It was 40 years ago today...

..that Ed Sullivan first saw the Beatles in a London airport. The wild scene created by the fans convinced him to sign the Fabs to appear on his show.

Abbeyrd Beatles Page breaking news headlines for 10/31/03

Update (10/31/03) from our Beatle News Briefs section

Happy Halloween!

- "Let It Be" . . . finally?: Infinity Broadcasting to premiere album in radio special
- Paul and Heather news: It's a boy ... er, a girl!
- Magazine alerts: Goldmine
- Quick news links:
- Read the latest Beatle Bits blog by Terry Ott

(FYI: This was posted late because the blog was unavailable when we originally tried to post.)

A picture of Beatrice Milly McCartney online

It's at the Liverpool Echo site. (Thanks to everyone who emailed us.)

It's a boy ... er, a girl!

If all indications are correct, Paul just might have extracted a little bit of revenge for some of the recent stories that have been published about him.

As we hear it, the story about the McCartneys' new baby being a boy originated with Paul and Heather and was spread to relatives, who, in turn, spread it to the Mirror.

And so on, and so on, and so on.

Nobody asked us, but geez, isn't this just a little bit tacky? Why taint a joyful occasion like this with that kind of game?

Besides extracting a bit of revenge, Paul probably didn't make any new friends among the press corps.

Oh well...

In any event, we wish much joy to the new parents.

And much luck with the press.

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 10/30/03 Update III

Update III (10/30/03) from our Beatle News Briefs section

Paul and Heather
news: It's a girl!!: NEW: The scene at the hospital!

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 10/30/03 Update II

Update II (10/30/03) from our Beatle News Briefs section

Paul and Heather
news: It's a girl!!


Here's a poem in tribute to the birth sent to us in advance by Claudio Dirani:

To Beatrice McCartney

The Star That Shines So Brighter ...

A new message arrived for a woman and a man
Whilst both were waiting for a velvet cry
That was the most expected unexpected light
In time
The Star That Shines so brighter
(than everything left behind)

She told him it had come as a miracle
Defying worlds and words of badmouth
Unexpectable shout
That was the most expected unexpected light
In time
The Star That Shines so brighter
(than everything left behind)

He - joyful - singing songs that he thought were his alone (alone)
(now it belongs to the ones who love_
She - powerful - strongest than the strongest rock from the universe
(and sweeter than the sweetest sweet)
Finally together now they saw the light
In time
The Star That Shines so brighter
(than everything left behind)

And now they are singing aloud becaus the world was just waiting for another sunrise.

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 10/30/03

Update (10/30/03) from our Beatle News Briefs section

- Paul and Heather news: Did they have the baby?

- "Lennon Legend" DVD news: German review, website link.

- Magazine alerts: Focus (Germany)

- Quick news links

Read the latest Beatle Bits blog by Terry Ott

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 10/29/03

Update (10/29/03) from our Beatle News Briefs section

- "Let It Be" . . . finally?: Reaction to the "Let It Be ... Naked" "Let It Be."

- Jack Bruce recovering from liver cancer

- Magazine alerts: Focus (Germany)

- Quick news links

- Read the latest Beatle Bits blog by Terry Ott

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 10/28/03 Update II

Update II (10/28/03) from our Beatle News Briefs page

- "Let It Be" . . . finally?: Replay link for Terry Wogan show.

- "The Beatle Years" -- upcoming shows

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 10/28/03

Update (10/28/03) from our Beatle News Briefs section

- "Let It Be" . . . finally?: First airplay today (Tuesday) in UK.

- Update: Dave Clark 5 singer seriously hurt in fall: Condition update; tribute concert planned.

- The Concert for George news reports: Australian screening news.

- "Lennon Legend" DVD news: Quick review.

- Update: Ringo selling live CD of Casino Rama show: Progress report

- Update: Ed Sullivan DVDs being released commercially: USA Today review.

- Update: News from Genesis: Ringo book announced: Latest word.

- Quick news links: A suave George in "Shanghai Surprise"

- Read the latest Beatle Bits blog by Terry Ott

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 10/27/03

Update (10/27/03) from our Beatle News Briefs section

- Brian Wilson's next CD to feature Paul

- Quick news links: Lennon Pepper tracklist to be auctioned

- Read the latest Beatle Bits blog by Terry Ott

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 10/26/03

Update (10/26/03) from our Beatle News Briefs section

- The Concert for George news reports: Olivia's interview, German screening schedule.

- "Let It Be" . . . finally?: Japanese release date.

- Update: Tony Sheridan-Beatles audio DVD released in Europe: Features of the disc.

- George Harrison: In memoriam: Brian Setzer on George.

- Quick news links

- Read the latest Beatle Bits blog by Terry Ott

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 10/25/03

Update (10/25/03) from our Beatle News Briefs section

- "Let It Be" . . . finally?: More reports.

- Update: Ed Sullivan DVDs being released commercially: Review link.

- The Concert for George news reports: Olivia interviewed.

- George Harrison: In memoriam: Online petition

- "Lennon Legend" DVD news: Sir Lew Grade

- Quick news links: Elvis is still dead, but he's making money

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 10/24/03

Update (10/24/03) from our Beatle News Briefs page

- EMI to offer digital music catalog online -- but no Beatles

- Paul to play AIDS benefit show in South Africa

- Update: Tony Sheridan-Beatles audio DVD released in Europe: Upon further investigation ...

- The Concert for George news reports

- Paul and Heather news: Heather becomes a PETA person

- "Let It Be" . . . finally?: More reports.

- "Lennon Legend" DVD news: Chris Carter gives a preview.

- Update: Beatles chart news

- "Breakfast With the Beatles" KLSX-FM/Los Angeles playlist

- "Beatle Brunch" -- upcoming shows

- Quick news links: Liverpool music club may close

- Read the latest Beatle Bits blog by Terry Ott

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 10/23/03

Update (10/23/03) from our Beatle News Briefs section

- "Let It Be" . . . finally?: Exclusive report on Wednesday Capitol listening party in L.A.

- Tony Sheridan-Beatles audio DVD released in Europe

- Just in time for the holidays ... new Beatle items hit the shelves

- Update: Ed Sullivan DVDs being released commercially: Special meaning for announcer's daughter.

- Paul and Heather news: Maccas send support message to Staten Island accident victim

- Ringo Rama news: Deluxe re-release set planned for Christmas: Link.

- "The Beatles Show" radio show -- upcoming shows

- "The Beatle Years" -- upcoming shows

- Quick news links: George's Concorde gig

- Read the latest Beatle Bits blog by Terry Ott

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 10/22/03

Update (10/22/03) from our Beatle News Briefs section.

- The Concert for George news reports: CD cover, promo DVD.

- Ringo Rama news: Deluxe re-release set planned for Christmas: Re-release set press release link

- Quick news links: Keith Badman comments

- Read the latest Beatle Bits blog by Terry Ott

Naked LIB

Funny how an album called "Let It Be" has been the subject of such a firestorm of comments from fans, webmasters (me, being one) and journalists?

Somewhere, John Lennon is howling.

Even though early on, we wondered about the circumstances and the name of this thing, we also said maybe it'd be better if we'd all waited until the thing came out to judge it.

A first newspaper review has appeared and, not surprisingly, it's positive. And the word we got from one source was that it was good. Of course, we won't know for sure until we've all had the chance to judge it.

