The Life and Career of Pete Best

The Life and Career of Pete Best, born Randolph Peter Best on November 24, 1941, in Madras, British India (now Chennai, India), is a British musician who is best known for his brief tenure as the drummer of The Beatles. He was a member of the band from 1960 to 1962, preceding Ringo Starr. Best joined The Beatles in 1960 when they were still known as The Quarrymen, a skiffle group led by John Lennon. He became their drummer as they transitioned into a rock and roll band. Best’s drumming provided the rhythmic foundation for the band’s early performances in Liverpool and during their formative years in Hamburg, Germany. During Best’s time with The Beatles, the band developed a devoted following and gained popularity in Liverpool and Hamburg. They were on the cusp of their breakthrough when they secured a recording contract with EMI. However, in August 1962, shortly before they recorded their first single, “Love Me Do,“ the decision was made by the band’s manager, Brian