One of the most iconic bands of all time 'The Beatles' disbanded in 1970&nbsp;breaking the hearts of fans the world over. 
Now decades later, one of its members, Sir Paul McCartney has addressed their break-up, refusing to rumours that suggested it was he who led to the end for the band.&nbsp; 
 
Speaking on an episode of BBC Radio 4's 'This Cultural Life', McCartney said it was John Lennon who wanted to disband The Beatles.&nbsp; 
 
"I didn’t instigate the split," McCartney said. "That was our Johnny." 
 
The interview is scheduled to air on October 23.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-the-indian-who-took-the-beatles-home-for-tea-389983">Read: The Indian who took the Beatles home for tea</a> 
 
For years fans have speculated the reason that led to the band's breakup with many suggesting that it was McCartney who decided to end things with the other three members of the band. The veteran singer though said Lennon's desire to "break loose″ was the main reason behind the split. 
 
Confusion about the breakup was allowed to fester because their manager asked the band members to keep quiet until he concluded a number of business deals, McCartney said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/taylor-swift-breaks-54-year-old-chart-record-of-the-beatles-378551">Taylor Swift breaks 54-year-old chart record of The Beatles</a> 
 
The interview comes days ahead of a new documentary chronicling the finals months of the band. The film has been directed by Peter Jackson and is titled as 'The Beatles: Get Back'. It is scheduled to release in November on Disney+ and is set to revisit the reasons that led to the band's breakup.&nbsp; 
 
When asked by interviewer John Wilson about the decision to strike out on his own, McCartney retorted, "Stop right there. I am not the person who instigated the split. Oh no, no, no. John walked into a room one day and said, ‘I am leaving The Beatles.’ Is that instigating the split, or not?" 
 
McCartney expressed sadness over the breakup, saying the group was still making "pretty good stuff." 
 
"This was my band, this was my job, this was my life. So I wanted it to continue," McCartney said.

One of the most iconic bands of all time 'The Beatles' disbanded in 1970 breaking the hearts of fans the world over. Now decades later, one of its members, Sir Paul McCartney has addressed their break-up, refusing to rumours that suggested it was he who led to the end for the band.

One of the most iconic bands of all time 'The Beatles' disbanded in 1970 breaking the hearts of fans the world over. Now decades later, one of its members, Sir Paul McCartney has addressed their break-up, refusing to rumours that suggested it was he who led to the end for the band. Speaking on an episode of BBC Radio 4's 'This Cultural Life', McCartney said it was John Lennon who wanted to disband The Beatles. "I didn’t instigate the split," McCartney said. "That was our Johnny." The interview is scheduled to air on October 23. Read: The Indian who took the Beatles home for tea For years fans have speculated the reason that led to the band's breakup with many suggesting that it was McCartney who decided to end things with the other three members of the band. The veteran singer though said Lennon's desire to "break loose″ was the main reason behind the split. Confusion about the breakup was allowed to fester because their manager asked the band members to keep quiet until he concluded a number of business deals, McCartney said. Taylor Swift breaks 54-year-old chart record of The Beatles The interview comes days ahead of a new documentary chronicling the finals months of the band. The film has been directed by Peter Jackson and is titled as 'The Beatles: Get Back'. It is scheduled to release in November on Disney+ and is set to revisit the reasons that led to the band's breakup. When asked by interviewer John Wilson about the decision to strike out on his own, McCartney retorted, "Stop right there. I am not the person who instigated the split. Oh no, no, no. John walked into a room one day and said, ‘I am leaving The Beatles.’ Is that instigating the split, or not?" McCartney expressed sadness over the breakup, saying the group was still making "pretty good stuff." "This was my band, this was my job, this was my life. So I wanted it to continue," McCartney said.

Paul McCartney says John Lennon led to the break up of The Beatles

A new documentary is in works about a music festival that changed the future of iconic music group Beatles. The festival called Toronto Rock &amp; Roll Revival featured John Lennon by himself in a rare solo performance that many believe led to the breakup of Beatles.&nbsp;

The film will be called ‘Rock &amp; Roll Revival’ and will be directed by Ron Chapman. It will tell the story of the Toronto event in September 1969, held the same year as Woodstock and Harlem Cultural Festival.

The one-day music festival at the University of Toronto’s 20,000-seat Varsity Stadium was put together by young promoter John Brower with artists including Chuck Berry, Little Richard, Jerry Lee Lewis, Bo Diddley, Gene Vincent, The Doors and Alice Cooper. When the ticket sales were poor, the concert was almost cancelled. That’s when Brower invited John Lennon and he said yes.

At the time, John Lennon had been in the studio with The Beatles putting together the Abbey Road album and he didn’t have a band for his two solo albums so he got together a group consisting of Eric Clapton, Yoko Ono, Yes drummer Alan White and bass player Klaus Voorman, who designed the artwork for the Revolver record.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/i-am-legend-did-not-show-vaccine-turning-people-into-zombies-screenwriter-clears-the-air-on-meme-fest-taking-over-internet-404601" hreflang="en">'I Am Legend' did not show vaccine turning people into zombies: Screenwriter clears the air on misinformation meme fest</a>

At the music festival, John Lennon, Ono and the band played songs including a cover of “Blue Suede Shoes,” as well as “Dizzy Miss Lizzy,” The Beatles’ “Yer Blues” and a new song “Cold Turkey” as well as Ono’s “Don’t Worry Kyoko (Mummy’s Only Looking for Her Hand in the Snow).”

It’s after the success of the music festival that John Lennon was sure of leaving The Beatles.&nbsp;

Pennebaker Hegedus Films is exec producing the project, which is produced by Vancouver’s Screen Siren Pictures, Toronto’s Chapman Productions, Paris’ Films A Cinq. Trish Dolman, Sally Blake and Ron Chapman produce the doc, which is written by Phyllis Ellis.

The film will shoot in Toronto, Los Angeles, New York, London and Berlin, ready for a spring release touring the festival circuit.

A new documentary is in works about a music festival that changed the future of iconic music group Beatles. The festival called Toronto Rock & Roll Revival featured John Lennon by himself in a rare solo performance that many believe led to the breakup of Beatles.

A new documentary is in works about a music festival that changed the future of iconic music group Beatles. The festival called Toronto Rock & Roll Revival featured John Lennon by himself in a rare solo performance that many believe led to the breakup of Beatles. The film will be called ‘Rock & Roll Revival’ and will be directed by Ron Chapman. It will tell the story of the Toronto event in September 1969, held the same year as Woodstock and Harlem Cultural Festival. The one-day music festival at the University of Toronto’s 20,000-seat Varsity Stadium was put together by young promoter John Brower with artists including Chuck Berry, Little Richard, Jerry Lee Lewis, Bo Diddley, Gene Vincent, The Doors and Alice Cooper. When the ticket sales were poor, the concert was almost cancelled. That’s when Brower invited John Lennon and he said yes. At the time, John Lennon had been in the studio with The Beatles putting together the Abbey Road album and he didn’t have a band for his two solo albums so he got together a group consisting of Eric Clapton, Yoko Ono, Yes drummer Alan White and bass player Klaus Voorman, who designed the artwork for the Revolver record. 'I Am Legend' did not show vaccine turning people into zombies: Screenwriter clears the air on misinformation meme fest At the music festival, John Lennon, Ono and the band played songs including a cover of “Blue Suede Shoes,” as well as “Dizzy Miss Lizzy,” The Beatles’ “Yer Blues” and a new song “Cold Turkey” as well as Ono’s “Don’t Worry Kyoko (Mummy’s Only Looking for Her Hand in the Snow).” It’s after the success of the music festival that John Lennon was sure of leaving The Beatles. Pennebaker Hegedus Films is exec producing the project, which is produced by Vancouver’s Screen Siren Pictures, Toronto’s Chapman Productions, Paris’ Films A Cinq. Trish Dolman, Sally Blake and Ron Chapman produce the doc, which is written by Phyllis Ellis. The film will shoot in Toronto, Los Angeles, New York, London and Berlin, ready for a spring release touring the festival circuit.

