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CHARLIE AND FREDDIE LENNON – BOOKS & MUSIC FROM THE LENNON BROTHERS!!!

(Please Note: Some of the content of this post has appeared in a previous post on the blog)

I really loved purchasing this book by the late Scott Wheeler back in 2005. The book is about Charlie Lennon, John Lennon’s uncle, and the brother of Freddie Lennon, John’s dad.

Charlie Lennon : Uncle to a Beatle by Scott Wheeler –
2005 Outskirts Press, Incorporated

Charlie Lennon Uncle to a Beatle
Charlie Lennon Uncle to a Beatle

You can find the book at the following sources:

AMAZON US:

Charlie Lennon: Uncle To A Beatle: Wheeler, Scott: 9781598000092: Amazon.com: Books

AMAZON UK:
Charlie Lennon: Uncle To A Beatle : Wheeler, Scott: Amazon.co.uk: Books

MEETING CHARLIE

I met Charlie Lennon on the site where the Strawberry Fields orphanage once stood and we had a cup of tea together talking about the “Lennon” name living a long time as a result of his nephew’s music. He seemed very pleased with that distinct possibility. Several years later, I was shocked to see on YouTube a song that was posted with Charlie singing “The Ships of the Mersey.”

The late author of the book about Charlie shown below had recorded Charlie singing the song. Apparently, Charlie wanted to make sure that his brother Freddie did not outshine him in displaying the Lennon proclivity for exhibiting their musical aptitude.

Someone posted this Charlie Lennon song on YouTube

‘Uncle’ Charlie Lennon – Ships Of The Mersey – YouTube

The lyrics to Charlie’s song appear in the great book shown above:

Got this photo of John, Ringo, and Mal Evans, signed by Charlie Lennon. I obtained this autograph from noted UK Beatles collector Pete Nash! Based on the slant of his handwriting, Charlie must have been a leftist! LOL!

Signed by Charlie Lennon
Signed by Charlie Lennon

Julian Lennon and his great uncle, Charlie Lennon!

Freddie Lennon

John’s dad, Freddie Lennon:

Freddie Lennon
Freddie Lennon

A signed Freddie Lennon page from a Liverpool autograph book that I obtained from Omega Auctions in the UK:

Freddie Lennon Autograph
Freddie Lennon Autograph

Freddie Lennon – That’s My Life

The rare Dutch picture sleeve of Freddie Lennon singing his song that many critics saw as his attempt to capitalize on his son’s immense fame. This version is in the Dutch language which is far more rare and obscure than the English language version. Freddie actually did a lip-synched version of the song on Dutch TV. Unfortunately, no video of the performance remains! Hard to believe that both Noel Redding and Mitch Mitchell of the Jimi Hendrix Experience were both backing Freddie Lennon on this recording, but they were!!!

Tony Cartwright the co-author with Freddie on the A-side re-issued the 45 under the label Right Recordings. Here are the photos from the promotion:

Amazon had an ad for the recordings but it no longer appears to be active:

Amazon.com: That’s My Life: CDs & Vinyl

Daddy Come Home – The True Story of John Lennon and His Father

A book put together by Freddie Lennon’s 2nd wife, Pauline Lennon based on Freddie’s unpublished memoir.

Freddie’s unpublished memoir was sent to John Lennon so that he could read his father’s version of the story!

John did speak to his dad over the phone one last time before Freddie passed away from stomach cancer in 1976.

This copy was signed by Pauline Lennon whose signature is very difficult to find and was sold to me by UK collector Pete Nash! Pauline has remarried since the death of Freddie and now has a different surname.

Little is known about their two sons David and Robin Lennon who have remained reclusive about being the half-brothers to John Lennon!

Pauline Lennon’s signature:

Picked up this nice item from the UK source company called TRACKS. It is a press release for the Freddie Lennon 45 pressed by PYE records in the mid-sixties:

Page 2:

A few samples of Freddie Lennon’s musical appearances on YouTube:

English language version of Freddie’s song

That’s My Life (My Love and My Home) – YouTube

The flip side of the record:

Freddie Lennon – The Next Time You Feel Important

The ultra rare Dutch language version of Freddie’s song co-written with Tony Cartwright:

That’s My Life – Freddie Lennon – Dutch version – 1966

Like the McCartneys, it seems that music seemed to be in the blood of the Lennon family as well.

Remember, both of John’s offsprings, Julian and Sean, both continue to issue their musical offerings!

Be healthy and be happy!

