In their new book, David Bedford and Andrew Phillips discuss 70 key moments in Beatles history on which history could have changed.
Ivan Vaughan
The key What If moment that started this whole process was the whole coincidence of how John Lennon was introduced to Paul McCartney. Ivan Vaughan, John’s childhood friend from the age of 5, was one of John’s best friends, but Ivan’s parents weren’t keen on their son attending the same High School as “That Lennon”, so instead of him attending Quarry Bank with his friends, Ivan was sent to the Liverpool Institute. He ends up in the same class as Paul McCartney, and they become friends. They were even born on the same day!
It was this coincidence that meant that Ivan brought his new friend Paul McCartney to meet his childhood friend, John Lennon. Without Ivan, John and Paul would not have met and we would not have The Beatles.
But what about these “What If?’ scenarios?
There are 4 possible outcomes discussed in the book:
If the outcome would have ended up finishing The Beatles career – “The End”
If The Beatles would have continued, but it would have made a huge change in the outcome, it is “Tomorrow Never Knows”
If they did something, but managed to get away with it, it is “You Can’t Do That”.
If events would have meant a change, yet the outcome was the same, it is “Let It Be”.
The Beatles: What If?
What if they didn’t meet Allan Williams and Lord Woodbine?
What if they don’t go to Hamburg?
What if The Beatles don’t record “My Bonnie”, the record that brings them to the attention of Brian Epstein?
What if they don’t meet Brian Epstein?
What if they passed The Decca Audition?
These are just a few of the many scenarios discussed in the book, and you also have the chance to disagree with us! That is fine!
What if there was No Beatles? Not worth thinking about, is it?
But what if the history of The Beatles had changed in any of these 70 scenarios?
The book shown below with the yellow background is a special leatherette edition of only 300 copies by Andy Neill and Greg Armstrong. When I first learned of this book and went to order a copy, I discovered at the purchase stage that because I lived in the United States, that they could not/ would not sell me a copy. Simply put, you could not order a copy if you lived in the States the way the purchasing system was setup. I believe it had something to do with the very high cost of postage in being able to send the book across the Pacific.
Obsessive Beatles Collectors!
There is a part of the mind inherent in some obsessive Beatles collectors that when they are denied something that they wish to acquire, it makes them even more determined to want to obtain a copy. I used the contact information provided at the publisher’s website and informed them that I ran a Beatles Book/Print blog and had the intention of presenting the special edition of the book on my blog indicating it would also help them in informing others of this special book title. I then proceeded to ask them if they would make a one-time exception in that case and allow me to purchase one of the 300 copies of the special edition for that purpose. Their management kindly agreed, and I was able to purchase a copy to show on the blog and to have it securely and safely ensconced in my personal archives.
True to my word, this is my second post about the book!
The book arrived on November 4, 2025, and it is a marvelous addition to my Beatles Book collection! I do not know if that exclusion to US buyers’ policy remains in place but if not, thought you would like to hear the story in the event you ever encounter a similar circumstance in your hunt for limited edition print artifacts!
Leatherette is a type of artificial leather, usually made by covering a fabric base with plastic. It is designed to mimic the appearance and texture of real leather, while being more durable and easier to maintain. It is often used for upholstery, clothing, bags and other items.
BOOK DESCRIPTION AT THE PUBLISHER WEBSITE:INSIDE THE BEATLES AUSTRALASIAN TOUR 1964
Description
The Beatles’ historic – and hysterical – tour of Australasia was now over 60 years ago, but interest in the band and the visit never fades. The importance of the tour remains deeply significant, not only in the memories of baby boomers who lived through it, but also to today’s millennials who wish they had. The Beatles Australasian tour is continually celebrated as a major social landmark for both countries, a huge and lasting step in the advancing development of youth culture, and a major highlight of the Beatles’ remarkable career.
When We Was Fab: Inside The Beatles Australasian Tour 1964 is the definitive and highly illustrated (with many previously unseen photographs) account of this extraordinary tour by the world’s most creative and influential musical force; the key moment in the coming of age of Australian and New Zealand youth as they embraced the cultural explosion of the 1960s. This leatherette hardcover collectors’ edition is limited to 300 copies.
When the site opens up – type in Beatles in the search grid and it will bring up the two October 1, 2025 editions of the book:
The red volume issue of the book at one time was being offered for a limited time on Amazon but I believe most of those copies are now sold out, though a few copies may still be available in certain countries.