New film in works on Toronto Rock & Roll festival that led to The Beatles breakup

Taylor Swift has become a force to reckon with and is unstoppable. 
 
With the re-release of her much-anticipated album `Fearless`, American singer-songwriter Taylor Swift, topped the UK`s Official Albums Chart, beating a long-held record by the English rock band `The Beatles`. 
 
According to TMZ, the album hit number 1 in the UK, and with that Taylor has racked up 3, number-1 albums- `Fearless`, `Folklore`, and `Evermore` in 259 days. 
 
This has beaten `The Beatles` record who took 364 days to get number 1 rank with 3 albums in a row.`The Beatles` maintained the record for 54 years until Taylor broke the same on Saturday. 
 
The Grammy-award winning songstress extended gratitude to her fans by penning a note of thanks on Twitter that read, "WELL WELL WELL you all really went out and left my greatest expectations in shambles this week. Word on the street is you made Fearless (my version) the biggest country album 1st week of the last 6 years &amp; the top release of 2021 so far. Honestly?? How?? Did I get this lucky??". 
 
Taylor`s `Fearless` was first released in 2008 and became a huge success following two of her iconic songs `Love Story` and `You Belong With Me`.With the re-record, she re-captured her music with her own version, the rights to which she gave away when she was very young.&nbsp;

Taylor Swift has become a force to reckon with and is unstoppable. With the re-release of her much-anticipated album `Fearless`, American singer-songwriter Taylor Swift, topped the UK`s Official Albums Chart, beating a long-held record by the English rock band `The Beatles`.

Taylor Swift has become a force to reckon with and is unstoppable. With the re-release of her much-anticipated album `Fearless`, American singer-songwriter Taylor Swift, topped the UK`s Official Albums Chart, beating a long-held record by the English rock band `The Beatles`. According to TMZ, the album hit number 1 in the UK, and with that Taylor has racked up 3, number-1 albums- `Fearless`, `Folklore`, and `Evermore` in 259 days. This has beaten `The Beatles` record who took 364 days to get number 1 rank with 3 albums in a row.`The Beatles` maintained the record for 54 years until Taylor broke the same on Saturday. The Grammy-award winning songstress extended gratitude to her fans by penning a note of thanks on Twitter that read, "WELL WELL WELL you all really went out and left my greatest expectations in shambles this week. Word on the street is you made Fearless (my version) the biggest country album 1st week of the last 6 years & the top release of 2021 so far. Honestly?? How?? Did I get this lucky??". Taylor`s `Fearless` was first released in 2008 and became a huge success following two of her iconic songs `Love Story` and `You Belong With Me`.With the re-record, she re-captured her music with her own version, the rights to which she gave away when she was very young.

Taylor Swift breaks 54-year-old chart record of The Beatles

Letters and memorabilia from The Beatles’ time in Hamburg are now set to go up for auction. The auction will happen in London in May.&nbsp;

The iconic band played over 250 shows in the German city between August 1960 and December 1962.&nbsp;

The London auction will feature some previously unseen letters, work permits, photos, drawings, poems and more from The Beatles. Some of the items were sent by the band to photographer Astrid Kirchherr, who was engaged to former Beatle Stuart Sutcliffe after meeting them in Hamburg.

The items will go under the hammer at Bonhams auction house in London on May 5.&nbsp; 
“The Beatles’ time in Hamburg was absolutely crucial to them,” Bonham’s head of entertainment memorabilia Katherine Schofield told the Guardian. “It’s fair to say that they came to Germany as boys and left as men.”

Letters and memorabilia from The Beatles’ time in Hamburg are now set to go up for auction. The auction will happen in London in May. The iconic band played over 250 shows in the German city between August 1960 and December 1962.

Letters and memorabilia from The Beatles’ time in Hamburg are now set to go up for auction. The auction will happen in London in May. The iconic band played over 250 shows in the German city between August 1960 and December 1962. The London auction will feature some previously unseen letters, work permits, photos, drawings, poems and more from The Beatles. Some of the items were sent by the band to photographer Astrid Kirchherr, who was engaged to former Beatle Stuart Sutcliffe after meeting them in Hamburg. The items will go under the hammer at Bonhams auction house in London on May 5. “The Beatles’ time in Hamburg was absolutely crucial to them,” Bonham’s head of entertainment memorabilia Katherine Schofield told the Guardian. “It’s fair to say that they came to Germany as boys and left as men.”

Letters, other memorabilia from The Beatles’ time in Hamburg to go up for auction

The album signed by John Lennon for his assassin 40 years ago is up for auction in New York, as his widow and former Beatles band mates on Tuesday paid tribute to him. 
 
The copy of "Double Fantasy" that Lennon signed for Mark David Chapman a few hours before his death on Dec. 8, 1980 is being sold by a private collector through New Jersey-based Goldin Auctions. 
 
Bidding on Tuesday stood at $450,000 but a spokesman said the auction house expected it to sell for about $1.5 million at the close of the online auction on Saturday. 
 
Chapman, a borderline psychotic from Hawaii, shot Lennon four times at close range for what he called "self-glory." The musician was returning home to the Dakota Apartments by Central Park with his wife, Yoko Ono. Lennon, 40, died on the way to hospital. 
 
Goldin Auctions said Chapman had got Lennon to sign the album earlier in the day and then threw it in a planter outside the Dakota Apartments after the shooting. It bears police markings from when it was taken into evidence. 
 
Goldin Auctions called it "arguably the most important Rock N Roll relic ever for sale."

In tributes on Tuesday to the late Beatle, Paul McCartney tweeted; "A sad sad day, but remembering my friend John with the great joy he brought to the world." 
 
Ringo Starr, the other surviving Beatle, said: "I`m asking Every music radio station in the world sometime today play Strawberry Fields Forever. Peace and love." 
 
Ono called for peace and gun law reform and tweeted the photograph she took of Lennon`s blood-splattered eyeglasses, with the message: "Over 1,436,000 people have been killed by guns in the U.S.A. since John Lennon was shot and killed on Dec. 8, 1980."

The album signed by John Lennon for his assassin 40 years ago is up for auction in New York, as his widow and former Beatles band mates on Tuesday paid tribute to him.

The album signed by John Lennon for his assassin 40 years ago is up for auction in New York, as his widow and former Beatles band mates on Tuesday paid tribute to him. The copy of "Double Fantasy" that Lennon signed for Mark David Chapman a few hours before his death on Dec. 8, 1980 is being sold by a private collector through New Jersey-based Goldin Auctions. Bidding on Tuesday stood at $450,000 but a spokesman said the auction house expected it to sell for about $1.5 million at the close of the online auction on Saturday. Chapman, a borderline psychotic from Hawaii, shot Lennon four times at close range for what he called "self-glory." The musician was returning home to the Dakota Apartments by Central Park with his wife, Yoko Ono. Lennon, 40, died on the way to hospital. Goldin Auctions said Chapman had got Lennon to sign the album earlier in the day and then threw it in a planter outside the Dakota Apartments after the shooting. It bears police markings from when it was taken into evidence. Goldin Auctions called it "arguably the most important Rock N Roll relic ever for sale." In tributes on Tuesday to the late Beatle, Paul McCartney tweeted; "A sad sad day, but remembering my friend John with the great joy he brought to the world." Ringo Starr, the other surviving Beatle, said: "I`m asking Every music radio station in the world sometime today play Strawberry Fields Forever. Peace and love." Ono called for peace and gun law reform and tweeted the photograph she took of Lennon`s blood-splattered eyeglasses, with the message: "Over 1,436,000 people have been killed by guns in the U.S.A. since John Lennon was shot and killed on Dec. 8, 1980."

