May 20 2008
The Beatles: The Rooftop Concert
On January 30th 1969 the Beatles appeared on the roof of their Apple Corps building on Saville Row in London to film a performance for the movie “Let It Be.” This was the band’s last public performance. Bystanders gathered on the streets and the roofs and fire escapes of surrounding buildings.
This was the period during which the Beatles were breaking up. There was much dissension within the group, which had been filming at Twickenham Film Studios, rehearsals and performances of the songs which would appear in their “Let It Be,” and “Abbey Road” albums. George Harrison had already told the other members of the band that he was leaving.
Saville Row is a high priced shopping street in London’s Mayfair district, specializing in custom tailored men’s suits. Apple Corps was not a particularly welcome neighbor. Using money from their phenominal record sales, The Beatles had bought and renovated the building, establishing offices and a recording studio, designed by John “Magic Alex” Mardas. The rooftop was chosen ad a concert venue after much disagreement over where to film a live performance. Paul wanted to play in a small club as The Beatles had done at the beginning of their career. John wanted to film a performance somewhere in Africa. George was not interested in performing at all, although a live performance was needed to finish the film which would be released as “Let It Be.”
No permits were requested from the city. Five songs were performed before the police arrived and shut down the show.
Apple Records is the only branch of Apple Corps that ever made any money, primarily from the release of The Beatles music in various forms. Apple Corps has had a longstanding trade name dispute with Apple Computer, one result of which has been the absence of Beatles music on iTunes.
Share This
Had a tear in my eye watching these videos. Sometimes the past is good. Just need a refresher for memories.
It was neat to see the people climbing all over the buildings to get a look at the Beatles. The Beatles were bigger than life yet….
Thanks
Kyle
Interesting that you mention Magic Alex’s studio - a little over a week before the rooftop concert they tried out the studio, realized it didn’t work (and sold it as scrap), and brought in portable equipment to record most of Let It Be.