The gold edition only appears as a 300 copy limited edition book:
Inside The Beatles Australasian Tour
THE AMAZON HARDBACK EDITION
The following book is the edition that started it all for me. I bought it on Amazon and I was very happy I did as I was not aware that the publication of the hardcover was a limited run. I have been told that now there is only a few copies left of the hardcover edition at select Amazon sites! It is a gorgeous book, many beautiful photos and stories.
WHEN WE WAS FAB: INSIDE THE BEATLES AUSTRALASIAN TOUR 1964 by ANDY NEILL and GREG ARMSTRONG
The Beatles historic – and hysterical – tour of Australasia was now over 60 years ago, but interest in the band and the visit never fades. The importance of the tour remains deeply significant, not only in the memories of baby boomers who lived through it, but also to today’s millennials who wish they had. The Beatles Australasian tour is continually celebrated as a major social landmark for both countries, a huge and lasting step in the advancing development of youth culture, and a major highlight of the Beatles’ remarkable career.
When We Was Fab: Inside The Beatles Australasian Tour 1964 is the definitive and highly illustrated (with many previously unseen photographs) account of this extraordinary tour by the world’s most creative and influential musical force; the key moment in the coming of age of Australian and New Zealand youth as they embraced the cultural explosion of the 1960s. This new flexi-bound edition follows the sold-out limited edition hardback which was marketed on Amazon
In truth, flexi-bound books are closer in their binding style to a cased book (hardback book) than to a limp book (paperback book). The only difference being that flexi-bound book covers are made of flexible card stock, instead of a rigid binding board. Just like a cased book, the edges of the cover overhang the book block.
This means that while the two book styles are almost identical in their binding processes, a finished flexi-bound book remains lightweight with its flexible cover.
Hope this information helps you if you are attempting to seek out this wonderful book!
Be Healthy and be Happy!
Buzz
OUR PHOTO OF THE WEEK AT THE BEATLES BOOKSTORE – THE QUARRYMEN IN ROSEBERY STREET SIGNED BY THE QUARRYMEN
The Quarrymen in Rosebery Street (B&W) – Signed Photograph
The very first photograph taken of John Lennon with The Quarrymen was on 22nd June 1957 in Rosebery Street, Liverpool 8. The photographer was Charlie Roberts, and he has this amazing photograph of The Quarrymen signed by himself, as well as Quarrymen Rod Davis, Colin Hanton, and Len Garry, plus John Lennon’s sister Julia Baird.
Paperback – 30 Nov. 2025 by David Guerrero (Author) orIMELDA MARCOS –WHY THE BEATLES STOPPED TOURING!!!
CAUGHT IN A MANILA FOLDER
Nineteen sixty-six was a pivotal year in the Beatles career. Not only was there a marked change in their musical development and style, but their impact as a cultural phenomenon extending far beyond their musical accomplishments was becoming increasingly more evident. Many of us are aware of John Lennon’s comments to Maureen Cleave in 1966 which caused a huge uproar in the Bible Belt States in the US. The Beatles when they made their last world tour in 1966 came to realize that their physical well-being was being threatened and in danger due to several of their comments. This coupled with their love of studio experimentation and the seeking of new ways to express their creativity in a studio-only environment gave them the excuse to hone their craft and to produce so many wonderful songs for the ages added by the factor of not having to worry about the extensive time constraints of being constantly on tour!
Those days would end in August of 1966 at Candlestick Park in San Francisco.
In November of 2025 there is a book coming out that deals with a crisis that the Beatles encountered in the Philippines in 1966 where the leader of the Philippines, Ferdinand Marcos, and his wife Imelda, felt insulted that the Beatles had seemingly displeased and ignored them by not attending a party they had been invited to by Imelda Marcos. This caused an uproar in the country, and the Beatles and Brian Epstein feared for their lives and quickly departed for a safer realm (no dictator pun intended).
Recently I saw a notification that in November of 2025 a new book about that Beatles/ Philippines incident is due to be released by David Guerrero. I have ordered a copy through Amazon UK and I look forward to receiving my copy soon.
Publisher : Penguin Random House SEA Publication date : 30 Nov. 2025
Please check to verify the actual release date of the US edition as when I went to the site, one comment says a similar release date to the UK, yet on the right-hand side of the page it states it is expected in May of 2026. This prompted my ordering of the book from Amazon UK instead!
In the mid-1960s, the Philippines hosted America’s largest military bases in the region while the Vietnam War was escalating. The Marcoses were photogenic and, on the surface at least, presented as poster children for democracy; Life magazine even dubbed Ferdinand and Imelda the “Jackie and JFK” of Asia. The Beatles’ management saw the tour as a lucrative opportunity to open new markets.
