Sad to share that my friend Michael Hill has passed away. I didn’t want to say anything until I knew that everyone he knew had been told. His daughter let me know last week that he had died.
I had the honour and pleasure to edit and publish his great book, “John Lennon: The Boy Who Became A Legend”, about his friendship with John through both Dovedale School and Quarry Bank. It was Michael who introduced John to the music of Little Richard, through “Long Tall Sally”, the record Michael had bought in Holland. When John heard it in Michael’s house, he said it was so great that he couldn’t speak. It changed John’s life.
Michael had lived in Australia for many years, so it was great to catch up with him when he visited Liverpool.
We filmed him for our “Looking for Lennon” documentary film, and excerpt of which is shown in the Strawberry Field Liverpool experience. Michael’s book has been sold there with the profits going to Strawberry Field.
His best friend at school, Don Beattie, is the last remaining of the four friends who listened to records at Michael’s house, along with John and Pete Shotton.
His book is still for sale at The Beatles Bookstore if you haven’t got a copy. The last few signed copies are left.
David Bedford
John Lennon: The Boy Who Became A Legend
Michael Hill is one of the few people to have been friends with John Lennon from the age of five, through Dovedale School and Quarry Bank too. It was Michael who introduced John Lennon to rock ‘n’ roll – the moment John said changed his life. This is the story of how that happened.
Thanks for honoring the memory of another special person that was a “part” of the story. Deepest condolences are sent to Michael’s friends and family!
David,
So sad to hear of the loss of your friend, and John’s. Michael’s unsung contribution to music as John’s childhood friend will not be forgotten. We can all honor his memory and be reminded of his story through his book as you suggest. Peace and prayers to Michael Hill’s family and friends.
Daniel Hoffmann
Thank you Daniel
It is sad about Michael Hills’ passing. I have his book. It is such a unique story about the young lives of this band of friends. It is a story you won’t know anywhere else. It is a gem. All of my condolences to his family and friends.
It is so sad, he was a lovely man and played such an important part in Beatles history too.