A few interesting John Lennon print items I was able to acquire on eBay in the last 5 years:
The first item is an educational guide printed by the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame intended to help educators in the task of being able to teach youngsters about the life and contributions of John Lennon to both music and culture.
John Lennon His Life And Work A Guide For Educators Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame
Guide to Lennon His Life and Work
Contents
Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame
This is the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame Lennon catalog summarizing John’s life and contributions to worldwide culture. This wonderful book is available both at the Hall of Fame in Cleveland, at their website, and through such organizations as eBay.
Lennon His Life and Work
John Lennon Tribute Tribute Concert 1990
A wonderful Lennon tribute concert program from Liverpool in 1990. This is the program that was available at the event. I love items like this as it serves as a memento of the concert even if you were not fortunate enough to be able to attend. There was a DVD, laser disk, and VHS release of this concert, with actor Michael Douglas serving as the narrator/host.
Before I departed Facebook, the announcement came across the medium that Lizzie Bravo had passed away from heart problems at age 70. I was fortunate to have had the good fortune to have many communications with the very prominent and celebrated Lizzie on Instant Messenger on Facebook. She was a wonderful lady with a warm heart and so many great memories of her travelling from her native Brazil in the sixties to London, to be present during the Beatles golden age of musical creations.
Across The Universe
She was also one of two fans, Gayleen Pease was the other, who was invited to sing backing vocals on John Lennon’s song “Across the Universe” in 1968. I firmly believe “Across the Universe” is one of the Beatles’ most underrated numbers. Several years ago, Lizzie published her Beatles memoirs in a book that was published in her native Brazil. I was able to purchase a signed copy from her.
Lizzie’s Inscription for John
I loved the photos, but I am not knowledgeable of the Portuguese language, so I missed out on most of the stories behind the photos. At the end of her life, Lizzie had completed her English translation of her book and was seeking out the best publication arrangement that she could find for its release.
Lizzie Bravo’s Book
Several months after her passing, I contacted Lizzie’s daughter to ask her if she had plans to complete her mom’s wish to one day issue the book in English. She promised me that she would eventually issue her mom’s book in English as that would ensure a much wider audience for the book by the prominent Beatles fan. I have included several photos here of the Brazilian edition of the book and I am sure we will all look forward to the day when her family is able to produce the English language edition for Beatles fans everywhere.
Our genuine raffle is for 4 people to join as our VIP ‘Tommy Hanley’ guests at our table of 10, alongside Tony, Tommy’s son, meeting at 11.30am for pre-lunch drinks, and a 3-course lunch (with even more drinks) and legendary broadcaster “Whispering” Bob Harris, the unmistakable voice of the Old Grey Whistle test & BBC Music radio. Bob shares five decades of remarkable stories from the Beatles to Dolly Parton hosted by his great friend Charles Dagnall.
The Event
The event is at Balls Brothers wine bar, Minster Exchange on Thurs 26 Oct, 2023. The event closes at 4PM, after which the lucky winners, with not one but two unique limited edition copies of ‘With a Little Help From My Lens’ by Tommy Hanley, may wander back to the citizenM hotel, (rated 8.7 Fabulous, on Booking.com), 40 Trinity Square, City of London, EC3N 4DJ, and freshen up in two King size rooms, ready for an evening at leisure, exploring the sites of London, as you please. Breakfast is included in the package prior to check out Friday 27th Oct.
Who was Tommy Hanley? Tommy was a London born, professional photographer, that during his 50-year career, photographed numerous musical rock, pop and jazz artists, of the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s. It all started in 1963 when he took the iconic shot of four lads from Liverpool before they went on stage to perform to screaming hoards, at the Odeon cinema, Luton, UK on September 6th. Tommy’s own story starts right there, and he transformed his journey into a special collector’s book, ‘With A Little Help From My Lens’.
With A Little Help From My Lens
Curated by his son Tony, and brought to fruition, as a labour of love, this unique publication, features over 300 glorious images (many of which are unseen), and from behind the camera, is Tommy’s original story, covering three decades, up to his final departure from Apple Corp, where in ’95, he was the ‘go to’ archivist for the upcoming Anthology project.
This unique collector’s book is genuinely limited to 1000 COPIES ONLY WORLDWIDE. It is retailed at £495ea and selling fast. It is not available in any store, or on any website, other than www.tommyhanley.com. When the last copy has gone, then its most definitely GONE FOR EVER!
Don’t forget to recommend The Beatles Bookstore Blog to your friends!
“With a Little Help From My Lens” – a selection of book testimonials are: –
‘Tom’s beautiful book is most impressive. His son, Tony has taken the care and attention to present Toms images and well written text to make it a quality product and a book that will be loved by any Beatles fan.
