The Long and Winding High Road
by John O'Leary
Even while in shock from his abrupt dismissal from the Beatles in 1962, Pete Best took the high road, and talked road manager Neil Aspinall into sticking with the band, despite his outrage at Pete's firing. Pete knew the band would be hugely successful and he didn't want his friend Neil to miss out.
> Read the full essayReader Comments: After 46 years we still don't know why Pete Best was fired? And is it true that none of the other 3 Beatles EVER EVER spoke to him again? That's a little hard to believe - although I keep reading it. Somebody's got to call McCartney on that. Posted by henry from los angeles, ca on November 28, 2008 2:15 PM
Well... we may have very good ideas why the Beatles fired Pete. I think the point is, they were never told officially to Pete, and I know it's true, none of the Beatles have spoken to him afterwards, even to this day. Posted by Dave Haber from Los Angeles on November 28, 2008 2:20 PM
That was really wonderful of Pete to pick up and move on and not beat himself up over getting fired for unknown reasons. I do think it's shocking that the other Beatles haven't spoken to him, though. Posted by Jude Kinkopf from Rome, ohio on November 30, 2008 7:42 PM
Maybe they felt a bit sheepish to talk with him -- Posted by Louise Kling from Hemet Ca on November 30, 2008 9:29 PM
I should add I've only heard Pete's side of the story. McCartney might have another story. But if Pete was fired for non-musical reasons - such as jealousy of his popularity with the female fans (or Epstein's desire to cut the Beates' connection with Pete's mom, Mona) - that might explain why they would feel "a bit sheepish to talk with him" afterward. (Not a good excuse though.)
Years later Lennon admitted it was cowardly that they asked Epstein to break the news to Pete instead of doing it themselves. To date I've heard 9 possible reasons why they let Pete go. One of the great unsolved mysteries! Posted by John O'Leary from Chestnut Hill, MA on December 1, 2008 2:00 PM
Beautiful article, John. Perfect for the holidays. Pete sets an example for us all. My hat is off to him...and to you for such a lovely tribute. Jude Posted by Jude Kessler from Dothan, AL on December 31, 2008 02:49 AM
Thanks, Jude. I'm noticing the juxtaposition of Pete's overall equanimity and Ringo's recent disenchantment (though I'm sure Ringo doesn't regret his Beatles involvement). Both talented fellows who deserve our appreciation. Posted by John O'Leary from Chestnut Hill, MA on January 13, 2009 07:27 AM
Great article. I'm so glad Pete decided to pick up his sticks again and tour. I've met him and his band and I just love them all. They are awesome people. I love their new cd. I listen to it just about every day.
It would make history for Paul or Ringo to speak with Pete. They have not spoken since the firing. Posted by Cathy Motyka from Hampstead, North Carolina/Sussex County NJ on January 14, 2009 04:56 AM
"It would make history for Paul or Ringo to speak with Pete." Yes, Cathy, it would be a wonderful "completion" for Paul & Pete to reconnect. I actually think Paul would be the bigger beneficiary of it - for karmic purposes! Posted by John O'Leary from Chestnut Hill, MA on February 6, 2009 2:00 PM
Speculation , Pete Best will appear on stage with Paul and Ringo on the final night of Pauls retirement tour It will happen right at the very end of the show when those who are still alive that have had a direct impact on the beatles and Pauls career will appear together on stage.If this was to be true I couldn`t think of a better ending. Posted by Rick bickford from concord , N.H. on May 12, 2009 07:41 AM
Actually, a truly fitting ending on Paul's tour, would be after Pete Best showing up would be Yoko appearing on stage.
YIKES! Posted by nevernine from los angeles on July 19, 2009 3:25 PM
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