Paul McCartney played his first concert of 2024 on Tuesday night at Estadio Centenario in Montevideo, Uruguay. He kept largely to the script from last year until the midway point when he performed “Now and Then” for the first time.
John Lennon captured the wistful piano ballad “Now and Then” on a tape recorder at his New York apartment building in 1977. Yoko Ono gave the tape to the surviving Beatles in 1994, along with “Free as a Bird” and “Real Love,” for inclusion on the Beatles Anthology box sets. They attempted to...
John Lennon captured the wistful piano ballad “Now and Then” on a tape recorder at his New York apartment building in 1977. Yoko Ono gave the tape to the surviving Beatles in 1994, along with “Free as a Bird” and “Real Love,” for inclusion on the Beatles Anthology box sets. They attempted to...
- 10/2/2024
- by Andy Greene
- Rollingstone.com
Perry Kurtz, a comedian who appeared on Season 8 of America’s Got Talent as well as on The Late Late Show with James Corden, died Thursday in a hit-and-run in the L.A. neighborhood of Tarzana. He was 73.
His death was confirmed by the L.A. County Medical Examiner’s Office. An official cause of death is deferred pending an autopsy.
Perry was struck by a gray Honda Civic at around 11:20 pm Thursday, according to law enforcement sources cited by TMZ. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
TMZ reports a suspect has been arrested on suspicion of felony hit-and-run causing death.
Kurtz auditioned in the sixth episode of Season 8 of America’s Got Talent, in a rap act about judges Howard Stern, Heidi Klum and Mel B. All three hit the buzzer and he was eliminated from the competition.
His first gig in came in 1977 when he entered a talent...
His death was confirmed by the L.A. County Medical Examiner’s Office. An official cause of death is deferred pending an autopsy.
Perry was struck by a gray Honda Civic at around 11:20 pm Thursday, according to law enforcement sources cited by TMZ. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
TMZ reports a suspect has been arrested on suspicion of felony hit-and-run causing death.
Kurtz auditioned in the sixth episode of Season 8 of America’s Got Talent, in a rap act about judges Howard Stern, Heidi Klum and Mel B. All three hit the buzzer and he was eliminated from the competition.
His first gig in came in 1977 when he entered a talent...
- 8/16/2024
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
With the exception of "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" (and maybe "The Game"), David Fincher's oeuvre (including his television series "House of Cards" and the dearly missed "Mindhunter") collectively expresses a resoundingly dim view of humankind. He's not cruel about it, nor is he despondent; often, he seems darkly amused by the unfettered manifestation of our worst instincts, and the heights people can reach when they eschew inconvenient virtues like compassion and ethics.
Even when he gets a tad heavy-handed with his messaging, I'm glad a deep thinker and master cinematic craftsman like Fincher is out there exploring our tendency to become our worst selves. He's certainly been swamped with potential inspiration over the last decade, and, given his technical expertise, one subject I'd love to see him tackle is the use of AI as not just as a creative cog, but a full-blown engine. There's an obvious...
Even when he gets a tad heavy-handed with his messaging, I'm glad a deep thinker and master cinematic craftsman like Fincher is out there exploring our tendency to become our worst selves. He's certainly been swamped with potential inspiration over the last decade, and, given his technical expertise, one subject I'd love to see him tackle is the use of AI as not just as a creative cog, but a full-blown engine. There's an obvious...
- 6/23/2024
- by Jeremy Smith
- Slash Film
In my review of The Greatest Hits, the new sci-fi romance from The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby writer/director Ned Benson, I mention that it opens with a montage of two young lovers “generally doing things that young, hip couples do in LA.” So, as someone from Los Angeles, I couldn’t help but pick the brains of Benson and stars Lucy Boynton and Justin H. Min about my hometown when I recently had the chance to sit down with them … in Chicago, where I now live. Because The Greatest Hits is a movie about the power of music to literally transport protagonist Harriet (Boynton) back in time, we also talked about music. But less specific artists (though some come up), and more the ways that...
[Read the whole post on screenanarchy.com...]...
[Read the whole post on screenanarchy.com...]...
- 4/18/2024
- Screen Anarchy
Nearly a decade after his ambitious first feature (which then became three features) and filmmaker Ned Benson is finally back on the big (and small) screen. His second film, “The Greatest Hits,” arrives ten years after his directorial debut, the 2014 breakout feature “The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby.” And this time, Benson is letting his protagonist have a happily ever after … kind of.
During a recent interview, Benson told IndieWire that, in a similar twist to his “Eleanor Rigby” process, the script for “The Greatest Hits” was one he had been tinkering with for years, starting in 2008. Unlike “Eleanor Rigby,” which was eventually split into a “Him”/”Her”/”Them” mini trilogy, “The Greatest Hits” firmly centers on sole lead Harriet (Lucy Boynton), whose heartbreak leads to a music-induced time travel back to her past relationship with her late lover (David Corenswet) prior to his death.
In her present, Harriet grapples with crippling anxiety,...
During a recent interview, Benson told IndieWire that, in a similar twist to his “Eleanor Rigby” process, the script for “The Greatest Hits” was one he had been tinkering with for years, starting in 2008. Unlike “Eleanor Rigby,” which was eventually split into a “Him”/”Her”/”Them” mini trilogy, “The Greatest Hits” firmly centers on sole lead Harriet (Lucy Boynton), whose heartbreak leads to a music-induced time travel back to her past relationship with her late lover (David Corenswet) prior to his death.
In her present, Harriet grapples with crippling anxiety,...
- 4/13/2024
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
"What would your life be like if you somehow changed the past and saved Max?" Searchlight Pictures has revealed a final featurette for the romantic drama time travel film The Greatest Hits, the latest film from filmmaker Ned Benson (of The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby films). This will be streaming on Hulu later this week for everyone to enjoy - watch the main official trailer here. Written and produced by Benson, Harriet experiences a unique connection between art and reality. She discovers that specific songs have the power to transport her back in time, driving her to relive special moments with her ex-boyfriend. Her time-traveling begins to bleed into the present when she meets a new guy named David. Throughout the journey, she explores the mesmerizing link between music and memory, facing her with the difficult decision to move on. Lucy Boynton stars with Justin H. Min, David Corenswet, Andie Ju,...
- 4/9/2024
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
We know that Beatles fans all have their favorites, and now we want to know yours. Over Memorial Day weekend, The Beatles Channel (Ch. 18) will play the band’s 100 most popular songs — according to you, the real experts — during the annual “All Together Now” special.
The Beatles ChannelAll Together Now 2024Listen on the App
Listen on the App
Tune in to hear the countdown starting May 24, the Friday of Memorial Day weekend, on The Beatles Channel (Ch. 18).
Stream the countdown in full anytime, anywhere, on the SiriusXM app.
Directions: Select 10 songs from the list below. Voting ends April 17 at 11:59pm Et.
Memorial Day weekend is a time to remember our family, friends, and loved ones. If you’d like to be a part of this year’s “All Together Now” countdown, here’s your chance to introduce your favorite song on air. Please submit a dedication via voice memo to beatles@siriusxm.
The Beatles ChannelAll Together Now 2024Listen on the App
Listen on the App
Tune in to hear the countdown starting May 24, the Friday of Memorial Day weekend, on The Beatles Channel (Ch. 18).
Stream the countdown in full anytime, anywhere, on the SiriusXM app.
Directions: Select 10 songs from the list below. Voting ends April 17 at 11:59pm Et.
Memorial Day weekend is a time to remember our family, friends, and loved ones. If you’d like to be a part of this year’s “All Together Now” countdown, here’s your chance to introduce your favorite song on air. Please submit a dedication via voice memo to beatles@siriusxm.