Jill Furmanovsky – Photographer Oasis, Blondie, and numerous other artists. Rockarchive.com
‘Thank you so much for finishing your father’s wonderful book. Just finished its read last night and am very enlightened. Loved everything about it. It was not like a “history documentary”, but more like sitting with an old friend as he tells his stories. And such great photos. Originally thought I was crazy, as it is the most I have ever paid for a book, but in the end, well worth it. Glad it is a contribution to me & my son’s (overgrown) collection.
Shelley, USA (Genuine book purchase)
‘My latest TV documentary ‘A Love Letter To The Beatles.’ charts the massive impact that The Beatles meant to a generation. To stare into very soul of The Beatles, Tommy Hanley’s book ‘With a Little Help From My Lens; is a massive hit! Tommy’s images evidence that he was there in the epicentre, and visually tells the stories of the most extraordinary career in music history. His talent behind the lens makes us feel like we are in front of it, in the room with John, Paul, George, Ringo, their families, colleagues and entourages. It’s a remarkable achievement to have been able to document such a journey in so much detail and bought to life in this not to be missed, first-class publication.
Simon Weitzman. Author & Film Director.
Tom Hanley, noted and distinguished photographer, was there to photograph the Beatles during their heyday and rise to the pinnacle of fame and notoriety also had the distinction of being there to help chronicle the demise of the world’s greatest entertainment phenomenon. When Tom Hanley passed away in November of 2021, his son fulfilled a promise to his dad with this great book, a wonderful collection of many of his Beatle photos taken over the years. When I learned that Tony was issuing only 1,000 copies of this book and it was not to be produced in any other form whatsoever, I knew I had to have one and I was fortunate to have been able to purchase copy #900 of 1,000 issued. I was not disappointed. It is a fabulous book. If you are a Beatles book collector, this is one you will NEED for your collection. “With a Little Help From My Lens” is one of the best photography books about the world’s best pop band, without question, and one of my favourite books in my massive Beatles library!
Mr John Bezzini, USA. Probably THE person with THE largest Beatle book collection IN THE WORLD!
Bill Zygmant Takes The First Photos of John and Yoko
David Bedford interviewed Zygmant about these photos.
“When it came to taking the first photos of John and Yoko; I was working freelance then and had been doing a late shift in a printing factory, as I had a family to support. Tony Cox, Yoko’s first husband, turned up, and they were making the film Bottoms at the time.
“Yoko went away, and didn’t actually pay me, as I said ‘have it on me’! When I arrived at the Beatles Tailoring shop for John Lennon, Yoko was also there in the background. She saw me, looked over and gestured to say it was ok to take the photo, and stood there so that I could see John in the foreground, and Yoko behind him. That was the first photograph ever taken of John and Yoko. They had only got together a few days earlier.
John Lennon with Yoko in the Background
COPYRIGHT BILL ZYGMANT
“The invitation to the tailor shop came because they knew I would get the photos in the papers.”
Apple Tailoring (Civil and Theatrical) at 161, Kings Road, London, was opened to the public on 23rd May 1968. It was part of the developing Apple Corps launched by The Beatles, following on from the Apple Boutique that had opened on Baker Street. This store, previously known as Dandie Fashions, run by Australian John Crittle.
John Crittle with John Lennon
COPYRIGHT BILL ZYGMANT
Discover these and many more incredible photographs taken by Bill Zygmant in his book, “Where Did You Get That Shirt?” Each photograph has a story from David Bedford’s interviews with Zygmant.
Bill Zygmant – Where Did You Get That Shirt? (Signed Limited Edition)
Get your copy of Bill Zygmant’s portfolio book of unique photographs covering his career from the late 1960s to the 1980s.
This will be a signed, numbered edition – maximum of 250 numbered editions.
It comes with one of Bill’s signed photographs, which usually sells for £50!
In the mid-1960s, a cultural phenomenon took hold of America as The Beatles rose to fame. Alongside their musical success, The Beatles became the first pop music group featured on a metal lunchbox. This iconic lunchbox, manufactured by Aladdin Industries, quickly became a symbol of self-expression for children and a marketing tool to capture the attention of young fans. In this article, we will delve into the history of the Beatles lunchbox, its design, significance, and value for collectors.
The Birth of a Cultural Icon
The Beatles Lunchbox
In 1965, Aladdin Industries introduced the first-ever Beatles lunchbox, forever changing the lunchtime routines of children across America. This metal lunchbox, measuring 8¼”x7½”x4″, was painted vibrant aqua blue and adorned with embossed images of the Fab Four. On one side, the lunchbox featured individual portraits of John, Paul, George, and Ringo, while the other showcased the band playing their instruments in iconic Shea Stadium suits. The bottom edge of the lunchbox displayed floating heads of the Beatles, and their signatures adorned the top.
