Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

The Fourmost

The Fourmost were an English Merseybeat band that formed in in 1959 and achieved prominence in the 1960s through their close ties to manager and a series of upbeat pop singles produced by at Records. Originally known as the Blue Jays and later the Four Jays, the group—comprising on and vocals, Mike Millward on rhythm guitar and vocals, Billy Hatton on bass and vocals, and Dave Lovelady on drums—transitioned to the name The Fourmost in 1962, reflecting their harmonious vocal style inspired by American and the emerging sound. Signed to Epstein's NEMS management in 1963 alongside acts like and , The Fourmost quickly gained traction with their debut single, the composition "Hello Little Girl," which reached number 9 on the in late 1963 and became one of the earliest hits written by for another artist. Their follow-up, another song titled "I'm in Love," peaked at number 17 in 1964, showcasing their tight harmonies and energetic performances that epitomized the Merseybeat era. The band's commercial peak came with "A Little Loving," a Russ Alquist-penned track that climbed to number 6 in 1964, followed by moderate successes like "Baby I Need Your Lovin'" (number 24 in 1965) and "Girls! Girls! Girls!" (number 33 in 1965), all contributing to their reputation as a lively staple of the scene. Beyond recordings, The Fourmost appeared in the 1965 film Ferry Cross the Mersey and enjoyed a high-profile run in the West End Startime from June to December 1964, solidifying their status as one of Liverpool's leading beat groups. Their debut album, First and Fourmost (1965), captured their pop-oriented sound but failed to chart, as the band's momentum waned amid shifting tastes by the late . Tragically, rhythm Mike Millward died of cancer in 1966 at age 23, leading to lineup changes and a pivot toward circuits in the 1970s. The original lineup largely disbanded by the , though the band name persisted through revivals during the nostalgia boom, with O'Hara leading performances until his death in and Hatton continuing with the group sporadically until his passing in 2017. As of 2025, The Fourmost remain active as a act, touring the and with new members to deliver authentic recreations of their Merseybeat hits, maintaining a legacy as an integral part of Liverpool's pop explosion.

Early History

Formation

The Fourmost originated in as a musical duo known as the Two Jays, formed in 1957 by guitarist and vocalist and his friend Joey Bower, both teenagers at the time. The pair began performing and early numbers in local venues, drawing inspiration from American artists popular in the post-war British youth scene. In 1959, the group expanded and changed its name to the Four Jays with the addition of bassist Billy Hatton and drummer Brian Redman, allowing for a fuller sound suited to the growing demand for quartet-style performances in clubs. This lineup honed their skills through regular gigs in Liverpool's coffee bars and dance halls, focusing primarily on covers of standards by acts like and before incorporating any original compositions. Their early repertoire emphasized tight harmonies and energetic renditions that aligned with the burgeoning Merseybeat movement. By late 1961, rhythm guitarist and vocalist Mike Millward, formerly of the Undertakers, had joined the Four Jays, replacing Bower who left due to personal commitments. In 1962, drummer Dave Lovelady came on board, succeeding Redman and solidifying the classic lineup of O'Hara, Millward, Hatton, and Lovelady. The band made their debut at the iconic on 1 March 1961, where they built a local following through frequent appearances amid Liverpool's vibrant live music circuit. In October 1962, following these personnel shifts, the group renamed itself The Fourmost to reflect their "foremost" status among peers and avoid conflicts with existing acts.

Initial Recordings and Epstein Signing

Having renamed themselves The Fourmost in October 1962, the band took their first professional steps after signing a management contract with on 30 June 1963, joining his NEMS Enterprises roster alongside acts like and . This deal marked a pivotal , providing access to recording opportunities and promotional support during the burgeoning Merseybeat scene. Epstein's influence quickly led to an audition with producer at EMI's , securing a with Parlophone Records. The band's debut single, "Hello Little Girl"—an early composition by and from 1957—underwent recording sessions at EMI Studios on 3 July 1963, with present in an adjacent studio. Released on 30 August 1963 via (catalogue R 5056), the track showcased the Fourmost's harmonious vocal style and upbeat pop arrangement, peaking at No. 9 on the and spending 17 weeks in the top 40. This success highlighted their shift toward original pop material, facilitated by Epstein's connections to Lennon and McCartney, moving beyond the covers that dominated their pre-management live sets. Building on this momentum, the follow-up single "I'm in Love," another Lennon-McCartney original, was recorded in late 1963 at Studios and released on 15 November 1963 ( R 5078). The song, featuring lively rhythms and close-knit harmonies, reached No. 17 on the , entering in December 1963 and charting for 12 weeks. These early sessions at emphasized polished production under , establishing the band's sound within the Merseybeat genre. To promote their releases, the Fourmost embarked on initial tours supporting fellow Epstein-managed acts, including , such as the August 1963 UK package tour headlined by and featuring multiple performers.