- 4/3/2024
- by Jackie Kolgraf
- SiriusXM
"I love how music can do that... pull you back to some moment in time." Searchlight Pictures has unveiled an official trailer for an indie romantic drama called The Greatest Hits, the latest film from filmmaker Ned Benson (of The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby films). Premiering today at the SXSW Film Festival in Austin before it lands on Hulu for streaming in April. Written and produced by Benson, Harriet experiences a unique connection between art and reality. She discovers that specific songs have the power to transport her back in time, driving her to relive special moments with her ex-boyfriend. Her time-traveling begins to bleed into the present when she meets someone new. Throughout the journey, she explores the mesmerizing link between music and memory, facing her with difficult decisions of whether altering the past is a choice worth making. Lucy Boynton stars with Justin H. Min, David Corenswet, Andie Ju,...
- 3/14/2024
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
Paul McCartney named several songs he considers to be the best in his catalog. Comparing two interviews from two decades, he was consistent in his choices for The Beatles’ greatest songs. Shockingly, he also picked out a notoriously bad Beatles single as a favorite.
Paul McCartney said his best songs all ‘roll out’
During a 2010 interview with The Respiratory, Paul was asked to name the most important aspect of a song. “The most important ingredient to making a song work is the magic,” he said. “You’ve got a melody, you’ve got words, but on the more successful songs, there’s a sort of magic glow that just happens and you can feel it happening. It just makes the songs sort of roll out.
“So something like ‘Yesterday,’ which I dreamed, that was the magic — the mere fact that I had the whole thing in a dream,” he added.
Paul McCartney said his best songs all ‘roll out’
During a 2010 interview with The Respiratory, Paul was asked to name the most important aspect of a song. “The most important ingredient to making a song work is the magic,” he said. “You’ve got a melody, you’ve got words, but on the more successful songs, there’s a sort of magic glow that just happens and you can feel it happening. It just makes the songs sort of roll out.
“So something like ‘Yesterday,’ which I dreamed, that was the magic — the mere fact that I had the whole thing in a dream,” he added.
- 2/28/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The Beatles‘ “Eleanor Rigby” doesn’t sound much like “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together.” Taylor Swift would probably agree. She explained the difference between her approach to songwriting and what Paul did when he penned “Eleanor Rigby.” The former Beatle revealed the melody of “Eleanor Rigby” received a lukewarm reception when he played it for another musician.
Taylor Swift said The Beatles’ ‘Eleanor Rigby’ is less personal than a lot of her music
In a 2020 article from Rolling Stone, Paul and Swift interviewed one another. Swift discussed one of Paul’s most acclaimed songs. “I also was thinking about how you write ‘Eleanor Rigby’ and go into that whole story about what all these people in this town are doing and how their lives intersect, and I hadn’t really done that in a very long time with my music,” he said. “It had always been so microscope personal.
Taylor Swift said The Beatles’ ‘Eleanor Rigby’ is less personal than a lot of her music
In a 2020 article from Rolling Stone, Paul and Swift interviewed one another. Swift discussed one of Paul’s most acclaimed songs. “I also was thinking about how you write ‘Eleanor Rigby’ and go into that whole story about what all these people in this town are doing and how their lives intersect, and I hadn’t really done that in a very long time with my music,” he said. “It had always been so microscope personal.
- 2/15/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The Beatles‘ “Eleanor Rigby” doesn’t need fixing. When Paul McCartney interviewed Taylor Swift, he said the track could have had a different lyric. He also explained how “Eleanor Rigby” drew from some of his childhood experiences. Interestingly, John Lennon shared some memories about the writing of the song that contradicted Paul’s.
Paul McCartney said a lyric from The Beatles’ ‘Eleanor Rigby’ could’ve been about the Bible
During a 2020 Rolling Stone article where Paul and Swift interviewed each other, Paul revealed that “Eleanor Rigby” was inspired by elderly ladies he knew when he was a kid. He said those women had great stories about World War II. Paul wasn’t sure how he met those women, because they weren’t part of his family, but he became friends with some of them.
“Back to ‘Eleanor Rigby,’ so I would think of her and think of what she’s...
Paul McCartney said a lyric from The Beatles’ ‘Eleanor Rigby’ could’ve been about the Bible
During a 2020 Rolling Stone article where Paul and Swift interviewed each other, Paul revealed that “Eleanor Rigby” was inspired by elderly ladies he knew when he was a kid. He said those women had great stories about World War II. Paul wasn’t sure how he met those women, because they weren’t part of his family, but he became friends with some of them.
“Back to ‘Eleanor Rigby,’ so I would think of her and think of what she’s...
- 2/14/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The SXSW Film Festival announced today 50 new films, Xr projects and television programs that complete the 2024 SXSW Film & TV Festival lineup. Among the world premieres are the latest from The Voyeurs director Michael Mohan, who reunites with star Sydney Sweeney in Immaculate; Dev Patel’s action thriller Monkey Man; Alice Lowe’s followup to her Prevenge, Timestalker; and a new film from The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby director Ned Benson, The Greatest Hits. Festival favorites traveling from Park City to Austin include Didi, Black Box Diaries, Love Machina, Ghostlight and I Saw the TV Glow. Of particular interest to […]
The post SXSW Announces 50 New Projects for Its 2024 Program, Including Films from Michael Mohan, Nicole Riegel and Alice Lowe first appeared on Filmmaker Magazine.
The post SXSW Announces 50 New Projects for Its 2024 Program, Including Films from Michael Mohan, Nicole Riegel and Alice Lowe first appeared on Filmmaker Magazine.
- 2/7/2024
- by Scott Macaulay
- Filmmaker Magazine-Director Interviews
The SXSW Film Festival announced today 50 new films, Xr projects and television programs that complete the 2024 SXSW Film & TV Festival lineup. Among the world premieres are the latest from The Voyeurs director Michael Mohan, who reunites with star Sydney Sweeney in Immaculate; Dev Patel’s action thriller Monkey Man; Alice Lowe’s followup to her Prevenge, Timestalker; and a new film from The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby director Ned Benson, The Greatest Hits. Festival favorites traveling from Park City to Austin include Didi, Black Box Diaries, Love Machina, Ghostlight and I Saw the TV Glow. Of particular interest to […]
The post SXSW Announces 50 New Projects for Its 2024 Program, Including Films from Michael Mohan, Nicole Riegel and Alice Lowe first appeared on Filmmaker Magazine.
The post SXSW Announces 50 New Projects for Its 2024 Program, Including Films from Michael Mohan, Nicole Riegel and Alice Lowe first appeared on Filmmaker Magazine.
- 2/7/2024
- by Scott Macaulay
- Filmmaker Magazine - Blog
Horror movie star Vincent Price and classic rock god Paul McCartney were two very different types of celebrities in the 1960s. However, Paul showed up on the set of one of Price’s movies for personal reasons. The director of the movie had no idea who The Beatles were!
Paul McCartney was on the set of 1 of Vincent Price movie based on an Edgar Allan Poe story
From 1963 to 1968, Paul dated actor Jane Asher. Among horror fans, Asher is most known for her role in the classic The Masque of the Red Death, an adaptation of Edgar Allan Poe’s short story of the same name. In the film. Price plays Prince Prospero, a wealthy Satanist living in a secluded castle while a disease called the Red Death ravages his country. Asher played Francesca, a Christian peasant whom he kidnaps.
The film was directed by B-movie king Roger Corman. In a 2021 interview with The Guardian,...
