Pete Best, the original drummer of The Beatles, has announced his retirement from performing.
His brother, Roag Best, confirmed the decision in a post to Facebook, where fans have wished Best well for the future. Best will retire from “personal appearances and performing with the group,” and fans who were hoping to see him perform at the Up Close Concert in Liverpool will be refunded. The statement reads: “Well what an absolutely wonderful ride we’ve had. However, everything comes to pass.
“My brother, Pete Best has announced today (April 5) he is retiring from personal appearances and performing with the group. His daughter has informed me it’s due to personal circumstances. The Up Close Concert tickets for Liverpool on August 23 will be refunded on Tuesday.
“Thanks to everyone who has taken the time to turnout for our shows over the years. We had a blast and we hope you did too.” Fans have since wished Best well in the comments of the post.
One user wrote: “What a man, What a drummer, What a legacy!!! Thank you, Pete, for your amazing contribution during the formative years of The Beatles! Your place in music history is assured my friend. Pete played more hours on stage with John, Paul and George than Ringo ever did!! Enjoy your retirement Pete, You deserve it!”
Another added: “Cheers to you Pete and thanks for all the fun and memories.” A third wrote: “Oh wow! It’s truly the end of an era. So glad I got to see Pete a couple of times years ago. I hope it’s because of nothing serious. Enjoy your retirement, Pete! You’ve earned it.”
Best, who was the drummer for The Beatles from 1960 to 1962, started his own band after being dismissed from the Fab Four. He began touring with The Pete Best Band in his later years, releasing Haymans Green in 2008. The band’s last show took place on March 23, 2025, with a setlist of what they performed below. This marks the last performance from Best, prior to his April 5 retirement announcement.
- Rock and Roll Music
- What’d I Say
- One After 909
- Misery
- Please Mr. Postman
- P.S. I Love You
- Slow Down
- Bésame Mucho
- Hello Little Girl
- Chains
- Cry for a Shadow
- Till There Was You
- Long Tall Sally
- Like Dreamers Do
- Baby It’s You
- Mr. Moonlight
- My Bonnie
- Lucille
- Memphis, Tennessee
- I Saw Her Standing There
- Twist and Shout
- Kansas City / Hey Hey Hey Hey
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