Expert: Matt Gregersen - 8/9/2006

Question
Like most Beatles fans I believed that the Beatles broke up in early 1970 and went onto their respective post-Beatles music careers. But another fan used to keep telling me that the Beatles didn't really break up until about 1976 when their contract ran out. This probably had something to do with the legend(at the time) that the band Klaatu were in fact the Beatles recording in the mid-'70's.
So is it true that The Beatles could have just got back together and recorded as the Beatles at any time up until their contract ran out in 1976 as if they had never really broken up?
Thanks,
Phil.

Answer
Hi, Phil, and thanks for your question.

I've heard that rumor too, but I find it hard to believe. The Beatles' split was very public and acrimonious, and I find it hard to believe that they could have recorded in secret without anyone finding out. What a huge story that would have been! Also, they were all leading ambitious solo careers, especially Paul, throughout the 70's, so finding time to record as the most popular group in the world would have been most difficult.

I hope I answered your question. Thanks again, and long live the Beatles.

Matt