Paul McCartney was on the set of 1 of Vincent Price movie based on an Edgar Allan Poe story
From 1963 to 1968, Paul dated actor Jane Asher. Among horror fans, Asher is most known for her role in the classic The Masque of the Red Death, an adaptation of Edgar Allan Poe’s short story of the same name. In the film. Price plays Prince Prospero, a wealthy Satanist living in a secluded castle while a disease called the Red Death ravages his country. Asher played Francesca, a Christian peasant whom he kidnaps.
The film was directed by B-movie king Roger Corman. In a 2021 interview with The Guardian,...
- 2/2/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Paul McCartney and John Lennon put so much extra work into their music sometimes that it’s remarkable. For example, they once turned the handwritten lyrics of a song from The Beatles’ Rubber Soul into a work of art. The piece soon fell into the possession of a famous musician.
Paul McCartney got high and made colorful art inspired by The Beatles’ ‘Rubber Soul’
On the surface, The Beatles’ “The Word” isn’t much of a psychedelic song. It has more in common with the Motown music of the 1960s than Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band. Despite this, “The Word” has hippie vibes. It proclaims the importance of love, which The Beatles would later do in their most popular psychedelic song, “All You Need Is Love.” “The Word” also paved the way for John’s high-minded solo songs like “Imagine” and “Happy Xmas (War Is Over).”
In the...
Paul McCartney got high and made colorful art inspired by The Beatles’ ‘Rubber Soul’
On the surface, The Beatles’ “The Word” isn’t much of a psychedelic song. It has more in common with the Motown music of the 1960s than Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band. Despite this, “The Word” has hippie vibes. It proclaims the importance of love, which The Beatles would later do in their most popular psychedelic song, “All You Need Is Love.” “The Word” also paved the way for John’s high-minded solo songs like “Imagine” and “Happy Xmas (War Is Over).”
In the...
- 2/1/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The Beatles‘ Yellow Submarine is often cited as a classic children’s film. Despite that, Ringo said kids hated some of his character’s actions in the film. He also revealed that he felt more joy being in movies than the other members of the Fab Four. Regardless, the soundtrack of Yellow Submarine became a massive hit.
Ringo Starr said the Sea of Holes scene in The Beatles’ ‘Yellow Submarine’ upset kids
During a 1981 interview with Rolling Stone, Ringo discussed the way he was portrayed in The Beatles’ movies. “I sort of became the one who always got into trouble,” he said. “You know, kids never forgave me for pressing the button that shot me out into the Sea of Holes in Yellow Submarine.”
In Yellow Submarine, the Sea of Holes in an endless series of black holes. It’s one of the eerier settings of a bright, family-friendly film.
Ringo Starr said the Sea of Holes scene in The Beatles’ ‘Yellow Submarine’ upset kids
During a 1981 interview with Rolling Stone, Ringo discussed the way he was portrayed in The Beatles’ movies. “I sort of became the one who always got into trouble,” he said. “You know, kids never forgave me for pressing the button that shot me out into the Sea of Holes in Yellow Submarine.”
In Yellow Submarine, the Sea of Holes in an endless series of black holes. It’s one of the eerier settings of a bright, family-friendly film.
- 12/4/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Ringo Starr‘s wife, Barbara Bach, was not a huge music fan. She revealed she preferred two iconic soul singers to The Beatles. One of those soul singers put out a fantastic cover of a Fab Four ballad. Her rendition of the song became a pop hit in the United States.
Ringo Starr’s wife admitted she ‘knew very little about The Beatles’
Bach is an actor most known for appearing in the James Bond film The Spy Who Loved Me. During a 1981 interview with Rolling Stone, Bach discussed her feelings about Ringo. “To me, Ringo is definitely Richie,” she said. “Ringo is the public figure, and Richie is the man I live with. You see, I really knew very little about The Beatles.”
She was no Beatlemaniac. “I didn’t follow them,” she revealed. “My favorite musicians were Ray Charles and Aretha Franklin, but music just wasn’t my thing.
Ringo Starr’s wife admitted she ‘knew very little about The Beatles’
Bach is an actor most known for appearing in the James Bond film The Spy Who Loved Me. During a 1981 interview with Rolling Stone, Bach discussed her feelings about Ringo. “To me, Ringo is definitely Richie,” she said. “Ringo is the public figure, and Richie is the man I live with. You see, I really knew very little about The Beatles.”
She was no Beatlemaniac. “I didn’t follow them,” she revealed. “My favorite musicians were Ray Charles and Aretha Franklin, but music just wasn’t my thing.
- 12/3/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The Beatles “Let It Be” has been played so much that even Paul McCartney wishes he heard it less. John Lennon made similar comments decades earlier. Regardless of their feelings, the tune became popular for several good reasons.
Paul McCartney called The Beatles’ ‘Let It Be’ their most ‘ubiquitous’ song
During a 2020 interview posted on Paul’s YouTube channel, the singer was asked to name which of The Beatles songs he heard the most. “It’s the most ubiquitous,” he said. “It sort of got everywhere. Ubiquitous from the Latin, ubi quo, meaning ‘everywhere.’ Come on, give it up.”
Interestingly, Paul’s favorite Beatles song was “You Know My Name (Look Up the Number),” the B-side of “Let It Be.” “[It’s] a zany, zany little B-side that nobody knows, but we had so much fun making it,” Paul said. “But there’s a lot of songs that I love of The Beatles.
Paul McCartney called The Beatles’ ‘Let It Be’ their most ‘ubiquitous’ song
During a 2020 interview posted on Paul’s YouTube channel, the singer was asked to name which of The Beatles songs he heard the most. “It’s the most ubiquitous,” he said. “It sort of got everywhere. Ubiquitous from the Latin, ubi quo, meaning ‘everywhere.’ Come on, give it up.”
Interestingly, Paul’s favorite Beatles song was “You Know My Name (Look Up the Number),” the B-side of “Let It Be.” “[It’s] a zany, zany little B-side that nobody knows, but we had so much fun making it,” Paul said. “But there’s a lot of songs that I love of The Beatles.
- 11/30/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Paul McCartney discussed John Lennon’s role in writing The Beatles’ “I Am the Walrus.” Some of Paul’s comments are a little questionable. Regardless, “I Am the Walrus” is one of the key tracks of John’s career.
Paul McCartney discussed the origin of the laughter from The Beatles’ ‘I Am the Walrus’
During a 2009 interview with Clash, Paul discussed his feelings about “I Am the Walrus.” “I think in a way, for instance something like ‘I Am the Walrus,’ someone like John probably doesn’t get enough credit, because those sessions, those preparatory sessions, were very important because they set the style and often gave very accurate briefs of what we wanted,” he opined.
“For instance, all of John’s ‘Everybody’s got one’ and ‘Ho ho ho, hee hee hee, ha ha ha’ [from ‘I Am the Walrus’], all that stuff was from John at a session with [The Beatles’ producer] George Martin, a preparation session,...
Paul McCartney discussed the origin of the laughter from The Beatles’ ‘I Am the Walrus’
During a 2009 interview with Clash, Paul discussed his feelings about “I Am the Walrus.” “I think in a way, for instance something like ‘I Am the Walrus,’ someone like John probably doesn’t get enough credit, because those sessions, those preparatory sessions, were very important because they set the style and often gave very accurate briefs of what we wanted,” he opined.
“For instance, all of John’s ‘Everybody’s got one’ and ‘Ho ho ho, hee hee hee, ha ha ha’ [from ‘I Am the Walrus’], all that stuff was from John at a session with [The Beatles’ producer] George Martin, a preparation session,...
- 11/29/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Contrary to some reports, The Beatles‘ “Now and Then” was not created using artificial intelligence. A producer discussed how tidbits of The Beatles’ “Eleanor Rigby” and other songs were used to finish “Now and Then.” Shockingly, “Now and Then” isn’t much of a hit in the United States so far and “Eleanor Rigby” missed the top 10.
