Advertisement

Fifth 'Beatle' Speaks at Sanders Theatre

Proceeds from Martin's presentation benefited Revels, the Boston based non-profit organization which runs seasonal cultural shows around the country, including the famed "Christmas Revels."

Considered by many fans and critics alike to be the first "concept album," Sgt. Pepper helped raise rock and roll above its pop background. The record contained numerous hits, including "Lucy in the Sky With Diamonds," "With a Little Help From My Friends" and "A Day In The Life."

Advertisement

Martin said the record was revolutionary because it was intended to be listened to as a cohesive album and not just a collection of songs.

Martin's presentation included humorous retellings of stories and anecdotes from his years spent producing all of the Beatles albums.

The story that elicited the most crowd response dealt with the recording of "A Day in the Life."

Martin and the strings section of an orchestra dressed in formal attire while Paul McCartney, John Lennon, George Harrison and Ringo Starr ran around blowing bubbles and wreaking havoc with sparklers, balloons and a variety of carnival prizes.

The highlight of the evening for many was Martin's in-depth discussion of how one of the most elaborate, lavish albums in rock history came together with only four microphones and without the aid of synthesizers, computers.

Recommended Articles

Advertisement