Aladdin Industries: The Home of Beatles Lunchbox Production
Aladdin Industries (703 Murfreesboro Road in Nashville, Tennessee), the manufacturer of The Beatles lunchbox, was known for its innovative designs and quality products. The artistic director, Elmer Lehnhardt, collaborated with renowned photographer Dezo Hoffmann to create the striking portraits of The Beatles that adorned the lunchbox. Aladdin Industries also produced a matching blue thermos bottle to accompany the lunchbox, further solidifying the lunchtime experience for Beatles fans.
The Beatles Lunchbox: A Statement of Identity
The Beatles lunchbox quickly became more than just a container for sandwiches and snacks. It became a statement of identity for those who carried it. As Maria Godoy of National Public Radio aptly said, “A lunchbox was not merely a lunchbox, but a statement of who we were.” Children proudly flaunted their Beatles lunchboxes, showcasing their love for the band and their place within the pop culture movement.
The Blue Thermos Bottle: A Perfect Companion
The Beatles Thermos
Every Beatles lunchbox would be complete with the matching blue thermos bottle. Standing 7″ tall and 3¼” in diameter, the thermos bottle featured “The Beatles” and images of the band wrapping around both sides. It came with a light-blue screw cap, a cup cap, a name/address sticker, and instructions on how to care for the thermos. The Beatles lunchbox and thermos were the perfect duo for any fan looking to immerse themselves in the world of the Fab Four.
The Collectible Appeal of the Beatles Lunchbox
Decades after their initial release, Beatles lunchboxes have become highly sought-after collectibles. The combination of nostalgia, pop culture significance, and limited production years has propelled the value of these lunchboxes in the collector’s market. Jeff Augsburger, a collector and author, states, “The blue 1965 lunchbox was the first item I wanted to collect.” Finding a lunchbox in mint condition with the original thermos intact is the ultimate prize for many collectors.
The Rarity of the Blue Thermos Bottle
The Beatles Lunchbox
While the Beatles lunchbox itself is a coveted collectible, the blue thermos bottle is often the most challenging piece to find. Due to its fragility and frequent use, many thermos bottles were discarded or damaged over the years. As a result, finding an original blue thermos in excellent condition adds significant value to a collector’s ensemble. The scarcity of these thermos bottles contributes to their allure and drives up their market price.
Reproductions: A New Wave of Beatles Lunchboxes
In 2013, Factory Entertainment released reproductions of the iconic Beatles lunchbox for fans to enjoy. These replicas closely resemble the original design but can be distinguished by a modern barcode on the bottom. While these reproductions allow fans to own a piece of Beatles memorabilia, they lack the historical authenticity and value associated with the original Aladdin Industries lunchboxes.
Alternative Designs: The Beatles Brunch Bag and Air Flite Lunchbox
Alongside the classic metal lunchbox, alternative designs also emerged to cater to different preferences. One such design was the ‘Girl’s vinyl’ or ‘The Beatles Brunch Bag,’ a light blue soft vinyl box with an oval shape. This package, released in 1965 by Aladdin Industries, featured the Beatles group pictured on the front and included a blue thermos bottle with Beatles faces on one side and the band playing instruments on the other. Aladdin also issued a lunchbox after their official manufacturing license expired. In 1967 they made a Brunch Bag and Thermos called ‘Combo,’ with an image of two guitarists and one drummer combo on a similar aqua blue background. Additionally, Air Flite produced a lunchbox for the U.S. market featuring Beatles images and signatures, with “Air Flite” printed in the lower right-hand corner of the picture.
Conclusion
The Beatles lunchbox remains an enduring symbol of 1960s pop culture and a cherished piece of Beatles memorabilia. Its significance goes beyond its practical purpose, representing a statement of identity and a connection to a beloved band. Whether you’re a lunchbox collector or a Beatles enthusiast, the Beatles lunchbox and its accompanying blue thermos bottle hold a nostalgic charm that transports us to an era of music, fandom, and youthful exuberance.
NEMS and the Business of Selling Beatles Merchandise in the U.S. 1964-1966 (2ND EDITION)
The book covers the approximately 150 licensed items that dotted store shelves and helped fuel the band-crazed fan during the time right after the band landed in America and performed on The Ed Sullivan Show. Toys, games, dolls, jewelry, clothing, wigs, and more!
A new massive privately published photo book by noted Italian Beatles collectors Fulvio Fiore and Alex Franchi about The Beatles in Italy. Over 500 pages of photos. I bought a copy today for my collection. Interested parties can contact Alex Franchi at the email soundlover30@hotmail.com
A Look Inside The Beatles in Italy Book
Inside the Beatles in Italy bookInside the Beatles in Italy bookInside the Beatles in Italy bookInside the Beatles in Italy bookInside the Beatles in Italy bookThe Beatles in Italy book
This is a beautiful book. Well done to the authors