Maybe that's the solution. After all, we don't want to ruin our enjoyment of the thing before it comes out.

But we are notoriously critical. No problem there.

Remember how we were surprised with YSS? It could happen again.

So let's let it be. Let's be LIBerated. Let's give the piece a chance.

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 10/21/03

Update (10/21/03) from our Beatles News Briefs section

- "Let It Be" . . . finally?: Review URL.

- Update: Apple suing Apple Computer again: Apple CEO comments.

- Update: Ed Sullivan DVDs being released commercially: More early sale.

- George Harrison: In memoriam: Jolly George.

- Quick news links: More Jack Douglas

- Read the latest Beatle Bits blog (#28) by Terry Ott

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 10/20/03

Update (10/20/03) from our Beatles News Briefs section

- "Let It Be" . . . finally?: First newspaper review.

- "Lennon Legend" DVD news: Rare footage airs in Brazil.

- Update: Ed Sullivan DVDs being released commercially: Review link; early sale.

- Quick news links: What was Jack Douglas talking about?

- Read the latest Beatle Bits blog by Terry Ott

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 10/19/03

Update (10/19/03) from our Beatles News Briefs section

- Update: Ed Sullivan DVDs being released commercially: A question answered.

- Paul and Heather news: Link to webchat transcript.

- Quick news links: John and Paul "Double Fantasy" reunion?

- Read the latest Beatle Bits blogs (#25 & #26) by Terry Ott

Apple lawsuit may already be haunting the Fabs...

In Friday's updates, you'll notice the item about Apple Computer's announcement that its popular iTunes music file-sharing service is headed for Windows. (It was only available to Macs previously.)

Well, you can bet one group you'll probably never find there will be the Beatles.

Since the suit was filed, Apple Computer hasn't backed down in its stand that maybe it's time the original arrangement, in which Apple Computer wasn't supposed to get involved with music, be changed.

Not more than a day after it became known through a BBC report that the Beatles weren't going to do online sharing services, Apple Computer stings 'em with the announcement about the iTunes expansion.

It's beginning to look like the Fabs' strategy has misfired. After all, the Beatles' music would have given any file sharing service an instant key to success. And iTunes has been the most popular one since the original Napster, which, as we all know, was free. iTunes isn't -- and that's what makes its success all the more interesting.

By the way, one of those present via video for the iTunes announcement was .... Mick Jagger. The Rolling Stones aren't getting left out of this cash cow.

And maybe the Fabs won't either. Maybe, they figure, one of the services, even iTunes, will now come begging for the Fabs to join in. And the Fabs' price won't be cheap, certainly.

But if that's not the case, it'll be interesting to see where this leads.

And meanwhile, the Fabs' files can be found all over Kazaa and the other not-so-legal file sharing services.

To quote spokesman Geoff Baker, "We have no plans at the moment to go online ... I do not think there is any reason for it at all."

Don't look now, Geoff, but it's looks like you're already there, whether you know it or not.

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 10/17/03

Update (10/17/03) from our Beatle News Briefs page

- Japan to re-release Beatles albums on vinyl

- "Lennon Legend" DVD news: A look at the cover.

- "Let It Be" . . . finally?: A bit of a preview.

- Ringo Rama news: Deluxe re-release set planned for Christmas: Bonus track correction

- Update: Beatles say music won't be online: No iTunes for Fabs.

- Quick news links: Mayor uses Fabs in election campaign

- Read the latest Beatle Bits blog by Terry Ott

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 10/16/03

Update (10/16/03) from Beatle News Briefs

- Paul and Heather to conduct webchat Thursday morning (U.S. time)

- John Lennon to give his regards to Broadway: Musical planned

- "Lennon Legend" DVD news: Yoko attends DVD premiere

- Update: Beatles say music won't be online: Comment from Mac publication.

- The Concert for George news reports: German release date.

- Ringo Rama news: Deluxe re-release set planned for Christmas: Bonus tracks.

- "Let It Be" . . . finally?: Letting it be.

- Magazine alerts: paulmccartney.fm

- Quick news links: Hawaiian Beatle museum

- Read the latest Beatle Bits blog by Terry Ott

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 10/15/03

Update (10/15/03) from Beatle News Briefs

- Beatles say music won't be online

- BBC listeners dig up rarities by Beatles and others

- The Concert for George news reports: CD coming, too.

- "Let It Be" . . . finally?: More debate.

- "The Beatle Years" -- upcoming shows

- Update: Paul to lend voice to Brazilian soap opera: Another report.

- Paul and Heather news: Webchat Thursday.

- Magazine alerts: Hello!

- Quick news links: Andrew Gold meets the Fabs

- Read the latest Beatle Bits blog by Terry Ott

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 10/14/03

Update (10/14/03) from Beatle News Briefs

- "Let It Be" . . . finally?: More debate.

- The Concert for George news reports: Movie ad.

- Paul and Heather news: That pregnant glow.

- Update: Paul to lend voice to Brazilian soap opera: First chapter report.

- George Harrison: In memoriam: It's no surprise.

- Magazine alerts: Rolling Stone, Word

- Quick news links

- Read the latest Beatle Bits blogs (#21) by Terry Ott

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 10/13/03

Update (10/13/03) from Beatle News Briefs

- Elvis beats Beatles in list of top rock moments

- "Let It Be" . . . finally?: More debate.

- The Concert for George news reports: UK theater list.

- George Harrison: In memoriam: New website surprise

- Update: Site of first US Beatles concert to be demolished?: Where to write

- "Breakfast With the Beatles," hosted by Dennis Mitchell -- the latest show online

- Magazine alerts: Hello!

- "Breakfast With the Beatles" KLSX-FM/Los Angeles playlist

- Quick news links

Read the latest Beatle Bits blogs (#19 and #20) by Terry Ott

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 10/11/03

Update (10/11/03) from Beatle News Briefs

- "Let It Be" . . . finally?: More debate.

- The Concert for George news reports: Another UK eyewitness report from the movie premiere.

- Update: A birthday special: What would John have done?: New opinion

- "The Beatles Show" radio show -- upcoming shows

- Update: Beatles chart news

- George Harrison: In memoriam: Memorial plans still discussed in Henley

- Quick news links: More Andrew Gold Fab pics

- Read the latest Beatle Bits blog by Terry Ott

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 10/10/03

Update (10/10/03) from Beatle News Briefs

- "Let It Be" . . . finally?: First track details.

- The Concert for George news reports: Another UK eyewitness report.

- Read the latest Beatle Bits blog by Terry Ott

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 10/9/03

Update (10/9/03) from Beatle News Briefs

- A birthday special: What would John have done?

- The Concert for George news reports: UK premiere eyewitness report.

- Update: Paul tricked by Canadian DJs: Story link

- "Let It Be" . . . finally?: Is this Paul's project?

- Paul and Heather news: Please don't ever change.

- Quick news links: Andrew Gold meets the Fabs

- Read the latest Beatle Bits blog by Terry Ott

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 10/8/03

Update (10/8/03) from Beatle News Briefs

- Paul tricked by Canadian DJs

- Tony Sheridan Beatles material to be released on DVD

- The Concert for George news reports: Theater showings to end.

- "Let It Be" . . . finally?: Heavy advance sales on Amazon.

