News

The Beatles Billions

• 14th Sep 2009

Not as they need the money but apparently the Beatles could net £1bn by Christmas. I think it’s only fair that they should share some of that with me. Anyway, the musical highlight of last week was the release of The Beatles’ re-mastered back catalogue. Which saw all 13 studio albums plus Past Masters Vol. I & II combined, making 14 albums in total, have their first upgrade since they were released on CD 22 years ago. As well as this The Beatles: Rock Band game was also released last week and The Beatles edition looks set to be the most popular yet. So far the Rock Band series has generated around £600 million in sales and with the combination of the Beatles sales this income will soar. With The Beatles: Rock Band game costing £45 combined with the £170 for the entire collection of the re-mastered albums and a further £200 for ‘A Beatles In Mono’ box set, the band are going to have a very lucrative run up to Christmas. Even though the discussion regarding the Beatles material being made available on iTunes are at present cagey, it is rumoured that the back catalogue should be available on iTunes by next Christmas.

Savvy marketing is going to ensure The Beatles legacy continues to rake in the millions, with the release of the re-mastered albums not only do existing fans want to complete their collection but the hula baloo (or to use the technical term marketing strategies) surrounding it open The Beatles up to a new generation of fans. Obviously the Rock Band franchise appeals to young and older fans alike. But what will really seal the deal is the availability of The Beatles music on iTunes. With the decline of the CD and younger generations more likely to download than to purchase a tangible product, the record company finally seems to be realizing that iTunes is how they will reach a younger audience.

In other news Phil Collins declared last week that he will sadly never play the drums again. After selling over 150 million albums and having a recent revival due to the Cadbury’s Gorilla advert, the star is unable to continue drumming due to a back injury. Speaking to the Daily Mirror Collins said: “After playing the drums for 50 years, I’ve had to stop. Obviously I’m very sad about it. My vertebrae has been crushing my spinal cord because of the position I drum in. It comes from years of playing.” He then adds that his fans need not to worry as he can still sing (now where did I put those ear plugs).

On the website this week we have all the latest news and reviews. We also have live reviews including Tori Amos and Isa and the Filthy Tongues. We have all the latest info on the Michael Jackson Tribute concert, will it be Vienna or London here link Glasswerk sheds light on the topic. We have the brand spanking new video from Paramore, who release their highly anticipated single ‘Ignorance’ today. Glasswerk’s featured gigs this week are Goldie Lookin Chain, Deaf Havana and The Parlotones, so make sure you don’t miss out. Last but by no means least, Glasswerk has been given the entire re-mastered Beatles catalogue to give away to one lucky winner. To be in with a chance of winning just follow this link link