The David Frost Show (June 14, 1969)

On Saturday, June 14th, 1969, John Lennon and Yoko Ono made a memorable appearance on The David Frost Show. The couple, known for their activism and avant-garde approach to art, took the opportunity to share their message of peace and challenge societal norms.

Recorded at the InterTel studios in Wembley, London, the episode featured Lennon and Ono engaging in their trademark eccentricity. As the show began, acorns were playfully tossed into the audience, marking the start of "acorns for peace week." Lennon, ever the provocateur, held up their album Unfinished Music No 2: Life With The Lions and extended birthday wishes to the Queen.

The conversation delved into their experimental music, with Frost humorously discussing the controversial cover of Two Virgins and its black market value. Lennon and Ono also touched on their artistic philosophy, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all creative forms and the concept of "Bagism."

Bagism, they explained, was a metaphor for societal divisions and prejudices, encapsulated in the idea of being "in a bag." By getting "in the bag," they argued, one could experience a peaceful detachment from societal norms and biases.

Their advocacy for peace extended beyond philosophical discussions. Lennon passionately advocated for peace as a commodity, urging people to "sell peace" like any other product. Through their famous "bed-ins" and other acts of activism, Lennon and Ono sought to disrupt the status quo and promote a world free from violence and discrimination.

The interview with Frost was not just a showcase of their music or ideas but a snapshot of a transformative era. Lennon and Ono's willingness to challenge conventions and use their platform for social change left a lasting impression on viewers, echoing their timeless message of love and peace.

 

Paul McCartney Interview at the Melbourne’s Southern Cross Hotel in Australia (June 14, 1964)

On June 14, 1964, Ringo Starr rejoined The Beatles in Melbourne, Australia, after nearly two weeks apart due to illness. Starr had been recovering from tonsillitis and pharyngitis. He held a press conference at Sydney Airport with manager Brian Epstein before flying to Essendon Airport in Melbourne.

Despite large crowds awaiting the other three Beatles, who were scheduled to arrive five hours later, Starr expressed discomfort being separated from the group during his flight. He found solace in reuniting with his bandmates, especially as they had bought him presents in Hong Kong.

Upon Starr's arrival at Melbourne's Southern Cross Hotel, he was greeted by 3,000 fans. Inspector Mike Patterson attempted to carry Starr through the crowd on his shoulders but accidentally tripped and fell.

Meanwhile, the other Beatles left their Adelaide hotel and arrived in Melbourne to a crowd of 5,000. The hotel was overrun with fans, requiring the assistance of army and navy troops.

The Beatles received a police escort upon entering Melbourne, with 12 motorcyclists leading the way. Amidst chaos and hysteria, the band was ushered into the Southern Cross Hotel, where they waved to fans from their windows to calm the crowd.

Once reunited, The Beatles, along with stand-in drummer Jimmie Nicol, held a press conference and later attended a party until 4 am, marking the joyful reunion of the band after Starr's illness.