121-570: Robert Colin Stigwood (16 April 1934 – 4 January 2016) was an Australian-born British-resident music entrepreneur, film producer , and impresario , best known for managing musicians such as Cream , Andy Gibb , and the Bee Gees ; theatrical productions such as Hair and Jesus Christ Superstar ; and film productions, including Grease and Saturday Night Fever . Robert Colin Stigwood
242-417: A director for the film, as well as other key crew members. Whereas the director makes the creative decisions during the production, the producer typically manages logistics and business operations, though some directors also produce their own films. The producer must ensure the film is delivered on time and within budget, and in the later stages before release, will oversee the marketing and distribution of
363-484: A Hamburg concert percentage that the group had refused to pay. In an afternoon meeting with the group at NEMS on 3 December 1961, Epstein proposed the idea of managing the Beatles. John Lennon , George Harrison , and Pete Best arrived late for the meeting, as they had been drinking at a local pub. McCartney also did not arrive on time because he had just got up and was "taking a bath", as Harrison explained. Epstein
484-419: A UK No.1 hit after Stigwood arranged for Leyton to perform it while playing the role of a fictional pop singer called Johnny St. Cyr, performing the song on the new Associated Television drama Harpers West One . Stigwood and Meek licensed the song to EMI Records , who had previously refused the opportunity to sign Leyton for themselves. This action put the men amongst the first independent record producers in
605-612: A business relationship. White told Epstein he would play the Beatles' recording of " My Bonnie " the band made in Germany with Tony Sheridan for EMI's four A&R directors. However, White only played it for two of them— Wally Ridley and Norman Newell . In early February 1962, Epstein visited the HMV store (owned by EMI) in 363 Oxford Street , London to have the Decca tape transferred to 78 rpm acetates. An HMV disc-cutter named Jim Foy liked
726-424: A businessman to enjoy being a student, and I didn't like being a student at all." He said in 1964 that he "felt like an old man at the age of 21". He also revealed that he would have liked to produce a theatre play, or even act, "in something by Chekhov ", or a "straight drama" by John Osborne . In late April 1957, while a RADA student, Epstein was arrested for soliciting an undercover police officer for sex near
847-451: A company that also deals with film distribution. Also, the cast and film crew often work at different times and places, and certain films even require a second unit . Even after shooting for a film is complete, the producers can still demand that additional scenes be filmed. In the case of a negative test screening , producers may even demand an alternative film ending. For example, when the audience reacted negatively to Rambo 's death in
968-493: A contract with RSO. His next project, the highly-touted super-band Blind Faith , which united Clapton and Ginger Baker with Steve Winwood (ex- Traffic ) and Ric Grech (ex- Family ) fizzled out after just one LP. In addition, the album he made as Derek & the Dominos , Layla & Other Assorted Love Songs (1970), though now recognised as a masterpiece, was met with a relatively poor critical and commercial reception, and
1089-513: A fair price, even though many companies were already selling products without a licence. During the first Beatles trip to the United States, merchandisers pitched many products to Epstein, including Beatles clocks, pens, cigarette lighters, plastic wigs, bracelets, games, etc., but he rejected them all. This was because he had already allowed David Jacobs, the lawyer for NEMS, to give away 90 per cent of merchandising rights to Nicky Byrne in
1210-400: A few times previously on Saturday nights, once asking Sytner to book a group for his twenty-first birthday party. Epstein asked Harry to arrange for Epstein and his assistant Taylor to watch the Beatles perform. The club allowed Epstein and Taylor to enter without queuing. They bypassed the line of fans at the door and heard Bob Wooler , the resident disc jockey, announce a welcome message over
1331-420: A gift for talent-spotting. He first met the Beatles in 1961 at a lunchtime concert at Liverpool's Cavern Club . Although he had no experience of artist management, Epstein put them under contract and insisted that they abandon their scruffy image in favour of a new clean-cut style. He also attempted to get the Beatles a recording contract, eventually securing a deal with EMI 's Parlophone label. Within months,
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#17327800331001452-400: A greeting, said, "Well done, then, goodbye" and left. Epstein and Taylor then went for lunch, and during the meal Epstein asked Taylor what he thought about the group. Taylor replied that he honestly thought they were "absolutely awful", but there was something "remarkable" about them. Epstein sat there smiling for a long time before exclaiming, "I think they're tremendous!" Later, when Epstein
1573-541: A leading movie star. The film had an unlikely source - a supposedly factual magazine article which Stigwood had licensed. The double-LP soundtrack, written by and featuring the Bee Gees, became the biggest selling soundtrack album ever released. Stigwood followed this with a hugely successful film adaptation of the stage rock'n'roll musical Grease (1978), which co-starred Travolta and Australian singer Olivia Newton-John . Stigwood insisted that additional songs be added to
1694-504: A multi-segment film or television production. A field producer helps the producer by overseeing all of the production outside the studio in specific film locations. Considered executive employees in regard to the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 in the United States, producers represent the management team of production and are charged by the studios to enforce the provisions of the union contracts negotiated by
1815-674: A new contract in October 1962 which gave Epstein 15, 20, or 25 per cent of revenues, depending on how much he helped the band earn. The Beatles would then share any income after various expenses had been deducted. Epstein then formed a management company, NEMS Enterprises, telling his parents that managing the group was only a part-time occupation and would not interfere with the family business. The Beatles signed Epstein's first management contract, but Epstein did not. He later told Taylor, "Well, if they ever want to tear it up, they can hold me but I can't hold them". (English law would have enforced