The Beatles’ ‘Now and Then’ includes bits of ‘Eleanor Rigby’ and ‘Because’
Giles Martin is the son of Beatles producer George Martin. Giles worked on a number of Beatles projects, including the album Love, which features the music of the Fab Four Cirque du Soleil show Love. He also helped produce The Beatles’ “Now and Then.” During a 2023 interview with Variety, Giles discussed the reported use of AI to create “Now and Then.”
“It’s not artificial or intelligent,” he said. “No, it’s the same process that I used … in Love. And Paul was nervous about this,...
The Beatles’ ‘Now and Then’ includes bits of ‘Eleanor Rigby’ and ‘Because’
Giles Martin is the son of Beatles producer George Martin. Giles worked on a number of Beatles projects, including the album Love, which features the music of the Fab Four Cirque du Soleil show Love. He also helped produce The Beatles’ “Now and Then.” During a 2023 interview with Variety, Giles discussed the reported use of AI to create “Now and Then.”
“It’s not artificial or intelligent,” he said. “No, it’s the same process that I used … in Love. And Paul was nervous about this,...
- 11/14/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The Beatles have shared the music video for their newly released final song, “Now and Then.” The visual was helmed by Academy Award-winning director Peter Jackson, whose work on the 2021 Beatles documentary, Get Back, was the genesis for “Now and Then” finally being completed.
As previously reported, “Now and Then” originally began as a home demo of John Lennon’s, which was then worked on by the other three Beatles in the mid-1990s, during the same period that they made their only other post-breakup songs, “Free as a Bird” and “Real Love.” At the time, though, a loud hum in Lennon’s original recording rendered the demo essentially unusable, and though an effort was made to flesh the song out, it was ultimately abandoned.
However, in 2021, while working on Get Back, Jackson and his team utilized WingNut Films’ Mal audio AI technology to separate and isolate tracks that they...
As previously reported, “Now and Then” originally began as a home demo of John Lennon’s, which was then worked on by the other three Beatles in the mid-1990s, during the same period that they made their only other post-breakup songs, “Free as a Bird” and “Real Love.” At the time, though, a loud hum in Lennon’s original recording rendered the demo essentially unusable, and though an effort was made to flesh the song out, it was ultimately abandoned.
However, in 2021, while working on Get Back, Jackson and his team utilized WingNut Films’ Mal audio AI technology to separate and isolate tracks that they...
- 11/3/2023
- by Scoop Harrison
- Consequence - Music
“Now and Then,” the final song made by all four members of The Beatles, has arrived in its completed form. Stream it below. Update: Watch Peter Jackson’s music video for the song.
The song began as a John Lennon-penned demo recording, made in 1979 and shared with the other Beatles in the mid-‘90s by Yoko Ono. At the time, the remaining band members — Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, and George Harrison — attempted to finish the song with production help from Jeff Lynne, but ultimately scrapped the project due to a loud hum on Lennon’s original recording which made it essentially impossible to use. Though the song held a special place in McCartney’s heart — in part because the last words Lennon said to him in person were “Think about me every now and then, old friend” — it was shelved.
Fast forward to the beginning of this decade, when...
The song began as a John Lennon-penned demo recording, made in 1979 and shared with the other Beatles in the mid-‘90s by Yoko Ono. At the time, the remaining band members — Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, and George Harrison — attempted to finish the song with production help from Jeff Lynne, but ultimately scrapped the project due to a loud hum on Lennon’s original recording which made it essentially impossible to use. Though the song held a special place in McCartney’s heart — in part because the last words Lennon said to him in person were “Think about me every now and then, old friend” — it was shelved.
Fast forward to the beginning of this decade, when...
- 11/2/2023
- by Jo Vito
- Consequence - Music
In 2006, a pay-per-view séance aimed to contact John Lennon’s ghost. The producers had previously — and unsuccessfully — attempted to make contact with Princess Diana in 2003. This time, they hoped to strike gold with one of the world’s most famous musicians, much to the irritation of those who knew him. While Yoko Ono declined to comment on the special, her longtime spokesperson, Elliot Mintz, railed against it. His opinion fell in line with that of many Beatles fans.
A documentary about John Lennon’s ghost irritated those close to him
In 2006, Paul Sharratt of Starcast Productions planned to bring cameras to various Lennon-related sites in an attempt to make contact with his ghost.
“People say this is disgusting and I accept that criticism,” Sharratt said, per the LA Times. “But we’re making a serious attempt to do something that many, many millions of people around the world think...
A documentary about John Lennon’s ghost irritated those close to him
In 2006, Paul Sharratt of Starcast Productions planned to bring cameras to various Lennon-related sites in an attempt to make contact with his ghost.
“People say this is disgusting and I accept that criticism,” Sharratt said, per the LA Times. “But we’re making a serious attempt to do something that many, many millions of people around the world think...
- 10/30/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Because the band’s influence extends beyond music, The Beatles‘ Yellow Submarine influenced a portrayal of the Joker from the Batman franchise. An actor drew inspiration from a Yellow Submarine character to play the Clown Prince of Crime. Interestingly, the song “Yellow Submarine” became a hit multiple times in the United Kingdom.
Mark Hamill said his version of the Joker was inspired by The Beatles’ ‘Yellow Submarine’
Mark Hamill is most known for portraying Luke Skywalker, the hero at the heart of the Star Wars franchise. His second most famous role is the Joker in Batman: The Animated Series. During a 2021 interview with ComicBook, Hamill discussed landing the latter role.
“I remember when I auditioned for the Joker, I wasn’t able to see any of the episodes, I wasn’t able to read the script, it was like a three- or four-page audition scene, but they had one, black-and-white drawing of the Joker,...
Mark Hamill said his version of the Joker was inspired by The Beatles’ ‘Yellow Submarine’
Mark Hamill is most known for portraying Luke Skywalker, the hero at the heart of the Star Wars franchise. His second most famous role is the Joker in Batman: The Animated Series. During a 2021 interview with ComicBook, Hamill discussed landing the latter role.
“I remember when I auditioned for the Joker, I wasn’t able to see any of the episodes, I wasn’t able to read the script, it was like a three- or four-page audition scene, but they had one, black-and-white drawing of the Joker,...
- 10/29/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
From digital photography in “Zodiac” to de-aging in “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,” David Fincher has always been quick to embrace new filmmaking technologies. But when it comes to the AI revolution that threatens to disrupt Hollywood, the director is taking a wait-and-see approach.
In a new interview with British GQ, Fincher shared his thoughts on the creative potential of AI. While he’s less concerned about the technology than some of his peers, he explained that he believes art needs a human touch to be truly great.
“I think AI’s a really powerful tool,” Fincher said. “And for my money, I have not heard an AI Beatles song that compares to ‘Eleanor Rigby.’ So until somebody plays an AI song that knocks me out… maybe that’s just where we’re at now, and I may be eating my words in a year, but I think ultimately,...
In a new interview with British GQ, Fincher shared his thoughts on the creative potential of AI. While he’s less concerned about the technology than some of his peers, he explained that he believes art needs a human touch to be truly great.
“I think AI’s a really powerful tool,” Fincher said. “And for my money, I have not heard an AI Beatles song that compares to ‘Eleanor Rigby.’ So until somebody plays an AI song that knocks me out… maybe that’s just where we’re at now, and I may be eating my words in a year, but I think ultimately,...
- 10/28/2023
- by Christian Zilko
- Indiewire
In a new interview with GQ Magazine UK ahead of the release of his latest directorial effort “The Killer,” David Fincher expressed a bit of relief over his “World War Z” sequel never getting off the ground. Why? He revealed the sequel’s storyline was a bit too similar to HBO’s wildly popular, apocalyptic video game adaptation.
