Original Beatle

Who can forget the Beatles; John, Paul, George, and Pete? The most popular band in rock & roll history. Pete you ask?

In early 1962, The Beatles auditioned at Abby Road Studios for producer George Martin. Their drummer was a handsome young lad by the name of Pete Best. They were quickly signed, but with one exception; Martin did not like Best's playing. Suddenly and without warning, Pete was told he was out. Shocked and depressed, he sat home alone for weeks. Within months, The Beatles along with new drummer Ringo Starr had a hit on the British charts, embarked on a world tour and soon became an international sensation.

Best was never told why he was dismissed. Some spoke of jealousy as many female fans considered him the best-looking member. Others have suggested that while the band members usually socialized together off-stage, Pete often kept to himself. Evidence suggests that he just didn't fit in.

So what became of Pete? He soon decided to leave the music business, worked a series of low-paying jobs and later became a civil servant. In 1968 he married and raised two daughters.

Missing out on superstardom caused Pete – in his words - “a lot grief, hardship and financial embarrassment,” but he harbors no hard feelings towards his former band and has admitted to being a fan of their music.