The Beatles: Rare photos of John, Paul and George playing at Liverpool’s Cavern Club found | Ents & Arts News
Two photos of The Beatles playing at the Cavern Club in Liverpool just months before they were discovered by manager Brian Epstein have been revealed.
The black and white images were taken in July 1961, a year before the band released their first single, Love Me Do.
John Lennon, then 20, and Paul McCartney, 19, sat in front of the microphone, while George Harrison, 18, played guitar right behind them.
The pictures were taken just a few months before the band was discovered
The group The original drummer, 19-year-old Pete Best, can be seen obscured by the drum kit at the back of the stage. Ringo Starr replaced Best the following year.
In the image, Lennon, McCartney and Harrison look almost unrecognizable – largely due to their hairstyles and clothing.
Beatles historian and author Mark Lewisohn said: “Set inside Liverpool’s cramped and submerged Cavern Club, never before seen photographs capture the Beatles playing for an audience. fake at lunchtime or in the evening in July 1961.
“Just got back from Hamburg – 500 hours of performances in 90 days – The Beatles are 20 (John), 19 (Paul and Pete) and 18 (George) boys, undernourished.
“This marathon makes them so slim that it’s as if their heads and torsos are strangers. The look is punctuated by unusual outfits – leather pants and cotton tops. No photos available. Other shows they dress this way.
“Three months from now, John and Paul go to Paris and return with what’s called ‘The Beatle Haircut’.
“Days later, Brian Epstein saw The Beatles in the Cavern, offered to be their manager and put them on (a) course that changed our world.”
Fab Four released Love Me Do in 1962
To mark the 60th anniversary of Love Me Do’s release in 1962, Chorley-based dealer Tracks Ltd will be offering free appraisals of rare musical memorabilia.
Valuation day takes place at The Beatles Story exhibition at Liverpool’s Royal Albert Dock from 11am to 6pm on Wednesday 5 October.
