The Quarrymen’s First Recording That Changed Music History

In the summer of 1958, a group of young musicians from Liverpool, known as The Quarrymen, took a significant step in their musical journey. Comprising John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, pianist John “Duff” Lowe, and drummer Colin Hanton, they ventured into Percy Phillips’ home studio to record two tracks: a cover of Buddy Holly’s “That’ll Be the Day” and an original composition titled “In Spite of All the Danger.” This session marked one of the earliest recordings by the ensemble that would eventually evolve into The Beatles.

“In Spite of All the Danger” holds the unique distinction of being the only song credited jointly to McCartney and Harrison. While McCartney was the primary songwriter, Harrison’s contribution, particularly his guitar solo, was significant enough to earn co-writing credit. The recording process was rudimentary by today’s standards; the band performed around a single microphone, capturing their raw and unfiltered sound.

The resulting acetate disc was a precious artifact for the group. Each member took turns keeping it for a week, a rotation that eventually ended with John Lowe. Lowe retained possession of the disc for nearly 25 years. In 1981, as he contemplated selling it, McCartney intervened, purchasing the original recording to preserve this piece of their shared history. He subsequently had the recording restored and produced approximately 50 copies, which he distributed as personal gifts to friends and family.

Despite its early significance, “In Spite of All the Danger” remained largely unheard by the public until its inclusion on The Beatles’ 1995 compilation album, “Anthology 1.” This release offered fans a glimpse into the nascent stages of the band’s development, showcasing their early sound and collaborative spirit.

Fast forward to the 21st century, and the song experienced a revival. Paul McCartney, embracing his musical roots, began incorporating “In Spite of All the Danger” into his live performances. Notably, during his 2016–2017 “One on One” tour and subsequent tours, McCartney delighted audiences by performing this nostalgic piece, bridging the gap between the band’s humble beginnings and their monumental success.

The song’s live renditions were met with enthusiasm, as fans relished the opportunity to hear a track that predated The Beatles’ fame. McCartney’s performances often featured anecdotes about the song’s origin, providing context and deepening the audience’s appreciation for this early work.

In December 2024, during his “Got Back” tour, McCartney continued to honor his legacy by performing “In Spite of All the Danger” at various venues, including a memorable concert at Paris La Défense Arena. These performances served as a testament to the song’s enduring appeal and its significance in the tapestry of McCartney’s illustrious career.

The song’s journey from a modest Liverpool recording studio to international concert halls underscores the timeless nature of music and the lasting bonds formed through creative collaboration. “In Spite of All the Danger” stands as a poignant reminder of The Beatles’ origins and the early partnership between McCartney and Harrison, whose combined talents would go on to shape the course of popular music.

For those interested in experiencing this piece of musical history, a live performance by Paul McCartney is available for viewing: