The Musical Box, Liverpool’s oldest record shop, has long been a cornerstone of the city’s vibrant music scene. Founded by Jack Lewis in 1947 and carried forward by his wife Dorothy in 1951, this beloved shop has remained a family-run business for four generations. However, it wasn’t until a renovation project in 2023 that the true historical significance of The Musical Box was revealed.
A Remarkable Discovery
During the renovation, over 24 old record sales logs were discovered, dating as far back as 1958. These logs provide a fascinating glimpse into the musical trends of the time and highlight the shop’s pivotal role in the community. The logs also offer a unique insight into the overwhelming popularity of The Beatles in their hometown. To share this incredible find with the public, The Musical Box has partnered with the Liverpool Beatles Museum to create an exhibition that showcases these historical documents.
Highlights of the Exhibition
Among the treasures on display are four particularly notable sales logs, each demonstrating the dominance of The Beatles in Liverpool:
- “I Feel Fine” (November 1964)
- “Penny Lane/Strawberry Fields Forever” (February 1967) – A record famously kept from the top spot by “Please Release Me.”
- “Hey Jude” (August 1968)
- “The White Album” (November 1968)
These records not only highlight The Beatles’ local popularity but also reflect broader musical trends of the era.
Solving a Historical Mystery
The exhibition also sheds light on a 60-year-old mystery. Dorothy Lewis recalled a day when a group of teenage girls excitedly identified two young men leaving the shop as members of The Beatles. Through careful investigation, it was confirmed that John Lennon and Pete Best were indeed frequent visitors to The Musical Box. They would often stop by to chat with Dorothy, making the shop a regular haunt due to its proximity to Pete Best’s home on Haymans Green, where John Lennon often stayed.
Visit the Exhibition at the Liverpool Beatles Museum
The Musical Box exhibition, located at the Liverpool Beatles Museum on Mathew Street, is a must-visit for anyone interested in the city’s musical heritage. The display of these historic sales logs offers an unprecedented look into the early days of The Beatles and the vital role The Musical Box played in Liverpool’s music scene.
Whether you’re a Beatles aficionado, a vinyl collector, or simply a history enthusiast, this exhibition provides a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the magic of Liverpool’s musical past.
For more information about The Musical Box and its ongoing legacy, visit the shop at 457 West Derby Road, Tuebrook, Liverpool. Discover the story behind the records and the shop that helped shape the soundtrack of a generation.