Before their arrival, invitations were sent—both directly and via the local promoter—for lunch at the Presidential Palace. Whether the invitations were accepted remains disputed. On the morning of July 4, 1966, when escorts arrived to collect the band, their manager, Brian Epstein, refused to attend, leaving over 300 people, including Imelda and her family, standing on live television.
Despite two large and successful concerts, the band’s experience with official displeasure left them fearful for their security and eager to leave. A chaotic encounter at the airport with Palace guards convinced them never to return and played a key role in their decision to end touring altogether. Initially, the Beatles distinguished between their fans and the officials, but the entire visit came to be remembered as a single “bad” experience. From that point on, the band achieved greater creative heights as a studio-based group, while the Philippines—little known in the West—became defined by this infamous story.
Praise for You Won’t See Me:
“When the Fab 4 and Imelda collided, the power of Beatlemania met the political heft of the Marcoses in 1966 Manila. What could possibly go wrong? Well, just about everything, as David Guerrero brilliantly details.” —Paul French, Author, Her Lotus Year
“An indispensable addition to the Beatles literature.” —James Hamilton Paterson, Author, America’s Boy
“A cautionary tale of pride, ego, and celebrity misadventures.” —Rolling Stone Philippines
“I’m as intrigued as any fan to find out what really happened to the Beatles in Manila” —Julian Lennon
A PREVIOUS BOOK ABOUT THE BEATLES PHILIPPINE CRISIS(A LIMITED EDITION)
I wonder how the above book will match up with this limited-edition book that I purchased a couple of years ago?
I created the following post on the blog. (see link below) The book was a limited edition of 1,000 copies. I am including the link to my post about the book…The book was written by Amador F. Brioso, Jr. This book was a wonderful addition to my collection of Beatles books!
Hope you have fun reading and checking out these two books about a crucial turning point in the career of the Beatles!
Did this help to end touring for The Beatles? What else contributed to it do you think? Let me know in the comments.
Be Healthy and Be Happy!
Buzz
OUR BOOK OF THE WEEK AT THE BEATLES BOOKSTORE
Songs We Were Singing
Take A “Magical Mystery Tour” through the Beatles’ Deep Tracks. The Beatles’ music has become so ingrained in our culture that their songs have become an integral part of our everyday lives. Who doesn’t know the words to “Hey Jude” or “Let It Be”? Who hasn’t been moved by the poetry of “Eleanor Rigby” or energized by that opening chord of “A Hard Day’s Night”?
Songs We Were Singing uncovers the buried treasures that deserve a second listen.
In Your Mind – The Infinite Universe of Yoko Ono (Signed Hardback)
Now in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Library & Archives
Acclaimed by MOJO & Goldmine
Recommended by Olivia Harrison
Spotlighted on The Beatles Channel, Sirius XM Radio
The true story of the woman John Lennon loved. Includes the work and music they made together, the love story of John & Yoko, and her relationship with the Beatles.
Ono’s incredible story goes way beyond what most people know.
There are astounding details about Yoko’s life (thirty-three years before meeting Lennon, twelve years with him, and over forty years of creativity since his death).
The author has followed Ono’s career since the mid-1960s, assembling a vast media archive on the artist. Yoko’s own voice, along with Lennon’s and others (in cited, published interviews) tell her undeniably true and complete story, disproving many myths. Bocaro has spent valuable time with Ono, gaining incredible insight.
Here is the ultimate exploration of Yoko’s childhood, her relationship with Lennon, her art, films, music and activism for peace and women’s rights.
Here is the presentation of my Beatles scrapbook identified as being #9 in the sequence of presentation. Though they are numerically listed, these scrapbook presentations are not necessarily in chronological order. They are a collection of the newspaper clippings and articles that I saved in a scrapbook format prior to the internet. When the internet exploded, I stopped collecting articles for the scrapbook. I personally cut out most of the articles that you see presented in these books. Many articles were also sent to me by friends and relatives who knew of my intense interest in the Beatles.
I apologize as not all of the articles presented in these scrapbooks have the corresponding date of the newspaper or magazine of origin as a reference point. I do encourage if you are the author of an uncredited article and you wish me to acknowledge you as the author or source of the piece, please write to me and I will amend the post accordingly, please include the date and the source of the publication. Keep in mind I kept these articles with no intention of sharing them until several people that I know encouraged me to share them with other Beatles fans that would have an interest in seeing what I kept in my own personal memory log in those pre-internet days.
Again I want to caution you, you may view an article or record review that you may vehemently disagree with for one reason or another. I collected as many viewpoints as I could with these articles, some are good and some I personally disagree with. I did not reject a negative review of a solo Beatles LP, for example. I included it to present a balanced viewpoint. In other words, don’t shoot the messenger or personalize the message as me being the source of the viewpoint being expressed. LOL!
