Overview

Without the determination, magnetism, vision, good manners, respectableclothes and financial security of Brian Epstein, no one would ever have heard of John, Paul, Ringo and George. In Liverpool, in December 1961, Brian Epstein met the Beatles in his small office and signed a management deal. The rest may be history, but it's a history that Epstein created, along with a blueprint for all pop groups ever since. As Paul McCartney once said, 'If anyone was the fifth Beatle it was Brian.'This book tells the story of Epstein's complicated life through the reminiscences of his friends and family. Based on dozens of interviews - with Paul McCartney, George Martin and Marianne Faithfull, among others - plus many of Epstein's personal diaries, this book uncovers the truth behind the enigmatic young man who unintentionally caused a cultural revolution. And in the process destroyed himself.

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9780571201563

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Largely forgotten amongst all the Beatles reissue bluster of recent times is the influence their manager Brian Epstein had on them. It's fair to say that this unassuming man made them - and then found himself out of his depth managing the biggest showbusiness phenomenon of the 20th century. Geller's interview-based book, adapted from a BBC Arena film, is a terrific read. The mostly affectionate reminiscences of past associates, both famous and obscure, build a worthy testament to this complex man. A darkly fascinating insight into the life of 1960s closeted gay men develops into the story of a businessman moulding the business that defined an era but carried all in its wake. Epstein's addictions, mood swings and suicide attempts are all recounted but, tellingly, his alleged fling with Lennon, not to mention his untimely death by overdose, are given a laudably objective analysis. Given the conflicting opinions, no real conclusions are reached on these points; this is probably how they should remain. With the interview material, Geller could have produced a humdrum cut-and-paste biography. Happily, her book flows delightfully, providing a satisfyingly rounded portrait of a neglected innovator. (Kirkus UK)

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