Wednesday, November 13, 2024

the Reluctant Beatle page 18

the Reluctant Beatle page 18 by ric gustafson


When the Beatles flew into John F Kennedy airport on Feb 7 1964, what happened was unexpected. The band was astonished to see shrieking terraces of fans awaiting them. Then the band had it's first encounter with the American media. Despite stomach trouble and being overtired, George seemed fine.
The band settled into a suite of the 12th floor of the Plaza Hotel. George attended the first rehearsal for their appearance on the Ed Sullivan Show. 
Then George came down with a case of influenza. Brian Epstein was worried about George. He had strep throat and a temperature of 104. Luckily, George's sister Louise came and nursed him back to health. 73 million people tuned in to the Ed Sullivan Show to watch the Beatles.
On Feb 25 1964, George turned 21. The band decided to film a movie quickly for United Artists. It was directed by Richard Lester. With a rock bottom budget, it had to be completed in five months. On the movie set, George met a fashion model named Pattie Boyd. They immediately started dating. The film called ' A Hard Days Night' featured a soundtrack album. Hit songs on the album included ' Can't Buy Me Love' and ' I Love Her'. The album was a critical and commercial smash.


research help: ' George Harrison the Reluctant Beatle' by Philip Norman


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

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