Page from an autograph book signed by the classic lineup of Them, with Van Morrison (who has added the band name above his signature), Billy Harrison, Alan Henderson and John (Jackie) McAuley. According to a notation on the page, these autographs were obtained at the English television show Gadzooks! on April 19, 1965, a mere six weeks after Them released their third single “Here Comes The Night” (the follow up to their extraordinary first two 45’s–“Don’t Stop Crying Now/One Two Brown Eyes” and “Baby Please Don’t Go/Gloria”).
On the back of the page is the autograph of Marianne Faithful, according to a notation signed at ‘The Rolling Stones Show’ on January 10, 1965. Measures 5 3/4 x 4 3/4 inches.
An extremely rare typed and signed letter sent by The Beatles to Atlanta DJ Paul Drew, who traveled with them during their 1964 and 1965 U.S. Tours; along with a typed and signed letter from Beatles press officer Tony Barrow, confirming details for the 1965 tour.
On both the ’64 and ’65 tours, Drew accompanied The Beatles on their chartered plane, interviewing the group many times, and introducing them at their August 18, 1965 concert at Atlanta Stadium. Drew went on to become one of the most important radio programmers in the America, and interviewed the individual Beatles numerous times after the group split
Tony Barrow’s letter, also on NEMS stationery, is dated August 5, 1965 and gives Drew details for the upcoming tour. The Beatles also wrote to Drew on September 6, 1965, six days after the end of their second U.S. Tour, and only six days before beginning recording sessions for Rubber Soul.
On NEMS stationery The Beatles write “Dear Paul, We just thought that we would like to write to you all and say thanks very much for your help on the tour. We enjoyed it and appreciated your patience and co-operation. Hope to see You Next Year.” John Lennon, Paul McCartney and John Lennon each sign with their first names, reflecting their then close relationship with Drew. George Harrison signs with his first and last names.
Any official NEMS correspondence having to do with The Beatles is rare and highly collectible. These two pieces are truly extraordinary; the first one of a very few signed letters from The Beatles, and the second, a letter regarding their second U.S. Tour from their legendary publicist to a Beatles insider.