Signed for his killer, 40 years on John Lennon album is up for auction

A rare photo of The Beatles has surfaced on the planet and we have Paul McCartney’s brother to thank for it.&nbsp;

In the photo, the band can be seen strumming their guitars in his room. There’s Paul McCartney with John Lennon and George Harrison in what is thought to be one of the earliest colour pictures ever taken of the Beatles.

The photograph, which has never been seen before, was Paul’s brother Mike McCartney, who took it in March 1958.

It shows Paul and George, both 15, and John, 17, rehearsing to perform at a wedding reception. George has his back to the camera, hence the name on the negative – George’s Back. 
 
<img alt="Beatles Rare photo courtesy: Twitter" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1a9914cc-329d-4676-b18c-45e6cdd6c7d5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/beatlesrare.JPG" />

Interestingly, Mike stumbled upon the photo while going through old files for a new book. He said he was 14 when he took the picture – along with a well-known second image, largely assumed to be the first colour picture of the band – at his Auntie Gin’s house in Huyton, Liverpool, at the reception for her 19-year-old son, Ian Harris.

Dressed in grey jackets, white shirts and black ties, the band, then named The Quarrymen, appear to be rehearsing, with Paul open-mouthed, presumably mid-song.

Mike said: 'My filing system is non-existent, I’m always coming across lost drawings and pictures. I was going through some old files and came across a couple of negs and I realised that, because the other one was a better picture, I had put this one to one side.

'I realised, "Oh my God, I must have taken this one earlier because there they are rehearsing, George has his back to the camera".' 
 
&nbsp;

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'It was a lovely discovery after all these years. Sometimes negatives fade if they haven’t been stored properly but this one was in prime condition. In those days colour film was very expensive so it would have been a special present from Dad to get the colour film for me.

'We used to get Dad a £1 cigar every year for Christmas and he would have got this as my gift. It's brilliant to see their matching jackets in colour.' 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/the-beatles-iconic-abbey-road-cover-shot-is-50-years-old-now-241510">Also read:&nbsp;The Beatles' iconic Abbey Road cover shot is 50 years old now</a>

Harry Ian Harris, then 19, married Cecilia Jacqueline Gavin, 16, known as Jackie, in a Catholic church ceremony in Huyton on Saturday March 8 1958. Afterwards a party was held in their honour at 147 Dinas Lane, the home of Paul’s Auntie Gin.

Ian asked Paul to bring some musician friends to play at the reception. George Harrison had met the Quarrymen only the previous month, and had turned 15 just days before. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-the-beatles-george-harrisons-inner-light-viral-challenge-has-an-indian-connection-289500">Also read: The Beatles' George Harrison's 'Inner Light' viral challenge has an Indian connection</a>

The other, more famous image, also taken at the reception, has been widely published previously and is well known among Beatles' fans.

Mike’s limited edition book, Mike McCartney’s Early Liverpool, is due out next year from Genesis Publications (mikemccartneybook.com).

It includes unseen pictures, from his very first photograph taken with the family Kodak Brownie, to capturing the emerging Merseybeat scene.

A rare photo of The Beatles has surfaced on the planet and we have Paul McCartney’s brother to thank for it. In the photo, the band can be seen strumming their guitars in his room.

A rare photo of The Beatles has surfaced on the planet and we have Paul McCartney’s brother to thank for it. In the photo, the band can be seen strumming their guitars in his room. There’s Paul McCartney with John Lennon and George Harrison in what is thought to be one of the earliest colour pictures ever taken of the Beatles. The photograph, which has never been seen before, was Paul’s brother Mike McCartney, who took it in March 1958. It shows Paul and George, both 15, and John, 17, rehearsing to perform at a wedding reception. George has his back to the camera, hence the name on the negative – George’s Back. Interestingly, Mike stumbled upon the photo while going through old files for a new book. He said he was 14 when he took the picture – along with a well-known second image, largely assumed to be the first colour picture of the band – at his Auntie Gin’s house in Huyton, Liverpool, at the reception for her 19-year-old son, Ian Harris. Dressed in grey jackets, white shirts and black ties, the band, then named The Quarrymen, appear to be rehearsing, with Paul open-mouthed, presumably mid-song. Mike said: 'My filing system is non-existent, I’m always coming across lost drawings and pictures. I was going through some old files and came across a couple of negs and I realised that, because the other one was a better picture, I had put this one to one side. 'I realised, "Oh my God, I must have taken this one earlier because there they are rehearsing, George has his back to the camera".' View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Beatles (@thebeatles) × 'It was a lovely discovery after all these years. Sometimes negatives fade if they haven’t been stored properly but this one was in prime condition. In those days colour film was very expensive so it would have been a special present from Dad to get the colour film for me. 'We used to get Dad a £1 cigar every year for Christmas and he would have got this as my gift. It's brilliant to see their matching jackets in colour.' Also read: The Beatles' iconic Abbey Road cover shot is 50 years old now Harry Ian Harris, then 19, married Cecilia Jacqueline Gavin, 16, known as Jackie, in a Catholic church ceremony in Huyton on Saturday March 8 1958. Afterwards a party was held in their honour at 147 Dinas Lane, the home of Paul’s Auntie Gin. Ian asked Paul to bring some musician friends to play at the reception. George Harrison had met the Quarrymen only the previous month, and had turned 15 just days before. Also read: The Beatles' George Harrison's 'Inner Light' viral challenge has an Indian connection The other, more famous image, also taken at the reception, has been widely published previously and is well known among Beatles' fans. Mike’s limited edition book, Mike McCartney’s Early Liverpool, is due out next year from Genesis Publications (mikemccartneybook.com). It includes unseen pictures, from his very first photograph taken with the family Kodak Brownie, to capturing the emerging Merseybeat scene.

The Beatles in 1958: Rare early photo of the band found by Paul McCartney's brother

In a scathing letter written by Michael Jackson, the king of pop had slammed musical icons like The Beatles and Elvis Presley along with MTV calling out the racial inequality in the music industry. 
 
The letters, written in 1987, have been made public for the first time by British newspaper The Sun which shows the anger of the late pop star over prevalent racism and how he used it to fuel his stardom. 
 
"Throughout history, white men have always branded the pages of history with Great White Hopes putting whites over Blacks like nobles like Elvis being the King of Rock and Roll, Springsteen being The Boss and The Beatles being the best,' Jackson wrote in the letter. 
 
He said that The Beatles 'were good' but 'they weren't better singers or dancers than the Blacks.' 
 
The musician also added that the whites controlled the media and that they could "make the public believe whatever they desire." 
 
'I will change this NOW with the power of my songs and dance and looks and total reclusiveness and mystery world. I will rule as the King,' he wrote and added that Elvis was not the 'king' and he would 'show Springsteen who's boss' adding he was 'very angry' and had to prove himself and 'change things.' 
 
In his letter, he also wrote that he wanted to be the King so that 'white children can have Black heroes so they don't grow up prejudice.' 
 
'My goal is to become so ‘Big’, so powerful. To become such a hero, to end prejudice. To make these little white kids love me by selling over 200,000,000 albums,' the singer continued. 
 
He also called out MTV and said how he 'hated inequality in record business' and that 'blacks weren't able to be on MTV.' He also pointed out that how Black artists couldn't 'cross over' to be on covers of popular publications. 
 
The singer added that all these reasons pushed him to work harder. "All of this put a fire in me. To get the recognition so 'whites and Blacks of all races love me to be on the cover of Time, Life, Newsweek," he wrote. 
 
