Entertainment For Lively Minds
Have You Ever Promoted A Concert?
Posted by Mark Ellen on 31 March 2009 - 2:18pm.
I'm looking for a few stories from the world of the amateur concert promoter. College bands, local folk festivals, raves in disused warehouses etc. If you've got any memories involving musicians we might have heard of, do get in touch with me direct.
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Concert promotion
The Beatles
My girlfriend's dad once booked the Beatles - just before the big time - in Earlestown town hall, Newton-Le-Willows (about half an hour from liverpool). He's got a photo from the local paper in the downstair's loo, of Paul McCartney crooning away, with the aforementioned nearly father-in-law by the edge of the stage.
He didn't think they were that great, nor did he have any wonderful impression of them, describing them as 'a bunch of raggerty-arsed scousers.' He had his photo taken with them, and he got their autographs (he had no musical taste, but he's a canny sod). In the early 80s, he sold the photo and autographs, and got himself a new car. He still insists that a group who played the week before - from Leigh - were much better.
Of course he didn't make a copy of the photo!
is there anyone in 60's who didn't book the beatles for 10 bob and a ham sandwich we need more proof I think.
Ok, you doubting thomas, you
He's a journalist for a Liverpool newspaper, and there was a story in said paper about it (with a photo). Will give him a bell and try and get a link up.
My dad also dated Rick Astley's aunty, which is far more important, and proves that Newton-Le-Willows really was at the forefront of rock 'n' roll.
Sorry to cast doubt ..
...on your family story it’s just I’ve heard many a tale of the “unknown” Fabs being turned down for school dances etc. For a band that gave up playing live half way through the decade they must have nearly played every church hall and Odeon in the land that’s as well as being in the same school class as every scouser over the age of 65.
It does seemed odd that the evidence had been sold as well I can’t believe in the 80’s he wouldn’t have had a copy of the picture made.
Can’t beat Rick A but my Granddad once danced with Amy Johnson!
Huh
My Dad travelled on a train from Southampton to London with Bill Haley!
Pah! My dad...
got drunk in the bar at Chicago O'Hare airport with Rod Steiger, waiting for the snowploughs to clear the runway.
No surprises..
I think you'll find, that Leigh has produced has produced a multitude of memorable rock & roll stars... well one if I'm being pressed !!
Leigh
Georgie Fame was a member of Leigh's The Beat Boys, before sodding off to London. The Beat Boys played Earlestown, leading some to think they were better than The Beatles (it was 1962!).
re. the Beatles
The concert took place in 1962, in Earlestown, near Newton-Le-Willows. I have an article on it (not great quality), but will get the original and scan it, if anyone's interested.