Those of us who are musicians have seen, or posted, very similar advertisements such as "Drummer_Young_Free" in newspapers, Craigslist and other message boards, both electronic and tangible. However, very few of us have received replies from a band that would later become the single most significant rock group in the world.
A likely 70-something drummer in the UK seems to have had an amazing opportunity nearly 50 years ago, as a hand-written letter from Paul McCartney 
of The Beatles was recently found inside a book bought at auction in Liverpool.
The letter reads:
Dear Sir,
In reply to your advertisement in Echo, Wed. night, we would like to offer you an audition for the position of drummer in the group.
You will, however, need to be free soon for a trip to Hamburg (expenses paid £18 per week (approx. for 2 months.)
If interested, ring Jacaranda Club, Slater St. {Royal 65'44}, amd ask for either a member of the 'BEATLES,' Alan Williams, or else leave a message, stating when you will be available.
Your Sincerely,
Paul McCartney of The Beatles
The letter was written Aug. 12, 1960, by McCartney, before the Beatles' stint playing shows in the red light district of Hamburg and surrounding cities in Germany. Furthermore, this was when McCartney was still playing guitar for the group, as Stuart Sutcliffe would still be on bass responsibilites. Also, Pete Best was still with the band as the drummer at this time, and it would be nearly two years before he would be replaced with Ringo Starr.
It is unknown whether or not The Beatles ever heard from this elusive drummer, or if he did come for an audition and was not accepted. Either way, I'm sure this gentleman, whoever he was, regrets missing that tryout--or wishes he would have spent a few more hours a day behind the kit beforehand--as each of The Beatles amassed fame and fortune beyond belief only four years later.
If the letter is authenticated, it estimated to draw nearly $11,000 at Christie's Popular Culture: Rock and Pop Memorabilia auction on Nov. 15.
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