The Beatles – The BBC Archive

I received this extraordinary document without having requested it but it is quite remarkable. There are two parts, a folder with some classic facsimile documents including the original form for an audition with the BBC in 1962; also some audience reports where it is clear that viewers of the 1967 Magical Mystery Tour were completely nonplussed. There is a letter explaining that the BBC could not support performance of 'A Day in the Life' with its reference to being turned on. The main part of the book follows the chronological development of the Beatles story from 1962-1970 with interview transcripts, analysis and photos. It is quite striking how rapidly things developed during the 1960s and the changes of style over 8 years – I enjoyed the photo of them with the Maharishi when our own Peter Fenwick was measuring their EEGs – a real pioneer!