Buzz

Find out more about John Lennon at the Beatles Bookstore

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THE BEATLES COVERED AND UNCOVERED

Four unique Beatles-related books that I have acquired in the relatively recent past that are wonderful reference books that deal with the following subjects:

  1. Cover versions by other artists of Beatle songs
  2. Songs that the Beatles gave away to other artists
  3. Cover versions of the solo Beatles songs
  4. And a book about both the songs the Beatles covered AND the songs they gave away

I love all four of these books, but completist collectors should also be aware that this type of book also has built in limitations due to when a new cover version of either a group song or a solo number appears. Then, the book becomes somewhat immediately outdated and in need of supplemental information sometime in the future to fill in the gaps. That does not discount the importance of the four books as being distinguished and excellent comprehensive reference works to those who enjoy researching this material and using the information to grow their own personal collections of recordings. I have thoroughly enjoyed all of these books and I can recommend them all without reservation to the Beatles book collectors out there!!!

BOOKS TO CHECK OUT- 1) COVER VERSIONS OF BEATLES SONGS, 2) SONGS THE BEATLES GAVE AWAY, 3) COVERS OF BEATLE SOLO SONGS 4) AND A BOOK BY A FORMER EMI EXECUTIVE THAT COVERS BOTH 1) AND 2)

The “Beatles” Uncovered: 1, 000, 000 Mop-top Mur… by Dave Henderson-Publisher-Black Book Company (2001) The UK edition was published by Helter Skelter Publishing in Dec. of 1995

Dave Henderson’s book about covers of the Beatles

AMAZON US:

The Beatles Uncovered: 1,000,000 Mop-Top Murders by the Fans and the Famous: Henderson, Dave: 9781902799049: Amazon.com: Books

AMAZON UK:

The “Beatles” Uncovered: 1, 000, 000 Mop-top Murders by the Fans and the Famous: Amazon.co.uk: Henderson, Dave: 9781902799049: Books

The Songs The Beatles Gave Away Hardcover – Sept 30, 2022
by Colin Hall (Author), Billy J Kramer (Foreword), Bob Harris (Preface)
Great Northern Books Ltd

Colin Hall’s wonderful book about songs the beatles gave away to other artists:

AMAZON US:

Book 9781912101450: Hall, Colin: 9781912101450: Amazon.com: Books

AMAZON UK:

The Songs The Beatles Gave Away: Amazon.co.uk: Hall, Colin, Kramer, Billy J, Harris, Bob: 9781912101450: Books

Back cover of the book:

Background info provided on the inner flaps of the book. Colin has also issued another wonderful book with Quarry Man drummer, Colin Hanton!

Colin’s signature in a bookplate provided in my copy of the title:

REAL LOVE!: 500 BEATLES ‘SOLO’ COVER VERIONS THAT YOU MUST HEAR! (The Beatles) Paperback – March 11, 2024
by Peter Checksfield (Author) Independently Published

A wonderful collection of many of the covers of solo Beatles songs- by author Peter Checksfield:

AMAZON US:

REAL LOVE!: 500 BEATLES ‘SOLO’ COVER VERSIONS THAT YOU MUST HEAR! (The Beatles): Checksfield, Peter: 9798884543829: Amazon.com: Books

AMAZON UK:

REAL LOVE!: 500 BEATLES ‘SOLO’ COVER VERSIONS THAT YOU MUST HEAR! (The Beatles) eBook : Checksfield, Peter: Amazon.co.uk: Books

Back cover of the book:

FROM ME TO YOU-Songs the Beatles Covered and Songs They Gave Away By Brian Southall, Published by Red Planet Publishing, 2014

An excellent book by a former EMI executive, Brian Southall:

AMAZON US:

From Me to You: Songs the Beatles Covered and Songs They Gave Away by Brian Southall (25-May-2014) Paperback: Brian Southall: Amazon.com: Books

AMAZON UK:

From Me to You: Songs the Beatles Covered and Songs They Gave Away : Southall, Brian: Amazon.co.uk: Books

Back cover of the book:

AND IN THE END: A VERY SPECIAL COVERS BOOK:

Only 30 copies of this wonderful independently produced book were produced. Written by author Alan Lord,

it certainly deserved a much wider mass market book release!

Back cover of the book:

Hope you enjoyed this thematic blog post!

Be healthy and be happy!