Rise to Prominence

Major Hits

The Fourmost achieved their breakthrough in 1964 with the release of "A Little Loving," a single written by Russ Alquist that showcased their signature upbeat pop harmonies. Issued on Records in April, the track climbed to number 6 on the , spending 13 weeks in the Top 75 and marking the band's highest-charting success. This hit exemplified the Merseybeat sound's infectious energy, contributing to the broader by introducing Liverpool's vocal-driven pop to international audiences alongside acts like and . Under Brian Epstein's management since 1963, the single benefited from targeted promotion, including live performances on Radio's Saturday Club in April 1964 and multiple appearances on in May, which amplified its radio play and visibility. Following "A Little Loving," the band released two follow-up singles that achieved modest chart performance, sustaining their momentum within the Merseybeat scene. "How Can I Tell Her," also penned by Carter and Lewis with band member Brian O'Hara, entered the UK charts in August 1964 at number 33, praised for its harmonious close-vocal style but failing to replicate the prior hit's commercial peak. Later that year, in November, they covered the Four Tops' "Baby I Need Your Loving," which reached number 24 on the UK Singles Chart, highlighting their ability to adapt American R&B influences into the upbeat Merseybeat framework. In 1965, they released "Girls! Girls! Girls!", a cover of the Leiber-Stoller song that peaked at number 33 on the UK Singles Chart. These 1964 releases collectively sold well enough to establish the Fourmost as key players in the British Invasion, with "A Little Loving" receiving positive critical notice for its lively tempo and group vocals, though some reviewers noted the band's derivative echo of Beatlesque pop. The singles' success underscored the era's emphasis on harmonious, feel-good pop that propelled Merseybeat exports across the Atlantic.

Album Releases and Film Appearances

The Fourmost released their debut and only major album, First and Fourmost, in November 1965 on Records. The LP primarily consisted of cover versions of contemporary hits. Produced by at , the album showcased the group's harmonious vocal style and upbeat arrangements typical of the Merseybeat era. Key tracks highlighted the band's pop-oriented sound, including covers such as the Coasters' "Yakety Yak" and Jackie DeShannon's "Till You Say You'll Be Mine," blending rock 'n' roll and lighthearted elements to appeal to their teenage audience. The album's tracklist emphasized catchy, radio-friendly tunes that built on the momentum from prior hits like "A Little Loving." In , The Fourmost expanded their visibility through a prominent film appearance in , a musical starring and directed by Jeremy Summers. The band performed "I Love You Too" in the , sharing the screen with other Merseybeat acts such as and , which helped solidify their place within the regional music wave. The performance was also featured on the film's , released by , further promoting their pop sound to cinema audiences. Throughout 1965, The Fourmost undertook extensive UK tours, including a high-profile package tour headlined by in March, alongside acts like Sandra Barry and the Art Woods. They also joined international outings, supporting emerging stars and performing in venues across , which amplified their exposure during the height of . Although direct support for the Beatles occurred more prominently in earlier years, these 1965 tours reinforced their status as key players in the British Invasion circuit. Critical reception of First and Fourmost praised its polished, pop-oriented production but often critiqued its reliance on covers and comedic interludes, viewing it as a lightweight extension of the band's singles success rather than a groundbreaking effort. Reviewers noted the album's energetic yet formulaic approach, which captured the fun, accessible essence of Merseybeat but lacked deeper innovation compared to contemporaries like .

