When bringing up the topic of the greatest bands of all-time, the discussion typically narrows down onto two bands: The Beatles and The Rolling Stones. Along with being deemed the greatest bands in Rock N' Roll, the bands share a myriad of similarities. They are both from the same era; both came from England and worked their way to stardom on the same circuit. And yet, despite their close association on many levels, The Beatles and The Rolling Stones' concert paths only crossed on one single night in the budding stages of their respective careers. That date was September 15, 1963, when both The Beatles and The Rolling Stones performed on the same stage during The Great Pop Prom. The Beatles headlined and the up-and-coming Rolling Stones played to the undercard of the Great Pop Prom, an afternoon show at London's Royal Albert Hall. The prom was an annual fundraising event for the Printers' Pension Corporation, promoted by the teen magazines Valentine, Marilyn and Roxy. Eleven other acts appeared on the bill, and the compère was DJ Alan Freeman. The Beatles also did a photo session behind the Royal Albert Hall with The Rolling Stones. This was the only time the two groups performed at the same show. Speaking of this special event, Paul McCartney commented, “Standing up on those steps behind the Albert Hall in our new gear, the smart trousers, the rolled collar. Up there with the Rolling Stones we were thinking, ‘This is it - London! The Albert Hall! We felt like gods!’”
Presented here is an extraordinarily rare and desirable relic from this historic event. This 2.25" x 3" original backstage performer's pass has been beautifully hand signed and inscribed along the back side by The Beatles in a rich blue ballpoint pen ink, with the signatures projecting a solid "9" in strength overall. The signatures read, “To Jill, love from John Lennon xx,” “Paul McCartney,” “Ringo Starr xxx,” and “George Harrison.” Expected light handling wear, small square punch hole affecting a third “x” after Lennon’s signature, and the top of McCartney’s signature slightly trailing off the side of the pass, otherwise fine condition. Always a desirable signature grouping, this particular pass is further enhanced by its amazing back story!
Accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity from music autograph authority Roger Epperson/REAL Authentication.