Buzz

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PAUL IS DEAD HOAX – BY ANDRU J. REEVE

Paul Is Dead Hoax
Paul Is Dead Hoax

PROLOGUE – THE PAUL IS DEAD HOAX:

With the explosion of the internet and specifically of social media, conspiracy theories in the present day flourish and thrive. However, many of us of the older generation, remember in 1969 prior to the internet, when there was an unprecedented rumor that began to circulate that Paul McCartney had perished in a car accident in 1966. The people that promoted this rumor had spent significant time in uncovering both audio and visual clues that supported their contention. The Beatles and their entourage vigorously denied the validity of the clues yet news of the rumor ran rampant across the US on hundreds of radio stations. There even was a TV program featuring the renowned criminal attorney, F. Lee Bailey, presenting the so-called clues of Paul’s demise.

Though there are some Beatles collectors and fans that scoff at the rumor of the stories of Paul’s passing, I find the stories fascinating for both historical and academic purposes. The rumor did occur and it significantly increased Beatles record sales. For academics, it also helped to highlight how rumors are created, spread, and then eventually fade. For further information about rumor dissemination, seek out articles about selective attention, selective perception and selective recall, you will see how and why rumor and conspiracy theories can be started and spread and why they may be so popular in modern society.

I never personally believed the rumor but it was a lot of fun to find additional “clues” to support or substantiate it. It was a great conversation piece with peers and a goal for many was to be the person who could find the next clue.

It was a fascinating read for me to find the first printing of the book about the Paul is Dead Rumor by author Andru J. Reeve entitled, TURN ME ON, DEAD MAN: THE COMPLETE STORY OF THE PAUL McCARTNEY DEATH HOAX back in 1994. And Now…

A New Edition of the Book: TURN ME ON DEAD MAN

Andru’s work was excellent in documenting the history of the rumor and many of the highlights designated as the clues that the Beatles had supposedly put in place to describe the tragedy are discussed in detail in his book. You will be amazed at the volume of the “clues.” Some were certainly far more credible than others. The stories that branched out from the initial rumor were also consistent with theories of conspiracy theory creation and dissemination. (one rumor can spawn many more)

Andru demonstrates how symbolism can be a factor in substantiating rumor and his documentation of the various stories surrounding the rumor are often riveting. There was some wonderful news recently sent to me by the the publishers of Genius Books & Media who will be reissuing the book with the proposed publishing date of October 17, 2025. 

The hardcover edition:

Turn Me On, Dead Man (Hardcover) – Genius Books

The Book Description:

In the fall of 1969, a strange rumor swept across college campuses, radio stations, and newspapers: Paul McCartney was dead. The story claimed he had died in a car crash three years earlier, and that the Beatles had quietly replaced him with a look-alike. To hide the truth—or to confess it—clues were said to be scattered across album covers and hidden in the grooves of their songs.

For six remarkable weeks, thousands of fans and students pored over Beatles records, playing tracks backwards and examining covers for secret messages. Radio DJs devoted hours of airtime to debating the evidence. Newspapers sent reporters overseas to track down the truth. Was McCartney alive? If so, why did the clues seem so deliberate?

Turn Me On, Dead Man explores this unique moment in pop culture history. Drawing from interviews, articles, radio transcripts, and first-hand accounts, Andru J. Reeve reconstructs how the “Paul-is-Dead” rumor spread so quickly and why it captured so many imaginations. More than a simple hoax or urban legend, it became a cultural event that blurred the line between entertainment, gossip, and conspiracy.

With careful research and a storyteller’s eye, this book revisits the late-1960s media landscape, when one mysterious phone call to a Detroit radio station could ignite a national obsession. The result is a fascinating study of rumor, belief, and the power of the Beatles at the height of their influence.

There will be a new Afterword according to the publisher.

This is the New Cover and the New Publisher:

Hardcover:

Turn Me On, Dead Man (Hardcover) – Genius Books

Genius Book Publishing

More detail on the back cover:

Would personally like to add a few observations that I would like to share with you about my own teaching experience dealing with the concept of “Rumor.”

Here are a few images that I presented in a collegiate Communication course that I taught that dealt with the concept of selective perception and rumor and how that could be demonstrated using the so called visual and audio “clues” from the Paul McCartney is Dead scuttlebut. How rumors are started, spread, and then defended by the people who believe them was discussed!