1936-747: A new management contract for the Beatles. The Beatles made their last official live appearance in Britain on 1 May 1966, at the NME Annual Poll-Winners' All-Star Concert at the Empire Pool , Wembley Park . Although the concert was televised, the cameras were switched off while the Beatles played, because Epstein and ABC TV had failed to agree over terms. They were filmed receiving their awards, however. The Beatles' hectic schedule kept Epstein very busy between 1963 and 1965 with touring plus television and film work. Their last live concert
2057-506: A range of other goods, such as musical instruments and household appliances. They called the expanding business NEMS (North End Music Stores), which offered lenient credit terms. Paul McCartney 's father once bought a piano from them. Epstein's mother Malka (nicknamed "Queenie" by her family, as Malka means "queen" in Hebrew) was also involved in the Hyman furniture business, which also owned
2178-631: A reasonable business brain. I'm no, sort of, genius [laughter]." Asked about his deficiencies, Epstein replied, "I'm probably too conscious of ideas, rather than finance behind ideas." According to Time , Epstein made $ 14 million in five years while managing The Beatles. Before the Beatles achieved nationwide success in Britain , Epstein had permitted a company (run by his cousins and initially catering to fan club members), to produce Beatles sweaters for 30 shillings (£1.50) and badges for 6 pence (6d) (2½p). It sold 15,000 sweaters and 50,000 badges as
2299-475: A result of his suppressed homosexuality . Epstein fell in love with the arts, particularly theatre, and it was his one consistently successful school subject. His favourite book as a child was Pamela Brown's The Swish of the Curtain . Shortly before his 16th birthday he sent a long letter to his father stating that he wanted to become a dress designer, but Harry Epstein was adamantly opposed, and after serving
2420-500: A share of the Beatles' performance fees, reducing its revenues still further. The Beatles entered into a publishing agreement with Dick James Music (DJM), so James set up a company called Northern Songs . James and his financial partner and accountant, Charles Silver, would each receive 25 per cent of the shares. Lennon and McCartney received 20 per cent each, with Epstein receiving the remaining 10 per cent. The Beatles' PRS income increased rapidly, so Epstein asked Isherwood to devise
2541-704: A six months' apprenticeship at another company his son finally had to "report for duty" at the family's furniture shop on a £5 per week wage. In December 1952, Epstein was conscripted to do his national service as a data entry clerk into the Royal Army Service Corps , and was posted to the Albany Street Barracks near Regent's Park in London in spring 1953, where he was often reprimanded for not collecting his army pay. Epstein used this posting to explore London's high culture for
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#17327800331002662-575: A stylistically limited drummer. McCartney later remarked, "It had got to the stage that Pete was holding us back. What were we gonna do—pretend he was a wonderful drummer?" After the group's first recording session on 6 June 1962, George Martin felt that using an experienced studio session drummer rather than Best would improve the recording (this was in accordance with normal practice at the time). Lennon, McCartney, and Harrison decided Best needed to be replaced and, uncomfortable with sacking him themselves, asked Epstein to sack Best so that Starr could join
2783-546: A success, and it became one of the biggest musical retail outlets in Northern England . The Epsteins opened a second store at 12–14 Whitechapel, and Epstein was put in charge of the entire operation. He often walked across the road to the Lewis's department store (which also had a music section) where Peter Brown was employed. He watched Brown's sales technique and was impressed enough to lure him to work for NEMS with
2904-485: A televised statement, which was not seen or heard because of static. The entourage boarded the plane for home, but Epstein and Beatles' assistant Mal Evans were ordered off, both believing that they would not be allowed back on the plane. Epstein was forced to give the tax authorities £6,800 worth of Philippine peso notes earned from the Manila shows and to sign a tax bond verifying the exchange before being allowed back on
3025-638: A time the most powerful tycoon in the entertainment industry: "Stigwood owned the record label that issued his artists' albums and film soundtracks, and he also controlled publishing rights – not since Hollywood's golden days had so much power and wealth been concentrated in the hands of one mogul." The Robert Stigwood Fellowship Program was established in 2014 by the Music Development Office in Adelaide, to provide mentorship and professional development to local musicians and entrepreneurs in
3146-499: A top-producing school is one of the most efficient ways a student can gain industry credibility. While education is one way to begin a career as a film producer, experience is also usually required to land a job. Internships are a way to gain experience while in school and give students a foundation to build a career. Many internships are paid, which enables students to earn money while gaining hands-on skills from industry professionals. Through internships, students can network within
3267-559: A way of avoiding the tax that Lennon and McCartney would owe. Isherwood suggested a stock market flotation for Northern Songs. He also suggested to Epstein that during the flotation Lennon and McCartney should move to houses near Isherwood's own in Esher . Lennon, Harrison and Starr agreed, while Epstein and McCartney remained in London. After settling in London in 1965, Epstein rented an office in Monmouth Street , and later bought
3388-571: A writers' agency co-founded by Spike Milligan and Eric Sykes in 1954, in which many of Britain's best comedy and television scriptwriters had been involved. Beryl Vertue from ALS was appointed as deputy chairman. Vertue was responsible for selling the formats to US producers of the TV series All in the Family and Sanford and Son , which were adapted from the popular British TV shows Till Death Us Do Part and Steptoe and Son . Stigwood produced
3509-437: Is becoming more and more common to split this role into two for creative projects. These are the executive producer and the showrunner. A showrunner, in this context, is the most senior creative, working on writing and producing their vision; they are effectively the same as the producer; overseeing, arranging, managing, and beginning every aspect of production. Whereas the executive producer focuses more on budgeting and predicting
3630-524: The ABC network in the US, featured three teams of players from small towns in a competition where the emphasis was on good will. The show lasted four seasons. Stigwood signed actor John Travolta to a million dollar three-picture contract in 1976. Many in the film industry were reportedly sceptical, because Travolta was at that time known as a TV actor; but RSO Films' next production, Saturday Night Fever , made him