The late pop star concluded the letter by writing, "But I did it over anger. To get even. To prove myself. I love white people, Black people, all races. I want what's fair. Now is the time for my kingship forever. I want all races to love as one."

In a scathing letter written by Michael Jackson, the king of pop had slammed musical icons like The Beatles and Elvis Presley along with MTV calling out the racial inequality in the music industry.

In a scathing letter written by Michael Jackson, the king of pop had slammed musical icons like The Beatles and Elvis Presley along with MTV calling out the racial inequality in the music industry. The letters, written in 1987, have been made public for the first time by British newspaper The Sun which shows the anger of the late pop star over prevalent racism and how he used it to fuel his stardom. "Throughout history, white men have always branded the pages of history with Great White Hopes putting whites over Blacks like nobles like Elvis being the King of Rock and Roll, Springsteen being The Boss and The Beatles being the best,' Jackson wrote in the letter. He said that The Beatles 'were good' but 'they weren't better singers or dancers than the Blacks.' The musician also added that the whites controlled the media and that they could "make the public believe whatever they desire." 'I will change this NOW with the power of my songs and dance and looks and total reclusiveness and mystery world. I will rule as the King,' he wrote and added that Elvis was not the 'king' and he would 'show Springsteen who's boss' adding he was 'very angry' and had to prove himself and 'change things.' In his letter, he also wrote that he wanted to be the King so that 'white children can have Black heroes so they don't grow up prejudice.' 'My goal is to become so ‘Big’, so powerful. To become such a hero, to end prejudice. To make these little white kids love me by selling over 200,000,000 albums,' the singer continued. He also called out MTV and said how he 'hated inequality in record business' and that 'blacks weren't able to be on MTV.' He also pointed out that how Black artists couldn't 'cross over' to be on covers of popular publications. The singer added that all these reasons pushed him to work harder. "All of this put a fire in me. To get the recognition so 'whites and Blacks of all races love me to be on the cover of Time, Life, Newsweek," he wrote. The late pop star concluded the letter by writing, "But I did it over anger. To get even. To prove myself. I love white people, Black people, all races. I want what's fair. Now is the time for my kingship forever. I want all races to love as one."

Michael Jackson slams The Beatles, Elvis Presley in old letters from 1987, calls out racism in music industry

Music legend Ringo Starr celebrated his 80th birthday on Tuesday with a special online concert of sorts. He had a few of famous fellow musicians and some classic Beatles songs for company - as they all raised funds for various charities including the Black Lives Matter movement.

Fans, though were left a little disappointed as fellow Beatles Paul McCartney did not join the gig live. Instead,&nbsp; the celebration concluded with an archive clip of the two legends performing 'Helter Skelter.' 
 
But musicians Sheryl Crow and Kenny Loggins and filmmaker David Lynch did record vocals and video tributes for Star who introduced hits from the Beatles' back catalog as well as his own.

'Come Together,' 'All You Need is Love' and 'With a Little Help From My Friends' were some of the hits that were performed during the live concert which had over 130,000 fans watching. 
 
Starr has been celebrating his birthdays each year with musical performances but this year owing to the pandemic, it became a virtual event. 
 
"As most of you know, I'm fond of a good birthday party... but this is a bad year to host a get-together of any kind," said the British musician, sitting behind a drum kit wearing a colorful face mask adorned with the peace sign. 
 
"So I'm celebrating with my friends in a new way this year -- we're going to have to keep our distance due to the coronavirus." 
 
Ahead of the bash NASA's Curiosity Rover tweeted Starr birthday wishes from space. 
 
"Happy 80th, Ringo! Here's my view of Earth (and Venus) from the surface of Mars where I'm thinking about your message of Peace and Love, and how in good times and in tough ones, we all get by with a little help from our friends," it said. 
 
Known for his easy-going personality and humor, Starr rocketed to global fame in the early 1960s and helped change the face of pop music forever as part of the Beatles -- still perhaps the world's most famous band. 
After the group's break-up, Starr emerged as a band leader in the late 1980s with his All Starr Band, a collaboration that is still active today with various artists that played hits from the Beatles and other ensembles.

&nbsp;

Music legend Ringo Starr celebrated his 80th birthday on Tuesday with a special online concert of sorts. He had a few of famous fellow musicians and some classic Beatles songs for company - as they all raised funds for various charities including the Black Lives Matter movement.

Music legend Ringo Starr celebrated his 80th birthday on Tuesday with a special online concert of sorts. He had a few of famous fellow musicians and some classic Beatles songs for company - as they all raised funds for various charities including the Black Lives Matter movement. Fans, though were left a little disappointed as fellow Beatles Paul McCartney did not join the gig live. Instead, the celebration concluded with an archive clip of the two legends performing 'Helter Skelter.' But musicians Sheryl Crow and Kenny Loggins and filmmaker David Lynch did record vocals and video tributes for Star who introduced hits from the Beatles' back catalog as well as his own. 'Come Together,' 'All You Need is Love' and 'With a Little Help From My Friends' were some of the hits that were performed during the live concert which had over 130,000 fans watching. Starr has been celebrating his birthdays each year with musical performances but this year owing to the pandemic, it became a virtual event. "As most of you know, I'm fond of a good birthday party... but this is a bad year to host a get-together of any kind," said the British musician, sitting behind a drum kit wearing a colorful face mask adorned with the peace sign. "So I'm celebrating with my friends in a new way this year -- we're going to have to keep our distance due to the coronavirus." Ahead of the bash NASA's Curiosity Rover tweeted Starr birthday wishes from space. "Happy 80th, Ringo! Here's my view of Earth (and Venus) from the surface of Mars where I'm thinking about your message of Peace and Love, and how in good times and in tough ones, we all get by with a little help from our friends," it said. Known for his easy-going personality and humor, Starr rocketed to global fame in the early 1960s and helped change the face of pop music forever as part of the Beatles -- still perhaps the world's most famous band. After the group's break-up, Starr emerged as a band leader in the late 1980s with his All Starr Band, a collaboration that is still active today with various artists that played hits from the Beatles and other ensembles.

Former Beatles Ringo Starr marks his 80th birthday with online party

The most powerful medicine being used to bolster the morale of New York area healthcare workers at the epicenter of the U.S. novel coronavirus crisis may well be music.

Daily infusions of upbeat songs from The Beatles' classic "Here Comes the Sun" to the theme from the hang-tough movie "Rocky" are being pumped through hospital public address systems to boost the spirits of nurses, doctors and support staff.

About 545,000 people were diagnosed with COVID-19 in the United States as of Sunday, and roughly 21,600 have died of the highly contagious illness.

A 4:30 p.m. daily dose of Australian pop singer Starley's "Call On Me" has given strength to staff at one of Mount Sinai's hospitals in New York City, who clap as a growing number of patients are discharged from the overwhelmed facility across the street from Columbia University.

"Some people would say to accept their fate. Well if this is fate then we'll find a way to cheat," Starley sings. "You know you can call on me, if you can't stop the tears from falling down."

In New Jersey, the "Rocky" theme song filled the air at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center in Paterson when Dr. James Pruden, the hospital's director of emergency preparedness, was discharged last week as he recovered from the virus, rolling in his wheelchair past cheering staff.

On New York's Long Island, the joyful "Here Comes the Sun" blasts overhead on the public address system at Mount Sinai South Nassau in Oceanside every time a COVID-19 patient is discharged.

In Detroit, one of the newest U.S. hot spots for the fast-spreading disease, a Beaumont Health nurse said the 1969 Beatles hit was played not just when patients are discharged but each time they are taken off a ventilator to breath on their own.

"The smiles returning to the faces. Little darling, it seems like years since it's been here," rings out the song that George Harrison wrote about renewal after a long, dark winter.