The mysterious Magical Mystery Tour banquet scene in the MMT booklet accompanying the Magical Mystery Tour album is shown below: The picture on the left which does not appear in the movie appears to be a banquet scene. Turn it sideways and people maintain they can see a skull! Do you see it? Do you see it because I told you what to expect? Do you see it at all? Am I planting the seed for what I wish you to see? All of these are valid questions when discussing selective perception and rumor and the many conspiracy theories we face in the media world we have in place in today’s world!

Sgt. Pepper´s Lonely Hearts Club Band Easter Egg – Is Paul Really Dead?

Someone looking for information to support the rumor inexplicably came up with the idea of holding a straight-edged mirror to the Sgt Pepper drum on the cover of the album. By doing so they were able to look in the mirror and see the message I ONE I (X) HE DIE with an arrow pointing up to the blue-clad, Paul. The I- ONE- I was said to represent the total of the remaining three Beatles-3. and the X was said to represent X-ing out the 4th individual out of the picture. You can see how many see this as being outlandish and far-fetched.

However if you have your mind set on believing the theory, you seek out things such as this to support the theory and you ignore things that may dispute the theory. People that supported this rumor would seek out photos of Paul where he did not conform in some way with the other Beatles like the out-of-step Paul on the Abbey Road cover photo. However, photos of the other three Beatles non-conforming would be ignored or not addressed as they would not be applicable to the rumor in question nor help to justify the rumor that the believers were trying to promulgate.

Saw this photograph on the internet of the individual holding the straight-edged mirror halfway up the center to reveal the so-called hidden message!

I especially encourage younger viewers to seek out Andru J. Reeve’s new edition of his book. You will learn a little history about the power and the influence of the band in the sixties and you will learn why conspiracy theories may be so popular in our present day world. You will see many common threads!

Here is the link if you are interested in purchasing the book!

Be prepared to learn significantly more about the concept of RUMOR in this book and to be thoroughly entertained in the process!

The Beatles – Revolution 9 (vinyl LP – first 40 seconds backwards)

The Beatles – Revolution 9 reversed

Be healthy and be happy!

Buzz

OUR BOOK OF THE WEEK AT THE BEATLES BOOKSTORE

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A NEW BEATLES HODGEPODGE POST – A TOSSED SALAD

It has been quite sometime since the last Beatles Hodgepodge post so I decided to interrupt the schedule to present another one. My apologies if any of these items have been posted before but it is impossible for me to keep track of such matters so try to bear with me. Hodgepodge posts are less thematic and usually represent a potpourri of Beatles-related print items from my personal collection! Hope you enjoy the latest one!

This is one of those rare items in the collection that I never ventured to open and it remains sealed to this day!

The cd apparently contains Beatles live appearances from both Paris and in Blackpool. The magazine was issued in 2019 and I wonder how they got the authorization to present live Beatle recordings on a cd offered with the magazine?

MUSIC LEGENDS MAGAZINE 2019 THE BEATLES +22 TRACK LIVE CDISSUE 3 (2019)

Albert Goldman

I was in the UK when this supplement was issued. The Albert Goldman book had just appeared and John’s life was being raked over the coals. It was nice to be able to read a piece that humanized the man rather than demonize him like Goldman did!

A very rare signed Hardcover edition of the book At The Apple’s Core-The Beatles From The Inside by Denis O’Dell with Bob Neaverson. According to my sources the hardcover of this book is very difficult to find!

Denis O’Dell’s signature. Denis received an acknowledgement from John Lennon in the song You Know My Name (Look Up The Number)

You Know My Name (Look Up The Number) (Remastered 2009)

A small hardcover book issued to engender support for Paul’s favorite cause, more of a vegetarian world.

TV Guide April 19, 1969 featured an article about the Beatles performance on the Apple rooftop at 3 Savile Row in London! I try to locate any Beatles-related articles in some of these older magazines. Hard to imagine Lawrence Welk and the Beatles in the same magazine though!!! LOL. Got this copy on eBay!

The mention of the Beatles in this issue of TV Guide:

As a collector it is not always clear what constitutes an official product vs. an unauthorized bootleg, especially if the item appears on such noteworthy sites like eBay. That is where I purchased this 4 cd set which has outstanding sound quality and it features old mono Beatles recordings that had separation of instruments and vocals to create stereo recordings. When I saw the ad on eBay I was entranced and decided I would take a chance to purchase it and I loved it.

This is why I encourage the Beatles company to create projects like this for the hardcore collector of Beatles product. The demand is there. Cater to the demand and then both the artist and the company come out as the winners not the bootleggers. Just my personal opinion!