3751-655: The Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) with the below-the-line employees. Founded in 1924 by the U.S. Trade Association as the Association of Motion Picture Producers, the AMPTP was initially responsible for negotiating labor contracts. Still, during the mid-1930s, it took over all contract negotiation responsibilities previously controlled by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences . Today,
Robert Stigwood - Misplaced Pages Continue
3872-529: The Graham Bond Organisation . They were stars by 1967, after a U.S. tour with The Who – for whom Stigwood was booking agent at the time. Stigwood moved his recording activities to Polydor Records , negotiating a much more advantageous deal than he had achieved with EMI. In 1967, at the suggestion of Beatles manager Brian Epstein , Robert Stigwood merged his agency with Epstein’s company NEMS. Within weeks of joining NEMS he started managing
3993-565: The Mersey Beat music journal in Liverpool. The recording contract gave the Beatles one penny (1d) for each record sold, which was split among the four members, meaning that each earned one farthing per copy. The royalty rate was further reduced for singles sold outside the UK; the group received half of one penny per single, which was again split amongst the whole group. Martin scheduled
4114-568: The Rolling Stones under the management of Allen Klein . After Epstein's death, Clive Epstein assumed control of NEMS as the company's second-largest shareholder. Stigwood then tried to take over management of NEMS but all four Beatles vigorously objected, with Lennon saying, "We don't know you. Why would we do this?" McCartney admitted that they had always signed all the contracts that Epstein presented to them without reading them first, but after Epstein's death Lennon complained, "Well, he
4235-604: The Swiss Cottage tube station . (Homosexual sex for men was illegal in Britain at this time.) He appeared in a Marylebone courthouse the next day and pleaded not guilty. He was sentenced to two years' probation . While still serving probation in May 1958, he was assaulted by a casual sex partner in Liverpool and extorted for hush money . Epstein reported the encounter to the police, forcing him to testify in court and reveal his sexual orientation to his family. The court barred
4356-872: The house band at Newcastle 's Club A Go Go. The band recorded for Columbia (the EMI label) and the French Barclay Records , with one of its first releases being co-produced by Stigwood and Vicki Wickham. The band included Charlie Harcourt, later of Lindisfarne and Cat Mother and the All Night News Boys . Some of the acts he promoted in the mid-60s lost Stigwood money, including UK tours by Chuck Berry and P. J. Proby , and he came close to bankruptcy during this period. In 1966 he began managing Cream , formed from two other bands that Stigwood had under contract – Eric Clapton from John Mayall's Bluesbreakers , and Jack Bruce and Ginger Baker from
4477-612: The 1997 Golden Globe Awards ' Best Film winner, Evita , starring Madonna . Stigwood remained active during his later years, primarily in musical theatre, taking a role in stage revivals of Grease and a theatrical adaptation of Saturday Night Fever . In 2005, he sold the Barton Manor estate on the Isle of Wight , which had been his home for many years. Stigwood was gay. Stigwood died in London on 4 January 2016, aged 81. On his death, one obituary judged that he had been for
4598-526: The A&;R manager of EMI's Parlophone label. Epstein met Martin on 13 February, where he played the acetates of the Decca audition. Epstein left the meeting optimistic, but Martin "wasn't knocked out at all" by the "lousy tape". Martin later claimed that Epstein's conviction that the Beatles would become internationally famous finally convinced him to offer a recording contract. In fact, however, EMI managing director L. G. ("Len") Wood instructed Martin to sign
4719-472: The AMPTP has been responsible for negotiating these union agreements and is now considered the official contract negotiation representative for everyone within the film and television industry. While individual producers are responsible for negotiating deals with the studios distributing their films, the Producers Guild of America offers guidance to protect and promote the interests of producers and
4840-662: The AMPTP negotiates with various industry associations when dealing with union contracts, including the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE), the Directors Guild of America (DGA), and the Screen Actors Guild - American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA). In 2012, the AMPTP negotiated over eighty industry-wide union agreements on behalf of 350 studios and independent production companies. Since 1982,
4961-460: The Beatles had played several gigs with Ringo Starr on occasions when Pete Best was ill, and they had performed at a recording session with Lennon, McCartney, and Harrison in Hamburg. The Beatles enjoyed Starr's drumming style and social demeanor with the band, whereas Best rarely socialized with the other band members after gigs. Lennon, McCartney, and Harrison had also long believed Best to be
Robert Stigwood - Misplaced Pages Continue
5082-549: The Beatles in May 1962, largely to appease the continued interest of Ardmore & Beechwood in Lennon–McCartney song publishing. Martin met with Epstein again on 9 May and offered him a standard EMI recording contract for the Beatles to record six "sides" (equivalent to three two-sided single releases) in their first year. Upon signing the contract, Epstein immediately sent a telegram to the Beatles (who were in Hamburg) and to
5203-513: The Beatles were international stars. Some of Epstein's other young discoveries had also prospered under his management. They included Gerry and the Pacemakers , Billy J. Kramer and the Dakotas , Tommy Quickly , Cilla Black and The Big Three . In 1967, he died of a combined alcohol and barbiturate overdose , ruled as accidental, at the age of 32. Epstein's grandfather, Isaac Epstein,
5324-548: The Beatles were; they were on the front page of the second issue of Mersey Beat ". On 3 August 1961, Epstein started a regular music column in the Mersey Beat called "Stop the World—And Listen To Everything in It: Brian Epstein of NEMS". The Beatles were due to perform a lunchtime concert at The Cavern Club on 9 November 1961. According to club owner Sytner, Epstein had visited the club quite
5445-486: The Bee Gees , a vocal group who, after many years in Australia, had just returned to their native UK with hopes of a British career. Within months their first international single, " New York Mining Disaster 1941 ", had become a major British and US hit reaching the top 20 in both markets, while " Massachusetts " reached number 1 in the UK and number 11 in the US, launching a string of Bee Gees hits that continued throughout