First Beatles Convention?
A Ringo article coupled with a piece about one of the first major Beatle conventions held in Boston by the late Joe Pope who edited the wonderful Strawberry Fields Forever magazine/ fanzine!
I kept virtually all of my Beatles or solo picture sleeves in a pastic container in the scrapbooks. Here is a small sample.
George Harrison’s You 45:
McCartney’s Waterfalls:
Ringo’s Goodnight Vienna:
Love this one -an Italian Apple 45 with Hey Bulldog as a single:
The Cold Turkey picture sleeve is sought after by many collectors:
John Lennon suggested that Ringo record this song and it became a top ten cover:
This Song – George’s response to his being sued for My Sweet Lord:
Dark Horse picture sleeve (the back cover):
George’s holiday song:
George’s tribute to John with vocal help from Paul and Linda and Ringo on drums:
One of the Deccagone bootleg 45s issued from the Decca audition tape back in the 70s:
The Royal Command performance numbers were apparently issued by the same people that issued the Decca tracks on 45:
The flip side of Elton John’s Philadelphia Freedom featured the live performance of I Saw Her Standing There by Elton John and John Lennon from Madison Square Garden:
Another unauthorized Decca audition 45 issued by a fan in the 70s:
The flip side of the sleeve:
The flip side of Goerge’s All Those Years Ago picture sleeve:
Capitol issued Beatles sleeve issued far too late in my opinion:
Another unauthorized bootleg EP issued with an alternate Robert Whitaker photo:
An ex-Beatle and harry Nilsson in my home state:
Wing’s – Getting Closer picture sleeve:
Another unauthorized Beatless Deccagone Decca audition 45 from the 70s:
Study the Past
Hope the older people enjoyed the trip down memory lane! Also, hope the younger people get a stronger feeling as to what they missed-out on. Study the past to help prevent the problems of the future...Current times have clearly demonstrated that we have NOT learned from the mistakes of the past!
Be Healthy and Be Happy!
Buzz
Our Book of The Week at the Beatles Bookstore
Songs We Were Singing
Take A “Magical Mystery Tour” through the Beatles’ Deep Tracks. The Beatles’ music has become so ingrained in our culture that their songs have become an integral part of our everyday lives. Who doesn’t know the words to “Hey Jude” or “Let It Be”? Who hasn’t been moved by the poetry of “Eleanor Rigby” or energized by that opening chord of “A Hard Day’s Night”?
Songs We Were Singing uncovers the buried treasures that deserve a second listen.
I recently got my notice that the new Paul McCartney Wings book – an oral history – was being mailed to me. I ordered the American edition with the bright blue cover. I have been looking forward to this book for quite some time and I am really looking forward to the great collection of photos and band stories included in the book! The book arrived on November 3, 2025.
Paul is to be given a lot of credit and accolades for continuing his superb musical legacy and workaholic work habits after the dissolution of the Beatles, which was certainly a tough if not impossible act to follow. Yet, Paul persisted, and the 70s virtually belonged to him and his new band as a result!!!
Let me know what you think in the comments below.
The Fest For Beatles Fans website if you are interested in acquiring a copy of this 550 page book:
The front information dustjacket flap to the new book:
The back information dustjacket flap:
The Table of Contents:
The balance of the Table of Contents:
WHICH COVER DO YOU PREFER THE BLUE US COVER SHOWN ABOVE OR THE ALTERNATE UK COVER SHOWN BELOW???
You know how obsessive collectors can be well this is a direct specific example of that compulsion.
Even though I already bought the US edition of the book and I am quite pleased with it, I have to say that I prefer the cover of the UK edition primarily because the cover has a photograph of the band. So as to not be too fussy, I also bought a copy of the UK edition so I would not feel like I missing out on something. Being a retiree on a fixed-income I may later have regrets about that decision, but right now-I DO NOT!!!
Looking forward to your comments and reactions about this new book!
Be Healthy and Be Happy!
Buzz
OUR BOOK OF THE WEEK –
Songs We Were Singing
Take A “Magical Mystery Tour” through the Beatles’ Deep Tracks. The Beatles’ music has become so ingrained in our culture that their songs have become an integral part of our everyday lives. Who doesn’t know the words to “Hey Jude” or “Let It Be”? Who hasn’t been moved by the poetry of “Eleanor Rigby” or energized by that opening chord of “A Hard Day’s Night”?
Songs We Were Singing uncovers the buried treasures that deserve a second listen.