Showing this item does not represent an endorsement of unauthorized product. It is just to demonstrate that these products do exist and often they are coming from respected sources. Do your research!

The flip-side if the 4-cd set:

An unusual book by author, Alan Clayson. Published by Bobcat Books in 2007. This book explores the life of John Lennon in a unique way by exploring many incidents in the subjects life with little vignettes that are ideally suited for my reading style. I like to read short stories and then return at my leisure for more reading of another story. This book is a perfect vehicle for that style of reading.

Amazon US

The Gospel According to Lennon (Sanctuary’s Gospel): Clayson, Alan: 9781860746567: Amazon.com: Books

Amazon UK

The Gospel According to Lennon (Sanctuary’s Gospel S.) : Clayson, Alan: Amazon.co.uk: Books

Back cover of the book:

Lost Beatles Archives

The late Bob Bonis, a former Beatles tour manage had a tremendous library of rare Beatles photographs that a few books were issued about. The archives who are being curated by Larry Marion and are featured in the following 2 books
Amazon US:

The Lost Beatles Photographs: The Bob Bonis Archive, 1964-1966: Marion, Larry: 9780061960789: Amazon.com: Books

Amazon UK:

The Lost Beatles Photographs: The Bob Bonis Archive, 1964-1966 : Marion, Larry: Amazon.co.uk: Books

Back cover of the book:

The Beatles in Minnesota book is a bit more difficult to find though I have recently seen copies on eBay where I purchased my copy quite some time ago and is shown below:

Publisher: Bob Bonis

Composer/Author: Marion, Larry

Catalog Number: 9780996691901

SIGNED by the Author Larry Marion

Back cover of the book:

My copy is signed by the Bob Bonis photograph curator, Larry Marion!

UK supplement cover story from 2014. I love to obtain these harder to find UK cover stories to preserve them in my personal archives.

A brief excerpt from the magazine:

  • June 2006 issue of Playboy Japan featuring The Beatles in Japan to commemorate the 40th anniversary of their visit to Japan
  • There was a special appendix of unpublished photos of the Beatles which I saw advertised for sale on eBay.
  • I purchased a copy and you can see my copy below:
  • Special appendix: unpublished Beatles photos from Japan.

Back cover of the rare photo booklet from Japan:

One sameple page from the booklet:

Another UK magazine which I love to collect the Beatles-related cover stories. This is a great interview with Paul from June 2010.

A great UK supplement about the McCartney former home at 20 Forthlin Road which is administered by the National Trust!

Brief excerpt:

One of the more obscure titles about Paul written by Christopher Sandford:

Amazon US:

McCartney: Sandford, Christopher: 9780786716142: Amazon.com: Books

Amazon UK:

McCartney: Amazon.co.uk: Sandford, Christopher: 9781844136025: Books

The author’s signature:

Since I am also interested in the people who the Beatles chose to interact with over the years, I bought the book about Robert Fraser who was associated with Paul McCartney and London’s art scene in the late 60’s. John Lennon chose to use Robert Fraser’s art gallery to present his You Are Here art show in 1968 with Yoko.

Robert Fraser (art dealer) – Wikipedia

The Art Exhibition You Are Here Monday 1 July 1968.

FROM WIKIPEDIA:

Robert Fraser (13 August 1937 – 27 January 1986), sometimes known as “Groovy Bob”, was a London art dealer. He was a figure in the London cultural scene of the mid-to-late 1960s, and was close to members of the Beatles (particularly Paul McCartney) and the Rolling Stones. In February 2015, the exhibition A Strong Sweet Smell of Incense: A Portrait of Robert Fraser, curated by Brian Clarke, was presented by Pace Gallery at the Royal Academy of Arts in London.

After a period spent working in galleries in the United States he returned to England, and with the help of his father (a wealthy financier who had also been a trustee of the Tate Gallery) established the Robert Fraser Gallery at 69 Duke Street (near Grosvenor Square), London, in 1962.[3] The gallery interior was designed by Cedric Price.

The Robert Fraser Gallery became a focal point for modern art in Britain, and through his exhibitions he helped to launch and promote the work of many important new British and American artists including Peter Blake, Clive Barker, Bridget Riley, Jann Haworth, Richard Hamilton, Gilbert and George, Eduardo Paolozzi, Andy Warhol, Harold Cohen, Jim Dine and Ed Ruscha. Fraser also sold work by René Magritte, Jean Dubuffet, Balthus and Hans Bellmer.