5566-636: The Bee Gees might also benefit from a change of scene, and so they moved with their band into the same house on Ocean Boulevard to record their album Main Course . Stigwood urged them to change their sound from the ballads which had made them famous, and they began to move towards the disco sound that would bring them their greatest success, starting with " Jive Talking " - a US Billboard #1 hit in 1975. The records were released on Stigwood's own label, RSO Records , which he founded in 1973. Stigwood expanded into film production with success. His first feature film
5687-563: The Broadway shows Hair and Oh! Calcutta! for the West End stage in 1968 and 1970 respectively. In 1971, he produced the first theatrical production of Jesus Christ Superstar - initially in the USA - beginning a successful working relationship with Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice which continued later in the decade with Evita . Stigwood also moved into film and TV production in
5808-473: The Cavern Club he thought, "They were a scruffy crowd in leather, and they were not very tidy and not very clean. They smoked as they played and they ate and talked and pretended to hit each other." Epstein encouraged them to wear suits and ties, insisted that they stop swearing, smoking, drinking, or eating on stage, and also suggested the famous synchronised bow at the end of their performances. McCartney
5929-654: The Pop", coined the phrase " velvet mafia " to refer to the Robert Stigwood Organization — the term soon began to be used to describe the influential gay crowd who supposedly ran Hollywood and the fashion industry. Stigwood set up Associated R&R Films with Rupert Murdoch in 1980, which produced Peter Weir 's well-received Gallipoli (1981), but no further films. Other notable films produced by Stigwood include Times Square (1980); The Fan (1981); Grease 2 (1982); Staying Alive (1983);
6050-651: The Sheffield Veneering Company. Harry and Queenie married in 1933. Brian Epstein was born on 19 September 1934 at 4 Rodney Street , Liverpool . Harry and Queenie also had another son named Clive, who was born 22 months after his older brother. During World War II the Epsteins moved to Southport , where two schools expelled Epstein for laziness and poor performance, but returned to Liverpool in 1945. The Epsteins lived at 197 Queens Drive , Childwall in Liverpool, and remained there for
6171-533: The UK. Other artists Stigwood signed to a management/recording deal included Mike Sarne , whose Komlosy-produced " Come Outside " charted Number One in 1962, and another Meek protégé, Mike Berry , who had scored a hit with the Geoff Goddard-penned "Tribute To Buddy Holly". One of the first musical acts he managed during this period was Junco Partners, a blues band which succeeded the Animals as
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#17327800331006292-614: The UK. This was later deemed to be a disastrous mistake, as it left only 10 per cent for Epstein, NEMS and the Beatles, but David Jacobs subsequently renegotiated the royalty rate to 49% at Epstein's behest in August 1964. Byrne then took over Epstein's Stramsact merchandising in the UK and set up Seltaeb (Beatles spelled backwards) in the United States. While the Beatles were ensconced in the Plaza Hotel in New York City, Epstein
6413-465: The US top 10 at the same time: "Night Fever", "Stayin' Alive", "If I Can't Have You", "Emotion" and "Love Is Thicker Than Water". The Bee Gees enjoyed a run of six consecutive number one singles which continued into 1979. RSO records also had success with soundtracks for Fame and The Empire Strikes Back before Stigwood sold the label to Polygram . It was during this period that writer Steven Gaines , in his New York Sunday News column "Top of
6534-563: The average annual salary for a producer in the U.S. is listed as $ 70,180 per year, with an estimated range from $ 43,000 to $ 150,000. When examining more than 15,000 producers in the Los Angeles metropolitan area, the average annual salary is $ 138,640. Producers can also have an agreement to take a percentage of a movie's sales. There is no average workday for film producers since their tasks change from day to day. A producer's work hours are often irregular and can consist of long days with
6655-481: The band. Epstein was aware the Beatles had discussed replacing Best but hoped it would not happen, as he was not yet fond of Starr. Epstein agonised about the decision, asking the Cavern's disc jockey Bob Wooler if it were a good idea. Wooler replied that Best was "very popular with the fans," who would not like it at all. Despite his reservations, Epstein accepted the Beatles' decision: "They liked Ringo, and I trusted
6776-458: The beginning of the group's dissolution and had a profound effect on each Beatle. Epstein had no prior experience of artist management, yet he had a strong influence on the band's early dress code and stage demeanour. They had previously worn blue jeans and leather jackets, and they would stop and start songs when they felt like it or when an audience member requested a certain song. David Pomerran Szatmary states that when Epstein first saw them at
6897-497: The boys' judgment. If they were happy, so was I." Epstein's task of sacking Best was complicated by the fact that he was under contract to provide management to all four members of the Beatles. Epstein thus had to secure paid work for Best if he was to leave the group. Epstein consulted a lawyer, who informed him that the Beatles could not simply expel Best under the terms of their contract; they could only legally disband and then re-form with Starr. Epstein planned to have Best become
7018-410: The club's public address system : "We have someone rather famous in the audience today. Mr Brian Epstein, the owner of NEMS ..." Epstein later talked about the performance: "I was immediately struck by their music, their beat and their sense of humour on stage—and, even afterwards, when I met them, I was struck again by their personal charm. And it was there that, really, it all started". After
7139-420: The contract through the doctrine of part performance .) The contract stated that Epstein would receive a management commission of 25 per cent of the group's gross income after a certain financial threshold had been reached. The Beatles argued for a smaller percentage, but Epstein pointed out that he had been paying their expenses for months without receiving anything in return. On 1 October 1962, four days before
7260-428: The creative process of screenplay development and often aids in script rewrites. They can also fulfill the executive producer's role of overseeing other producers. Within the production process, a producer can oversee, arrange, manage, and begin every aspect of production. They are typically involved in every stage of the overall production process. A co-producer is a member of a team of producers that perform all of
