John Lennon’s Ice Bucket Challenge

Ice bucket challenge, 1965

The ice bucket challenge is pretty played out. So why post this photo? Quite simply because I can find scant little information about this curious Beatles pic. One Beatles blog dates the picture back to 1965. After that, bupkis. No information. So, for once, I’m throwing up my hands and asking for a little help from our friends. Somewhere out there, an ardent Beatles fan knows the story, and we’re hoping that you can give us the lowdown, either by email, or in the comments section below. We thank you in advance…

Update: We got an email from a former radio exec who offers more details. Jon tells us:  “These shots were done in the Bahamas back in 1965 while the Beatles traveled the world to film their second movie Help! This sequence most likely came as a result of set close up shots that director Richard Lester needed of each Beatle during a pool sequence since John is wearing that same shirt during several of those water sequences shot in the Bahamas. Ringo has always said it was cold during the shoot as they filmed it during a cooler time (Jan.?) that year. That would explain John’s look after being doused.” And there you have it!

Related Content:

Hear the Isolated Vocal Tracks for The Beatles’ Climactic 16-Minute Medley on Abbey Road

Listen to the Beatles’ Christmas Records: Seven Vintage Recordings for Their Fans (1963 – 1969)

The 10-Minute, Never-Released, Experimental Demo of The Beatles’ “Revolution” (1968)


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Comments (3)
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  • sfemet says:

    I think I can place the photo. John wore that shirt in the movie Help, part of it was filmed in the Caribbean, which explains the palm trees. I recall a lot of splashing about in the sea and swimming pools as well. I’ve got the DVD, it will be fun to watch it again.

  • Julia says:

    It was funny those days but today… It’s seem’s for me like avoiding any donation! Even very rich people prefer to have fun not help. What going on? ;-)

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