Band Members and Changes

Original Lineup

The original lineup of The Fourmost consisted of four Liverpool musicians who came together in the early 1960s amid the Merseybeat scene, forming the core of the band during its initial rise. Brian O’Hara (born 12 March 1941 in 's area) served as lead guitarist and vocalist, emerging as the group's leader and a key figure in shaping its sound. Growing up in the working-class district, O’Hara taught himself and rock 'n' roll in the mid-1950s alongside schoolfriend Hatton, initially performing as the duo Two Jays at local dance halls and coffee bars before expanding to a . His experience at , including a spot at the Beatles' fan club night in April 1962, honed his skills in the high-energy live environment that defined 's music circuit. O’Hara contributed guitar work and vocals to early recordings such as John Lennon's "Hello Little Girl" (1963, UK No. 9) and the band's debut album First and Fourmost (1965), while also driving the group's dynamic stage presence in shows like the record-breaking Startime at the in 1964. Mike Millward (born 9 May 1942 in , near ) handled and provided backing vocals, adding tight harmonies that complemented the band's vocal-driven style. Joining the group in November 1961 after stints with local acts like the Undertakers, Millward brought a solid rhythmic foundation to both studio sessions and live performances, participating in key early tracks like "I'm in Love" (1963, UK No. 17, written by Lennon-McCartney) and contributing to the polished sound produced by at . His role was essential in the band's high-octane gigs, including appearances at the Astoria during the Beatles' Christmas Show in December 1963, where the Fourmost delivered sets blending covers and originals to enthusiastic crowds. Billy Hatton (born 9 June 1941 in Liverpool's district) played bass and sang lead and harmony vocals, often taking the forefront on standout numbers to showcase his warm, expressive tone. Raised in a by a fireman father and bakery worker mother, Hatton attended St Patrick’s Roman in and self-taught guitar at age 13 amid the boom, later switching to bass upon teaming with O’Hara. He handled lead vocals on "Hello Little Girl," the band's debut single, and contributed bass lines to hits like "A Little Loving" (1964, No. 6), while his stage energy—incorporating comedy and impersonations—elevated live shows such as the band's role in Ferry Cross the Mersey (1965). Dave Lovelady (born 16 October 1942 in , ) served as drummer and occasional vocalist, delivering the steady beat that anchored the band's Merseybeat rhythm. Joining in September 1962, Lovelady provided the driving percussion for early recordings under George Martin's production and was integral to the group's tight, danceable live sets at venues like and major tours. His drumming supported the vocal interplay in performances during ' Christmas Show and other 1963-1964 engagements, helping establish the Fourmost's reputation for reliable, crowd-pleasing energy.

Personnel Changes

The Fourmost experienced their first significant personnel change in March 1966, when rhythm guitarist and vocalist Mike Millward died from leukemia at the age of 23. This loss deeply affected the band, which had relied on Millward's harmonies and stage presence alongside lead guitarist Brian O'Hara, bassist Billy Hatton, and drummer Dave Lovelady. To continue performing, the group recruited George Peckham as the new rhythm guitarist, allowing them to maintain their cabaret and touring schedule despite the emotional toll. Peckham's addition helped stabilize the lineup, but the band's momentum waned, contributing to a decline in chart success as the Merseybeat era faded. Peckham remained with The Fourmost until 1969, when he departed to manage a . Original member Joey Bower, who had left the band early in its history, returned to fill the role, restoring some continuity to the group. This lineup—O'Hara, Hatton, Lovelady, and Bower—sustained the band's live performances through the , though they struggled to recapture their early commercial peak, with no further Top 40 hits after 1965. The changes highlighted ongoing challenges in maintaining the original vocal interplay that defined their sound, further eroding band cohesion amid shifting musical tastes. By 1980, internal tensions led to the departure of Hatton, Lovelady, and Bower, leaving O'Hara as the sole original member. O'Hara reformed the group with new musicians to continue touring and appearances, preserving the band's name and repertoire. This marked a pivotal shift, as the band operated more as a revival act without its founding , which had been integral to their harmonious style. The Fourmost persisted under O'Hara's leadership into the late , with regular performances that kept their alive among Merseybeat enthusiasts. However, O'Hara's on June 27, 1999, at age 58—attributed to over financial difficulties—ended this era, leaving the band without any surviving original members and underscoring the long-term personal strains from decades of lineup instability and career fluctuations. Bassist Billy Hatton died on September 18, 2017, at age 76 from cancer, while drummer Dave Lovelady remains the last surviving original member as of 2025.

Later Career

Post-1960s Decline

By the late , The Fourmost experienced a marked decline in commercial success, as their singles failed to achieve the chart prominence of their earlier Merseybeat hits. Following the death of rhythm guitarist Mike Millward in 1966, which prompted a lineup change, the band released a cover of the ' "" that August, but it did not enter the . Similarly, their 1968 single "Apples, Peaches and Pumpkin Pie," a cover of the R&B track issued on CBS Records, also failed to chart, signaling the end of their recording viability in the mainstream pop market. In 1975, the band issued a self-titled as a private pressing, which received only limited and did little to revive their profile. With no major label support, the release underscored their marginalization from the music industry. As the decade progressed, The Fourmost shifted focus to the cabaret and nostalgia circuits, performing in nightclubs and theaters where audiences sought retro entertainment from the era. Under the leadership of vocalist and guitarist , the sole remaining original member by the late 1970s, the band sustained sporadic activity through these engagements into the early 1980s. O'Hara quit the group in 1982 and started a second-hand car business. The band name continued under other members, though opportunities dwindled as the rise of and in the mid-to-late 1970s overshadowed legacy acts like The Fourmost, limiting their access to broader audiences and recording deals.

