One of my favorite types of rare Beatles books is the titles about gigs they performed at locations in Europe that may not be well-known to many who live in the US or other countries outside of Europe.
Author Simon Hurford has written a couple of UK Beatles titles that were of great interest to me. The more recent title “There’s a Place” is featured on top followed by a photo of his earlier work, “Twist and Shout, The Beatles in Bath 1963.”
These rare Beatles books and the stories surrounding them are so interesting because they virtually always feature stories and information that are not commonplace or well-known by the typical Beatles fan. That coupled with the titles being usually limited to a UK release makes them more appealing than the more widely circulated Beatles books that appear all over the world.
Front cover of the 2nd Simon Hurford Beatles book: There’s a Place
Back cover of the “There’s a Place Hurford title:
The signature page of the 2nd Simon Hurford Beatles book:
Simon’s first Beatles Book:
This book was incredibly difficult to find. Would like to thank Geoff Clode for his assistance in acquiring a copy of this title.
Inquiries about these 2 books can be sent to: sphurford@yahoo.co.uk
A message from the author:
“My approach to writing about pop music is to contact local newspapers and ask fans who have attended concerts to get in touch with me with their memories and stories. It is amazing what information comes out of that.
Many fans have visited the concert halls the Beatles performed at, and stayed in the same hotels as well. I also visit these places myself, speak to people, and spend hours in the local library and the homes of any archives that still exist.
Of course with venues closing and fans getting older it is becoming a disappearing world. Seeing or meeting The Beatles is the highlight of many fan’s lives and they love to talk about those times.
I write as a hobby. I saw there was a need for a book on The Beatles concert in Bath in June 1963, people still talk about it 60 years on. That was my first book and the start of this ridiculous obsession I have with pop.
If anyone wants copies of my books they can be obtained from Mr B’s Emporium 14-15 John Street in Bath, which is a wonderful independent shop that is perfect to browse in.
I have written 2 books on the Colston Hall in Bristol (now called Bristol Beacon) and both were commissioned by the Hall. One contains a chapter on The Beatles concerts. Copy attached of the covers.
Stay groovy
Simon”
Do you collect or buy books like these? Do you have a favourite? Let me know.
Buzz
The Beatles
Books about The Beatles as a group
Great article! I purchased 2 other Beatles books recently titled “Some Fun Tonight” Volume 1 & 2. Rare photos and facts of their touring years 1964 1965 1966. Great stuff!
I agree with you Ed. The Gunderson 2 volume Beatles tour volumes are superb! I plan on doing a post about them in the future!
I like these books. I have “The Beatles in Scotland”, “UK Tours 1963-1965”, “The Beatles in Ireland”, “The Beatles and Bournemouth” and in Holland, in Italy and more. They are all very interesting.
Completely agree with you Alfred. I enjoy both the details of those country specific gigs in the books, but I love to view the obscure photos as well!