- Pete Best Band news: Next U.S. tour.

- Forthcoming DVD releases: Review of "Around the World"

- Stella wedding news: Sister takes pics

- Read the latest Beatle Bits blog by Terry Ott

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 10/7/03

Update (10/7/03) from Beatle News Briefs

- The Concert for George news reports: More reviews.

- "Let It Be" . . . finally?: First news reports.

- Update: Beatles '64 Washington, D.C. concert headed to DVD: A review and a link

- The Beatle Years: upcoming shows.

- Paul and Heather news: Link.

- Quick news links: Paul's sonnet to be auctioned

- Read the latest Beatle Bits blog by Terry Ott

It's a boy??

Friends have let slip that the baby due for Paul and Heather Mills McCartney is a boy, according to the British tabloid paper the Sun.

The paper quotes an unnamed friend as saying, "Heather told me that she and Paul were having a boy. She's thrilled. Well, they both are. She can't wait to be a mum. She's very excited and has been out buying baby clothes." (Thanks to Franco Alvear.)

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 10/6/03

Update (10/6/03) from Beatle News Briefs

- The Concert for George news reports: More film reviews.

- Update: Ringo selling live CD of Casino Rama show: When it will be shipped.

- "Let It Be" . . . finally?: More discussion, link.

- Paul and Heather news: Link

- George Harrison: In memoriam: Online tribute

- Update: Report: Paul fires Geoff Baker, then says it's a joke: A new wrinkle on the Blaine visit.

- Update: Paul tour news (and reviews from previous shows): Dublin 2003 review

- "Breakfast With the Beatles," hosted by Dennis Mitchell -- the latest show online

- "Breakfast With the Beatles" KLSX-FM/Los Angeles playlist

- Magazine alerts: People

- Quick news links: Australia remembers the Fabs; Chuck Berry's favorite song

- Read the latest Beatle Bits blog by Terry Ott

The Concert for George film...

We put our thoughts on the movie on the site.

In short ... GO SEE IT!

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 10/5/03

Update (10/5/03) from Beatle News Briefs

- The Concert for George news reports: Our review, your reviews and links.

- "Let It Be" . . . finally?: More discussion.

- Update: Beatles chart news

- Magazine alerts: Beatlefan

- Quick news links

- Read the latest Beatle Bits blogs (#10, #11 and #12) by Terry Ott

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 10/3/03

Update (10/3/03) from Beatle News Briefs

- Ringo Rama news: What the deluxe set won't have.

- "Let It Be" . . . finally?: More discussion.

- The Concert for George news reports

- "The Beatles Show" radio show -- upcoming shows

- Quick news links: Mixing Paul.

- Read the latest Beatle Bits blog by Terry Ott

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 10/2/03

Update (10/2/03) from Beatle News Briefs

- "Let It Be" . . . finally?: Sales brochure info.

- The Concert for George news reports: Movie review links

- Paul tour news (and reviews from previous shows): A new review of a 2002 show.

- "The Beatles Show" radio show -- upcoming shows

- Quick news links: "Imagine" the new CD.

- Read the latest Beatle Bits blog by Terry Ott

Remember Nov. 18...

It looks like Nov. 18 will be a huge day in Beatle merchandising. As of now, "The Concert For George" DVD, the Beatles' "Let It Be ... Naked" and the "Lennon Legend" DVD will all hit the streets that day in the U.S.

As any good businessperson will tell you, it's not a great idea to compete against yourself this way. Is this some sort of marketing test to put a little Beatle power in the marketplace?

The key to which one does best in sales will be the one that is the most anticipated. We think it'll be a virtual tie between "Concert For George" and "Let It Be ... Naked," with CFG having a slight edge because of all the LIB boots over the years. But we'll have to watch those sales figures closely.

With Beatle projects controlled so tightly by the Fabs and/or their familes, we wonder how Nov. 18 managed to become the release date for all these projects. Is there a battle for control going on among the principals? Or was this just another example of the disorganization in Apple that we've seen so many times?

You know, come to think of it, there's still enough time to add something else for Nov. 18. How about you, Paul and Ringo?

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 10/1/03

Update (10/1/03) from Beatle News Briefs

- The Concert for George news reports: List of theaters showing "The Concert For George" film

- "Let It Be" . . . finally?: Cover pic confirmed

- "Lennon Legend" DVD news: Official press release with release date, details.

- "Breakfast With the Beatles," hosted by Dennis Mitchell -- the latest show online

- Quick news links: New Klaus Voormann book

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 9/30/03

Update (9/30/03) from Beatle News Briefs

- Update: Apple suing Apple Computer again: No quick settlement?

- Paul and Heather news: Enjoying the warmth of the sun

- George Harrison: In memoriam: Olivia on "Today"; Benton, Ill., remembers George

- "The Beatle Years" -- upcoming shows

- "Breakfast With the Beatles" KLSX-FM/Los Angeles playlist

- Quick news links: The bootleg history of "Let It Be" (the movie)

- Read the latest Beatle Bits blogs (two posted Monday) by Terry Ott

Yoko -- oh, not again!!

I guess it's the price of fame that if a celebrity has a nasty rep, no matter how well deserved or not, anything they do comes out looking bad, even if there was no intention for it to be that way.

Take the case of Yoko Ono. At the premiere for "The Concert for George" last week, a tabloid (don't it figure!) report claimed Yoko didn't want to be photographed with Paul and Ringo. Another report we heard through an eyewitness, however, said Yoko arrived after Paul and Ringo arrived.

Because of that, can anyone say for sure she was refusing to be photographed? Or was it just a case of her plane arriving late from the East Coast?

Now, we don't claim to have a close relationship with Yoko, but we have interviewed her personally twice. Both times, she was quite pleasant and engaging to talk to (not all celebrities, in dealings with the press, are). In fact, when we discussed the Internet in our first interview, she was absolutely bubbling about it.

We know that Yoko and Paul have had a contentious relationship, but all reports are that Yoko and Ringo have had no such problems. And it's obvious some people in the press have more fun assuming Yoko's done it again.

Jeez, give the woman a break. Putting aside the Yoko-Paul battles (which, in our opinion, is more Paul's fault than hers), these past few years, Yoko has hardly been living up to the Dragon Lady image some people seem to still hold of her.

Maybe it's about time that some people started to give Yoko a chance.

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 9/28/03

Update (9/28/03) from Beatle News Briefs

- Ringo Rama news: Deluxe re-release set planned for Christmas.

- Quick news links

- Read the latest Beatle Bits blogs (two posted Saturday) by Terry Ott`

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 9/27/03

Update (9/27/03) from Beatle News Briefs

- The Concert for George news reports: Links

- Paul and Heather news: Landmine benefit report; No baby stories to be sold.

- Update: Report: Paul fires Geoff Baker, then says it's a joke: Phillip Norman takes a bash at Paul.

- Update: New Harrison boxed set features final full-length interview: Availability

- "Breakfast With the Beatles" KLSX-FM/Los Angeles playlist

- Quick news links

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 9/26/03

Update (9/26/03) from Beatle News Briefs

- New Harrison boxed set features final full-length interview

- The Concert for George news reports: An eyewitness account

- "Let It Be" . . . finally?: A better cover pic.

- "Lennon Legend" DVD news: Tracklist, cover pic link.

- Ringo 2003 All-Starr Band tour news: San Diego reviews and a picture.