The most powerful medicine being used to bolster the morale of New York area healthcare workers at the epicenter of the U.S. novel coronavirus crisis may well be music.

The most powerful medicine being used to bolster the morale of New York area healthcare workers at the epicenter of the U.S. novel coronavirus crisis may well be music. Daily infusions of upbeat songs from The Beatles' classic "Here Comes the Sun" to the theme from the hang-tough movie "Rocky" are being pumped through hospital public address systems to boost the spirits of nurses, doctors and support staff. About 545,000 people were diagnosed with COVID-19 in the United States as of Sunday, and roughly 21,600 have died of the highly contagious illness. A 4:30 p.m. daily dose of Australian pop singer Starley's "Call On Me" has given strength to staff at one of Mount Sinai's hospitals in New York City, who clap as a growing number of patients are discharged from the overwhelmed facility across the street from Columbia University. "Some people would say to accept their fate. Well if this is fate then we'll find a way to cheat," Starley sings. "You know you can call on me, if you can't stop the tears from falling down." In New Jersey, the "Rocky" theme song filled the air at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center in Paterson when Dr. James Pruden, the hospital's director of emergency preparedness, was discharged last week as he recovered from the virus, rolling in his wheelchair past cheering staff. On New York's Long Island, the joyful "Here Comes the Sun" blasts overhead on the public address system at Mount Sinai South Nassau in Oceanside every time a COVID-19 patient is discharged. In Detroit, one of the newest U.S. hot spots for the fast-spreading disease, a Beaumont Health nurse said the 1969 Beatles hit was played not just when patients are discharged but each time they are taken off a ventilator to breath on their own. "The smiles returning to the faces. Little darling, it seems like years since it's been here," rings out the song that George Harrison wrote about renewal after a long, dark winter.

'Here Comes the Sun' gets US hospitals through dark days of pandemic

Artist Paul McCartney`s handwritten lyrics to The Beatles&nbsp;hit song 'Hey Jude'&nbsp;sold for $910,000 on Friday, nine times its original estimate, auction house Julien`s Auctions said

Watch: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/watch-selena-gomez-searching-for-a-perfect-date-in-her-new-song-boyfriend-291944" hreflang="en">Selena Gomez searching for a perfect date in her new song 'Boyfriend'</a> 
 
A vintage bass drumhead with The Beatles` logo that was used during the English band`s first North American tour in 1964 was another top item, selling for $200,000. 
 
The items were among more than 250 items of Beatles memorabilia offered in an online auction by Julien`s Auctions to mark the 50th anniversary of the band`s breakup.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/A_MjCqQoLLA" width="560"></iframe>

 
A drawing by John Lennon and wife Yoko Ono called Bagism, a term they coined to satirize stereotyping, sold for $93,750, while an ashtray used by the Fab Four`s drummer Ringo Starr at the Abbey Road recording studios in London fetched $32,500.

In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-lewis-capaldi-to-billie-eilish-10-biggest-albums-of-2020-in-the-uk-291772" hreflang="en">From Lewis Capaldi to Billie Eilish: 10 biggest albums of 2020 in the UK</a> 
 
The wooden stage of the small Liverpool venue where the band performed before they rocketed to fame went for $25,600. 
Before the sale, Julien`s Auctions music specialist Jason Watkins had described McCartney`s hastily scribbled notes for a 1968 studio recording of "Hey Jude" as very rare and valuable. 
 
"It`s obviously a very iconic song that everyone's familiar with," said Watkins. "These handwritten lyrics were used in the studio as a guide when they were recording it." 
 
The sale had been due to take place online and at the Hard Rock Cafe in Times Square, New York, but it was made online-only due to the coronavirus pandemic, the auction house said.

Artist Paul McCartney`s handwritten lyrics to The Beatles hit song 'Hey Jude' sold for $910,000 on Friday, nine times its original estimate, auction house Julien`s Auctions said Watch: Selena Gomez searching for a perfect date in her new song 'Boyfriend' A vintage bass drumhead with The Beatles` logo that was used during the English band`s first North American tour in 1964 was another top item, selling for $200,000.

Artist Paul McCartney`s handwritten lyrics to The Beatles hit song 'Hey Jude' sold for $910,000 on Friday, nine times its original estimate, auction house Julien`s Auctions said Watch: Selena Gomez searching for a perfect date in her new song 'Boyfriend' A vintage bass drumhead with The Beatles` logo that was used during the English band`s first North American tour in 1964 was another top item, selling for $200,000. The items were among more than 250 items of Beatles memorabilia offered in an online auction by Julien`s Auctions to mark the 50th anniversary of the band`s breakup. A drawing by John Lennon and wife Yoko Ono called Bagism, a term they coined to satirize stereotyping, sold for $93,750, while an ashtray used by the Fab Four`s drummer Ringo Starr at the Abbey Road recording studios in London fetched $32,500. In pics: From Lewis Capaldi to Billie Eilish: 10 biggest albums of 2020 in the UK The wooden stage of the small Liverpool venue where the band performed before they rocketed to fame went for $25,600. Before the sale, Julien`s Auctions music specialist Jason Watkins had described McCartney`s hastily scribbled notes for a 1968 studio recording of "Hey Jude" as very rare and valuable. "It`s obviously a very iconic song that everyone's familiar with," said Watkins. "These handwritten lyrics were used in the studio as a guide when they were recording it." The sale had been due to take place online and at the Hard Rock Cafe in Times Square, New York, but it was made online-only due to the coronavirus pandemic, the auction house said.

Paul McCartney's handwritten 'Hey Jude' lyrics sell for $910,000 at auction

The Beatles’ guitarist late George Harrison’s Material World Foundation is actively partciipating in keeping the fans entertained during the time of coronavirus pandemic as everyone is self isolating and is in quarantine in their homes.&nbsp;

Along with the $500,000 donation to the charities MusiCares COVID-19 Relief Fund, Save The Children and Medecins Sans Frontieres (Doctors Without Borders); they have now kickstarted a social media challenge called “Inner Light”challenge.&nbsp;

For all those who are The Beatles’ fans will know that this is the name of their one of the most popular singles. The challenge is inspired by the Harrison-penned song, "The Inner Light," which marked the first composition by the guitarist to be issued as a Beatles single.

The single has an Indian connection too as it was heavily inspired by The Beatles' studies in India with the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. It was originally released in 1968 as the B-side to the band's "Lady Madonna."

According to the challenge, fans are now being asked to share their favourite line from the lyrics with the hashtag #innerlight2020 on social media, with the Material World Foundation encouraging them to "sing it, play it, hum it, strum it, paint it, knit it, chant it, plant it, pray or meditate."

For each post, the Foundation will donate another dollar (up to $100,000) to the COVID-19 pandemic relief.

In an official statement, Harrison's widow, Olivia said, "These lyrics sung by George are a positive reminder to all of us who are isolating, in quarantine or respecting the request to shelter in place. Let's get and stay connected at this difficult time. There are things we can do to help and we invite you to share your Inner Light.”

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The Beatles’ guitarist late George Harrison’s Material World Foundation is actively partciipating in keeping the fans entertained during the time of coronavirus pandemic as everyone is self isolating and is in quarantine in their homes.