Fraser became a trendsetter during the Sixties; Paul McCartney has described him as “one of the most influential people of the London Sixties scene”. His London flat and his gallery were the foci of a “jet-set” salon of top pop stars, artists, writers and other celebrities, including members of the Beatles and the Rolling Stones, photographer Michael Cooper, designer Christopher Gibbs, Marianne Faithfull, Dennis Hopper (who introduced Fraser to satirist Terry Southern), William Burroughs and Kenneth Anger. Because of this, he was given the nickname “Groovy Bob” by Terry Southern.[4] His flat at 23 Mount Street, on the third floor above Scott’s restaurant, was described by Barry Miles as one of the “coolest sixties pads in London”.[5]

Fraser art-directed the cover for the Beatles’ 1967 album Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band – he dissuaded the group from using the original design, a psychedelic artwork created by the design collective The Fool, instead suggesting the pop artists Peter Blake and Jann Haworth, who created the famous collage cover design for which they each won a Grammy Award.

It was through Fraser that Richard Hamilton was selected to design the poster for the White Album. His gallery also hosted You Are Here, Lennon’s own foray into avant garde art during 1968.

YOU ARE HERE. John Lennon’s first major art show at Robert Fraser Gallery, 1 July 1968.

YOU ARE HERE. John Lennon’s first major art show at Robert Fraser Gallery, 1 July 1968.

Some of the individuals that returned their balloon that John and Yoko rleased into the air at their You are Here gallery show received a note from John along with a badge!

Vintage 1974 The Story Of Pop Magazinealso features an article about the Beatles:

Radio station KRLA produced many Beatle cover stories in their magazine. This one is from April of 1966, just before the Beatles stopped their touring years!

A wonderful book by Mike and Bernadette Byrne. They were around in the beginning seeing the Beatles perform in the Cavern and later founded the most successful Beatles exhibition in the world known as: The Beatles Story!

Mike and Bernadette have many fascinating stories about their interactions with the Beatles. You need to get this book for your collections!

Published in 2022

New Haven Publishing, The Limited

AMAZON US EDITION OF THR BOOK

The Birth of The Beatles Story: Byrne, Bernadette, Byrne, Mike: 9781912587667: Amazon.com: Books

AMAZON UK EDITION OF THE BOOK:

The Birth of The Beatles Story: Our Time with The Beatles and How We Became the Founders of the Most Successful Beatles Exhibition in the World: Amazon.co.uk: Byrne, Mike, Byrne, Bernadette: 9781912587667: Books

Front cover of the book:

Back Cover of the book:

The wonderful inscription of the book that I acquired from Mike and Bernadette Byrne:

Roaring Brook Press 2021 Hardcover By Kiara Brinkman-illustrated by Sean Chiki: A coming of age children’s book about a young girl discovering a cache of her dad’s collection of Beatles records and the impact that discovery has on the course of her life. I got a copy of the first edition hardcopy of this graphic novel depiction of the story from eBay!

I know there are many hardcore Beatles book collectors that reject this sort of book out of hand. I could not disagree more as these books truly illustrate the impact that they had on the youth all those years ago and perhaps even a little bit today….. You give me the answer to that question as there are many critics that say interest in the Beatles is on the downward slope.

Hope it is not merely wishful thinking on my part, but I do not accept that premise!

Back cover of the book:

Recently purchased this rare Beatles book from Europe/German language on eBay.

I love these independently printed obscure titles! This one is authored by Thomas Rehwagen!

Special thanks are extended by the author to several members of the Dutch magazine-Beatles Unlimited for their assistance in helping to compile this title!

Back cover of the book:

As stated so many times on this blog, I love the independently produced Beatles booklets, books and pamphlets that had a limited circulation but highlighted the intense work done by many collectors to categorize the Beatles recorded legacy. I recently picked up this title on eBay called: The Zoo Gang Tapes- a catalog of rare and unreleased Beatle recordings from 61 to 85. Put together by collector, Drew Dillard, I love these type of Beatles-related publications!!!

A sample page from the Dillard booklet:

To mark the 60th anniversary of Help, they recently issued an updated magazine of the Ultimate Music Guide for Ringo. Initially I resisted getting this after my friend Jeff Smulyan had sent me the link to it, but I eventually gave in to the temptation and got a copy.

Be healthy and be happy!

Buzz

OUR BOOK OF THE WEEK AT THE BEATLES BOOKSTORE

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BUZZ’S BEATLES SCRAPBOOK #7-TAKE A RIDE ON THE TIME MACHINE!!!