- Update: News from Genesis: Ringo book announced: Now printing

- "The Beatle Years" -- upcoming shows

- Quick news links

- Read the latest Beatle Bits blog by Terry Ott

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 9/25/03

Update (9/25/03) from Beatle News Briefs

- The Concert for George news reports: Paul, Ringo attend premiere in L.A.

- "Lennon Legend" DVD news: First details

- A Jeff Lynne news flash! (Note: For you blog readers, this is the news we alluded to here the other day...)

- "Let It Be" . . . finally?: Why we should just let it be.

- Paul and Heather news: Pix from the Minefield Gala.

- Magazine alerts: World Beatles Forum

- Quick news links: Terry Ott goes blogging

- Read the latest Beatle Bits blog by Terry Ott

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 9/24/03

Update (9/24/03) from Beatle News Briefs

- Restaurant guide publishers rate Beatles highly in first music book

- "Let It Be" . . . finally?: The fate of the original LIB CD

- Paul and Heather news: Pix from "Larry King".

- Quick news links: Terry Ott goes blogging

Let It Be ... Naked: the cover?

Remember that link we posted the other day to the Brazilian site that was said to have the cover of the CD on it? The one with the reversed images that we said didn't seem likely to be it? Well, a second source -- with a connection said to be inside EMI -- has sent us the same picture. That, of course, doesn't mean it's the real cover. A third source, a more official contact we asked directly, couldn't confirm whether it was the cover or not because they hadn't seen it yet. Which could mean the picture is a hoax. Or is it?

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 9/23/03

Update (9/23/03) from Beatle News Briefs

- Paul and Heather news: They've got a secret.

- Paul says he's planning new album: Another source checks in.

- Quick news links: Mark Lindsay is steppin' out

steve

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Something's coming...

A little something extra for you blog readers: You (and only you) get an advance hint. We can't give out any details either here or on the site until Wednesday, so the full details won't be there till then. But ... some interesting Beatle-related news is coming...we can say no more.

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 9/22/03

Update (9/22/03) from Abbeyrd Beatles Page Beatle News Briefs

- Update: Report: Paul fires Geoff Baker, then says it's a joke: Paul gets a ticket.

- McCartney Red Square concert to air this fall: Weblink to webchat transcript.

- Paul and Heather news: Heather guests on Larry King tonight.

- "Breakfast With the Beatles," hosted by Dennis Mitchell -- the latest show online

- Quick news links

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 9/20/03

Update (9/20/03) from Beatle News Briefs

- Paul says he's planning new album: Where Paul IS recording...

- Report: Paul fires Geoff Baker, then says it's a joke: More details of the incident.

steve

"Let It Be ...Naked" and/or other stuff ...

Now that "Let It Be ...Naked" is official, we've got a number of questions. If this is really "Let It Be" naked, why no "Maggie May" ... or "Dig It"? Is this another rimshot in the ongoing Paul-Yoko battle? And will the songs be credited Lennon-McCartney, McCartney-Lennon ... or ...? But the important thing is the sound. And if LIBN sounds anywhere close to "Yellow Submarine Soundtrack," it'll be worth it. Beatle fans love getting worked up over things, but let's wait until the evidence is in before we do...

Any time Geoff Baker, Paul's press rep., makes the news, it's usually not a good sign. Reports say Geoff tipped off photogs that Paul was paying a late-night visit to the David Blaine stunt (he's holed up in a box for over a month) in London and an altercation took place between Paul's people and the papparazzi. Paul, reports say, fired Geoff on the spot. A later spin on it in news reports said it was all a joke. You know, ha ha ha, nudge nudge, wink wink. Well, we're not laughing. It appears very obvious that Paul did, in fact, fire Geoff, then spun the joke story to put off the press. C'mon, Paul. Even the tabs aren't that stupid. Why don't you admit you lost your temper and apologize to Geoff publicly. But you know that won't happen.

Finally, way off topic, but congrats to my San Francisco Giants for winning the National League West. First place wire-to-wire. We've only just begun. Next stop: NL Pennant, then the Series.

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 9/19/03 Update II -- BREAKING NEWS!

Update II (9/19/03) from Beatle News Briefs

Report: Paul fires Geoff Baker, then says it's a joke

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 9/19/03

Update (9/19/03) from Beatle News Briefs

- "Let It Be" . . . finally?: Official website for album.

- Paul says he's planning new album: Where Paul isn't recording...

- McCartney Red Square concert to air this fall: News from the webchat

- Update: Johnny Cash and John Ritter dead: George and Johnny.

- Update: Apple suing Apple Computer again: Link

- Update: Best of Beatles Monthly book coming: More info

- Update: Beatles chart news

- Quick news links

Terry Ott's take on "Let It Be Naked"

Our esteemed Canadian correspondent gives his take on the forthcoming "Let It Be ... Naked".
You can email him at tjo55@yahoo.com.

---

Rutles Dirk and Nasty would have been proud of the
bare-faced boondoggle and fancy footwork of
Apple/EMI's announcement of the reissue of Let it Be
as Let it Be...Naked."

I'll even bet that the pr weasels consulted Eric Idle
before naming the new Beatles CD, because regular r&r
and pr weasels don't usually get it so funny.

And the dropping of Dig It and Maggie Mae from the
original track listing could leave room for the
inclusion of a Fabs version of Get Up and Go (back
home).

But seriously ladies and germs, the lofty language
used in the EMI press release for the Nov. 18 offering
is laughable.

I mean, just the statement that fans will hear
something they never heard before-the "as nature
intended" Get Back album has been around in various
forms and mixes for about 30 years-is bogus, unless
they count a new remixing as being never heard before.

And the inclusion of the "fly on the wall" second disc
is surely a direct response to the bootleggers of the
Nagara tapes which have also been in circulation for
about 30 years.

Sure it will be nice to finally hear a clean copy of
the original Get Back album song lineup-minus Teddy
Boy and Save the Last Dance-but EMI/Apple also opens
themselves-and the Beatles-to comparisons of which
version was better.

After all, not everyone is a Phil Spector hater and
the original Let it Be album has been around so long,
people are used to it, and there might be a backlash
from many of the rank and file fans.

Of course the true believers will relish anything, but
it just seems to me that there is too much hype
surrounding what is essentially the release of an
album comprised of songs from sessions that even John
Lennon described as "shitty" about 35 years ago.

But having said all this, I'll still probably buy it,
because I just can't help myself.

Twist and rut.

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 9/18/03 Update II

Update II (9/18/03) from Beatle News Briefs

- "Let It Be" . . . finally?: Finally ... the official announcement.

- Update: Apple suing Apple Computer again: Computer CEO takes a stand

- Best of Beatles Monthly book coming

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 9/18/03

Update (9/18/03) from Abbeyrd Beatles Page Beatle News Briefs

- McCartney Red Square concert to air this fall: Paul webchat today!

- Rare Lennon-Jagger footage uncovered

- Dave Clark 5 singer seriously hurt in fall

- "Let It Be" . . . finally?: More details.

- Update: Johnny Cash and John Ritter dead: More encounters.

- Paul says he's planning new album: News from Rusty

- Paul-Heather romance news: Benefit press release.

- "The Beatles Show" radio show -- upcoming shows

- "Breakfast With the Beatles" KLSX-FM/Los Angeles playlist

- Quick news links: Yoko recreates "Cut Piece."

