We're Britain's First Female Rock Band. This is Why You Don't Know Us. | 'Almost Famous' by Op-Docs

It’s hard to say what, exactly, was in the water in Liverpool in the early 1960s that wound up producing the Merseybeat sound and hundreds of groups of varying success. Four teenagers caught the scene by surprise and found screaming fans at every turn. Their names were Mary, Sylvia, Pam and Val.
It wasn’t only their sound that turned heads. They were The Liverbirds, Britain’s first all-female rock ’n’ roll band. Sitting down with surviving members Mary McGlory and Sylvia Saunders, you’d never know these two exceedingly charming Scouse (that means they come from Liverpool) matriarchs rocked a tour with The Rolling Stones. Lent their instruments to The Kinks. Rolled joints for Jimi Hendrix.
John Lennon himself told them that girls don’t play guitar. Well, John, they did. Imagine that.
“Almost Famous” is a special Op-Docs series of short films directed by Ben Proudfoot featuring people who nearly made history - only to fall short. These are tales of overcoming disappointment at its most epic, from an astronaut who never flew to a superstar who never was.
See more from the "Almost Famous" series: nyti.ms/2EuGTsK
Credits
Director: Ben Proudfoot
Featuring: Mary Dostal, Sylvia Wiggins
Producers: Gabriel Berk Godoi, Abby Lynn Kang Davis
Co-Producer: Jeremy Lambert
Cinematography: Brandon Somerhalder
Editor: Monica Salazar
Composer: Nicholas Jacobson-Larson
Assistant Editor : Lisset Mendoza
First Assistant Camera: Haley Watson
Production Sound Recordist: Geoffrey Fyfe
Colorist: Stephen Derluguian
Re-Recording Mixer: Sean Higgins
Archival Coordinator: Sarah Stewart
Associate Producer: Caley Fox Shannon
Post-Production Supervisor: Dillon Brown
Post-Production Coordinator: Elizabeth Brooke
Supervising Editor: Federico Conforti
Sound Effects Editor: Tom Boykin
Additional Orchestration L Roger Julià Satorra
Scoring Mixer: Brad Haehnel
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Op-Docs is the New York Times’ award-winning series of short documentaries by independent filmmakers. Learn more about Op-Docs and how to submit to the series. Follow The New York Times Opinion section on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram (@NYTopinion).

[@benproudfoot1409]

Hey, everybody. I’m Ben, the filmmaker and creator of the ALMOST FAMOUS series. Happy to answer any questions!

[@brownboikyle]

Thanks for your work, Ben! I really enjoy these videos. So inspiring and insightful!

[@benproudfoot1409]

@@brownboikyle thanks Kyle!

[@RainGoddess690]

I think they should make a movie about their lives. They deserve to be preserved in history.

[@benproudfoot1409]

@Letícia Setim Lots of research!! We created a massive spreadsheet of 100+ stories and narrowed it down.

[@benproudfoot1409]

@@RainGoddess690 Agree! Working on it...

[@jakewiggins4976]

My Grandma is Sylvia, the drummer. Even though we always knew our grandparents were rock stars both metaphorically and literally, it's so amazing to finally see their story to be told to the masses!

[@charlesross9260]

What a great story. I saw part of the Peanut Butter tape a long time ago but never knew they were The Liver Birds. Rock stars , grannies and friends. Way to go ladies.

[@owlofathena1247]

You have an awesome grandma. Tell her I said hi!

[@MarkProffitt]

She felt you were more important than fame or fortune. I suspect she has already let you know that but it's worth saying again.

[@PhoenixLyon]

Awesome! Never heard of these gals before. So glad to have found it. ✌💖😸

[@PhoenixLyon]

I'm going to see what I can track down from these ladies. ✌

[@thesunthatneversets4579]

“Very Religious, rolling joints for Jimmy Hendrix” That might be the best thing I’ve ever heard

[@leedanica7355]

wtf i didn't get that but lmao yes

[@JohnyComeLately]

Somehow fitting in a way too

[@MrJPEzra]

Mescaline Marxist haven’t ever heard of a Holy Roller?

[@thesunthatneversets4579]

Geoffrey Darcy Lemmy is a god, but so is she

[@FreddieHg37]

After all Jimmi Hendrix called his music church/electric church…

[@eugeneroberts2736]

"We never, ever got as famous as The Beatles. But we started as friends, and we ended as friends." They found what life is truly about.

[@writerpatrick]

Most bands never got as famous as the Beatles. That's a high standard to set.