7381-599: The drummer for the Merseybeats as an alternative that would satisfy his commitment to provide Best work. In the meantime, Starr was playing with Rory Storm and the Hurricanes, the resident group at Butlins' holiday complex in Skegness . Epstein searched for drummers who could temporarily fill in for Best until Starr was available to join the Beatles, such as Joe Brown 's drummer, Bobby Graham. He also offered
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#17327800331007502-419: The early 1970s. By this time both of his major music acts were in the doldrums. The Bee Gees broke up briefly in 1970, and after reuniting they floundered for several years, reaching a self-acknowledged "rock bottom". At this time the former chart-toppers were reduced to playing the working men's club circuit in northern England. Although Cream had disbanded in late 1968, lead guitarist Eric Clapton remained in
7623-426: The entire project remains on track. They are also usually in charge of managing the film's finances and all other business aspects. On a television series an executive producer is often a writer and given credit in a creative capacity. In a feature film or movie, the executive producer is often the person directly funding the project or is directly responsible for bringing in investors for funding. In television, it
7744-464: The film industry, which is an important way to make necessary industry connections. Once an internship is over, the next step will typically be to land a junior position, such as a production assistant . Pay can vary based on the producer's role and the filming location. In the United States, the salary can start between $ 20,000 and $ 70,000, even doubling when working in Los Angeles. As of 2022,
7865-431: The film is based on an existing script, the producer hires a screenwriter and oversees the script's development . These activities culminate with the pitch , led by the producer, to secure the financial backing that enables production to begin. If all succeeds, the project is " greenlit ". The producer supervises the pre-production , principal photography and post-production stages of filmmaking . A producer hires
7986-454: The film is to be based on an original script, the producer must find an appropriate screenwriter . If an existing script is considered flawed, the producer can order a new version or decide to hire a script doctor . The producer also gives final approval when hiring the film director , cast members, and other staff. In some cases, producers also have the last word when it comes to casting questions. A producer will also approve locations,
8107-409: The film. Producers cannot always supervise all of the production. In this case, the primary producer or executive producer may hire and delegate work to associate producers, assistant producers, line producers , or unit production managers . During this stage of the production process, producers bring together people like the film director , cinematographer , and production designer . Unless
8228-453: The first recording session at EMI Studios. He called Best and Neil Aspinall to his office on Whitechapel Street, where he informed Best that the Beatles would be replacing him with Starr. When Best asked why, Epstein told him, "Mainly because they think you're not a good enough drummer. And also because at EMI Studios, George Martin said, 'the drummer isn't good enough'." With the band's lineup now solidified, Epstein had his solicitor draw up
8349-425: The first recording session to be on 6 June 1962 at Abbey Road Studios . Epstein later renegotiated EMI's royalty rate and on 27 January 1967 the Beatles signed a new nine-year contract with EMI. The contract stipulated that 25 per cent would be paid to NEMS for the full nine years even if the Beatles decided not to renew their management contract with Epstein, which was up for renewal later that year. By early 1962,
8470-525: The first time and also visited local relatives. By January 1954, Epstein had seen numerous Army psychiatrists, who recommended an early medical discharge. After returning to Liverpool, he was put in charge of the Clarendon Furnishing shop in Hoylake and in 1955 was made a director of NEMS. In September 1956, he took a trip to London to meet a friend but after being there for only one day,
8591-461: The functions and roles that a single producer would in a given project. A coordinating producer coordinates the work/role of multiple producers trying to achieve a shared result. The associate or assistant producer helps the producer during the production process. They can sometimes be involved in coordinating others' jobs, such as creating peoples' schedules and hiring the main talent. A segment producer produces one or more specific segments of
8712-482: The furniture dealership that he founded. Dinah and Isaac's third child, Harry Epstein, would become Brian Epstein's father. Eventually the family moved to a larger home in the Anfield area of Liverpool, at 27 Anfield Road. After Harry and his brother Leslie had joined the family firm, Isaac Epstein founded Epstein and Sons. He enlarged the furniture business by taking over adjacent shops at 62/72 Walton Road to sell
8833-417: The group abbreviated his name to "Eppy" or "Bri". Starting shortly after he met the Beatles, Epstein made numerous trips to London to visit record companies in the hope of securing a record contract, but many rejected him, including Columbia , Pye , Philips , Oriole , and most notoriously Decca . On 13 December 1961, at Epstein's invitation, Mike Smith of Decca travelled from London to Liverpool to watch
8954-510: The group at the Cavern, which led to an audition in London on 1 January 1962 (see The Beatles' Decca audition ). Decca informed Epstein one month later that the audition tapes had been rejected. The Beatles later found out that Epstein had paid Decca producer Tony Meehan (ex-drummer of the Shadows ) to produce the studio recordings. While Epstein was negotiating with Decca he also approached Ron White, an EMI marketing executive with whom he had
9075-593: The group on 6 and 10 December 1961. McCartney, Harrison, and Best were under 21 and therefore needed the consent of their parents to enter into a contract. Best and his mother— Mona Best , owner of the Casbah Coffee Club —were impressed with Epstein's professional image as were the other Beatles, because he was a businessman, wore expensive suits, and owned a large car. Best's mother said that Epstein "could be good for them [the Beatles]". McCartney's father
9196-427: The group to Wirral to see his friend, master tailor Beno Dorn , who made them their first suits based on a design they had previously seen, which Epstein approved: "I thought it was an excellent design at the time." Lennon resisted wearing suits and ties, but later said, "I'll wear a suit; I'll wear a bloody balloon if somebody's going to pay me." Epstein began seeking publicity by "charming and smarming ...