Reunions and Current Status

Following the death of original member in June 1999, the band name had already been sold by him in the early , with limited activity including a one-off reunion of original members for a tribute concert at Liverpool's Philharmonic Hall in 1990. In the , The Fourmost revived as a touring act with a new lineup, led by and vocalist Kevin Clarkson, who joined to help sustain the group's live shows. This focused on nostalgia performances, preserving the band's Merseybeat sound for revival audiences across the and Europe. The current lineup consists of Kevin Clarkson on drums and vocals, Lee Clarkson on bass and vocals, Des Thurlby on guitar and vocals, and Matthew Johnson on guitar and vocals. As a heritage act, the band remains active as of November 2025, with scheduled tours including UK theatre dates, holiday park weekends, and 60s festivals such as the BCM 60s Weekend on November 21–23, 2025, at Richmond Holiday Centre in and Sandbay Holiday Park, the Whitby Live 60s Festival on December 13, 2025, at the Cairn Hotel in , and the Sensational 60s Tour on May 30, 2026, at Philharmonic. Recent activities also encompass similar shows on the retro music circuit. The band's official website, thefourmost.co.uk, provides updates on gigs, , and , while their social media includes an active account (@the_fourmost) posting about 2025 events like the June 21 gig at Club in Tyne & Wear, and a group for fan engagement.

Musical Style

Influences

The Fourmost's roots were deeply embedded in Liverpool's vibrant and scene of the late , where lead guitarist , inspired by Donegan's skiffle craze, began playing guitar at age 14 and formed the group initially as the Four Jays with schoolmates from the area. This early phase reflected the DIY ethos of , using simple instruments like tea-chest basses and washboards, before transitioning to influences from American pioneers such as and , which shaped their energetic performances and guitar-driven sound. Hatton, who joined after playing in local bands, further embodied this and roll admiration, evident in his enthusiasm for related cultural icons like classic U.S. cars. The band's development was profoundly impacted by the Merseybeat movement, emerging alongside contemporaries like and in Liverpool's competitive music ecosystem, where shared stages fostered a collective evolution toward polished, harmony-rich pop-rock. Regular appearances at starting on 1 March 1961, about three weeks after the Beatles' debut there on 9 February 1961, provided a crucible for refining group harmonies amid the venue's intimate, echoey atmosphere, which emphasized tight vocal interplay and audience interaction central to Merseybeat's appeal. This local environment not only honed their style but also positioned them within a network of emerging talents, including , amplifying the scene's communal creative energy. Brian Epstein's management from mid-1963 onward mirrored the Beatles' trajectory, imposing a clean-cut, professional image that elevated the Fourmost from local act to national contenders through rigorous grooming and strategic promotion via his NEMS Enterprises. Epstein's oversight secured a Parlophone deal and producer George Martin, directly linking them to songwriting influences from Lennon-McCartney, who supplied key hits including "Hello Little Girl" (1963) and "I'm in Love" (1964).

Characteristics

The Fourmost's music exemplified the Merseybeat genre, characterized by upbeat pop songs driven by rhythmic guitar work and close vocal harmonies that created a bright, infectious energy. Their sound featured jangly electric guitars typical of the scene, paired with tight bass lines and straightforward drum patterns that emphasized danceable tempos. This style, rooted in the vibrant club circuit, focused on themes of youthful romance and lighthearted affection, as heard in tracks like "Hello Little Girl" and "I'm in Love." Produced by for their early recordings, the band's output benefited from his expertise in crafting clean, professional arrangements that highlighted the vocal interplay among members like Billy Hatton and Mike Millward. Martin's approach polished their raw Merseybeat energy into radio-friendly tracks, accentuating harmonious choruses and subtle instrumentation without overpowering the group's natural exuberance. Unlike some contemporaries, The Fourmost maintained a lighter, more playful tone in their delivery, blending pop accessibility with occasional comedic flair in performances. Their live shows, particularly during the Cavern Club era starting in 1961 as The Four Jays, captured the high-energy interaction of Liverpool's beat scene, with audiences responding enthusiastically to the band's dynamic stage presence and harmony-driven sets. Initially relying on covers of American R&B and rock standards, The Fourmost transitioned to performing originals penned by Lennon and McCartney, which infused their repertoire with fresh, romance-centric material tailored to the era's teen appeal. This evolution underscored their adaptability while preserving the core Merseybeat essence of communal joy and melodic simplicity.