[@kelliintexas3575]

This is EXACTLY how Elvis felt. He often talked about being born to sing, it was why he survived birth vs his twin. He felt it was fate & he never wanted to disappoint, he too wanted to help his family not have to work again. Must be so amazing to live your dreams! Clearly so lonely at the top. It's different now, there are examples to learn from now. When your the first at anything, it's always a guess if your making the right choice. You hope your making the best choices, but thats where a good stable up bringing comes in. Most creative people are risk takers, and that's how fame swallows up so many. These women had the BEST OF BOTH WORLDS. They lived their dreams, had fame, and got to marry, have kids & be normal people. I think even Elvis would have loved to have been able to have lived both. God blessed each of you. It certainly was fate! 🥰

[@burakbodur5605]

Maybe the real rock band was the friends we made along the way

[@naufaladen2401]

Agree..

[@lunaticoni]

@@burakbodur5605 Exactly

[@dreamcatcher3622]

Been a music lover for forty years and this is the greatest rock story I have ever heard, and I am only hearing of it now thanks to this incredible, powerful and genuinely moving documentary - sharing this far and wide.

[@KeiKay58]

I agree 100%!

[@modestoney1577]

A band breaking up fairly early, because they have other priorities than playing music is "the greatest rock story you ever heard"? Please explain.

[@bernifitzsimmons176]

"We never got as famous as The Beatles - But we started as friends... and ended as friends" Is someone cutting onions in here? :'(

[@stevemathew1340]

That was powerful!

[@taterandy3958]

Pure awesomeness...... what a story .....

[@douglang5568]

Berni Fitzsimmons Right? Why does KZbin recommend these videos in the evening after a few pints? Does crying help the liver?

[@std882]

True. That was one line that hit me hard. How true.

[@lilhonni]

Are the living Beatles members not friends?

[@aleidaespinoza2357]

The fact that they told them to play topless and they rejected the offer is so meaningful. What an amazing group of ladies. I'm glad I know their story now :)

[@TransparencyandMerit]

Beautiful and heartbreaking

[@Bobsloth13]

You really think they would of had them playing topless in us back in the 60s. They were a decently known band it's not like they would of been playing topless at a strip club. So I don't know if I believe they got offered a topless gig in Vegas that seems made up.

[@ikemreacts]

I feel overwhelmed with sadness and anger. I'm delighted to learn about them, and p*ssed off I could live in Liverpool for 5 years and never hear about them? Wtf!?!

[@ikemreacts]

@Eric Hughes I feel like somebody robbed me. I'm mad.

[@jakeryker546]

Isn't that empowering?

[@thorny7138]

These girls need a book deal. The world needs to hear the story.

[@gordonteats298]

Yes

[@Ezranik]

They have just brought a book out, about their history, life and career. It is wonderful.

[@YTisGay]

Boring book. For sale if you want.

[@loveMyFreakinLife]

"We're gonna be like them." Love it. Reminds me of Nancy Wilson's quote: "We didn't want to be Beatles girlfriends. We wanted to be Beatles."

[@retrobebop61]

So cool!

[@michaelcraig9449]

The reason Heart made it well, two reasons, Ann Wilson is the greatest female rocker ever! Heart was themselves, not copying the Beatles, or anyone else.

[@scofab]

@dot suk Takes talent... these gals were unfortunately exceptionally untalented.

[@grommet2795]

@@scofab I disagree. They managed to learn instruments from nothing and formed a band that people enjoyed. I don't see that happening often.

[@Arcanineisthebest]

@@scofab Well, the original comment is talking about a Heart quote, and I hope you're not saying heart is not a talented band, because millions would disagree with you.

[@reganis]

We started as friends and we ended as friends. Who the heck brings onions under my eyes?

[@markissboi3583]

onions in fridge no tears 😳💭

[@donnarupert4926]

Bella AJ....You know, those onion 🧅 ninjas😭

[@reganis]

@first name last name because her face says it all. Knowing they threw away their upcoming success decided to disband the bands how Pam couldn't get over it, yet they still remain friends :')

[@reganis]

@first name last name yeah especially keeping their friendship for like 30 or 40 years is quite rare in my experience. That makes this story become more lovely

[@arno-luyendijk4798]

Gosh, me too. This one conclusion is as inspiring as the complete Beatles ' song collection: " we ended up as friends".. I feel like making a song out of that.

[@luisbeltran2177]

These ladies have an incredible way of telling their story. Draws you in and it's a ride. Then you get to "I was still going to be a nun! Just a guitar playing nun!" ❤️

[@kellydavis1633]

What an absolutely sweet/ bittersweet story. I never knew the "Liverbirds" were Britain's first all female band! I knew the name, but nothing else. So happy I watched the entire video. Incredible journey for these courageous young women.