“Well, it was a little like ‘The Last of Us,'” Fincher said when the “World War Z” sequel was mentioned. “I’m glad that we didn’t do what we were doing, because ‘The Last of Us’ has a lot more real estate to explore the same stuff. In our title sequence, we were going to use the little parasite … they used it in their title sequence, and in that wonderful opening with the Dick Cavett, David Frost-style talk show.”
The original “World War Z” movie was inspired by Max...
“Well, it was a little like ‘The Last of Us,'” Fincher said when the “World War Z” sequel was mentioned. “I’m glad that we didn’t do what we were doing, because ‘The Last of Us’ has a lot more real estate to explore the same stuff. In our title sequence, we were going to use the little parasite … they used it in their title sequence, and in that wonderful opening with the Dick Cavett, David Frost-style talk show.”
The original “World War Z” movie was inspired by Max...
- 10/25/2023
- by Zack Sharf
- Variety Film + TV
Paul McCartney and Taylor Swift are among their respective generations’ most famous and successful musicians. McCartney has spoken highly of Swift’s songwriting, and she grew up with his music. When they had a chance to sit down together for a conversation, they spoke in depth about music. Swift also took the opportunity to be a fan. She asked McCartney for a favor that she will cherish forever.
Paul McCartney gave Taylor Swift a simple gift she will always cherish
While Swift and McCartney have met multiple times over the years, they had one of their most in-depth conversations for Rolling Stone’s Musicians on Musicians series. They met in Oct. 2020, giving them a rare reprieve from isolation during the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic. Swift was thrilled about the opportunity.
“I mostly work from home these days,” she wrote for the magazine, “and today feels like a rare school field trip...
Paul McCartney gave Taylor Swift a simple gift she will always cherish
While Swift and McCartney have met multiple times over the years, they had one of their most in-depth conversations for Rolling Stone’s Musicians on Musicians series. They met in Oct. 2020, giving them a rare reprieve from isolation during the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic. Swift was thrilled about the opportunity.
“I mostly work from home these days,” she wrote for the magazine, “and today feels like a rare school field trip...
- 10/22/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Paul McCartney purchased a Scottish farm in the 1960s and, with his wife Linda McCartney, began raising sheep. He loves living there and, as an animal lover, enjoys tending to his animals. Despite this, he shared why it’s always a bit embarrassing to bring somebody new on a tour of the farm. They always comment on the state of his sheep because of a relatively unusual trait.
Paul McCartney shared why it’s a little embarrassing when people see his sheep
In the years since The Beatles broke up, McCartney has spent a great deal of time at his farm on the Kintyre peninsula. He enjoys putting work into the farm, as it’s different from anything else he does.
“These were the kind of things I’d never done in my life, so it was liberating,” he said on the iHeartPodcast McCartney: A Life in Lyrics.
Linda and...
Paul McCartney shared why it’s a little embarrassing when people see his sheep
In the years since The Beatles broke up, McCartney has spent a great deal of time at his farm on the Kintyre peninsula. He enjoys putting work into the farm, as it’s different from anything else he does.
“These were the kind of things I’d never done in my life, so it was liberating,” he said on the iHeartPodcast McCartney: A Life in Lyrics.
Linda and...
- 10/18/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Paul McCartney was one of the closest people to John Lennon in his lifetime. The two met as teenagers and went on to write some of the world’s most successful and enduring songs together. While they were opposites in many ways, they got along, at least early in their time with The Beatles. McCartney understood that Lennon had many walls up, and he could break through to him.
Paul McCartney said John Lennon tried to protect his true personality
When McCartney met Lennon, he found him intimidating. Lennon got into fights, was loud and aggressive, and dressed in a way that concerned parents.
“I would see him from afar, from the bus,” McCartney said in The Beatles Anthology. “This Ted would get on the bus, and I wouldn’t look at him too hard in case he hit me, because he was just that much older. This was before I got to know him.
Paul McCartney said John Lennon tried to protect his true personality
When McCartney met Lennon, he found him intimidating. Lennon got into fights, was loud and aggressive, and dressed in a way that concerned parents.
“I would see him from afar, from the bus,” McCartney said in The Beatles Anthology. “This Ted would get on the bus, and I wouldn’t look at him too hard in case he hit me, because he was just that much older. This was before I got to know him.
- 10/17/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
John Lennon and Paul McCartney were close confidantes, but one of the most important people in the former’s life was Stuart Sutcliffe. Lennon and Sutcliffe met as students at art college and quickly grew close. Even years after Sutcliffe’s death, Lennon spoke about him often. Lennon loved Sutcliffe and valued his friendship, but he also viewed him as a rival.
John Lennon saw his close friend Stuart Sutcliffe as a rival
Lennon and Sutcliffe were outwardly different — Lennon was loud and constantly getting in trouble, whereas Sutcliffe was a dedicated student. Still, their personalities were similar, and they got along well. Lennon viewed Sutcliffe as a brother, but he could never bring himself to tell him.
“They had similar outlooks on life, and attitudes,” Sutcliffe’s girlfriend Astrid Kirchherr said in the book Lennon: The Definitive Biography by Ray Coleman. “John really loved Stuart, in the best sense,...
John Lennon saw his close friend Stuart Sutcliffe as a rival
Lennon and Sutcliffe were outwardly different — Lennon was loud and constantly getting in trouble, whereas Sutcliffe was a dedicated student. Still, their personalities were similar, and they got along well. Lennon viewed Sutcliffe as a brother, but he could never bring himself to tell him.
“They had similar outlooks on life, and attitudes,” Sutcliffe’s girlfriend Astrid Kirchherr said in the book Lennon: The Definitive Biography by Ray Coleman. “John really loved Stuart, in the best sense,...
- 10/16/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Though Stuart Sutcliffe was only briefly a Beatle, he made a lasting impact on John Lennon. The two met in school and quickly became close friends. This may have come as a surprise to their peers, as Lennon and Sutcliffe were opposites. According to Cynthia Lennon, the musician’s first wife, the relationship was good for Lennon, though. Sutcliffe helped soften some of his sharper edges.
Stuart Sutcliffe had a calming effect on John Lennon
When Lennon started art college, he immediately began clashing with teachers and other students. Even his clothing stood out from the other students. According to Cynthia, he always felt he had to be on the defensive. This meant frequently getting into fights and frustrating the faculty.
“All the changes in dress, and particularly that teddy boy period, were a throwback to his younger days,” Cynthia explained. “At Dovedale and Quarry Bank, he told me he...
Stuart Sutcliffe had a calming effect on John Lennon
When Lennon started art college, he immediately began clashing with teachers and other students. Even his clothing stood out from the other students. According to Cynthia, he always felt he had to be on the defensive. This meant frequently getting into fights and frustrating the faculty.
“All the changes in dress, and particularly that teddy boy period, were a throwback to his younger days,” Cynthia explained. “At Dovedale and Quarry Bank, he told me he...
- 10/15/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The son of a famous producer found a demo of The Beatles‘ “Yellow Submarine” with John Lennon singing the lead vocal. The demo includes some morose lyrics. Ringo Starr revealed that other members of the band decided to “liven up” the song before they had him sing it.
Producer George Martin’s son compared The Beatles’ ‘Yellow Submarine’ demo to gold
In 2022, USA Today reported John moped a lot in a demo of The Beatles’ “Yellow Submarine.” In the demo, he sangs lines like “In the place where I was born, no one cared, no one cared,” “and the name that I was born, no one cared,” and “in the town where I come from, no one cared.”
