The Story of Apple Records

“We hope to make a thing that’s free where people can just come and do and record - and not have to ask “Can we have another microphone in the studio because we haven’t had a hit yet?”” - John

Launched by The Beatles in 1968, Apple Records served as the new outlet for The Beatles’ own recordings as well as the music of a wide-ranging roster of artists, all brought to the label personally by the band (individually and/or collectively).

In the revolutionary spirit of the times, Apple's utopian, artist-orientated mission celebrated diversity in a friendly, creative environment. The result was a rainbow spectrum of music - from The Modern Jazz Quartet to the work of contemporary British classical composer John Tavener.

“I think the only plan for Apple was for it to be good music and maybe music that ideally wasn’t getting an opportunity to be heard other places.” - Peter Asher

In this video, Peter Asher recounts the creation of The Beatles' Apple Records, which brought together some of the most eclectic sounds and talents of the time.