Just a reminder that these are some of my personal Beatles-related scrapbooks that I had maintained and compiled when I was much younger and before the internet exploded beginning the decline of newspapers as a forum for providing the public the news. From a number of people who knew that I collected news clippings about the Beatles along with relatives who kept an eye open for me, I collected the massive number of articles that I cut-out and put into the almost 100 scrapbooks that I made and compiled over the years. My old set of scissors was a welcome companion to me as you will see by the incredible wealth of information I was able to preserve in the scrapbooks. My biggest regret is that as a youngster, I did not see the importantance at that time to preserve all the dates to the corresponding articles and all of the sources of the information. Keep in mind my sole goal was just to preserve the info for my personal archive, never thinking that this information would be of any great interest to others. That is why I invite those who may know of a missing date of a particular newspaper article shown here as well as the respective author who may be missing associated with the article, please let me know and I will fill in the missing info and give the proper acknowledgement.

My goal with these Beatles-related scrapbooks is to share with you many of my younger memories that I was able to save for my personal archive between the covers of these time capsules. I also hope you enjoy those memories that I am sharing with you…

A confirmation from Genesis publication that the last signed and numbered copy of George Harrison’s Live in Japan book had been reserved for me…

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THE BEATLES WHITE ALBUM-THEMED ARTISTIC BOOKS FROM 2009 AND 2014

TWO BOOKS WITH AN ARTISTIC FLAIR WITH THE WHITE ALBUM THEMES:

Recently I acquired a couple of books on eBay that had previously slipped by me in my seemingly endless task of searching for interesting books about the Beatles. Maybe it is a sign of me slowing down with age as I do not recall having seen these two titles before. In any case, I was very happy to run across them on eBay. It is truly amazing to see how so many angles can be devised for book publications with the Beatles as the inspiration for their respective projects! Both of the books in question have artistic expression as their focal points.

The first title “The White Album: A Collection of Images Inspired by the Songs of the Beatles was put together to mark the White Album’s 40th anniversary. The songs in the book are not strictly limited to White Album numbers!

The first book was put together by artist and writer Russell Walks. Despite having The White Album as part of the title, there are some songs illustrated by the various respective artists within that are featured in the book that are not from the White Album. I have provided a few links for you to learn more about this release!

The two White Album titles explored in this post, perfectly fit the type of Beatles book that strongly appeal to the collector in me. They are small books in the number of pages and had a smaller circulation than larger mass appeal Beatle titles. It is these independently published books that I love to show to others when they view my collection as they have a special appeal to other collectors as well. For example, when one of these titles is shown to a fellow collector, you can often hear “Wow, where did you find that book?” or “Can you find a copy of that book for me?”

Those type of questions are music to this collector’s ears!

The White Album – Studios B3

WhiteAlbum

The White Album by Russell Walks on Apple Books

I obtained my copy of “The White Album: A Collection of Images Inspired by the Songs of The Beatles” from this eBay vendor

OFTIMESPAST | eBay Stores

THE PUBLISHER’S DESCRIPTION:

“Artist and writer Russell Walks gets a little help from his friends and explores the work of the greatest band ever in “The White Album: A Collection of Images Inspired by the Songs of The Beatles”. Think of “The White Album” as a series of “visual cover songs”, each of which was inspired by the Beatles song of the same name. In addition to the images, each contributing artist speaks about their work – Not just about the songs that originally inspired them, but about the choices they made as they worked. There’s no doubt that The Beatles influenced the way many of us look at the world, and in “The White Album”, we can see those influences in the gorgeous, meaningful work of 17 artists at the top of their game.”

The White Album
The White Album

The copy of the book that I obtained on eBay was signed by artist Jeff Pittarelli

The White Album
The White Album

The website of the above book featured artist renditions of the songs Good Day Sunshine and Revolution that appear in the book. Here a few sample excerpts from the book:

Good Day Sunshine
Good Day Sunshine
Revolution
Revolution

The back cover of the book:

The White Album
The White Album

The original press release for THE WHITE ALBUM BOOK by Russell Walks with many contributing and the work of participating artists that appear in the title as well!

Original Press release:

“Forty-five years ago, The Beatles invaded America, bringing with them a sound and attitude different from anything any of us had seen or heard before. They challenged and inspired us, forcing us to think about how things could be if we would only realize the importance of love.

Its now 2009. Although its been nearly forty years since The Beatles broke up, and yet their message is as relevant and influential as ever. The greatest band in history is still inspiring hope and dreams, still changing lives and fostering creativity, still shaping the way we look, listen and think.