Discography

Studio Albums

The Fourmost's debut studio album, First and Fourmost, was released in September 1965 by Parlophone Records. Produced by George Martin, the album features a mix of original material and covers reflecting the band's Merseybeat style, with 14 tracks emphasizing upbeat pop and rock influences. The tracklist includes covers such as "Yakety Yak" (The Coasters), "The In Crowd" (Dobie Gray), and "Something's Got a Hold on Me" (Etta James), alongside tracks like "Till You Say You'll Be Mine" (Jackie DeShannon) and "Today I'm in Love." Several songs from the album, including "Girls, Girls, Girls," were also issued as singles.
SideTrackTitleWriter(s)
A11Till You Say You'll Be Mine
A22Jerry Leiber, Mike Stoller
A33, ,
A44,
A55So Fine
A66,
A77
B18Today I'm in LoveIan Salter, Tony Hiller
B29
B310Baby Sittin' BoogieDoc Bagby, Lou Carter
B411Boyd Atkins
B512Sure to Fall (In Love with You)Quinton Claunch, , William Dorsey
B613Bound to Lose My HeartUnknown
B714Something's Got a Hold on MePearl Woods, , Leroy Kirkland
The album received positive notes for Martin's polished production, which highlighted the band's harmonies and energy, though it did not achieve significant commercial breakthrough beyond their prior singles success. In 1975, the band released a self-titled second studio album, The Fourmost, on their own Not On Label imprint, marking a return after years of inactivity. Recorded at Hughie Behens' 92 Track Fur Coat Studios, the 10-track LP consists primarily of covers and re-recordings, blending pop standards and contemporary hits with limited new material. Notable inclusions are "I've Got You Under My Skin" (Cole Porter), "Without You" (Peter Ham, Tom Evans), and a reprise of "The Girl Can't Help It" from their debut. The release had limited distribution and commercial impact, reflecting the band's post-1960s challenges.
SideTrackTitleWriter(s)
A11Down at the ClubGerry Goffin, Carole King
A22My Eyes Adore YouBob Crewe, Kenny Nolan
A33Zing Went the Strings of My HeartJames F. Hanley
A44I've Got You Under My SkinCole Porter
A55Save the Last Dance for MeDoc Pomus, Mort Shuman
B16The Girl Can't Help ItBobby Troup
B27Without YouPeter Ham, Tom Evans
B38Take Your Finger Out of Your MouthDuke Yellman, Joe Schuster
B49Rag DollBob Crewe, Bob Gaudio
B510Will You Still Love Me TomorrowGerry Goffin, Carole King

Singles

The Fourmost released a series of singles primarily through Records in the UK during the 1960s, with several achieving moderate success on the . Their early releases featured compositions, contributing to their initial popularity in the Merseybeat scene. Later singles showed declining chart performance, reflecting the band's fading commercial momentum by the late 1960s. Some tracks were also issued internationally, including versions on and labels in the United States.
YearA-SideB-SideUK Chart PeakLabel (UK)Notes
1963Hello Little GirlJust In CaseNo. 9 composition; entered chart September 1963.
1963I'm in LoveRespectableNo. 17 composition; released November 15.
1964A Little LovingWaiting for YouNo. 6Released April 17; band's highest-charting single.
1964You Got That WayNo. 33-
1965That's Only What They SayNo. 24Cover of song.
1965Everything in the He Could Never--
1965Girls! Girls! Girls!Why Do Fools Fall in LoveNo. 33US release on (No. 5591) with same B-side.
1966You've ChangedNo. 42 cover; US release on .
1966Auntie Maggie's RemedyTurn the Lights Down--
1968Apples, Peaches, Pumpkin PieHe Could NeverNo. 46-
1969RosettaJust Like Before-Page OnePost- release; no chart entry.
1969Easy SqueezyDo I Love You?-Page OneFinal 1960s single; no chart entry.
In the United States, select singles appeared on , such as "Girls! Girls! Girls!" (1966), but none charted significantly. Post-1960s activity included occasional releases, though none achieved notable chart success, aligning with the band's shift toward live performances and reunions.

