George Martin will add one more trophy to his mantelpiece this February. The Music Producers Guild will bestow the Outstanding Contribution to U.K. Music Award to the man often labeled "the fifth Beatle."
Out today (October 8th) is the Yoko Ono sanctioned book, The John Lennon Letters. Tomorrow (October 9th) marks what would've been Lennon's 72nd birthday. The John Lennon Letters was edited by noted Beatles author Hunter Davies and features letters sent by the late Beatle to lovers, friends, family, and fans from every point in his life, and culled from a collection over nearly 300 letters and postcards. Highlights include Lennon's rants to and against the press, Yoko bashers, producer George Martin, and Paul and Linda McCartney.
It was 50 years ago today (October 5th, 1962) that the Beatles' first single "Love Me Do"'/"P.S. I Love You" was released on EMI's Parlophone Records in England. Although the song went on to top the U.S. charts two years later, it's initial release in 1962 saw the Beatles score a sizable, but still minor, Top 20 hit with "Love Me Do" peaking at a respectable Number 17.
Out now is the career-spanning documentary Produced By George Martin. The doc about the Beatles' legendary producer, first aired last year as part of Britain's Arena TV series and features new and exclusive interviews with surviving Beatles, Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr. In addition to his work with the Beatles, Gerry & The Pacemakers, America, and others, the doc showcases Martin's legendary comedy work with Spike Milligan and Peter Sellers, among others. Martin is interviewed throughout by his son, producer Giles Martin, and sheds light on his military past as a pilot in the Fleet Air Arm of the Royal Navy.