9317-487: The group's popularity grew. When Beatlemania swept the UK in November 1963, Epstein was besieged by novelty-goods companies desperate to use the Beatles name on plastic guitars, drums, disc racks, badges, belts and other merchandise. Epstein refused to allow the Beatles to endorse any product directly, but through NEMS Enterprises he granted discretionary licences to companies who were able to produce good-quality products at
9438-482: The group. Taylor later claimed that he had used the name of Jones (a regular customer) to order the single and paid the deposit, knowing that Epstein would notice it and order further copies. Harry and McCartney later repudiated Epstein's story, as Harry had been talking to Epstein for a long time about the Beatles—the group that he promoted the most in Mersey Beat —with McCartney saying, "Brian knew perfectly well who
9559-666: The industry attempted to recover lost time due to the COVID-19 pandemic . The unions supporting the report make up over 20 million television, film, and arts workers worldwide. Many producers begin in a college, university, or film school . Film schools and many universities offer courses covering film production knowledge, with some courses specially designed for future film producers. These courses focus on key topics like pitching, script development , script assessment, shooting schedule design, and budgeting. Students can also expect practical training on post-production. Training at
9680-546: The late 1960s and beyond. When Brian Epstein unexpectedly died in August 1967, Stigwood was seen as a potential successor to the NEMS organisation, but The Beatles refused to work with him. As a result he left NEMS, with a " golden handshake ", to form his own Robert Stigwood Organisation, bringing the Bee Gees with him. Also during 1967, Stigwood purchased a controlling interest in Associated London Scripts ,
9801-548: The lease of the Saville Theatre on Shaftesbury Avenue . He promoted new works by writers such as Arnold Wesker in productions that occasionally fell foul of the Lord Chamberlain for including "obscene" content or nudity. In 1966 Epstein reinvented it as a music venue featuring various US acts. On 20 February 1967 Epstein sacked the manager of the theatre, Michael Bullock, for lowering the safety curtain
9922-436: The magazine at NEMS, with the Beatles featured on the front page of its second issue. The Beatles had recorded the " My Bonnie " single with Tony Sheridan in Germany, and some months after its release Epstein asked his personal assistant Alistair Taylor about it. Epstein's version of the story was that customer Raymond Jones walked into the NEMS shop and asked him for the "My Bonnie" single, which made Epstein curious about
10043-446: The music industry. Film producer A film producer is a person who oversees film production . Either employed by a production company or working independently , producers plan and coordinate various aspects of film production, such as selecting the script , coordinating writing, directing, editing, and arranging financing. The producer is responsible for finding and selecting promising material for development. Unless
10164-404: The nation's first lady Imelda Marcos when presented with an invitation to a breakfast party. He had politely declined on behalf of the group, as it was their policy never to accept such official invitations. The Beatles and their entourage were ejected from their hotel on the same day and given a police escort to the airport, even though Epstein had publicly apologised for the misunderstanding in
10285-428: The newspaper people", as Lennon said in 1972. According to McCartney, "The gigs went up in stature and though the pay went up only a little bit, it did go up"; they were "now playing better places". The group was now far more organised, having one single diary in which to record bookings, rather than using whoever's diary was at hand. The group usually called Epstein "Mr. Epstein" or "Brian" in interviews, but in private
10406-622: The next 30 years. The family was aided by a live-in nanny. Epstein's parents moved him from one boarding school to another, including Clayesmore School in Dorset , Liverpool College , and a Jewish school in Kent . He spent two years at Wrekin College in Wellington , Shropshire , where he was taught the violin . At Wrekin, Epstein suffered from the strict culture, possibly in part as
10527-449: The offer of a higher salary and a commission on sales. Through his work in the record department at NEMS, Epstein gained considerable knowledge of the pop music business. Epstein first noticed the Beatles in issues of Mersey Beat and on numerous posters around Liverpool created by his commercial artist associate Tony Booth , before he asked Mersey Beat editor Bill Harry who they were. Harry had previously convinced Epstein to sell
10648-466: The performance, Epstein and Taylor went into the dressing room (which he later described as being "as big as a broom cupboard") to talk to the group. The Beatles, all regular NEMS customers, immediately recognised Epstein, but before he could congratulate them on their performance George Harrison said, "And what brings Mr Epstein here?" Epstein replied with, "We just popped in to say hello. I enjoyed your performance." He introduced Taylor, who merely nodded
10769-537: The plane with Evans. Epstein added the Vic Lewis Organisation to NEMS in 1966, and later brought impresario Robert Stigwood in as a manager. He once offered to sell the control of NEMS to Stigwood, without telling any of his artists about the offer. McCartney was taking a more active interest in NEMS' finances, as it became known that some artists with more ruthless managers claimed to be benefiting from more commercially advantageous terms, such as
10890-537: The position to Johnny Hutchinson of the Big Three , a group that Epstein managed at that time as well. Hutchinson turned down the offer, saying, "Pete Best is a very good friend of mine. I couldn't do the dirty on him"—although Hutchinson did play for the Beatles at short notice when Best did not turn up on the evening of his dismissal and for two subsequent bookings, until Starr was able to join. Epstein finally dismissed Best on 16 August, more than two months after
11011-543: The possibility of working nights and weekends. Brian Epstein Brian Samuel Epstein ( / ˈ ɛ p s t aɪ n / EP -stine ; 19 September 1934 – 27 August 1967) was an English music entrepreneur who managed the Beatles from 1961 until his death in 1967. Epstein was born into a family of successful retailers in Liverpool , who put him in charge of their music shop, where he displayed