Announcing THE WHITE ALBUM: A Collection of Images Inspired by the Music of The Beatles.

Compiled and introduced by writer and illustrator Russell Walks, and showcasing work by artists including Spencer Brinkerhoff III, Matt Busch, and others, THE WHITE ALBUM presents an exciting array of dynamic, emotional works of art, each of has been inspired by a song from The Beatles extensive catalogue.”

The book made its debut back in 2009 as is evidenced in this description from one of the websites describing the book:

“THE WHITE ALBUM looks at the work of The Beatles through a kaleidoscope of artistic styles and viewpoints.  THE WHITE ALBUM will be available for the very first time ever this summer at the San Diego Comic-Con (July 22 -26, 2009). Don’t miss your chance to pick up a copy at the only location where every artist will be available to personalize your book.”

Participating Artists Include”:

Spencer Brinkerhoff III

Matt Busch

TC Cor

Nicole Falk

Grant Gould

Gabe Hernandez

Paul Michael Kane

Leah Mangue

Meghan McMahon

Jeff Pittarelli

Jamie Snell

Russell Walks

John Watkins-Chow

 The White Album.net

THE WHITE ALBUM PROJECT ART BOOK 2014 – BY FRANK VACANTI First pressing numbered copy 092/150 36 PAGES OF WONDERFUL ARTWORK DONE ON ORIGINAL BEATLES WHITE ALBUM COVERS!

Frank Vacanti’s website for interested parties of the book:

Buy | white-album-project

The book that I purchased: (the photographs shown below are the photos from the eBay advertisement that I purchased the items as a result of)

I obtained this book through this eBay site: Beatles Yesterday,Today andTomorrow | eBay Stores

Though a small book in the number of pages, this 2nd book that I acquired recently was also a true pleasure to obtain. This White Album book’s primary focus are Frank Vacanti’s visions of designing a piece of art on an individual copy of the White Album.

This book entitled The White Album Project is truly a unique presentation of using the stark white Beatles album cover to be adorned with individual artistic designs by Frank Vicanti on individual copies of the LP. A work of art on a work of art. I am sure John and Yoko would have loved this idea.

This 36 page booklet was put together and organized by Frank Vacanti out of San Francisco, California and was published in 2014 by Garland Graphics!

The front cover of the book:

The White Album Project
The White Album Project

Credits and acknowledgements from my copy of this book:

A special artistic surprise under the Apple sticker in the book:

A few samples of the cover artwork designed for the White Album by Mr. Vacanti and a visit from Sir Walter Raleigh on this one!!!

KING KONG on the cover of the White Album?

For those of you who would like to have a copy of this wonderful book, here is Mr. Vacanti’s website:

Buy | white-album-project

Postscript – RICHARD HAMILTON

Would like to end today’s post with a brief discussion about artist Richard Hamilton whose minimalist cover follow-up to the grandioise Sgt Pepper previous album design of Peter Blake raised quite a few eyebrows in the critic circles. The Beatles reputation for always doing something different was certainly secure. Richard Hamilton is the artist that the Beatles hired to design both the White Album cover of “The Beatles” the double white album and the poster contained within the LP. Several years ago I bought this Richard Hamilton book featuring his signature for my collection.

The all white motif of Hamilton’s was to become a fixture in the Lennon household specifically, with the white piano used on Imagine and the pure white room at Tittenhurst Park used for the Imagine video. The White Album cover with no pictures/photos on the cover, fit in well with Yoko’s affinity for minimalist art. I can see why John’s favorite Beatles album was THE WHITE ALBUM as he was coming back from his psychedelic haze of 1967.

Hamilton’s signature:

Back cover of the book:

A photo that I saw on the internet and the photographer was unfortunately not listed. It is a photo of Richard Hamilton working on the White Album poster as Paul is there to check on the poster’s progress.If anyone knows the photographer of this shot please let us know and we will offer proper acknowledgement. Thank you!

This is another example of having a collecting obsession. As I was writing this post, Copy #9 of THE WHITE ALBUM PROJECT ART BOOK 2014-BY FRANK VACANTI also became available on eBay at the beatlesplusbaseball seller ID!

I could not resist having copy Number 9, Number 9, Number 9 so I purchased it as well. well, I guess the only harm that I caused as a result was to my wallet. LOL!

Happy hunting!

Be healthy and be happy!

Buzz

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