for listening to this episode of Before They Were Beatles Presents: The Forgotten Beatles. If you would like to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform that would be great and don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. 

If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can find me on most social media platforms @alanjporter or you can email me at alan@beforetheywerebeatles.com

You can also subscribe to the FREE monthly Before They Were Beatles newsletter at https://beforebeatles.substack.com/.

Don’t forget to join us next time when we turn the spotlight drummers Colin Hanton and Johnny Hutchinson.

**************

Some Other Guy performed by The Savage Young Beatles is used with permission.

The Before They Were Beatles podcast series is a production of  Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC. 

Show more...
11 months ago
20 minutes 30 seconds

Before They Were Beatles
Episode 6 - Garry and Gentle

Welcome to the sixth episode of Before They Were Beatles presents: The Forgotten Beatles in which we turn the spotlight on Quarrymen’s Len Garry, and singer Johnny Gentle

*******

Links mentioned in this episode

Books:

The Quarrymen by Hunter Davis - https://www.amazon.com/Quarrymen-Hunter-Davies/dp/071198526X

Before They Were Beatles

https://www.amazon.com/Before-They-Were-Beatles-1956-1960/dp/1413430562 

John, Paul & Me: Before The Beatles  - Len Garry - 

https://www.amazon.com/John-Paul-Me-Before-Beatles/dp/1784560782/ 

Johnny Gentle and The Beatles First Ever Tour - Johnny Gentle (eBook)

https://www.amazon.com/Johnny-Gentle-Beatles-First-Ever-ebook/dp/B007L0JKEY/ 

 

Websites:

Alan J. Porter - YouTube Channel - Forgotten Beatles related videos - https://www.youtube.com/@AlanPorterWriter 

**************

Thanks for listening to this episode of Before They Were Beatles Presents: The Forgotten Beatles. If you would like to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform that would be great and don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. 

If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can find me on most social media platforms @alanjporter or you can email me at alan@beforetheywerebeatles.com

You can also subscribe to the FREE monthly Before They Were Beatles newsletter at https://beforebeatles.substack.com/.

Don’t forget to join us next time when we turn the spotlight on  drummer Bobby Graham, the Quarrymen’s guitarist Eric Griffiths, and bass player Johhny Gustafson

**************

Some Other Guy performed by The Savage Young Beatles is used with permission.

The Before They Were Beatles podcast series is a production of  Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC. 

Show more...
1 year ago
16 minutes 52 seconds

Before They Were Beatles
Episode 5 - Davis, Day, and Douglas

Welcome to the fifth episode of Before They Were Beatles presents: The Forgotten Beatles in which we turn the spotlight on The Quarrymen’s Rod Davis, and singers Tanya Day, and Craig Douglas

*******

Links mentioned in this episode

Books:

The Quarrymen by Hunter Davis - https://www.amazon.com/Quarrymen-Hunter-Davies/dp/071198526X

Before They Were Beatles

https://www.amazon.com/Before-They-Were-Beatles-1956-1960/dp/1413430562 

Websites:

Alan J. Porter - YouTube Channel - Forgotten Beatles related videos - https://www.youtube.com/@AlanPorterWriter 

The Original Quarrymen - Official Website - originalquarrymen.co.uk/.

Craig Douglas - Wikipedia entry - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Craig_Douglas

**************

Thanks for listening to this episode of Before They Were Beatles Presents: The Forgotten Beatles. If you would like to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform that would be great and don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. 

If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can find me on most social media platforms @alanjporter or you can email me at alan@beforetheywerebeatles.com

You can also subscribe to the FREE monthly Before They Were Beatles newsletter at https://beforebeatles.substack.com/.

Don’t forget to join us next time when we turn the spotlight on the Quarrymen’s Len Garry and singer Johnny Gentle

**************

Some Other Guy performed by The Savage Young Beatles is used with permission.

The Before They Were Beatles podcast series is a production of  Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC. 

