Get ready to experience the untold story behind one of rock's most legendary bands! A gripping new BBC drama, 'Hamburg Days', is set to transport viewers back to the pivotal days when The Beatles honed their craft in the vibrant port city of Hamburg, Germany. For six unforgettable episodes, the spotlight will shine on a figure whose influence on the Fab Four has been criminally overlooked - Lord Woodbine, the Trinidadian calypso maestro who mentored and managed the band during their formative years.
With a script penned by acclaimed writer Jamie Carragher, 'Hamburg Days' promises to be an electrifying ride, featuring Jorden Myrie as the charismatic Woodbine. As revealed in The Guardian, Carragher hailed Woodbine as a crucial partner to Allan Williams, The Beatles' first manager, who respected his musical expertise and commanded reverence from John Lennon and Paul McCartney.
Lord Woodbine's journey is steeped in history, having served with the Royal Air Force during World War II after arriving in Britain in 1943. He later settled in Toxteth, Liverpool, where he managed the iconic Jacaranda club and fostered local talent. But it was his time with The Beatles that would make him a forgotten hero of British music history.
Academic Malik Al Nasir, who painstakingly researched Phillips for the British Library's 'Beyond the Bassline' exhibition, shed light on how Woodbine, and by extension Liverpool's Black community, were airbrushed from The Beatles' official story. But it was more than just a footnote - Lennon and McCartney would often help with Woodbine's club work in exchange for food, music lessons, and guidance.
Did you know that John Lennon even penned one of his earliest compositions, 'Calypso Rock', inspired by Phillips' Caribbean heritage? It seems a testament to the lasting impact of this remarkable figure. However, as Brian Epstein took over management, Woodbine's role diminished and he was largely written out of history.
Now, get ready for the untold story to unfold! The drama is being filmed on location in Liverpool and Germany, drawing inspiration from Klaus Voormann's memoirs - the artist who designed The Beatles' iconic 'Revolver' cover. Don't miss this epic journey into the heart of rock 'n' roll history.