Giles Martin, son of Fab Four producer George Martin, discussed the demo. “I had no idea it existed,” he said. “It was a complete discovery and I was surprised. One of the...
Producer George Martin’s son compared The Beatles’ ‘Yellow Submarine’ demo to gold
In 2022, USA Today reported John moped a lot in a demo of The Beatles’ “Yellow Submarine.” In the demo, he sangs lines like “In the place where I was born, no one cared, no one cared,” “and the name that I was born, no one cared,” and “in the town where I come from, no one cared.”
Giles Martin, son of Fab Four producer George Martin, discussed the demo. “I had no idea it existed,” he said. “It was a complete discovery and I was surprised. One of the...
- 10/14/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
John Lennon was critical of many musicians, but he also had idols who influenced him throughout his career. One of these people was Jerry Lee Lewis. Lennon had admired him since childhood and thought of him as an early inspiration. When he was famous himself, Lennon had the opportunity to meet Lewis. He immediately made it clear that he adored the musician.
John Lennon was thrilled to meet his idol after a concert
In Lennon’s “lost weekend,” a period of time when he was separated from Yoko Ono, he attended one of Lewis’ concerts. During this time, Lennon drank often, which typically made him argumentative and unpleasant. At Lewis’ show, however, he showed a different side of himself.
“I had only three childhood idols, Elvis, Carl Perkins, and Jerry Lee, and I haven’t seen any live,” he told a friend, per the book Lennon: The Definitive Biography by Ray Coleman.
John Lennon was thrilled to meet his idol after a concert
In Lennon’s “lost weekend,” a period of time when he was separated from Yoko Ono, he attended one of Lewis’ concerts. During this time, Lennon drank often, which typically made him argumentative and unpleasant. At Lewis’ show, however, he showed a different side of himself.
“I had only three childhood idols, Elvis, Carl Perkins, and Jerry Lee, and I haven’t seen any live,” he told a friend, per the book Lennon: The Definitive Biography by Ray Coleman.
- 10/13/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Julian Lennon was the first Beatles child and the inspiration for several songs, including “Hey Jude.” Paul McCartney wrote the song for him in the midst of John Lennon’s tumultuous divorce from Cynthia Lennon. “Hey Jude” is a classic Beatles song. While Julian says he likes it, it also reminds him of a dark period in his family’s history.
Julian Lennon said ‘Hey Jude’ brings up bad memories
Not long after Lennon told Cynthia he’d cheated on her multiple times and insisted he wanted to make their marriage work, she came home to find him sitting in a bathrobe with Yoko Ono. This was a fatal blow to their marriage, and they divorced. The split devastated Cynthia and put a great deal of distance between the three-year-old Julian and his father.
McCartney was the only Beatle who stayed in contact with Cynthia after the divorce. He decided...
Julian Lennon said ‘Hey Jude’ brings up bad memories
Not long after Lennon told Cynthia he’d cheated on her multiple times and insisted he wanted to make their marriage work, she came home to find him sitting in a bathrobe with Yoko Ono. This was a fatal blow to their marriage, and they divorced. The split devastated Cynthia and put a great deal of distance between the three-year-old Julian and his father.
McCartney was the only Beatle who stayed in contact with Cynthia after the divorce. He decided...
- 10/11/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Five years after John Lennon’s death, his family members could hardly believe a television program about his life. While some of his family members had problems with him in his life, they all agreed that the program John Lennon: A Journey in the Life did not capture him well. Here are the problems they had with the film.
John Lennon’s family was not happy about a program about his life
In 1985, the documentary John Lennon: A Journey in the Life aired. Per TV Guide, the film relied on interviews and documentary footage as well as dramatizations.
“In December 1985, in its Everyman series, BBC Television transmitted John Lennon: A Journey in the Life,” Ray Coleman wrote in his book Lennon: The Definitive Biography. “The role of John was taken by Bernard Hill, to whom Lennon had sent a good luck telegram when Hill had starred in an excellent London stage production called John,...
John Lennon’s family was not happy about a program about his life
In 1985, the documentary John Lennon: A Journey in the Life aired. Per TV Guide, the film relied on interviews and documentary footage as well as dramatizations.
“In December 1985, in its Everyman series, BBC Television transmitted John Lennon: A Journey in the Life,” Ray Coleman wrote in his book Lennon: The Definitive Biography. “The role of John was taken by Bernard Hill, to whom Lennon had sent a good luck telegram when Hill had starred in an excellent London stage production called John,...
- 10/10/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
While many musicians practice diplomacy when speaking about their peers’ work, John Lennon never hesitated to call out a song he didn’t like. One of these songs was “We Love You” by The Rolling Stones. The band was one of The Beatles’ biggest competitors in the 1960s, and rumors frequently circulated about a rivalry between the two groups. Lennon publicly rolled his eyes at “We Love You” without mentioning that his voice was on the track.
John Lennon didn’t like a song, but he sang vocals on it
After The Beatles broke up, Lennon began airing many of his grievances from the 1960s in the press. One of his major problems was with The Rolling Stones. Lennon felt they knocked off The Beatles’ music, particularly with albums like Their Satanic Majesties Request.
“I was always very respectful about Mick [Jagger] and the Stones, but he said a lot of...
John Lennon didn’t like a song, but he sang vocals on it
After The Beatles broke up, Lennon began airing many of his grievances from the 1960s in the press. One of his major problems was with The Rolling Stones. Lennon felt they knocked off The Beatles’ music, particularly with albums like Their Satanic Majesties Request.
“I was always very respectful about Mick [Jagger] and the Stones, but he said a lot of...
- 10/4/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The Rolling Stones were another massively popular band to come out of England in the 1960s, so The Beatles’ John Lennon spent a good deal of time around them. While he liked the band members, he had some problems with their music. He believed they were, in some ways, knock-offs of The Beatles. He didn’t think their music was strong enough to survive the fan reaction to Mick Jagger’s wedding.
John Lennon thought The Rolling Stones’ success relied on Mick Jagger’s relationship status
Early in The Beatles’ career, Lennon married his girlfriend Cynthia. For a while, he kept the relationship quiet because of the concern that fans would turn on the band if they found out Lennon was taken. Ultimately, though, the news leaked out, and The Beatles didn’t suffer a hit to their popularity.
“I don’t think the two of us being married has...
John Lennon thought The Rolling Stones’ success relied on Mick Jagger’s relationship status
Early in The Beatles’ career, Lennon married his girlfriend Cynthia. For a while, he kept the relationship quiet because of the concern that fans would turn on the band if they found out Lennon was taken. Ultimately, though, the news leaked out, and The Beatles didn’t suffer a hit to their popularity.
“I don’t think the two of us being married has...
- 10/3/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
After The Beatles broke up, Paul McCartney got used to reading John Lennon’s negative comments about the band in the press. He attacked their music, his former bandmates’ solo projects, and, often, McCartney’s personality. While the group was still together, though, any negative comments made by Lennon had the potential to hurt them. When McCartney read some of Lennon’s remarks about Apple Records, he lashed out at the journalist who recorded them.
Paul McCartney wasn’t happy about comments John Lennon made
In 1969, Lennon had already grown tired of The Beatles’ Apple Records, which they founded in 1968. He believed the company was rapidly losing the band money and needed to undergo serious changes. He told all this to journalist Ray Coleman.
“You can’t offer facilities to poets and charities and filmmakers unless you have money definitely coming in,” he said, per Coleman’s book Lennon: The Definitive Biography.
Paul McCartney wasn’t happy about comments John Lennon made
In 1969, Lennon had already grown tired of The Beatles’ Apple Records, which they founded in 1968. He believed the company was rapidly losing the band money and needed to undergo serious changes. He told all this to journalist Ray Coleman.