Some off-the-cuff stuff...

- We were sorry to hear about Gerry Marsden's recent triple bypass heart surgery. We've met him on two separate occasions and he truly embodies the spirit of Liverpool. Get well soon, Gerry.

- As we said last week, we were huge fans of Johnny Cash. We were listening to his most recent American album the day of his death and listened to him sing, "We'll meet again, don't know where, don't know when ..." We found ourselves getting a bit misty-eyed when hearing that.

- We have to admit our website readers (you, that is) caught us by surprise with all the Beatle connections of John Ritter. It was wonderful to read. It again points out why we couldn't do this daily news thing without our readers -- without you! You are very very much a part of it. Thank you again.

- And rest in peace, John and Johnny.

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 9/16/03

Update (9/16/03) from Beatle News Briefs

- McCartney Red Square concert to air this fall: New interview.

- "Let It Be" . . . finally?: Reassurance from Ringo.

- Ringo 2003 All-Starr Band tour news: Family trip to Ringo concert.

- Gerry Marsden has heart surgery

- "Beatle Brunch" -- upcoming shows

- "The Beatle Years" -- upcoming shows

- Quick news links: Yoko recreates "Cut Piece."

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 9/15/03

Update (9/15/03) from Beatle News Briefs

- Update: Johnny Cash and John Ritter dead: More Beatles connections.

- The Concert for George news reports: UK theatrical opening.

- McCartney Red Square concert to air this fall: News links.

- "Breakfast With the Beatles," hosted by Dennis Mitchell -- the latest show online

- Quick news links: The race -- horse race, that is -- for Beatlemania

- See Beatles listings on eBay at a glance in our Collectibles Marketplace!

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 9/14/03

Update (9/14/03) from Beatle News Briefs

- Update: Johnny Cash and John Ritter dead: More Beatles connections and some rare pics

- Update: Apple suing Apple Computer again: More links.

- McCartney Red Square concert to air this fall: Video online.

- Update: Beatles chart news

- "The Beatle Years" -- upcoming shows

- Quick news links: Fall fashion takes a hint from "A Hard Day's Night."

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 9/13/03

Update (9/13/03) from Beatles News Briefs

-- George Harrison among 2004 nominees for Rock Hall of Fame

-- Update: Apple suing Apple Computer again: Statement from Apple

-- "Let It Be" . . . finally?: It's on. Really ...

-- OT: Johnny Cash and John Ritter dead: Beatles connections

-- Paul and Heather news: Another pic of Paul and Heather

-- Quick news links: Yoko supports gay high school

George nominated for Rock Hall of Fame

George Harrison is among the 2004 nominees for the Rock Hall of Fame, along with Prince, John Mellencamp, Jackson Browne, the Sex Pistols, Gram Parsons, Black Sabbath, Bob Seger, the Stooges and Traffic, reports the Cleveland Plain Dealer. George is already in the Hall as a member of the Beatles, but this nomination is for his solo work. Paul McCartney and John Lennon are already members of the Hall for their solo work. If Harrison is admitted, only Ringo won't be a member for his solo career.

All we can say is...it's about time for George...now, how about Ringo?

Beatles sue Apple Computer

The news we posted this a.m. about a possible lawsuit by the Beatles against Apple has now been confirmed. Here's a statement issued by the Beatles today:

APPLE CORPS LTD TODAY RELEASED THE FOLLOWING STATEMENT

"Apple Corps Ltd, the company owned by Mrs Lennon, Sir Paul McCartney,
Richard Starkey and the Estate of George Harrison confirms that legal proceedings
were commenced on 4th July in the High Court, Chancery Division, in London
against Apple Computer Inc, seeking damages and an injunction to enforce the terms
of an agreement made in 1991. The Agreement was concerned with the future use
of the name "Apple" and use of the companies' respective well known logos of
apples. Specifically complaint is made over the use by Apple Computer of the
word "Apple" and apple logos in conjunction with its new application for
down-loading pre-recorded music from the Internet."

"Let It Be....Naked" ... is on...

We've just been reassured by a source close to the Fabs that the "Let It Be" CD is indeed on and will be released Nov. 18.

We can all breathe a sigh of relief...

Johnny Cash ... John Ritter

I woke up this a.m. to the stunning news that both Johnny Cash and John
Ritter have passed away. Johnny Cash, an artist I dearly loved, had been ill
for some time. Never got to see him in concert, unfortunately, though I'd
always wanted to. But I loved his work, especially his albums for the
American label. I recommend them highly. The most recent one, his fourth for
them, has a cover of "It's My Life" on it. Cash had been ill for some time,
and his death wasn't totally a surprise. But what was really sad, and
probably led to his death, was the sudden recent death of his wife, June
Carter, with whom he performed on stage.

You can't think of John Ritter and not think of "Three's Company." It was a
popular show, even if it wasn't TV at its most intellectual. The sad thing
here is Ritter was only 54....

Our condolensces to both families.

Cash obit: http://www.cnn.com/2003/SHOWBIZ/Music/09/12/cash.obit/index.html
Ritter obit: http://www.cnn.com/2003/SHOWBIZ/TV/09/12/ritter.obit/index.html

steve

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 9/12/03

Update (9/12/03) from Beatle News Briefs

- Paul planning new album: Paul working at Abbey Road Studios?

- Report: Apple suing Apple Computer again

- Paul on "Larry King" show Saturday

- Ringo 2003 All-Starr Band tour news: Link.

- McCartney Red Square concert to air this fall: Newspaper review.

- Magazine alerts: paulmccartney/fm

- Quick news links

Abbeyrd Beatles Page Beatle News Briefs news headlines for 9/11/03

Update (9/11/03) from Beatle News Briefs

- "Let It Be" . . . finally?: Is it on or off?

- The Concert for George news reports: Links.

- Quick news links: Autographed "Double Fantasy" lawsuit

To the RIAA: Lawsuits aren't the answer

Now that the RIAA has begun filing lawsuits against alleged file sharers -- the same people who they would like back as customers (interesting customer relations!) -- isn't it time they wised up and did what they really should be doing?

The answer is simple: Create an industry sponsored peer-to-peer site. Give the customers what they want. The customers will get the music they want, and the industry will get money for their music.

It's so simple. You'd think one of those million-dollar industry execs would think of this instead of making lawyers rich and filing lawsuits that create nothing but bad will. Some people are now saying they will never buy CDs anymore. That's not what the industry wants to hear. It's a kind of spin they'd rather avoid.

In the end, will they satisfy the customers? Will record stores dwindle even more than they already have? Only time will tell.

One thing's for sure: Consumers want their music. And they'll get it, despite the lawsuits.

Abbeyrd's Beatles Page news headlines for 9/10/03

Update (9/10/03) from Beatle News Briefs

- Paul planning new album: More tidbits

- Ringo 2003 All-Starr Band tour news: First San Diego tour finale fan review

- The Concert for George news reports: Movie-DVD press release.

- Update: Stella marries on Scottish isle: Stella's wedding music.

- Update: Ringo selling live CD of Casino Rama show: OK, where is it? An answer from the source.

- "Let It Be" . . . finally?: We won't "Let It Be."

- Quick news links: BBC recalls "Yesterday."

It's a Simon and Garfunkel reunion ...

Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel announced today they're doing their first tour in over 20 years beginning Oct. 18 in Detroit.

I don't know about you, but outside of fantasizing for a Beatles reunion which can never happen, this is probably the greatest news we could ever hope to get.

In the '60s, Simon and Garfunkel were one of those groups (the Byrds were another) who represented the same all-around musical excellence the Beatles achieved. And where there were four Beatles, there was only two members of Simon and Garfunkel. That excellence was balanced on both shoulders.

Forget that Simon wrote most of the songs. Even though he gained a measure of solo success later on (part of the reason that Simon and Garfunkel split was Simon's determination to go solo), it wasn't the same. The sound, the combination of talents, was missing. It wasn't Simon and Garfunkel.

So, welcome back, Simon and Garfunkel. There are no more sounds of silence as far as your fans are concerned. You're back -- and we're cheering.

steve

Concert for George press release

Here's the text for the Concert for George film release (and later DVD). Thanks to Amber H.:


New Documentary Film Celebrates the Music of George Harrison Through Performances by Legendary Musicians

BURBANK, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 9, 2003 -- Concert For George in U.S. Theatres Oct. 3
for Limited Theatrical Release; Musical Director Eric Clapton Performs with Harrison's Closest Friends

Rock music's most celebrated musicians gathered at Royal Albert Hall in London on Nov. 29, 2001, to pay tribute to one of their own, the legendary George Harrison, on the one year anniversary of his death. On that magical night, Harrison's closest friends gathered to perform a collection of his music for a
live audience. Concert For George is far more than a concert film; it is a soulful cinematic tribute to a musician whose vision transcended the ordinary and whose talents contributed to a revolution in the music industry.

Under the musical direction of Harrison's longtime friend Eric Clapton, the film captures an emotional gathering of musicians such as Jeff Lynne, Paul McCartney, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, Billy Preston and Ringo Starr. Truly a rare moment in music history, this documentary showcases these legends of
music not likely to perform together on the same stage again. Concert For George is masterfully directed by famed British director David Leland, whose credits include Wish You Were Here (BAFTA winner), HBO's Band of Brothers television series and The Traveling Wilburys video Handle With Care. The film transports
viewers to Royal Albert Hall, beautifully shot, digitally remastered and recorded in 5.1 surround sound.

The film will open theatrically on Oct. 3 in New York, Los Angeles and select regional markets.

"The Concert For George was all I hoped it would be. The glue that held it
together was our love for George. I don't think I've ever heard a band play with
so much emotion and respect," said Olivia Harrison.

"All I wanted to do was really share our love for George and his music," said
Eric Clapton of his vision for the Concert For George.

"George kept up a relationship with everybody on that stage like old friends,
old pals on stage, hanging out in rehearsals and backstage with everybody. It
was a great way of getting closure, because we all had our stories and our
memories and our laughter and our sad points of view, and it was just so great
to be around all these people for me, that you could laugh and cry about, you
know different moments in our life that George had touched," said Ringo Starr.

All proceeds from the concert, the film and the DVD will go to The Material
World Charitable Foundation, founded by Harrison in 1973.

About The Production

A @radical.media Production, produced by Ray Cooper, Harrison's longtime film
producing partner, Olivia Harrison and Jon Kamen, the documentary is meant as
a celebration and tribute to George Harrison's extraordinary musical career.

Under the direction of Leland and Director of Photography Chris Menges, the
film captures the beauty of Royal Albert Hall from more than a dozen camera
locations. The film was shot in High Definition and digitally mastered with sound
recorded in 5.1 surround. The entire producing team was aware that the
concert had an intimate feel that night -- a feeling that required non-intrusive
camera points and discreet filming. The result is a unique experience that truly
makes viewers feel as if they've taken a seat in Royal Albert Hall and have an
emotional connection to the music and the performers. The legendary Eric
Clapton, who created a palette of music spanning Harrison's entire career, oversaw
the complete musical effort as Musical Director. Harrison's longtime music
producing partner, Jeff Lynne (also of The Traveling Wilburys), performed as
well as collaborated on audio elements of the concert. A few special interviews
and backstage moments are woven into the film, giving viewers a sense of the
extraordinary bond Harrison shared with his friends and family, and how deeply
they felt for him.

About The Performance

Each musician in the Western lineup had a personal friendship with George,
and many from the Indian orchestra were chosen because of their history with
George. The group spent three emotional weeks rehearsing George's songs and
collectively grieving the loss of their dear friend.

Eric Clapton led the performers through music from George Harrison's spanning
much of George's career. Clapton led the band with Jeff Lynne singing "I Want
To Tell You," "Inner Light" and "Give Me Love." Tom Petty performed "Taxman"
and "I Need You" along with the Wilburys' number, "Handle With Care." Ringo
Starr brought the crowd to an emotional peak with "Photograph," a song he
co-wrote with Harrison. Paul McCartney played a bit of ukulele, one of Harrison's
favorite instruments, and joined the band for "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" and
"For You Blue." The audience was treated to the Monty Python team performing
some of Harrison's favorite skits, including participation from surprise guest
Tom Hanks. The show also pointed to Harrison's spiritual side with Anoushka
Shankar and a 16-piece orchestra of Indian musicians performing a special
composition by her father and Harrison's mentor, Ravi Shankar. The piece was
entitled Arpan, meaning offering.

Joe Brown closed the evening with the old standard, "I'll See You In My
Dreams," a loving and appropriate sentiment.

About The Material World Foundation

The Material World Charitable Foundation was established by George Harrison
in 1973 to sponsor diverse forms of artistic expression and to encourage the
exploration of alternative life views and philosophies. The Foundation also
supports established charitable organizations with consideration to those with
special needs. Funds for the activities of the Foundation have and will continue
to come from copyrights donated by George Harrison.

Concert For George will be distributed internationally by ArenaPlex LLC. The
DVD of Concert For George will release in November 2003 worldwide. For more
information, please also visit www.concertforgeorge.com

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 9/9/03 from Beatle News Briefs

Update (9/9/03) from Beatle News Briefs

- Paul planning new album: A new producer?

- Ringo 2003 All-Starr Band tour news: New tour pics, first Phoenix review, L.A. guest performer identified.

- Update: Ringo selling live CD of Casino Rama show: OK, where is it?

- "Let It Be" . . . finally?: "Get Back" to basics.

- The not so magical mystery of Brazil's Paul McCartney "Sold" album

- Sad news: Warren Zevon passes away

- Magazine alerts: Daytrippin'

- Quick news links: A license for Lennon.

steve

Sad news: Warren Zevon passes away...

Warren Zevon, the musician best known for the song "Werewolves of London," passed away Sunday at his home in Los Angeles from lung cancer, reports the Associated Press. He was 56. His wry, morbid sense of humor made him a joy to listen to. We will miss him.

Don't let it be, Apple!

The recent postponement of the much awaited "Let It Be" DVD (which, dare I say it, is more anticipated than "Let It Be Naked," as they calling the CD version that didn't get postponed) sparked a flurry of emails to us ruminating about various reasons and bemoaning Apple all over again.

There's really no point to that, is there? It's been proven time and again that Apple will do what they want when they want and not a minute before ... and certainly not in answer to pleas from us lowly Beatles fans.

