Original Beatles Drummer Pete Best Performs in Benton, IL
August marked the 50th
anniversary of George Harrison’s joining of The Beatles. In September 1963,
just five months before appearing on “The Ed Sullivan Show,” George visited his
sister who, at the time, resided in the sleepy town of Benton, IL. During his visit, he found time
to perform with a band called The Four Vests at the Boneyard Boccie Ball Club
and at the Eldorado VFW Hall.
Few are aware, but the first time a Beatles record was
played in the United States
was in the Southern Illinois town of West
Frankfort on WFRX radio. The DJ was a woman named
Marsha Raubach.
In
remembrance of George’s 1963 visit and his 50th Beatleversary, and
The Beatles’ special connection to Southern Illinois, Benton, IL
will play host to the Benton George Harrison Beatle Festival
on October 4th. The festival’s musical performances will take place
in the east gymnasium of BentonConsolidatedHigh
School and are being organized by Warren Batts,
an original member of Bill Haley’s Comets. The headlining performer of the day’s
events – which will begin at 1 p.m. with tours of Beatles themed Hard Day’s
Nite Bed and Breakfast (113 McCann
St.), the former home of Harrison’s
sister – will be original Beatles drummer Pete Best and his band The Pete Best
Band: Best of the Beatles. Also performing will be a number of other bands
including a George Harrison impersonator.
Tickets
are $10 in advance and $15 at the door and can be purchased via credit card by
phoning (618) 439-4650.
Meet & Greet Down Stroke at Texas Roadhouse
On October 15 from 4-6 p.m.,
the members of the Tennessee
band Down Stroke before their show at Woody’s. Be sure to bring your camera and
a photo, because the band will be taking pictures and signing autographs!
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