“You can’t offer facilities to poets and charities and filmmakers unless you have money definitely coming in,” he said, per Coleman’s book Lennon: The Definitive Biography.
- 9/29/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
John Lennon and his dad, Fred Lennon, had a fraught relationship for most of Lennon’s life. They went for years without speaking, and their first reunion after years apart was tense and uncomfortable. After a particularly bitter fight, Fred even believed Lennon was making plans to murder him. Despite this level of animosity, Lennon made amends with his father before his death.
John Lennon and his dad reconciled in 1976
After reuniting in the mid-1960s, Lennon and Fred fell out of contact again in 1970. Lennon had recently undergone primal scream therapy. When Fred arrived at his party, Lennon confronted him about the issues that had come up during therapy, Fred’s abandonment chief among them.
“As his voice tailed off, his rage seemed to change to anguish and for one moment I thought he might even begin to cry,” Fred’s wife Pauline wrote, per the book Lennon: The Definitive Biography by Ray Coleman.
John Lennon and his dad reconciled in 1976
After reuniting in the mid-1960s, Lennon and Fred fell out of contact again in 1970. Lennon had recently undergone primal scream therapy. When Fred arrived at his party, Lennon confronted him about the issues that had come up during therapy, Fred’s abandonment chief among them.
“As his voice tailed off, his rage seemed to change to anguish and for one moment I thought he might even begin to cry,” Fred’s wife Pauline wrote, per the book Lennon: The Definitive Biography by Ray Coleman.
- 9/28/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
John Lennon made his name as a musician, but a friend said that he had early aspirations of success as an actor. Lennon realized this dream to some extent; he acted in films with The Beatles and took a handful of minor roles in other films. At no point did it seem that acting was his primary interest. According to a musician friend, though, Lennon dreamed of becoming an actor.
John Lennon had dreams of becoming an actor
In the early 1960s, Lennon met Cilla Black, another musician managed by The Beatles’ Brian Epstein. According to Black, Lennon had dreams of being an actor, even as The Beatles were rising to success.
“He talked about his songs, but the memory which stands out is the way he admitted he longed to become a famous actor one day,” Black said in the book Lennon: The Definitive Biography by Ray Coleman.
This may seem surprising,...
John Lennon had dreams of becoming an actor
In the early 1960s, Lennon met Cilla Black, another musician managed by The Beatles’ Brian Epstein. According to Black, Lennon had dreams of being an actor, even as The Beatles were rising to success.
“He talked about his songs, but the memory which stands out is the way he admitted he longed to become a famous actor one day,” Black said in the book Lennon: The Definitive Biography by Ray Coleman.
This may seem surprising,...
- 9/25/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Cilla Black landed The Beatles’ Brian Epstein as her manager after urging from John Lennon. He believed she was a talented artist and championed her to Epstein. Before this, Lennon scared Black to a point where she dreaded being alone with him. She once admitted this to him. Here’s how Lennon reacted.
Cilla Black was initially scared of John Lennon
Black first encountered The Beatles at Liverpool’s Cavern Club. She was a singer, and Lennon invited her to join the band onstage.
“I played truant from Anfield Commercial College to see the Beatles at lunchtime sessions,” she said, per the book Lennon: The Definitive Biography by Ray Coleman. “At that time I was singing with some of the local bands, billed as ‘Swingin’ Cilla,’ on a semi-professional basis. But this was the first time I had my chance to sing with the Beatles.”
Pattie Boyd, George Harrison, Cilla Black,...
Cilla Black was initially scared of John Lennon
Black first encountered The Beatles at Liverpool’s Cavern Club. She was a singer, and Lennon invited her to join the band onstage.
“I played truant from Anfield Commercial College to see the Beatles at lunchtime sessions,” she said, per the book Lennon: The Definitive Biography by Ray Coleman. “At that time I was singing with some of the local bands, billed as ‘Swingin’ Cilla,’ on a semi-professional basis. But this was the first time I had my chance to sing with the Beatles.”
Pattie Boyd, George Harrison, Cilla Black,...
- 9/23/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The Beatles were the most successful band of their time, but they still found themselves mired in financial problems. By the late 1960s, the band dealt with constant infighting, which was not helped by their money problems. After the last of three higher-ups at Apple Corps quit, the band received a warning about their finances. Stephen Maltz, an accountant and financial adviser for the band, stepped away from his position after he warned the band they were in danger.
The Beatles faced financial trouble in the late 1960s
In the 1960s, the tax laws in the United Kingdom had The Beatles paying 90% of their earnings to the government. This meant that despite the vast amount of money the band brought in, they weren’t necessarily in a good financial position. It didn’t help that their accountants began quitting in droves at the end of the decade.
One of their...
The Beatles faced financial trouble in the late 1960s
In the 1960s, the tax laws in the United Kingdom had The Beatles paying 90% of their earnings to the government. This meant that despite the vast amount of money the band brought in, they weren’t necessarily in a good financial position. It didn’t help that their accountants began quitting in droves at the end of the decade.
One of their...
- 9/22/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
John Lennon was initially a proponent of The Beatles’ Apple Records, but he eventually changed his opinion of the company. In an interview, Lennon spoke about how wasteful he found Apple. He expressed the belief that they had to entirely change their business model if they wanted to avoid going broke.
John Lennon thought The Beatles’ company, Apple Records, was a disaster
In 1968, The Beatles launched Apple Records. By 1969, Lennon began to question their business model.
“I think it’s a bit messy and it wants tightening up. We haven’t got half the money people think we have,” he said in the book Lennon: The Definitive Biography by Ray Coleman, adding, “We have enough to live on but we can’t let Apple go on like it is. We started off with loads of ideas of what we wanted to do — an umbrella for different activities. But like one or two Beatle things,...
John Lennon thought The Beatles’ company, Apple Records, was a disaster
In 1968, The Beatles launched Apple Records. By 1969, Lennon began to question their business model.
“I think it’s a bit messy and it wants tightening up. We haven’t got half the money people think we have,” he said in the book Lennon: The Definitive Biography by Ray Coleman, adding, “We have enough to live on but we can’t let Apple go on like it is. We started off with loads of ideas of what we wanted to do — an umbrella for different activities. But like one or two Beatle things,...
- 9/21/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Of all The Beatles, John Lennon had the most caustic personality. He frequently got into arguments and had little issue with speaking badly about his group or his bandmates. Because of this, Beatles press officer Tony Barrow had to be careful about the interviews he scheduled for Lennon. He knew that if he didn’t pick the right kind of reporter, Lennon might turn on them.
The Beatles’ press officer had to be careful when sending John Lennon to interviews
Barrow knew that Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr came across as charming and likable. George Harrison, while less chatty with the press, was always polite. Lennon was a different story. He could be outright rude to people he didn’t like, making Barrow worry about introducing him to strangers.
“I was sometimes nervous of what impression he would make upon third parties, rather in the same way one sent home...
The Beatles’ press officer had to be careful when sending John Lennon to interviews
Barrow knew that Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr came across as charming and likable. George Harrison, while less chatty with the press, was always polite. Lennon was a different story. He could be outright rude to people he didn’t like, making Barrow worry about introducing him to strangers.
“I was sometimes nervous of what impression he would make upon third parties, rather in the same way one sent home...
- 9/20/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
John Lennon was the first Beatle to get married, and Paul McCartney was the last. Though McCartney was in a relationship with Jane Asher for most of the 1960s, he felt their dynamic was more relaxed than it would have been if they were married. He said that Lennon also recognized this and was jealous of it.
