A 50th anniversary limited edition of the contract between The Beatles and manager Brian Epstein – a momentous moment in modern musical history – has been produced by a Bratton man.
Signed by every member of the Beatles and their new manager Brian Epstein on 1st October 1962, the historic contract is now often considered as the “magna carta” of popular music.
A meeting between Rob Smith of Bratton and the owner of the original document four years ago eventually led to the production of what he describes as the ultimate item of Beatles memorabilia; a beautifully presented gift box containing an exclusive limited edition replica of the original management contract.
The document in the anniversary edition has been created using original period materials and has been faithfully reproduced to the highest possible standard as a genuine transcript of the original document. Rob worked from the original contract over a period of months, digitally deconstructing the contract and then using the digital representations to replicate the details right down to every crease, stain, and mark.
From sourcing the right paper to creating the appropriate degree of fading of the ink on the signatures, it has been a real labour of love for him.
Now, 10,000 copies of the handmade contract are on sale during this anniversary year. All of The Beatles’ signatures are clear and it is even possible to see where John Lennon started to sign his name in the wrong place, crossed it out, and then restarted on the correct line. The document also features the signatures of Harrison and McCartney’s fathers, required as the musicians were under 21 at the time.
Rob has already been on a whirlwind tour to launch the edition through the International Beatles Week Festival in Liverpool, featuring at events in the Cavern Club and the Adelphi Hotel.
Rob says the document is important not only for Beatles fans, but holds a pivotal place in the history of popular music. He said, “This document started everything as far as rock and pop goes in this country. If there had been no Beatles things would have been very, very, different. This document, when it was signed, was the start of everything as we know it as far as popular music goes. It’s been described as the magna carta of music.
“It’s not likely that the original will ever be seen in public again – the insurance won’t let it. Their estimated value of the original is in excesss of half a million pounds.
“The whole project has been a labour of love. One of the first things I thought when I came up with the idea was wouldn’t it be great to do a really decent piece of memorabilia for people to collect. There is so much rubbish out there, you can pay lots and never be sure what you’re buying. I can do something for the fans that is unique.”
You can find out more about the limited edition contract at www.beatles50th.co.uk