11132-406: The press from revealing Epstein's identity during the trial. His assailant was sentenced to serve two years in jail, and Epstein was not charged. After his withdrawal from RADA, Epstein returned to Liverpool, where his father put his son in charge of the record department of the family's newly opened NEMS music store on Great Charlotte Street. Epstein worked "day and night" at the store to make it
11253-500: The production team in film, television, and new media, offering the framework to provide health insurance and pension benefits, and assists in establishing safe working conditions and vetting the validity of screen credits. In December 2021, global unions filed a report titled Demanding Dignity Behind the Scenes to attempt to end the "long hours culture" of the television and film industry, citing in part that abuses increased in 2021 as
11374-433: The recordings, suggesting that Epstein should contact Sid Colman, the head of EMI's record publishing division, which controlled the publishing company Ardmore & Beechwood. Colman and his colleague Kim Bennett liked the Beatles' recording of " Like Dreamers Do " and sought to have EMI record Lennon–McCartney original songs, with Ardmore & Beechwood retaining the publishing rights; they sent Epstein to George Martin ,
11495-586: The release of " Love Me Do ", Epstein signed Lennon and McCartney to a three-year NEMS publishing contract. In 1963, Epstein advised the creation of Northern Songs , a publishing company that would control the copyrights of all Lennon–McCartney compositions recorded between 1963 and 1973. Music publisher Dick James and his partner Charles Silver owned 51 per cent of the company, Lennon and McCartney 20 per cent each, and Epstein 9 per cent. By 1969, Lennon and McCartney had lost control of all publishing rights to ATV Music Publishing . Epstein's death in 1967 marked
11616-473: The sessions, Epstein revealed his ambition of becoming an actor, so his parents allowed him to go to London to study. In autumn 1956, Epstein enrolled in a two-year course at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London. His RADA classmates included actors Susannah York , Albert Finney , and Peter O'Toole , but Epstein dropped out after the third term, saying that he had become "too much of
11737-466: The singles " Tell Laura I Love Her " and "Girl on the Floor Above" (October 1960). According to Tony Kent (Meek's personal assistant at the time), although Meek was present at the recording for the latter, Stigwood assumed the role of dominant co-producer. Neither record made much impact, but Leyton's third single, " Johnny Remember Me ", produced by Meek and released in the UK on 28 July 1961, became
11858-525: The situation to avoid paying some taxes by accepting "hidden" fees on the night of a performance, which he always kept in a brown paper bag. Epstein also successfully managed Gerry and the Pacemakers , Billy J. Kramer and the Dakotas (who had four hits with Lennon–McCartney songs), the Fourmost (Lennon wrote their first two singles), the Cyrkle (Epstein's first American group), and Cilla Black (who
11979-538: The soundtrack, including the theme tune penned by Barry Gibb and songs by fellow Australian songwriter-producer John Farrar . Gibb and Stigwood's production partner Allan Carr convinced Stigwood to bring Frankie Valli on to sing the title track, though Valli distrusted Stigwood for the amount of control he exercised over bands under his tutelage and declined to do any further records for him. Not all of Stigwood's films were popular. The third film of his Travolta deal, Moment by Moment , which co-starred Lily Tomlin ,
12100-558: The studio hire, the final shooting script , the production schedule , and the budget. Spending more time and money in pre-production can reduce budget waste and delays during the production stage. During production, the producer's job is to ensure the film remains on schedule and under budget. To this end, they must remain in constant contact with directors and other key creative team members. Producers cannot always personally supervise all parts of their production but will instead delegate tasks as needed. For example, some producers run
12221-400: The test screening of the film First Blood , the producers requested a new ending be filmed. Producers also oversee the film's sales, marketing, and distribution rights, often working with third-party specialist firms. Different types of producers and their roles within the industry today include: An executive producer oversees all other producers under a specific project and ensures that
12342-420: The theatre closed. He then met businessman Stephen Komlosy with whom he founded Robert Stigwood Associates Ltd, a small theatrical agency. He signed the actor John Leyton who soon became a teenage heart-throb in 1960 thanks to his appearance in a TV drama based on Biggles . Leyton had ambitions to sing, but was rejected by the major record companies; so Stigwood took him to the producer Joe Meek , who produced
12463-527: The views of the higher authorities in the wider company; trying to ground the showrunner's vision to tangible limits. A co-executive producer is someone whose input is considered as valuable as that of the executive producer, despite having a junior or unofficial role. A line producer manages the staff and the day-to-day operations and oversees each physical aspect involved in making a film or television program. The line producer can be credited as "produced by" in certain cases. A supervising producer supervises
12584-633: Was Lithuanian-Jewish . He arrived in Britain in the 1890s at the age of eighteen, from what was then part of the Russian Empire . His grandmother, Dinah, was the daughter of Joseph, a draper , and Esther Hyman, who had emigrated from Russia to Britain circa 1871/72 with their eldest son, Jacob. The Hymans had six other children. Isaac Epstein married Dinah Hyman in Manchester in 1900. In 1901, Isaac and Dinah were living at 80 Walton Road, Liverpool , with Isaac's sister Rachael Epstein, above
12705-485: Was Epstein's only female artist), as well as Tommy Quickly and Sounds Incorporated (later known as Sounds Inc. ). He also managed the Moody Blues for around a year from late 1965 to late 1966. Epstein sent his roster of artists on "package tours" around the UK, a common practice at the time. This involved short sets by each act, alternating with a compère or a comedian. Epstein once revealed that even though he
12826-424: Was a hit screen adaptation of Jesus Christ Superstar (1973), made in association with its director, Norman Jewison . He followed this with the film version of The Who's Tommy (1975), which became one of the most successful films at the box office during its year of release. In 1975, RSO collaborated with Bob Banner Associates to produce a stunt game show, Almost Anything Goes . The program, which aired on