Legacy

Cultural Impact

The Fourmost contributed significantly to the Merseybeat explosion in the early 1960s, helping shape the sound through their energetic performances and emphasis on tight vocal harmonies that captured the youthful exuberance of the era. Emerging from the vibrant club scene in , the band—originally formed as the Blue Jays in late 1959 and later known as the Four Jays—embodied the genre's blend of rock 'n' roll influences and local flair, with their music reflecting the port city's cultural . In 1964 alone, Merseybeat acts like the Fourmost accounted for nearly 20% of all Top 10 hits, underscoring the movement's dominance in British pop and its role in launching the global . Their association with manager further amplified this impact, as the Fourmost joined his stable in June 1963 alongside , riding the wave of to gain national prominence. Epstein's promotion of talent created a symbiotic network where ' success elevated the entire scene, providing the Fourmost with prime recording opportunities and media exposure that might otherwise have been unattainable. This connection exemplified how Epstein's vision transformed regional acts into national phenomena, with the Fourmost benefiting from shared resources and the cultural of ' rise. The band's role in the 1965 film cemented their place in preserving youth culture, as they appeared alongside other Epstein-managed acts like and , performing their track "I Love You Too." Directed by Jeremy Summers and written by creator , the movie depicted aspiring musicians navigating 's competitive scene, offering a vivid snapshot of Merseybeat's communal spirit and the era's optimistic, working-class vibrancy. By showcasing real performances from the Liverpool acts, the film not only boosted their profiles but also immortalized the social and musical dynamics that defined the period's pop revolution. The Fourmost's harmony-driven pop style influenced subsequent groups by reinforcing the vocal that became a staple of post-Merseybeat acts, contributing to the genre's evolution into more polished harmony pop. Their key 1963–1964 hits, such as "A Little Loving," demonstrated this approach with its infectious, multi-voiced choruses that echoed the scene's collaborative ethos. Anecdotes from their interactions with , including receiving exclusive Lennon-McCartney songs like "Hello Little Girl" for their debut single and "I'm in Love" for a later release, illustrate the tight-knit friendships and song-sharing that fueled Merseybeat's creative output.

Recognition and Tributes

The Fourmost have been featured in various Merseybeat compilations that highlight the sound of the . They also appeared in the 1990 documentary Original Merseybeat Groups, compered by DJs Billy Butler and Wally Scott, showcasing live performances from surviving members of the era's bands. These inclusions underscore their role in the broader Merseybeat narrative, often revisited in retrospective media. Tributes to the band's deceased members have taken forms including memorials, benefit concerts, and obituaries in major publications. Rhythm guitarist Mike Millward, who died of in 1966 at age 23, was honored with a titled "A Night for Mike" held in April 1966 at Liverpool's Grafton Ballroom, raising funds for , followed by a . Lead guitarist , who took his own life in 1999 amid financial difficulties, received an in The Independent that praised his foundational role in the group and the Merseybeat movement. Bassist Billy Hatton, who passed away in 2017, was remembered in The Guardian's for his contributions to the band's harmonies and his efforts to protect the group's , including a legal battle against an unauthorized . These commemorations appear in music histories and biographical accounts of the era. In the 2020s, the current lineup of The Fourmost has participated in nostalgia-driven events, performing at tours like the Sixties Gold 60s Explosion in 2023, which featured their classic hits at venues such as Perth Concert Hall. As of 2025, The Fourmost continue to tour the and perform at nostalgia events with a current lineup. Critical reappraisals in music journalism have positioned the band as "forgotten gems" of the , valuing their Lennon-McCartney-penned singles like "Hello Little Girl" ( No. 9) and "A Little Loving" ( No. 6) for their upbeat pop craftsmanship amid the era's bigger names. AllMusic's compilation The Best of the Fourmost (2005) earns an 8.5/10 user rating, noting the collection's strong representation of their harmonious style. The maintains their historical chart data, affirming their commercial footprint with six top-40 singles in 1963-1965.

