Rob Frith, owner of Vancouver’s Neptoon Records, has uncovered a rare 1962 Beatles audition tape, believed to be a master recording from their Decca Studios session. Initially dismissed as a bootleg, the tape’s exceptional sound quality suggests it is a direct copy of the original master. Frith acquired the reel-to-reel tape, labeled “Beatles 60s Demos,” from Jack Herschorn, former owner of Mushroom Records, who received it from a London producer in the 1970s. citeturn0news12
The audition tape features 15 tracks, including covers of “Sheik of Araby” and “Money (That’s What I Want).” Decca Records famously rejected The Beatles after this session, a decision now considered one of the biggest mistakes in music history. The band later signed with Parlophone under producer George Martin and released their debut album, “Please Please Me,” in 1963. citeturn0news12
Frith’s friend, music preservationist Larry Hennessey, identified the tape as a “leader tape,” used to separate tracks on master recordings, indicating its authenticity. Frith hopes that Paul McCartney will visit his store to retrieve the tape or plans to host a listening party, with proceeds going to charity. citeturn0news12
This discovery offers a unique glimpse into The Beatles’ early days and their determination to succeed despite initial setbacks. The tape’s pristine condition and historical significance make it a valuable artifact in music history. citeturn0news12
