This was The Beatles’ first radio session in London. It was recorded at the BBC Paris Studio on Regent Street.
The show was The Talent Spot, which was broadcast on the BBC Light Programme from 5-5.30pm on Tuesday 4 December 1962. The Beatles performed three songs: ‘Love Me Do’, ‘PS I Love You’ and ‘Twist And Shout’.
Rehearsals took place from 4pm, and the show was recorded before a studio audience from 7-8pm. The presenter was Gary Marshal, and also appearing was singer Elkie Brooks.
Page last updated: 30 October 2012
After the recording, the producer (Brian Willey, my dad) told Brian Epstein that the band had sounded a bit rough, but were good enough for him to book them again, which he did, and they recorded another session a few weeks later.
I was there at the London talent spot .1962 I was 12 and still remember going weekly
I remember this distinctly. I was 15 and listening to it on the kitchen radio. Finally gotto see them Sept 6th 63 at the Luton Odean.
Thanks for clarifying the details of this gig. I remember getting free tickets and going to the recording with a couple of school friends. The Beatles unknown to us at the time were certainly were the best performers. Your information has helped me a lot when writing my autobiography.
Does anyone have a recording of that 1st Talent SPot performance? It probably doesn’t exist!