References

  1. [1]
    Billy Hatton obituary | Pop and rock - The Guardian
    Sep 27, 2017 · Billy Hatton, who has died aged 76, was the bass player and harmony singer with the Fourmost, the Liverpool beat group signed in 1963 with the Beatles manager ...
  2. [2]
    History | The Fourmost | Vintage Retro Professional Band.
    The Fourmost traces its origins back to the vibrant Mersey beat scene of the 1960s and was associated with renowned manager Brian Epstein.
  3. [3]
    FOURMOST songs and albums | full Official Chart history
    FOURMOST songs and albums, peak chart positions, career stats, week-by-week chart runs and latest news.
  4. [4]
    The Fourmost: albums, songs, concerts | Deezer
    The group was founded by guitarist/vocalist Brian O'Hara and Joey Bower in 1957 as the Two Jays. They changed their name to the Fourmost in October 1962 ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  5. [5]
    Obituaries: Brian O'Hara | The Independent
    Jul 2, 1999 · ... group. With the guitarist Joey Bower and the drummer Brian Redman, the Two Jays became the Four Jays and, in 1962, they came 10th in a poll ...
  6. [6]
    Brian O'Hara | | The Guardian
    Jul 4, 1999 · A few months later the group was joined by guitarist Mike Millward and Epstein offered to manage them. At this point they were gainfully ...
  7. [7]
    The Fourmost (artist) - The Paul McCartney Project
    Aug 31, 2021 · The Fourmost are an English Merseybeat band that recorded in the 1960s. Their biggest UK hit single was “A Little Loving” in 1964. Biography.Missing: history - | Show results with:history -
  8. [8]
    The Fourmost - Bill Harry - Mersey Beat - Triumph PC ONLINE
    By the time Brian Epstein signed them on 30 June 1963, their line-up had changed to Mike Millward, Billy Hatton, Brian O'Hara and Dave Lovelady. According ...
  9. [9]
  10. [10]
    I'm In Love | The Beatles Bible
    Jun 27, 2019 · Written by: Lennon-McCartney. Recorded: 1963. Released: 17 December 2013. Credited to Lennon-McCartney, 'I'm In Love' was the second single ...
  11. [11]
    Hello Little Girl - The Beatles' songs
    Produced by George Martin at EMI Studios on 3 July 1963, their version was released on 30 August and reached number nine in the UK charts. Unfortunately the ...
  12. [12]
    HELLO LITTLE GIRL – FOURMOST - Official Charts
    Latest chart stats about HELLO LITTLE GIRL - peak chart position, weeks on chart, catalogue number, week-by-week chart placement and latest news.
  13. [13]
    Hello Little Girl
    The Fourmost ; U.K. Singles Chart Detail : Entry Date : 12th September 1963. Highest Position : 9. Weeks in Chart : 17 ; Detail : Side A, Side B. HELLO LITTLE ...
  14. [14]
    I'M IN LOVE – FOURMOST - Official Charts
    Official Charts logo Official Singles Chart · Peak position17 · LabelPARLOPHONE · Catalogue numberR5078 · First Chart Date 01/01/1964.
  15. [15]
    I'm In Love
    The Fourmost ; Release Date, 15th November 1963 ; U.K. Singles Chart Detail : Entry Date : 26th December 1963. Highest Position : 17. Weeks in Chart : 12 ; Detail ...
  16. [16]
    The Beatles / Gerry and the Pacemakers / Fourmost / Sons of the ...
    The Beatles, Gerry and the Pacemakers, & Fourmost info along with concert photos, videos, setlists, and more ... Monday, August 26, 1963; Venue: Odeon ...
  17. [17]
    A LITTLE LOVING – FOURMOST - Official Charts
    Latest chart stats about A LITTLE LOVING - peak chart position, weeks on chart, catalogue number, week-by-week chart placement and latest news.Missing: hits | Show results with:hits
  18. [18]
    The Fourmost Songs, Albums, Reviews, Bio & Mor... - AllMusic
    The Fourmost were originally known as the Blue Jays, then the Four Jays, and then the Four Mosts, before taking on the name under which they finally ...
  19. [19]
    Saturday Club - Broadcast - BBC Programme Index
    Sat 18 Apr 1964, 10:00 on Light Programme. Alma Cogan, The Rolling Stones, Peter, Paul and Mary, Richard Anthony, The Fourmost, Russ Sainty and the Nu ...
  20. [20]
    The Fourmost Setlist at Top of the Pops, London
    Get the The Fourmost Setlist of the concert at Top of the Pops, London, England on May 13, 1964 and other The Fourmost Setlists for free on setlist.fm!Missing: promotion BBC radio
  21. [21]
  22. [22]
    Merseybeat Groups Led British Invasion - Rock'n'Roll Unravelled
    May 16, 2021 · This article looks at how the British Invasion came about and the fact that much of the initial success in 1964 was down to Liverpool's Merseybeat groups.
  23. [23]
    THE FOURMOST - 7inchrecords
    Brian O'Hara and best friend guitarist/vocalist Joey Bower, formed The Two Jays in 1957. ... The Fourmost's first two singles were written by John Lennon.
  24. [24]
  25. [25]
  26. [26]
  27. [27]
    Concerts & Package Tours : 1965 (March - April) - Bradford Timeline
    March 2nd 1965. Hanley (Victoria Hall). P.J. Proby The P.J. Proby Orchestra The Fourmost Sandra Barry Syd & Eddie The Four Macs The Chapters The Art Woods
  28. [28]
    First and Fourmost by The Fourmost (Album, Merseybeat)