12947-433: Was alright. I've found out since, of course, that he wasn't quite as honest to us as he made out." Despite this, other interviews with Lennon report him as being loyal to Epstein's memory: "We had complete faith in him when he was running us. To us, he was the expert." When asked in 1964 about his standing as a manager or businessman, Epstein replied, "Fair, as a businessman, fair. I've got a business background, and probably
13068-502: Was at Candlestick Park in San Francisco on 29 August 1966, and Epstein's management duties then changed to reflect the changing nature of their career. He pressured them to continue touring, but they steadfastly refused. Epstein once offered all four Beatles a fixed wage of £50 a week for life (equivalent to £1,400 in 2023). Harrison remembered that he was earning £25 a week at the time (equivalent to £700 in 2023), which
13189-727: Was born on 16 April 1934 in Port Pirie , South Australia , the son of Gwendolyn (Burrows) and Gordon Stigwood. He was educated at Sacred Heart College in Adelaide . Stigwood hitchhiked to England in 1955. Among various early jobs, he worked at an institution for "backward teenage boys" in East Anglia . He worked briefly for Hector Ross at the New Theatre Royal in Portsmouth , Hampshire , before Ross left and
13310-643: Was entitled to be reimbursed by acts for expenses incurred, he paid for his own flights to and from the United States, as he did not see himself as being part of a touring group. Photographs, transport, and international telephone calls were paid from his own 25 percent share in profits. The Beatles toured the Philippines in July 1966, playing two shows at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium in Manila. Epstein unintentionally snubbed
13431-480: Was further besieged by calls and visits from promoters, retailers, television commentators and hustlers . Mindful of the number of records the group was selling in the United States, Capitol Records sent a well-spoken Yorkshire woman, Wendy Hanson, to the Plaza Hotel to act as Epstein's secretary and to filter his calls. Hanson later worked solely with Epstein in his Albemarle Street office in London, which
13552-527: Was more than the £10 a week that his father was earning (equivalent to £300 in 2023). The group declined Epstein's offer, believing that they were worth much more than £50 a week. NEMS had a staff of twenty-five at the time of its move from Liverpool to London in 1964. NEMS booked the Beatles' concerts, and it also presented groups as an opening act. It accrued money as promoter, booking agent, and manager for all concerts. The Beatles were constantly in demand by concert promoters, and Epstein took advantage of
13673-507: Was overshadowed by the tragic deaths of close friends Jimi Hendrix and Duane Allman . These tragedies, combined with the angst of his unrequited love for Patti Boyd , sent Clapton into a downward spiral of depression and drug abuse. Clapton eventually kicked his habit, and Stigwood took him back to Miami, where he recorded his successful comeback album 461 Ocean Boulevard (1974), which included his US #1 hit version of Bob Marley 's " I Shot The Sheriff ". Soon afterwards, Clapton suggested
13794-574: Was panned by critics and is credited with turning Travolta into 'box office poison'. Also in 1978, Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band , starring the Bee Gees and Peter Frampton, was another critical flop. But of the 19 singles to hit the top of the Billboard charts in 1978, eight were from RSO. On the US Billboard Hot 100 chart for 25 March 1978, five songs written by the Gibbs were in
13915-417: Was paying the bill, he grabbed Taylor's arm and said, "Do you think I should manage them?" The Beatles played at The Cavern Club over the next three weeks, and Epstein was always there to watch them. He contacted Allan Williams (their previous promoter/manager) to confirm that Williams no longer had any ties to the group, but Williams advised Epstein " not to touch them with a fucking barge pole " because of
14036-519: Was robbed of his passport, birth certificate, chequebook, wristwatch, and all the money he had in his possession. He did not want his parents to find out, so he worked as a department store clerk until he had earned enough money to buy a train ticket back to Liverpool. On returning home he confessed his homosexuality to a psychiatrist—a friend of the Epstein family—who suggested to Harry Epstein that his son should leave Liverpool as soon as possible. During
14157-440: Was sceptical about a Jewish manager and warned his son to be careful about finances. Lennon's aunt and guardian, Mimi Smith , was against the idea, believing that Epstein would lose interest when something else attracted his attention, but Lennon, who had just turned 21, ignored his aunt's advice. The Beatles signed a five-year contract with Epstein on 24 January 1962, giving Epstein 10 to 15 per cent of their income. They signed
14278-547: Was separate from the NEMS office. Lennon later said, "On the business end he [Epstein] ripped us off on the Seltaeb thing." McCartney said years later, "He [Epstein] looked to his dad for business advice, and his dad knew how to run a furniture store in Liverpool." Epstein asked chartered accountant James Trevor Isherwood to set up a company to collect Lennon and McCartney's PRS payment, called Lenmac, which he did on 12 May 1964. When he first visited Epstein's office, Isherwood
14399-533: Was surprised to learn that Epstein took 25 per cent of the gross income, and not the 10 per cent that he believed most other managers received at that time. All of Epstein's expenses were deducted from his artists' gross income, including office rental, staff wages, travel, telephone costs, and entertaining expenses. Before his death, Epstein knew that the renegotiation of his management contract (up for renewal on 30 September 1967) would lower his management fee from 25 to 10 per cent, and that NEMS would no longer receive
14520-464: Was the first to agree with Epstein's suggestions, believing that they reflected Epstein's RADA training. Epstein explained that the process from leather jackets and jeans to suits took some time: "I encouraged them, at first, to get out of the leather jackets and jeans, and I wouldn't allow them to appear in jeans after a short time, and then, after that step, I got them to wear sweaters on stage, and then, very reluctantly, eventually, suits." Epstein took
14641-487: Was upset, but Harrison placated him by saying, "He may be late, but he'll be very clean ." Lennon had invited Wooler to be at the meeting so that he could give his opinion of Epstein, but he introduced Wooler by saying, "This is me dad." Epstein was reticent throughout the short meeting, only asking if they had a manager. After learning that they had not, he said, "It seems to me that with everything going on, someone ought to be looking after you." He had further meetings with
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