The Beatles’ guitarist late George Harrison’s Material World Foundation is actively partciipating in keeping the fans entertained during the time of coronavirus pandemic as everyone is self isolating and is in quarantine in their homes. Along with the $500,000 donation to the charities MusiCares COVID-19 Relief Fund, Save The Children and Medecins Sans Frontieres (Doctors Without Borders); they have now kickstarted a social media challenge called “Inner Light”challenge. For all those who are The Beatles’ fans will know that this is the name of their one of the most popular singles. The challenge is inspired by the Harrison-penned song, "The Inner Light," which marked the first composition by the guitarist to be issued as a Beatles single. The single has an Indian connection too as it was heavily inspired by The Beatles' studies in India with the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. It was originally released in 1968 as the B-side to the band's "Lady Madonna." According to the challenge, fans are now being asked to share their favourite line from the lyrics with the hashtag #innerlight2020 on social media, with the Material World Foundation encouraging them to "sing it, play it, hum it, strum it, paint it, knit it, chant it, plant it, pray or meditate." For each post, the Foundation will donate another dollar (up to $100,000) to the COVID-19 pandemic relief. In an official statement, Harrison's widow, Olivia said, "These lyrics sung by George are a positive reminder to all of us who are isolating, in quarantine or respecting the request to shelter in place. Let's get and stay connected at this difficult time. There are things we can do to help and we invite you to share your Inner Light.” Also read: Elton John brings together Billie Eilish, Lady Gaga, Camila Cabello and more for a coronavirus charity concert Veteran Japanese comic Ken Shimura dies after being tested positive for coronavirus

The Beatles' George Harrison's 'Inner Light' viral challenge has an Indian connection

A consortium led by Tencent agreed to buy up to 20 per cent&nbsp;of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/chinas-tencent-talking-to-vivendi-about-stake-in-lady-gagas-label-241359">Vivendi's Universal Music Group</a> (UMG) in a deal that values the world's largest music label at 30 billion euros ($34 billion) and increases the Chinese company's clout on the global market.

French media conglomerate&nbsp;Vivendi&nbsp;said it had finalised an agreement to sell an initial 10&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;of UMG home to artists such as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/taylor-swift-fans-descend-on-paris-for-city-of-lover-concert-248731">Taylor Swift</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lady-gaga-rubbishes-romance-rumours-with-bradley-cooper-says-fooled-ya-200412">Lady Gaga</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/the-beatles-iconic-abbey-road-cover-shot-is-50-years-old-now-241510">The Beatles</a> to the Tencent consortium.&nbsp;Vivendi&nbsp;added that it had started talks over the possible sale of "an additional minority share for a price which would at least be identical," without specifying a potential buyer.

The consortium also had the option to buy on the same price basis up to 10&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;more of UMG's share capital by January&nbsp;15, 2021. The transaction gives a 30 billion euro price tag for UMG on an enterprise value basis.

This initial deal would also soon be followed by a second one allowing Tencent Music Entertainment to buy a minority stake in UMG's subsidiary that houses its operations in greater China.

The agreement will allow both companies to expand in a recovering global music market, with Tencent getting more access to US&nbsp;artists while UMG can tap into the Asian market, which features big-selling "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/k-pop-fans-brave-seouls-christmas-chill-to-buy-bts-merch-270013">K-Pop</a>" Korean pop stars.

Tencent did not immediately respond to request for comment, while&nbsp;Vivendi&nbsp;did not disclose the details of the consortium beyond saying they were "global financial investors".

Vivendi, controlled by French billionaire Vincent Bollore, is seeking to cash in on the music industry's revival, driven by a growing subscription and ad-based music streaming services.

The tie-up also builds on a partnership struck two years ago, under which Tencent can license Universal’s music for distribution over its streaming platforms.

The long-awaited deal should also boost morale among Chinese deal-makers who have had one of the worst years on record for China-outbound mergers and acquisitions (M&amp;A), with activity plunging to a 10-year low amid trade tensions between the United States and China, Refinitiv data shows.

Vivendi&nbsp;shares edged up 0.3&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;in early trading, with the final terms of the sale being in line with earlier guidance from&nbsp;Vivendi.

Universal was the main sales growth driver for&nbsp;Vivendi&nbsp;in the third quarter, with its revenues jumping by close to 16&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;to 1.8 billion euros.

A consortium led by Tencent agreed to buy up to 20 per cent of Vivendi's Universal Music Group (UMG) in a deal that values the world's largest music label at 30 billion euros ($34 billion) and increases the Chinese company's clout on the global market.

A consortium led by Tencent agreed to buy up to 20 per cent of Vivendi's Universal Music Group (UMG) in a deal that values the world's largest music label at 30 billion euros ($34 billion) and increases the Chinese company's clout on the global market. French media conglomerate Vivendi said it had finalised an agreement to sell an initial 10 per cent of UMG home to artists such as Taylor Swift, Lady Gaga and The Beatles to the Tencent consortium. Vivendi added that it had started talks over the possible sale of "an additional minority share for a price which would at least be identical," without specifying a potential buyer. The consortium also had the option to buy on the same price basis up to 10 per cent more of UMG's share capital by January 15, 2021. The transaction gives a 30 billion euro price tag for UMG on an enterprise value basis. This initial deal would also soon be followed by a second one allowing Tencent Music Entertainment to buy a minority stake in UMG's subsidiary that houses its operations in greater China. The agreement will allow both companies to expand in a recovering global music market, with Tencent getting more access to US artists while UMG can tap into the Asian market, which features big-selling "K-Pop" Korean pop stars. Tencent did not immediately respond to request for comment, while Vivendi did not disclose the details of the consortium beyond saying they were "global financial investors". Vivendi, controlled by French billionaire Vincent Bollore, is seeking to cash in on the music industry's revival, driven by a growing subscription and ad-based music streaming services. The tie-up also builds on a partnership struck two years ago, under which Tencent can license Universal’s music for distribution over its streaming platforms. The long-awaited deal should also boost morale among Chinese deal-makers who have had one of the worst years on record for China-outbound mergers and acquisitions (M&A), with activity plunging to a 10-year low amid trade tensions between the United States and China, Refinitiv data shows. Vivendi shares edged up 0.3 per cent in early trading, with the final terms of the sale being in line with earlier guidance from Vivendi. Universal was the main sales growth driver for Vivendi in the third quarter, with its revenues jumping by close to 16 per cent to 1.8 billion euros.

Vivendi sells minority stake in Universal to Tencent consortium

A pair of John Lennon's trademark round sunglasses are going up for auction along with a parking ticket given to Beatles drummer Ringo Starr -- items kept for half a century by a former driver for the band.

Alan Herring, who worked as a chauffeur for Starr and bandmate George Harrison in the late 60s, said Lennon had given him the glasses after leaving them on the back seat of his Mercedes.

"When John got out of the car I noticed that he'd left these sunglasses on the back seat and one lens and one arm had become disconnected," he said.

"I asked John if he'd like me to get them fixed for him. He told me not to worry, that they were just for the look."

The vintage glasses and the parking ticket -- issued on April 25, 1969 in London outside the band's own label Apple Records -- will be sold online by Sotheby's with other Beatles memorabilia next month.

Herring said the decision to sell the objects was an emotional one, but that "the memories I have of this very special time in my life working with the Beatles are far more important to me".

The brown, creased £2 parking ticket is expected to fetch £1,500 ($1,900, 1,700 euro), while the sunglasses -- which Herring never did get mended -- could sell for £8,000.

Other items going under the hammer between December 6 to 13 include a cigarette lighter kept in Herring's car, shirts worn by the Fab Four and Harrison's guitar with a predicted price of £60,000.

A pair of John Lennon's trademark round sunglasses are going up for auction along with a parking ticket given to Beatles drummer Ringo Starr -- items kept for half a century by a former driver for the band.

