The historic site of The Beatles’ inaugural performance, featuring John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, Stuart Sutcliffe, and Pete Best, will soon be honored with a commemorative plaque from World Origin Site. The unveiling ceremony, scheduled for 17:00 today, will include a festive celebration across all three floors of The Jacaranda on Slater Street, culminating in the plaque’s official unveiling at 18:00.
In August 1960, The Jacaranda hosted the seminal performance of Lennon, McCartney, and Harrison alongside Sutcliffe and Best, marking the debut of what would become one of the most influential bands in music history. While the significance of this location has been recognized by dedicated fans and music historians, it remains less known to the broader public. The new plaque will soon make it a notable stop for tourists and Beatles enthusiasts alike.
World Origin Site is renowned for commemorating pivotal locations that have had a profound impact on modern history. Its roster of honored sites includes landmarks such as the first rocket launch, the Wright brothers’ first powered flight, and Alexander Fleming’s penicillin discovery. The Jacaranda’s plaque will join this distinguished list, celebrating The Beatles’ origins.
Despite its historical significance, The Jacaranda continues to thrive as a vibrant venue, hosting live music nightly and playing a crucial role in sustaining Liverpool’s musical culture.
Dave McCabe, frontman of The Zutons, emphasized the importance of grassroots venues: “Places like The Jacaranda are vital for nurturing musical talent. They offer a space for learning and passion, fundamental to the growth and education of emerging artists.”
Martin Wilkie, Director of World Origin Site, highlighted the broader impact of their work: “Our mission is to spotlight the people, places, and moments that have shaped our world. From Fleming’s penicillin discovery to the Wright brothers’ flight and Marconi’s radio station, these sites have paved the way for cultural milestones like The Beatles.”
Graham Stanley, Director of The Jacaranda, expressed pride in the venue’s new recognition: “We’ve always valued our Beatles heritage, and this plaque is a significant acknowledgment. Although The Beatles’ global reputation grew during their Hamburg tour, our venue is where they first embraced their iconic name.”
Diane Glover, Marketing Manager at The Beatles Story, echoed the excitement: “We are thrilled to see The Jacaranda receive this recognition. As the birthplace of Merseybeat, it played a crucial role in the early days of The Beatles and remains a key part of Liverpool’s musical legacy.”