Show more...
1 year ago
16 minutes 22 seconds

Before They Were Beatles
Episode 4 - “Eddie Clayton” aka Eric Clapton

This month we turn the spotlight on on the man on the weeping guitar originally credited as “Eddie Clayton” perhaps better known as Eric Clapton

*******

Thanks for listening to this episode of Before They Were Beatles Presents: The Forgotten Beatles. If you would like to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform that would be great and don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. 

If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can follow the podcast Twitter account at @BeforeBeatles or you can email me at alan@beforetheywerebeatles.com

Don’t forget to join us next month when we turn the spotlight on the story of The Quarrymen’s Rod Davis

.

**************

BTWB Newsletter

You can also subscribe to the monthly Before They Were Beatles newsletter at https://beforebeatles.substack.com/.

The news and updates sections each month will be FREE to all subscribers.

Each month paid subscribers will get:

  • Exclusive first look at in-progress updates to the updated and expanded 20th Anniversary edition of Before They Were Beatles

  • Author's notes

  • Play List Suggestions

  • Recommended Reads

—---------

Some Other Guy performed by The Savage Young Beatles is used with permission.

The Before They Were Beatles podcast series is a production of  Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC. 

Show more...
1 year ago
11 minutes 55 seconds

Before They Were Beatles
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. 

Show more...
1 year ago
16 minutes 2 seconds

Before They Were Beatles
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. 

Show more...
1 year ago
14 minutes 45 seconds

Before They Were Beatles
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, 

  • Beatle! The Pete Best Story - Plexus Publishing  - Pete’s autobiography  (although it is going for crazy money these days - if you can find a copy it is well over $200 for the paperback)

  • The Beatles: The True Beginnings is a nice illustrated hardback on the history of the Casbah Club by Roag Best published by Thomas Dunne Books in 2003

  • Finding the Fourth Beatle by David Bedford and Gary Popper, published in 2013 is a great book on the various Beatles drummers (many of whom we will be covering in this podcast series) and includes an in-depth study of Pete’s drumming technique. 

  • And of course, there’s Mark Lewishon’s mammoth volume on The Beatles’ early years, Tune In, which covers Pete’s time with the group in Liverpool and Hamburg in great detail

  • Pete also has his own official website at https://www.petebest.com and on Twitter / X @BeatlesPeteBest

*******

You can check out some of Pete's post-Beatles recordings, plus enjoy his appearance on the Have I Got A Secret TV show on The Forgotten Beatles You Tube playlist.

*******

Thanks for listening to this episode of Before They Were Beatles presents: The Forgotten Beatles. If you would like to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform that would be great and don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. 

If you would like to make a comment or ask a question you can follow the podcast Twitter account at @BeforeBeatles or you can email us at alan@beforetheywerebeatles.com

Don’t forget to join us next month when we turn the spotlight on the story of The Quarrymen’s Ken Brown

**************

BTWB Newsletter

You can also subscribe to the monthly Before They Were Beatles newsletter at https://beforebeatles.substack.com/.

The news and updates sections each month will be FREE to all subscribers.

Each month paid subscribers will get:

  • Exclusive first look at in-progress updates to the updated and expanded 20th Anniversary edition of Before They Were Beatles

  • Author's notes

  • Play List Suggestions

  • Recommended Reads

—---------

Some Other Guy performed by The Savage Young Beatles is used with permission.

The Before They Were Beatles podcast series is a production of  Megrin Entertainment, a division of 4Js Group LLC. 

Show more...
1 year ago
16 minutes 43 seconds

Before They Were 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. 



Show more...
1 year ago
6 minutes 40 seconds

Before They Were Beatles
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. 

Show more...
1 year ago
19 minutes 40 seconds

Before They Were Beatles
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. 

Show more...
2 years ago
23 minutes 25 seconds

Before They Were Beatles
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. 


Show more...
2 years ago
4 minutes 55 seconds

Before They Were Beatles
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. 

Show more...
2 years ago
38 minutes 59 seconds

Before They Were Beatles
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. In Season 4 we take a look at the stories of The Forgotten Beatles - the often-overlooked artists who at one point shared the stage or the studio with The Beatles.