A pair of John Lennon's trademark round sunglasses are going up for auction along with a parking ticket given to Beatles drummer Ringo Starr -- items kept for half a century by a former driver for the band. Alan Herring, who worked as a chauffeur for Starr and bandmate George Harrison in the late 60s, said Lennon had given him the glasses after leaving them on the back seat of his Mercedes. "When John got out of the car I noticed that he'd left these sunglasses on the back seat and one lens and one arm had become disconnected," he said. "I asked John if he'd like me to get them fixed for him. He told me not to worry, that they were just for the look." The vintage glasses and the parking ticket -- issued on April 25, 1969 in London outside the band's own label Apple Records -- will be sold online by Sotheby's with other Beatles memorabilia next month. Herring said the decision to sell the objects was an emotional one, but that "the memories I have of this very special time in my life working with the Beatles are far more important to me". The brown, creased £2 parking ticket is expected to fetch £1,500 ($1,900, 1,700 euro), while the sunglasses -- which Herring never did get mended -- could sell for £8,000. Other items going under the hammer between December 6 to 13 include a cigarette lighter kept in Herring's car, shirts worn by the Fab Four and Harrison's guitar with a predicted price of £60,000.

John Lennon's round sunglasses to be sold at auction

The Beatles' "Abbey Road" album has returned to the top of the British album charts 50 years after its first release. "It's hard to believe that Abbey Road still holds up after all these years.

The Beatles' "Abbey Road" album has returned to the top of the British album charts 50 years after its first release. "It's hard to believe that Abbey Road still holds up after all these years. But then again it's a bloody cool album," former Beatle Paul McCartney said in a press release. Featuring such songs as "Something" and "Come Together", "Abbey Road" was the second-last album released by the Beatles before their acrimonious split, although most of their final release, "Let it Be", was recorded before the "Abbey Road" sessions. Its initial 17-week run at number one ended on Jan. 31, 1970, and it returns to the top of the charts after a gap of 49 years and 252 days, a feat certified as a Guinness World Record. The 50th anniversary of "Abbey Road" was marked last month by the release of special deluxe edition.

Beatles' 'Abbey Road' back at top of charts 50 years after release

Fifty years ago today, The Beatles were photographed crossing a leafy street in north London, creating one of the most famous album covers in music history and an image imitated by countless fans ever since.&nbsp; 
 
The picture of John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr striding over a zebra crossing on Abbey Road was taken outside the EMI Recording Studios where they made the 1969 album of the same name. 
 
Scottish photographer Iain Macmillan took just six shots of the group on the crossing, with the fifth used as the cover of the band`s eleventh studio album, released on Sept. 26 1969.&nbsp; 
 
The picture shows Lennon in a white suit leading the group across the road. Starr wears a black suit while McCartney is barefoot, out of step and holding a cigarette. Harrison is in blue denim. A Volkswagen Beetle is parked in the background.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/beatles-fans-come-together-for-50th-anniversary-of-abbey-road-photo-241534">See in pictures:&nbsp;Beatles fans come together for 50th anniversary of Abbey Road photo</a> 
 
`Abbey Road`, which was voted the best Beatles album by readers of Rolling Stone in 2009, was the only one of the group`s original British albums to show neither the band`s name nor a title on the cover. 
 
The album was the last to be recorded by all four members of the band together, and it had tracks written by each of them, including `Come Together` by Lennon, `Here Comes the Sun` by Harrison, `Maxwell`s Silver Hammer` by McCartney, and Starr`s `Octopus`s Garden`. 
 
Less than a year after `Abbey Road` was released, rock music`s best-selling band had split up, ending a decade-long musical revolution that transformed the 1960s and laid the foundations of modern popular culture. 
 
The studios, which were later renamed Abbey Road, and the zebra crossing were granted protected status by the government in 2010. 
 
Hundreds of fans gathered at Abbey Road on Thursday, recreating the scene by crossing. A Volkswagen Beetle was parked in the background.&nbsp;

Fifty years ago today, The Beatles were photographed crossing a leafy street in north London, creating one of the most famous album covers in music history and an image imitated by countless fans ever since.

Fifty years ago today, The Beatles were photographed crossing a leafy street in north London, creating one of the most famous album covers in music history and an image imitated by countless fans ever since. The picture of John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr striding over a zebra crossing on Abbey Road was taken outside the EMI Recording Studios where they made the 1969 album of the same name. Scottish photographer Iain Macmillan took just six shots of the group on the crossing, with the fifth used as the cover of the band`s eleventh studio album, released on Sept. 26 1969. The picture shows Lennon in a white suit leading the group across the road. Starr wears a black suit while McCartney is barefoot, out of step and holding a cigarette. Harrison is in blue denim. A Volkswagen Beetle is parked in the background. See in pictures: Beatles fans come together for 50th anniversary of Abbey Road photo `Abbey Road`, which was voted the best Beatles album by readers of Rolling Stone in 2009, was the only one of the group`s original British albums to show neither the band`s name nor a title on the cover. The album was the last to be recorded by all four members of the band together, and it had tracks written by each of them, including `Come Together` by Lennon, `Here Comes the Sun` by Harrison, `Maxwell`s Silver Hammer` by McCartney, and Starr`s `Octopus`s Garden`. Less than a year after `Abbey Road` was released, rock music`s best-selling band had split up, ending a decade-long musical revolution that transformed the 1960s and laid the foundations of modern popular culture. The studios, which were later renamed Abbey Road, and the zebra crossing were granted protected status by the government in 2010. Hundreds of fans gathered at Abbey Road on Thursday, recreating the scene by crossing. A Volkswagen Beetle was parked in the background.

The Beatles' iconic Abbey Road cover shot is 50 years old now

Music retailer HMV said on Friday it was calling in the administrators, blaming a worsening market for entertainment CDs and DVDs, to become the latest victim of brutal trading conditions in Britain's retail sector.

The accounting firm KPMG has been named as the administrator and intends to keep the business running while it seeks a potential buyer, HMV said in a statement.

Will Wright, Neil Gostelow and David Pike from KPMG's Restructuring practice have been confirmed as joint administrators to HMV Retail Limited and HMV E-commerce Limited, KPMG said in a statement late Friday.

The retailer, one of Britain's best-known high street stores, went into administration in 2013 before its rescue by restructuring specialist Hilco, but it has since been hit by competition from online rivals and music streaming services.

Sky News earlier reported that about 2,200 jobs were at risk if HMV went into administration, adding that the company had been in talks with leading names in the recorded music industry for funding, but that those discussions came to nothing.

HMV was opened on London's Oxford Street by English composer Edward Elgar in 1921 and made famous by the image of the "dog and trumpet".

"During the key Christmas trading period, the market for DVDs fell by over 30 per cent compared to the previous year, and whilst HMV performed considerably better than that, such a deterioration in a key sector of the market is unsustainable," said Paul McGowan, Executive Chairman of HMV and its owner Hilco Capital, which paid around 50 million pounds ($63.47 million) for the group in 2013.

"The company has suffered from the ongoing wave of digital disruption sweeping across the entertainment industry", said Wright, a joint administrator and partner at KPMG.

"Over the coming weeks, we will endeavour to continue to operate all stores as a going concern while we assess options for the business, including a possible sale", he added.

Britain's retailers had been hoping Christmas would revive spending after a year for much of the sector that has seen a string of store groups go out of business or closed shops.

Weakening consumer spending, uncertainty over Britain's exit from the European Union, rising labour costs and higher business property taxes, has spread gloom across the retail industry.

In the years running up to its first rescue in 2013, HMV struggled to hold its own against supermarkets and online services in sales of CDs, DVDs and video games.

More recently, traditional players in the music industry have been hit by the growing popularity of online streaming services such as Spotify and Apple Inc's Apple Music, which this year became the recording industry's single biggest revenue source.

HMV - which had a hand in The Beatles' big break in the 1960s, recommending the group's demo record to publishers - had around 230 stores and over 4,000 staff before it went into administration in 2013. It currently has 125 stores around Britain and employs 2,025 people.

Music retailer HMV said on Friday it was calling in the administrators, blaming a worsening market for entertainment CDs and DVDs, to become the latest victim of brutal trading conditions in Britain's retail sector.

