Beatles, The ‎– The Decca Tapes - LP - Picture Disc

Record Notes

The Beatles' audition for Decca Records is the most controversial recording session in the history of popular music.  On the strength of the tape produced during this session Decca Records took the infamous decision not to sign the Beatles.  The explanation offered at the time was that the performances were poor. Despite the subsequent clamour from Beatles fans to be allowed to hear the tapes, ten of the fifteen tracks recorded for Decca Tapes have obstinately remained un-released. Now that 50 years have elapsed, these previously unreleased tracks have at last be made available for the first time; so everyone can finally judge for themselves.

The Beatles had been spotted by the Decca label's A&R representative Mike Smith who had seen the Beatles at a Cavern performance on 13th December 1961. The Beatles' performance that night hadn't been strong enough to secure them a record deal, but the label was willing to offer them a session in the Decca studios at 165 Broadhurst Gardens, West Hampstead, London. That session took place in London on New Year's Day in 1962.

Although the Beatles didn't perform at their best, all four members and Brian Epstein were confident that the session would inevitably lead to a contract. It was perhaps this sense of overconfidence which led the Beatles to prepare for the session in a thoroughly unprofessional manner . They had attended the previous night’s celebration at Trafalgar Square and according to Pete Best had arrived at the studio somewhat the worse for wear. Unknown to the Beatles team, the label was inclining towards signing Brian Poole and the Tremeloes, who had also auditioned that morning and were ahead of the Beatles in the label’s estimation . As head of A&R Dick Rowe carried the can but he has always maintained the actual decision was made in conjunction with Mike Smith/

This collectible picture disc is pressed on 180 gram vinyl

Track listing

A1 Like Dreamers Do

A2 Money

A3 Till There Was You

A4 Sheik Of Araby

A5 To Know Her Is To Love Her

A6 Take Good Care Of My Baby

A7 Memphis

A8 Sure To Fall

B1 Hello Little Girl

B2 Three Cool Cats

B3 Crying, Waiting, Hoping

B4 Love Of The Loved

B5 September In The Rain

B6 Besame Mucho

B7 Searchin'