Unveiling The Beatles: The Discovery of the Infamous Decca Records Audition Tape
The Beatles, a legendary rock band, continue to surprise fans with new discoveries about their music. In 2015, Neptoon Records shop owner Rob Frith received a set of mysterious reel-to-reel tapes labeled 'Beatles Early Demos'. Initially skeptical of their authenticity, Frith kept the tapes in his store for over a decade. In 2025, he finally tested the tapes and discovered they were an early demo of The Beatles, featuring original compositions and covers, including their rendition of 'Money (That’s What I Want)'.
The tapes turned out to be the infamous Decca Records audition tape from 1962, where The Beatles were famously rejected. While a similar tape was sold at auction in 2012, questions arose about its authenticity due to discrepancies in the number of songs. Frith's discovery could potentially be the original tape, making its way to a record store in Canada after over 60 years.
Upon learning about the tapes, Paul McCartney was informed and instead of selling them, Frith decided to give them to McCartney. The handover took place in the studio, bringing the tapes back to their rightful owner. This act of generosity ensures that the original audition tape may soon be heard in its entirety for the first time.
Frith's son, Rob, who co-manages Neptoon Records, explained the decision to return the tapes to McCartney, emphasizing that they should not be hidden away but shared with the world. The tapes' journey from a customer's hands to a record store in Canada to Paul McCartney's possession highlights the enduring legacy of The Beatles and their music.