Music retailer HMV said on Friday it was calling in the administrators, blaming a worsening market for entertainment CDs and DVDs, to become the latest victim of brutal trading conditions in Britain's retail sector. The accounting firm KPMG has been named as the administrator and intends to keep the business running while it seeks a potential buyer, HMV said in a statement. Will Wright, Neil Gostelow and David Pike from KPMG's Restructuring practice have been confirmed as joint administrators to HMV Retail Limited and HMV E-commerce Limited, KPMG said in a statement late Friday. The retailer, one of Britain's best-known high street stores, went into administration in 2013 before its rescue by restructuring specialist Hilco, but it has since been hit by competition from online rivals and music streaming services. Sky News earlier reported that about 2,200 jobs were at risk if HMV went into administration, adding that the company had been in talks with leading names in the recorded music industry for funding, but that those discussions came to nothing. HMV was opened on London's Oxford Street by English composer Edward Elgar in 1921 and made famous by the image of the "dog and trumpet". "During the key Christmas trading period, the market for DVDs fell by over 30 per cent compared to the previous year, and whilst HMV performed considerably better than that, such a deterioration in a key sector of the market is unsustainable," said Paul McGowan, Executive Chairman of HMV and its owner Hilco Capital, which paid around 50 million pounds ($63.47 million) for the group in 2013. "The company has suffered from the ongoing wave of digital disruption sweeping across the entertainment industry", said Wright, a joint administrator and partner at KPMG. "Over the coming weeks, we will endeavour to continue to operate all stores as a going concern while we assess options for the business, including a possible sale", he added. Britain's retailers had been hoping Christmas would revive spending after a year for much of the sector that has seen a string of store groups go out of business or closed shops. Weakening consumer spending, uncertainty over Britain's exit from the European Union, rising labour costs and higher business property taxes, has spread gloom across the retail industry. In the years running up to its first rescue in 2013, HMV struggled to hold its own against supermarkets and online services in sales of CDs, DVDs and video games. More recently, traditional players in the music industry have been hit by the growing popularity of online streaming services such as Spotify and Apple Inc's Apple Music, which this year became the recording industry's single biggest revenue source. HMV - which had a hand in The Beatles' big break in the 1960s, recommending the group's demo record to publishers - had around 230 stores and over 4,000 staff before it went into administration in 2013. It currently has 125 stores around Britain and employs 2,025 people.

Britain's HMV faces the music as retailer calls in administrators

Footage of The Beatles on the set of their 1965 film &quot;Help!&quot; is being offered for sale after 50 years of being hidden in storage.

The film was shot by Australian-born actor Leo McKern, who played a villainous cult leader in the film, and shows the band in unguarded moments behind the scenes on the set.

&quot;This is footage taken in 1965 of people who at the time were the most famous people on earth at the pinnacle of their collective career,&quot; Neil Pearson, a London rare book dealer who is selling the footage, told Reuters.

The band feature in around 10 minutes of the footage, which comes on the original 8mm film cassette on which it was shot, labelled by McKern as &quot;snow scenes,&quot; which also features footage of the actor&#39;s family.

The footage includes scenes showing the band tobogganing, joking around while playing instruments in a brass band, as well as more private moments, including Paul McCartney smoking a cigarette and taking photographs, according to the vendor&#39;s description.

McKern, who died in 2002, later achieved acting fame in films such as &quot;A Man For All Seasons&quot;, &quot;Ryan&#39;s Daughter&quot; and the lead role in television hit &quot;Rumpole of the Bailey&quot;.

The film has not yet been seen in public, though a portion of it is due to be aired on British television on Friday. It doesn&#39;t come cheap for any Fab Four memorabilia fans -- the footage commands an asking price of &pound;35,000 pounds ($45,101.00).

(Reuters)

The footage is being offered for sale after 50 years of being hidden in storage

Footage of The Beatles on the set of their 1965 film "Help!" is being offered for sale after 50 years of being hidden in storage. The film was shot by Australian-born actor Leo McKern, who played a villainous cult leader in the film, and shows the band in unguarded moments behind the scenes on the set. "This is footage taken in 1965 of people who at the time were the most famous people on earth at the pinnacle of their collective career," Neil Pearson, a London rare book dealer who is selling the footage, told Reuters. The band feature in around 10 minutes of the footage, which comes on the original 8mm film cassette on which it was shot, labelled by McKern as "snow scenes," which also features footage of the actor's family. The footage includes scenes showing the band tobogganing, joking around while playing instruments in a brass band, as well as more private moments, including Paul McCartney smoking a cigarette and taking photographs, according to the vendor's description. McKern, who died in 2002, later achieved acting fame in films such as "A Man For All Seasons", "Ryan's Daughter" and the lead role in television hit "Rumpole of the Bailey". The film has not yet been seen in public, though a portion of it is due to be aired on British television on Friday. It doesn't come cheap for any Fab Four memorabilia fans -- the footage commands an asking price of £35,000 pounds ($45,101.00). (Reuters)

Unseen footage of The Beatles during filming of 'Help!' emerges

A vast collection of rare Beatles vinyl records, photos and other paraphernalia will go on auction in Paris on Saturday.

Beatles aficionado Jacques Volcouve began his collection in 1967 with the album &quot;A Hard Day&#39;s Night&quot;. Decades later, it has grown to include nearly 15,000 records and more besides.

&quot;Starting from 1967, I gave myself an absolutely impossible mission: own everything concerning the Beatles,&quot; Volcouve told Reuters TV, as he was sorting through his collection December.

The 60-year-old has decided to auction off his collection to fund his retirement.

Among the 332 lots up for auction on Saturday is the disc &quot;Tony Sheridan and the Beatles 7: My Bonnie,&quot; signed by Paul McCartney and George Harrison, with an estimated price of 6,000-10,000 euro ($6,450-10,740).

A lot of 11 alternate cover photos for the Grammy-winning Sergeant Pepper Lonely Hearts Club album is expected to go for 10,000 to 15,000 euros.

Volcouve has written books and given radio commentaries about the Liverpool foursome. Letters he received from Harrison and Ringo Starr in 1976, thanking him for articles he had written, could fetch up to 3,000 euros each.

A set of dolls of the Fab Four with their instruments is expected to sell for 200-400 euros.

Among other items up for sale are an &quot;authentic Beatle wig&quot;, a Yoko Ono/John Lennon wedding album box and posters.

(Reuters)

Beatles aficionado Jacques Volcouve has collected nearly 15,000 records. He has decided to auction off his collection to fund his retirement

A vast collection of rare Beatles vinyl records, photos and other paraphernalia will go on auction in Paris on Saturday. Beatles aficionado Jacques Volcouve began his collection in 1967 with the album "A Hard Day's Night". Decades later, it has grown to include nearly 15,000 records and more besides. "Starting from 1967, I gave myself an absolutely impossible mission: own everything concerning the Beatles," Volcouve told Reuters TV, as he was sorting through his collection December. The 60-year-old has decided to auction off his collection to fund his retirement. Among the 332 lots up for auction on Saturday is the disc "Tony Sheridan and the Beatles 7: My Bonnie," signed by Paul McCartney and George Harrison, with an estimated price of 6,000-10,000 euro ($6,450-10,740). A lot of 11 alternate cover photos for the Grammy-winning Sergeant Pepper Lonely Hearts Club album is expected to go for 10,000 to 15,000 euros. Volcouve has written books and given radio commentaries about the Liverpool foursome. Letters he received from Harrison and Ringo Starr in 1976, thanking him for articles he had written, could fetch up to 3,000 euros each. A set of dolls of the Fab Four with their instruments is expected to sell for 200-400 euros. Among other items up for sale are an "authentic Beatle wig", a Yoko Ono/John Lennon wedding album box and posters. (Reuters)

Vast Beatles collection goes on auction in Paris

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