    Rating 2.9 (45) · 30-day returnsFirst and Fourmost, an Album by The Fourmost. Released in November 1965 on Parlophone (catalog no. PMC 1259; Vinyl LP). Genres: Merseybeat.
  29. [29]
    Fourmost - 45-rpm.org.uk
    This fourpiece were derived from a group that came together in Liverpool as the Four Jays in 1959; they were Brian O'Hara, Joe Bower, Billy Hatton and Brian ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  30. [30]
    The Fourmost - Sixties City
    Brian (Owie) O'Hara and Joey Bowers originally teamed up as The Two Jays at the age of thirteen, performing for a season at the Isle of Man.Missing: history - | Show results with:history -
  31. [31]
    Top 10 Songs By The Fourmost - ClassicRockHistory.com
    On the UK Singles Chart, “Hello Little Girl” was a number nine hit after it was released as The Fourmost's debut single in 1963. Penned by John Lennon but also ...
  32. [32]
    Part Two: Enter The Fourmost - George Peckham - Mersey Beat
    The George Peckham Story - Part Two: Enter The Fourmost - George Peckham - Mersey Beat. ... The 2nd British Invasion began with a Beat Mersey Beat. It's still ...
  33. [33]
    Fourmost, The - Nostalgia Central
    The group formed in late 1959 and were originally called The Blue Jays, then The Four Jays and then The Four Mosts. One of the leading groups on Liverpool's ...
  34. [34]
  35. [35]
    The Fourmost - The Fourmost
    ### Release Details
  36. [36]
    Gig Dates 2025/26 | The Fourmost
    ​November. ​. 1st - Terry O'Toole Theatre, Lincoln. 2nd - Warners Bodelwyddan Castle, North Wales. 8th - Mawdesley Village Hall, ...
  37. [37]
    Experience The Fourmost Band - Iconic 1960s Hits | Book Now | The ...
    Discover the current lineup of The Fourmost band. Hits include Hello Little Girl, I'm In Love, Baby I Need Your Loving, and A Little Loving.Missing: singles charts
  38. [38]
    The Fourmost®️™️ (@the_fourmost) / Posts / X
    Tickets are now available for THE FOURMOST at Royal navy club, Tyne & wear on Saturday 21st June 2025. Click the link for further information and to secure ...Missing: current | Show results with:current
  39. [39]
    The Fourmost ®™ | Facebook
    The band had two distinct eras of widespread success: the 1960s, during which Massi departed in 1965, and was replaced initially by Charles Calello and more ...Missing: challenges | Show results with:challenges
  40. [40]
    14 Merseybeat Veterans on the Gear That Made the Liverpool Scene
    Apr 11, 2019 · “I saw Buddy Holly at the Phil, and from that ... Dave Lovelady of The Fourmost had fond memories of seeing Rory Storm & The Hurricanes.
  41. [41]
  42. [42]
    the inside story of Merseybeat, the UK's early pop explosion
    Jun 14, 2023 · In 1964, nearly 20% of all songs to reach the Top 10 were by Merseybeat acts, including the Fourmost and the Merseybeats.
  43. [43]
    Top 20 Merseybeat Songs - Vintage Rock
    Jul 7, 2021 · 19 A Little Loving – The Fourmost Parlophone (1964). Signed by Brian Epstein in 1963, The Fourmost had been playing together under a variety ...
  44. [44]
    Brian Epstein's legacy goes well beyond The Beatles
    Dec 19, 2012 · The Fourmost, whom Epstein saw perform at The Cavern, had some hits in 1963 with Lennon-McCartney's “Hello Little Girl” and “I'm In Love ...Missing: support | Show results with:support
  45. [45]
    The Fourmost | 60s Recording Band - MJE Management
    During the 1970s and the early 1980s like many of its peers, The Fourmost played mainly on the cabaret circuit as it struggled to compete for appeal with disco, ...Missing: initial supporting
  46. [46]
    Ferry Cross the Mersey (1964) - IMDb
    Rating 6.7/10 (207) Gerry and Fred Marsden, Les McGuire, and Les "Chad" Chadwick portray themselves in a romp through the early-1960s Liverpool Beat Scene.
  47. [47]
    I'm In Love (song) - The Paul McCartney Project
    Apr 22, 2025 · In America, the song was released in 1965 by a West Coast Band, The New Breed. It was the B-Side of “Green-Eyed Woman” (Diplomacy Records).
  48. [48]
  49. [49]
    ORIGINAL MERSEYBEAT GROUPS 1990 DVD - The Video Beat
    Compered by BBC Radio Merseyside DJs Billy Butler and Wally Scott. Featuring the Pete Best Band with Billy Kinsley, the Fourmost, the Undertakers, Beryl Marsden ...Missing: recognition | Show results with:recognition
  50. [50]
    Fourmost–A Night For Mike - Liverpool Beatles Auction
    Jun 6, 2013 · A tribute concert was held at the beginning of April 1966 at the Grafton, raising money for Cancer Research and a Memorial service followed ...
  51. [51]
    The Fourmost Showcasing their Rapier & Sapphire ... - YouTube
    Oct 30, 2023 · The Fourmost on stage at the Perth Concert Hall on Friday, October 26th, 2023, featuring prominently in the Sixties Gold 60s Explosion Tour.Missing: 2020s festivals
  52. [52]
    The Best of the Fourmost - AllMusic
    Rating 8.5/10 (2) The Best of the Fourmost by The Fourmost released in 2005. Find album reviews, track lists, credits, awards and more at AllMusic.