The First Artist Signed to Apple Records: A Look Back at a Musical Milestone

In 1967, following the death of their manager Brian Epstein, The Beatles embarked on an ambitious venture to redefine their business and creative pursuits. The result was Apple Corps, a multifaceted company that aimed to revolutionize industries ranging from retail and publishing to film and electronics. Among its divisions, Apple Records would go on to leave an indelible mark on music history.

The Birth of Apple Corps

Apple Corps made its debut with a boutique store on London’s Baker Street in December 1967. The shop’s psychedelic exterior was designed by the art collective The Fool, perfectly embodying the spirit of the era. However, the store’s laissez-faire management style, combined with a reluctance to address shoplifting, led to financial disaster. Just a few months later, the boutique closed, with its remaining inventory practically given away.

Despite this setback, the seeds of innovation were firmly planted. The Beatles envisioned Apple as a hub for creativity, and this vision gained clarity after their spiritual retreat in Rishikesh, India. Upon their return to England in 1968, they established Apple Records, the company’s music division. With a new distribution deal with EMI, The Beatles retained rights to their recordings while launching an artist-friendly label willing to take risks.

Early Success and the Apple Vision

Apple Records’ first releases were monumental. The label debuted with The Beatles’ iconic single “Hey Jude” and their eponymous double LP, also known as “The White Album.” Featuring the now-famous Granny Smith apple logo, Apple Records quickly made a name for itself by supporting an array of talented artists. Among its early signees were James Taylor, Billy Preston, Jackie Lomax, and Ravi Shankar. The label even launched an avant-garde sub-label, Zapple, which issued experimental works by John Lennon, Yoko Ono, and George Harrison.

A promotional campaign encapsulated Apple’s optimistic ethos. A half-page ad in NME and Melody Maker featured an image of a one-man band, accompanied by the bold claim, “This man has talent.” The ad celebrated Apple’s commitment to nurturing budding artists, suggesting that a simple demo tape could lead to stardom.

The First Artist Signed: Badfinger

Among the artists signed to Apple Records, one band stood out as both the first signee and one of the label’s most enduring acts: Badfinger. Originally known as The Iveys, the Welsh power-pop band was rechristened after “Bad Finger Boogie,” the working title for The Beatles’ “With a Little Help from My Friends.”

Badfinger enjoyed considerable success during their time with Apple Records. Their hit single “Come and Get It” was penned by Paul McCartney, while George Harrison produced “Day After Day.” Despite their achievements, the band’s journey was fraught with difficulties. Apple released Badfinger’s final album, Ass, in 1974, after which the band faced mismanagement and financial troubles.

A Tragic Legacy

The story of Badfinger took a dark turn in the years that followed. Plagued by financial struggles and legal disputes over royalties, lead singer Pete Ham tragically took his own life in 1975. Bassist Tom Evans met the same fate in 1983. Despite these tragedies, Badfinger’s contributions to music endure. Their work remains a significant part of Apple Records’ legacy and a poignant chapter in The Beatles’ story.

Conclusion

Apple Records was born from The Beatles’ desire to foster creativity and push the boundaries of the music industry. While the label faced its share of challenges, it succeeded in producing timeless music and nurturing exceptional talent. Badfinger, as the first artist signed to Apple, played a crucial role in this history, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate with fans and musicians alike.

 

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