Brian Epstein Talks about the Beatles! (1967)

 Brian Epstein Talks about the Beatles!

By Gloria Malerba

(Teen) Datebook 

July 1967

    After many futile attempts, I finally got to see Brian Epstein while he was in New York. Seeing him for the first time since the Beatles tour certainly did bring back exciting memories of my days with George, John, Ringo, Paul, Brian, Mal and the rest of the Beatle camp.

     I no longer remember the frustrations of covering such a tour, only the pleasant memories. And really found myself wishing they were going to be here again soon. So I asked Brian to please to clear up these horrible rumors about our fab Beatles breaking up-- a thought too dreadful for words! 

    Brian said, smiling, "These rumors are simply ridiculous. I asked the Beatles to say nothing on the subject, because it was all so stupid."

     Relieved. I finally noticed that Brian was certainly looking very Carnaby-mod in an A-line double breasted navy blue coat and his six inch long sideburns. 

    When I asked about the articles quoting Paul as saying that they were breaking up and each wanted to go his own way, Brian said, "Well, I think they had a very hard time last year. We visited countries to which we had never been before, Japan, the Philippines. It was very difficult for them.

     "Then, of course, on the American tour, all that business about the bigger than Jesus Christ quote certainly wasn't very pleasant. This too put them under such terrible pressure and strains, which all contributed to turning them against touring again. However, I don't think you'll ever get me or any of the Beatles to categorically state that they will never tour again.

     The tours of the past have been completely unsatisfactory, except for the financial end. And they never worry about money--they leave that to me.

     I will say, if they do tour again, and I can't see any reason why they may not, I don't think it will be in the concept that we're used to. It will be one which we will be creatively satisfying to them."

     About the Beatles next film, Brian said, "We now have a very definite idea which needs developing, but right now, there's little I can really say about it."

     Brian said the boys work very hard recording. "They work five days a week, just like everybody else, except that they work at night."

     I asked Brian to give my very best wishes and fond hellos to each of the Beatles and tell them that they would always be welcome in America.