Rockaway Records in pleased to offer this collection that contains a unique and deeply personal perspective on The Beatles' final live paid performance from the personal files of Ralph J. Gleason who worked for the San Francisco Examiner. It includes key materials that document the event and its historical significance, providing insights into both the band’s last concert and the early days of rock journalism.

Some highlights from this archive include:

1. Ralph J. Gleason's Personal Press Pass: This press pass, issued by KYA radio and Tempo Productions, is the only known pass to survive from the show. It granted Gleason access to the backstage area and the locker room, where he interviewed The Beatles. Gleason, a pioneer in rock journalism, was one of the few journalists to meet the band during this concert. Gleason, who along with Jenn Wenner, later co-founded the influential Rolling Stone Magazine.

2. Original Telegram from General Artists Corporation: This telegram, sent to Beatles' manager Brian Epstein, suggested Candlestick Park as the venue for the show instead of two performances at the Cow Palace, which ultimately sealed the deal for this final show of the 1966 tour.

3. Unused Ticket: An unused ticket from the concert serves as a tangible reminder of this historic performance.

4. Tour Itinerary with Handwritten Notes: This includes a copy of the Beatles' 1966 North American tour itinerary, annotated by Gleason with information on the band's earnings from the tour.

5. Letters about Logistics and Costs: A letter detailing the costs associated with hosting the Candlestick Park show, as well as a copy of a letter explaining how much Wells Fargo was paid to transport the Beatles to Shea Stadium for the August 23, 1966 concert.

6. Gleason's Account of the Concert: A first-hand account by Ralph J. Gleason detailing the events of the day and evening, providing a personal perspective on this historic moment in rock history.

7. Photographs by Jim Marshall: Legendary rock photographer Jim Marshall captured the moment with photographs of Gleason with the Beatles backstage and the other with John Lennon, offering a rare visual record of the event (copies, not original prints).

8. Correspondence with Tempo Productions and Tony Barrow: Letters exchanged between Gleason, Tempo Productions, and Tony Barrow (The Beatles' press officer) discuss arrangements for the concert and the success of Revolver, one of the band's most iconic albums.

This archive offers unparalleled access to one of the most iconic moments in music history—the end of The Beatles' touring days—along with invaluable materials documenting the cultural impact of the band. For collectors, this package represents a rare, intimate glimpse into a defining moment in the history of rock music.

The ticket, the contract, and the file itself are in fine condition considering they are almost sixty years old. For actual condition, please see the attached photos.

Concert Tickets

Busch Memorial Stadium

Shea Stadium

Maple Leaf Gardens

1966 San Francisco Candlestick Park Concert File

Shea Stadium

Cow Palace