I am more than proud to say that I read the entire Tune-in (Extended Edition) by Mark Lewisohn over the summer. All one thousand eight hundred and something pages of it -- notes and all. I really think awards need to be given out to the fans who finish this book - at least a sticker that says, "I did it! I read Tune In!).
As I explained in my last review, The Extended Edition of Tune In is so large that it is split into two large books: a grey book and a red book. This review is over the red book.
I have to admit that the second half of Tune In was more enjoyable than the first half. The first half was great, but the second half got more into the "meat" of the Beatles story. It covers 1961-1962, and so in this volume, you see the Beatles turn from some scruffy guys in leathers and their residency at the Cavern Club to the cleaned-up lads who are working with Brian Epstein to get a record deal until they finally get one. You also are there to read about Pete Best's sacking and the start of the Beatles -- with Ringo!
Lewisohn leaves no stone unturned. I especially enjoyed the comments and memories of the fans who saw the Beatles at the Cavern Club. These boys and girls were on the front lines of Beatles fandom, and their insights are such an essential part of the Beatles story. I am so thankful that they are preserved in this book.
I also appreciate Lewisohn's humor throughout the book. A biography on anybody can get dry at times, but he really keeps things going with humor. There are slight nods here and there that only the most die-hard Beatles fans will get (meaning anyone who reads the entire extended edition). And other things that are just funny -- such as whenever he refers to John's friend in Germany, Betina, as BETTTTIIIINNNNA.
The story ends on December 31, 1962 -- just before the Beatles really hit it big in England. And while the book was long, when it is over, you wish to read more. So many new nuggets of Beatles information can be found here.
The Extended Edition of Tune In is a must-read. I know it is crazy expensive, but it is worth the money. I think I said it before, but it is worth saving your money and gift cards to buy this book. It is going to be a while before the 2nd Edition is out, so you have time to save up the money and read this edition.
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Thanks for the review. My wonder is : I read the 'normal' tune in - what did I miss? Will I get 'bored' reading most of the story again to find the 'gems of extra bits'?! I know I'd never really get 'bored' but having bought and read the smaller version which was crazy detailed Anyway... How has Mark managed to edit it down? what did he toss from the smaller book?-All the audience story telling? Why they made two editions makes the mind boggle and I was annoyed when I found out there was an extended set. ....I'll get the extended version one day, I hope!
ReplyDeleteIt's "BETTTTIIIINNNNAAAAA" not Benita
ReplyDeleteThe pages and pages of firsthand, eyewitness accounts of original fans is so vivid and the most enduring memory I have of the book. That and of course the fastidious attention to details and dispelling of myths! And getting down to the bottom of stuff....like, for instance, "How Do You Do It" being shelved and "Love Me Do" being released.
ReplyDeleteHaving access to the Brian Epstein archives must have been a huge help. It's tragic Neil did not live, and was only able to give Lewhisohn one three-hour interview! But his voice is loud and clear in the book, as is Klaus Voorman's.
And all those fans. THANKS GOD he preserved their remembrances in this most definitive of all Beatle books.
I CAN'T WAIT FOR THE NEXT VOLUME!!!!!