Monday, March 24, 2008

Neil Aspinall Hits the Roadie Off the Beatle Path


Neil Aspinall, a close friend of the Beatles and the man who ran the Apple music empire, has died, his family has revealed. The 66-year-old worked as a roadie and accountant for the band before becoming chief executive of Apple Corps. He was known by some in the industry as the real "Fifth Beatle".

In a statement released on behalf of Sir Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr, the company described him as a "great man" who would be missed. In the statement, also on behalf of Beatle widows Yoko Ono and Olivia Harrison, Apple Corps said: "As a loyal friend, confidant and chief executive, Neil's trusting stewardship and guidance has left a far-reaching legacy for generations to come.

"All his friends and loved ones will greatly miss him but will always retain the fondest memories of a great man."
When Aspinall took over running Apple Corps, he did so on condition that it was temporary. As it turned out, he only quit the position last year. It sounds like death is what it took to get this Apple to flee the Beatles.

[My Fox Kansas City]

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