Still, you'd think after all this time Apple might ... we say, might just get things together. It does seem, as one letter writer pointed out, that every time a really great project is in the works, it gets pushed back.

Maybe if they didn't announce things until they were almost upon us, as happened with the BBC album. (Which they strangely took out of print shortly after so it wouldn't compete with the Anthology ...huh?? It's back, now, but why deprive fans of it for that reason?)

But no one can keep a secret ... not when there's a tour to promote or a solo album to sell.

Here's hoping we see that "Let It Be" DVD sometime in this century.

By the way, certainly someone at Apple must be tearing their hair out over the fact that "Let It Be Naked" (stupid name) AND "The Concert For George" DVD are coming out the very same day. Hopefully, Olivia won't be forced to change her date. The more stuff the merrier, we always say...

Comments: Send 'em here.

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 9/8/03 from Beatle News Briefs

Update (9/8/03) from Beatle News Briefs

- Paul and Heather news: Report: Heather and Stella patch things up

- Update: Allan Williams rushed to hospital after fall: Getting better.

- Ringo 2003 All-Starr Band tour news: Universal Amphitheater, Los Angeles, fan review.

- Update: Benton, Ill.,benefit cancelled.

- Update: Stella marries on Scottish isle: Honeymoon pic

- "Breakfast With the Beatles," hosted by Dennis Mitchell -- the latest show online

- Quick news links: Strange Paul album listing.

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 9/7/03

Update (9/7/03) from Beatle News Briefs

- "Let It Be" . . . finally?: More "Let It Be Naked."

- Ringo 2003 All-Starr Band tour news: New press review.

- Ringo Rama news: A Nashville cat.

- Quick news links: File sharing amnesty?

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 9/5/03 Update II

Update II (9/5/03) from Beatle News Briefs

- "Let It Be" . . . finally?: "Let It Be Naked"?

- Ringo 2003 All-Starr Band tour news: Saratoga fan review.

- Quick news links: George LIB guitar to be auctioned.

steve

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 9/5/03

Update (9/5/03) from Beatles News Briefs

- Rolling Stone's 100 greatest guitarists include a Beatle

- Allan Williams rushed to hospital after fall

- Pete Best Band news: Audio link.

- The Concert for George news reports: DVD advance order link.

- "Let It Be" . . . finally?: More discussion.

- Ringo 2003 All-Starr Band tour news: Tour pics.

- Paul and Heather news: Heather's name trademarked

- Update: Beatles chart news: "1"

- Quick news links

You can now order the Concert for George DVD (Region 1) in advance.

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 9/4/03

Update (9/4/03) from Beatle News Briefs

- Yoko helped Lennon write "Imagine", reports paper

- Forthcoming DVD releases

- Update: Stella marries on Scottish isle: Proud papa

- Pete Best Band news: And the winner is ...

- Ringo 2003 All-Starr Band tour news: Chicago review

- Paul says he's planning new album: Info about "Love Songs".

- "Let It Be" . . . finally?: More Apple strategy.

- Quick news links: Lennon goes to Russia.

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 9/2/03 Update II

Update II (9/2/03) from Beatle News Briefs

- Update: Stella marries on Scottish isle: A Heather snub?

- The Concert for George news reports: More changes for George website

- Update: OT: Beach Boys' "Smile" box set in the works: More from Keith Badman

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 9/2/03

Update (9/2/03) from our Beatle News Briefs

- Ringo 2003 All-Starr Band tour news: Denver, Redmond, Wash. and Lake Tahoe fan reviews

- Benton, Ill., to pay tribute to George's U.S. debut

- The Concert for George news reports: DVD release story links.

- Paul says he's planning new album: Puzzling online news item.

- "Let It Be" . . . finally?: A plea to Apple

- Pics of Henry McCullough (and Denny Seiwell) at Liverpool's Int. Beatles Week

- Beatle items featured in upcoming auction

- "Breakfast With the Beatles," hosted by Dennis Mitchell -- the latest show online

- OT: Beach Boys' "Smile" box set in the works

- Quick news links: DJ remembers Beatles tour

P.S. We'd love to hear what you think about this blog. Is it helpful to you? Let us know.

Abbeyrd's Beatles Page news headlines for 9/1/03

Update (9/1/03) from Beatle News Briefs

- Stella married in Scotland: Links

- The Concert for George news reports: Official website.

- Quick news links: Elvis as he might have been

More Stella wedding newspaper links

Scotland on Sunday: Stella's not-so secret wedding

Nzoom, New Zealand: Stella marries in Scotland

Brisbane Courier Mail : McCartney daughter weds on isle

News.com.au: Beatle daughter weds on isle

Security, by the way, was extremely tight. Twenty former SAS men were employed to keep outsiders out.

And this little interesting paragraph from Scotland on Sunday:

In the Kingarth Hotel’s public bar on Friday afternoon, and in an amazing coincidence, visitors heard one of Sir Paul’s ditties from the 1970s - ‘Maybe I’m Amazed’ - blaring out of the CD player. Alas, staff denied that any celebrity guests were lodging at the hotel, and promptly shut up shop at 6 p.m.

More about Stella's wedding

More bits of news from the various newspaper accounts:

The News of the World reported that Paul entertained guests with a five minute musical set. You can find the menu here.

The Glasgow Daily Mail reported that the Campbelltown Pipe Band, who played on Paul's song "Mull of Kintyre," also was part of the entertainment at the wedding. And when asked about their child-to-be, Heather said she and Paul were looking forward to the baby and told the Mail, "Everything is fine. I'm feeling great."

Stella married, news reports say

Stella McCartney, 31, has married her 31-year-old fiance Alasdhair Willis, Reuters, the BBC, Glasgow Sunday Mail and ABC Online report, citing news stories in local papers in Scotland where the ceremony was to be held. The papers said she married Willis in a secluded chapel at Mount Stuart, a Gothic mansion on the isle of Bute in western Scotland. Stella arrived in a horse-drawn carriage, wearing a dress she helped design.

Guests, including Madonna, Kate Moss, Chrissie Hynde and Pierce Brosnan, were serenaded by a lone bagpipe player, then enjoyed a vegetarian reception dinner of artichoke souffle, followed by mushroom pie and wild strawberries, the News of the World said.

Among those seen on the way to Rothsay, where a ferry took guests, was expectant mother Heather Mills McCartney. Speculation had been rampant for months in the tabloids as to whether she and Paul would be invited to the wedding because of a reported family dispute between Stella and Heather.

We wish the newly married couple all the best.

BBC: Wedding bells on Bute (pictures)

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 8/30/03

- All signs point to Stella wedding this weekend
- The Concert for George news reports: More DVD release info.
- Ringo 2003 All-Starr Band tour news: Denver fan reviews
- Paul and Heather news: Can't you hear the heartbeat?
- "Let It Be" . . . finally?: More speculation and the Apple marketing mindset.
- "Beatlesongs" radio show playlist
- Quick news links: Liverpool honors 9/11 victims.

- Newly revised and expanded: Our Abbeyrd Beatles Page Collectibles Marketplace!

Remembering Candlestick Park

Aug. 29, 2003, marks the 37th anniversary of the Fabs' last public concert. It was played at Candlestick Park in San Francisco. At the time, it was home to the American baseball team the San Francisco Giants. Baseball fans know the 'Stick, as locals call it, as one of the most fan unfriendly parks in the country. Even on a summer day, as the wind blew off the bay in late afternoon, the crowd would often get chilled by the breeze. Paul even remarked about the weather the night of the concert on a tape circulating of the show. "It's a bit chilly," he said.

Today, the Giants no longer play at Candlestick, having abandoned the park for the much more beautiful Pacific Bell Park. But Candlestick, which is still home to the San Francisco 49ers football team, has a place in Beatle history. We haven't been there recently, but the last time we were, the place looked a bit worn out. (It's over 30 years old.) It's sad to see the park, which has seen many moments of sports history through the years, look that way.

There have been tributes to the Beatles' concert presented there over the years. And we know a plaque honoring the Beatles' appearance was presented there at one time.


We hope that when pro teams finally abandon it, it will somehow remain as a monument to all the historic moments, both sports and musical, that have happened there through the years.

---

Abbeyrd Beatles Page news headlines for 8/29/03

Update (8/29/03) from Abbeyrd Beatles Page Beatle News Briefs

- The Concert for George news reports: DVD release date!; more film reviews.

- McCartney Red Square concert to air this fall: Clarification of broadcast date

- Update: Ed Sullivan DVDs being released commercially: Extended press release.

- Paul and Heather news: Trip to London.

- Update: Beatles chart news: "1"

- "Breakfast With the Beatles" KLSX-FM/Los Angeles playlist

- Quick news links: More Stella wedding rumors

---

Concert for George DVD release date

Thanks to Beatlefan's Bill King, the mystery of what's coming out on Nov. 18 may have finally been answered. "The Concert For George" DVD, which will retail for $29.95 list price, is to be released that day. It'll be 2 discs.

Here's the info on the set that Bill sent us:

Here's promotional info on the "Concert for George" DVD set. There's a
review of the film in Beatlefan/EXTRA! #191. For a preview, go to
http://www.beatlefan.com and click on Beatlenews Headlines.

CONCERT FOR GEORGE   DVD ONLY

$29.99 / 2 discs    selection # 970241   street date 11/18/03

Visibility on release through December

 Listed below are the key points for the Concert for George, as they exist
today. This is an early look at the project

and there will be more details to follow.

 Content

Last year a tribute concert for the late George Harrison was held in London
to remember the 1st anniversary of his death. The musicians who
participated were, Eric Clapton , Ringo Starr, Paul McCartney, Jeff Lynn,
Ravi Shanker, Albert Lee, Ray Cooper, Jim Keltner, Jim Capaldi, Tom Petty
and the Heart beakers, Jools Holland, the Cast of Monty Python, and a full
Indian Orchestra. This was filmed and will be released as a commercial DVD.
In addition a documentary of the concert was created and will be shown in
theaters in the fall

 Charity

Artist royalties to go to the Material World Foundation-the Harrisonfamily
charity

 Packaging

2 discs-one disc of the entire concert approx 2:50in length-second disc the
movie approx. 1:50in length

There will not be an audio only piece at this time.


The Beatlefan website says the entire concert will be on disc 1 and the theatrical version will be on disc 2. Interviews and rehearsal footage will also be included in the set.

By the way, it's still not certain if the "Let It Be" CD will also be coming on Nov. 18 or not. It wouldn't seem likely that they'd release the two on the same day.

Thanks very very much to Bill King for sending this.

steve

---

Update (8/28/03) from Abbeyrd Beatles Page Beatle News Briefs

- McCartney Red Square concert to air this fall: A sneak preview of the film!

- Paul says he's planning new album: Some info from Rusty.

- The Concert for George news reports: Another report on theater showing of concert film.

- "Let It Be" . . . finally?: More reasons for DVD delay.

- Ringo 2003 All-Starr Band tour news: Amarillo review (late add)

- Quick news links: Beatle book author commits suicide

Update (8/27/03) from Beatle News Briefs

- Macca Back in the World tour book coming

- Update: "Let It Be" . . . finally?: DVD delay confirmed ... but what's coming Nov. 18?

- Update: Ed Sullivan DVDs being released commercially: Link.

- "The Beatles Show" radio show -- upcoming shows

- Quick news links: Happy birthday, Barbara!

- New essay!: Yellow Sub depth charged by Terry Ott

Nov. 18 Beatles release??

There's a rumor going around about something Beatles supposedly due out Nov. 18. We're checking...

Back in the World tour book

A note we just received from Matt Hurwitz:

Hi, Steve--

I've just heard there's going to be a big book covering Paul's recent touring
ventures. No idea of time frame or format, but no doubt loaded with great
pictures. Text written by Macca publicist Geoff Baker.

Matt

It's official: "Let It Be" DVD delayed

The Rocky Mountain News has the first official word (from Ringo) that the "Let It Be" DVD has been delayed. He says the CD will come out in October, but the DVD will take longer. Ringo is quoted in the Rocky Mountain News article as saying, "I don't think it's gonna come out at the same time, because we have to clean it up still." The article also confirms the October release of the Concert For George on CD and DVD. (Thanks to Trini Schultz and Brian Hurley.)

Update (8/26/03) from Abbeyrd Beatles Page Beatle News Briefs

- George Harrison: In memoriam: Remembering George in Benton, Illinois.

- The Concert for George news reports: Second report on theater showing of concert film.

- Ringo 2003 All-Starr Band tour news: Grand Prarie, Texas, report. Paul and Heather news: Their great escape.

- Update: Ed Sullivan DVDs being released commercially: Press release, links.

- Pete Best Band news: Audio interview link

- "Breakfast With the Beatles," hosted by Dennis Mitchell -- the latest show online

- Quick news links

Just saw this on Billboard.com: Head of Femur's debut album is called "Ringodom or Proctor." What's Ringodom, anyway?

Just saw an advance copy of the new Warren Zevon album to be released Tuesday. It's called "The Wind".The cover features the picture of Warren that's on the home page of his website, http://www.warrenzevon.com. Looking at that picture, I'm not sure whether to smile or cry. Zevon, who is suffering from inoperable lung cancer, has an extremely dour look on his face. For a guy going through what he is, such a look would be expected. But Zevon has never been your usual kind of guy. What can you say about a guy who writes a song called "Werewolves of London"? In any event, the album features contributions from Joe Walsh, Jim Keltner, Bruce Springsteen, Don Henley, Tom Petty, Dwight Yoakam, John Waite, Ry Cooder, Timothy B. Schmit and David Lindley.

Picked up a nice DVD today that we'll do a longer review on soon. It's "The Beach Boys -- Good Timin' -- Live at Knebworth, England 1980." It was the last time Mike, Brian, Dennis, Carl, Bruce and Al appeared together in the UK and so some of the songs are ones we hadn't heard by the group in some time. It's especially sad to see Carl and Dennis. Dennis, who was showing effects of his alcohol problem, plays the drums very well in the set, especially the dynamic opening to the set opener, "California Girls." And Carl, of course, sounds tremendous, as he always did. If you're a Beach Boys fan, or, we should say, a fan of the Beach Boys the way they used to be, don't miss this disc.

So why the blog?? It gives us the opportunity to quickly add items before they make it into the daily updates. Instant news, if you will. And it gives us the opportunity to add comments on things that don't really fit into the updates. As always, your suggestions and comments to abbeyrd@best.com are welcome and, in this case, will be very much appreciated. We promise we won't ramble. :)