Paul McCartney Said John Lennon was jealous of his relationship
In 1963, McCartney and Asher, a London-based actor, began dating. McCartney moved into her family’s home later that year, and they continued dating until 1968. Though McCartney and Asher lived together for most of their relationship, he felt a great deal of freedom. He continued to date around while they were together.
“Living in the Asher house gave me the base and the freedom and the independence,” McCartney said in the book Paul McCartney: Many Years From Now by Barry Miles. “That, alongside all the other things,...
Paul McCartney Said John Lennon was jealous of his relationship
In 1963, McCartney and Asher, a London-based actor, began dating. McCartney moved into her family’s home later that year, and they continued dating until 1968. Though McCartney and Asher lived together for most of their relationship, he felt a great deal of freedom. He continued to date around while they were together.
“Living in the Asher house gave me the base and the freedom and the independence,” McCartney said in the book Paul McCartney: Many Years From Now by Barry Miles. “That, alongside all the other things,...
- 9/18/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
After the early 1960s, John Lennon and Paul McCartney didn’t collaborate as closely when writing Beatles songs. Still, they gave each other their opinions and helped finish pieces. McCartney asked Lennon for help completing “Eleanor Rigby.” Lennon explained that he was hurt when his bandmate asked him to work on it.
John Lennon said Paul McCartney can’t take all the credit for ‘Eleanor Rigby’
Lennon agreed that “Eleanor Rigby” was one of McCartney’s more complex songs, but he said this was partly thanks to him.
“Ah, the first verse was his and the rest are basically mine,” Lennon said in the book All We Are Saying: The Last Major Interview With John Lennon and Yoko Ono. “But the way he did it … Well, he knew he had a song. But by that time he didn’t want to ask for my help, and we were sitting around...
John Lennon said Paul McCartney can’t take all the credit for ‘Eleanor Rigby’
Lennon agreed that “Eleanor Rigby” was one of McCartney’s more complex songs, but he said this was partly thanks to him.
“Ah, the first verse was his and the rest are basically mine,” Lennon said in the book All We Are Saying: The Last Major Interview With John Lennon and Yoko Ono. “But the way he did it … Well, he knew he had a song. But by that time he didn’t want to ask for my help, and we were sitting around...
- 9/17/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
When George Martin told Paul McCartney that they should add a double string quartet to “Eleanor Rigby,” he was wary. He didn’t necessarily want that type of sound. Eventually, though, he agreed, so long as they followed his vision for the song. This particular vision horrified the string musicians. A Beatles audio engineer shared how they reacted and how they finally achieved the finished product.
Paul McCartney had a specific vision for the strings on ‘Eleanor Rigby’
McCartney initially played “Eleanor Rigby” on the acoustic guitar. When producer George Martin suggested they get a double string quartet, McCartney hesitantly agreed. He insisted that they achieve a “really biting” sound with the strings, though. This request meant that audio engineer Geoff Emerick had to get creative in the studio.
“String quartets were traditionally recorded with just one or two microphones, placed high, several feet up in the air so that...
Paul McCartney had a specific vision for the strings on ‘Eleanor Rigby’
McCartney initially played “Eleanor Rigby” on the acoustic guitar. When producer George Martin suggested they get a double string quartet, McCartney hesitantly agreed. He insisted that they achieve a “really biting” sound with the strings, though. This request meant that audio engineer Geoff Emerick had to get creative in the studio.
“String quartets were traditionally recorded with just one or two microphones, placed high, several feet up in the air so that...
- 9/16/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
By the mid-1960s, John Lennon and Paul McCartney wrote their songs apart, but they turned to each other for help perfecting them. According to Lennon, he helped a great deal with some of McCartney’s most popular songs. He explained that while one song was McCartney’s “baby,” he helped write all but the first verse.
John Lennon said he helped Paul McCartney write most of ‘Eleanor Rigby’
McCartney began working on “Eleanor Rigby” based on the image of someone picking up rice after a wedding. He believed this was so poignant that he wanted to write a song about loneliness.
When asked about the song, Lennon said it was “Paul’s baby, and I helped with the education of the child.” By this, he meant that the song would never have grown and matured if it hadn’t been for him.
“Ah, the first verse was his and the rest are basically mine,...
John Lennon said he helped Paul McCartney write most of ‘Eleanor Rigby’
McCartney began working on “Eleanor Rigby” based on the image of someone picking up rice after a wedding. He believed this was so poignant that he wanted to write a song about loneliness.
When asked about the song, Lennon said it was “Paul’s baby, and I helped with the education of the child.” By this, he meant that the song would never have grown and matured if it hadn’t been for him.
“Ah, the first verse was his and the rest are basically mine,...
- 9/14/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Paul McCartney was saddened when John Lennon compared him to another popular singer. However, the comparison doesn’t work at all. Notably, this comparison came from John’s era of edgy trash-talking.
Paul McCartney hated John Lennon comparing him to Engelbert Humperdinck
In the 1970s, John was as known for his digs as he was for his music. For example, in the 1971 book Lennon Remembers, John criticizes all the other Beatles, Elvis Presley, Mick Jagger, Orson Welles, Frank Zappa, Judy Collins, Joan Baez, and so many others.
During a 1974 interview with Rolling Stone, Paul said he didn’t like everything John did, however, he kept his mouth shut. “I mean, he came out with all stuff like I’m like Engelbert Humperdinck,” Paul recalled. “I know he doesn’t really think that.”
Paul was asked what he thought about John’s comments. “Oh, I hated it,” he recalled. “You can imagine,...
Paul McCartney hated John Lennon comparing him to Engelbert Humperdinck
In the 1970s, John was as known for his digs as he was for his music. For example, in the 1971 book Lennon Remembers, John criticizes all the other Beatles, Elvis Presley, Mick Jagger, Orson Welles, Frank Zappa, Judy Collins, Joan Baez, and so many others.
During a 1974 interview with Rolling Stone, Paul said he didn’t like everything John did, however, he kept his mouth shut. “I mean, he came out with all stuff like I’m like Engelbert Humperdinck,” Paul recalled. “I know he doesn’t really think that.”
Paul was asked what he thought about John’s comments. “Oh, I hated it,” he recalled. “You can imagine,...
- 9/5/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Paul McCartney said The Beatles‘ “Eleanor Rigby” has a “madcap connection” to a character from Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho. Despite this, the Psycho character doesn’t actually have much in common with the protagonist of “Eleanor Rigby.” Notably, John Lennon said the hit was inspired by the music of a famous composer.
Alfred Hitchcock’s ‘Psycho’ inspired The Beatles’ ‘Eleanor Rigby’ lyrically and musically
During a 2021 interview with The New Yorker, Paul discussed the origins of The Beatles’ “Eleanor Rigby.” “It did feel like a breakthrough for me lyrically — more of a serious song,” he recalled. “[Producer] George Martin had introduced me to the string-quartet idea through ‘Yesterday.’ I’d resisted the idea at first, but when it worked I fell in love with it. So I ended up writing ‘Eleanor Rigby’ with a string component in mind. When I took the song to George, I said that, for accompaniment, I...
Alfred Hitchcock’s ‘Psycho’ inspired The Beatles’ ‘Eleanor Rigby’ lyrically and musically
During a 2021 interview with The New Yorker, Paul discussed the origins of The Beatles’ “Eleanor Rigby.” “It did feel like a breakthrough for me lyrically — more of a serious song,” he recalled. “[Producer] George Martin had introduced me to the string-quartet idea through ‘Yesterday.’ I’d resisted the idea at first, but when it worked I fell in love with it. So I ended up writing ‘Eleanor Rigby’ with a string component in mind. When I took the song to George, I said that, for accompaniment, I...
- 9/2/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
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