by Bob Spitz
First published 2007
Bob Spitz dismantles decades of Beatles mythology to reveal the real story behind the most famous band in history. Drawing from nearly ten years of research, hundreds of interviews, and previously hidden documents, he reconstructs their journey from four working class Liverpool boys discovering rock and roll through late night radio broadcasts. The narrative follows them through the grimy clubs of Hamburg where they honed their craft amid violence and amphetamines, back to the Cavern Club where they displaced the local jazz scene, and into the studios with producer George Martin. Spitz captures the songwriting partnership forming in Paul McCartney's living room, Ringo's arrival behind the drums, and George Harrison lying about his age to perform in German strip clubs. The book chronicles their rise from cold Scottish town tours to the Ed Sullivan Show, through Shea Stadium and San Francisco, their spiritual journey to India, and finally to their last rooftop concert. This comprehensive account exposes the rivalries, drug use, creative tensions, and personal costs behind the music that changed popular culture forever.
Genres: biography, history, 20th-century, music
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: rags-to-riches, rise-to-fame
Setting: Liverpool, Hamburg, Cavern Club
Period: 1960s
924 pages · Paperback · Aurum Press Ltd