[@lolagreydottir6429]

Touring with the kinks and the rolling stones and rolling for Hendrix is enough to be rock and roll legends. They had their fame in the day, it doesnt matter that theyre not so famous now. Either way i want a film

[@JackieTheCatfox]

Me too. I'd watch the heck out of their movie.

[@conniearcher3462]

Count me in, I’ll be waiting with my bucket of popcorn, soon I hope, hello Netflix!

[@fernandes5986]

So do I.

[@KabobHope]

Yeah this would be a great full length documentary a la "20 feet from stardom." I am so in.

[@torineg.847]

How cute they all reminisce the early days of their own fame. Rolling for Hendrix. awesome, who else can say that ! Awesome ladies...

[@wok138]

They kicked out the Beatles' manager...thats gold! 😁😁

[@TheMerseySound1]

Wok Among Us and The Kinks' manager

[@joananthony6323]

He was right that they stayed in Europe though although they seemed happy with that.

[@sadietravels6213]

6:17 - And the interviewer didn’t know who Brian Epstein was! I feel old.

[@wok138]

@@sadietravels6213 you're not the only one 😁

[@BREAKENSTEIN]

@sbtopjosh they knew better for what was right for them, yes.

[@evanachan9584]

This is extremely beautiful editing. You really delivered the full potential of their incredible story. Great job love it

[@WobblyBootsDuke]

"How old are you?" That made me laugh. A very enjoyable watch. Thank you to the Liverbirds for doing what they did -- and for then telling us their story. Thanks too to you and your crew, Ben

[@adonaiyah2196]

How strange because epstein is very famous

[@thefranciswatts]

whoever is making these docs (there is also the black eyed pease one) really knows how to pull on my heart strings.

[@HistoryHighwithLisaMarrie]

Mine too

[@midnightcasinova]

They just shoving us nostalgia.

[@Lorjarca]

Ahhhhhh, the good old days...

[@sharon-bp9pk]

His name is Ben Proudfoot

[@laurakelseymusic]

They also have camera stuck on zoom

[@ClarenceDass]

On seeing the Beatles. I wasn't "I love them" or "I wanna meet them" But straight up "we're gonna be like them". That is boss. I love that.

[@davidm78]

Agreed!!!! I loved that they had the drive. I like John Lennon, but when she said that he said girls don't play drums, she had the right attitude! ILL SHOW YOU!

[@lynncarolmonk]

Those two women should release another record in memory of the band. I was in an all-girl group in 1980 and the guitarist and I just started collaborating and have just released our first single in 40 years! I would love to produce a new record for the Liverbirds.

[@XandriaRavenheart]

This is so magical, I think I love them more than I love the Beatles just for who they are! I love how they value friendship over everything else, and I'm glad I found this amazing documentary!

[@juliiouus96]

Y’all can’t say sexism doesn’t exist when these talented group of women were asked to perform topless just because they were women. The beatles were never asked for that.

[@TheMerseySound1]

jessicasadlibs the full story isn't told here. The US offer came from Chuck Berry some months after they had supported him in Berlin 1964. Their manager likely said the "topless" condition to put them off and keep them in Europe. Ultimately the girls didn't mind as they were doing well and starting to fill out venues wherever they went

[@TheMerseySound1]

Happy Shitkicker Clearly not. They just wanted to play music and have fun doing it, they didn't have a feminist agenda

[@TheMerseySound1]

Happy Shitkicker Yeah the documentary does but the girls didn't at the time, they weren't doing it for other girls. It's only in retrospect their significance for women in music was realised

[@ASLUHLUHCE]

It may not have been sexism. If that place specifically wanted topless girls, the Liverbirds wouldn't have got an offer if they were men.

[@jademusic1211]

To be fair, nobody cares about The Beatles performing topless... *bottomless* , however... 😂 All kidding aside, you're right..and The Liverbirds should have never been asked to do that. It has nothing to do with the music. 😒

[@Nedsdag]

And Hollywood has yet to make a movie about them?

[@Reprodestruxion]

Nedsdag the BBC or Lionsgate

[@germa2k]

Cause basically noone cares. If it's not a guaranteed profit, no big film studio would ever make this into a movie.

[@openfridi1138]

With a male Yoko Ono

[@lordbuddybear]

Pretty sure they will do it. But what could be cooler than the real persons?

[@TheJttv]

Hollywood rarely makes a historical film on something they discovered themselves. Usually someone has to bring it to their attention.

[@ziahassanrupu]

This is one of the most beautifully told stories that I have ever seen. This was sweet and sad. And laughed out loud about the story of Hendrix.

[@corazonhiggins3910]

i love you!! So much! I was in a punk band when i was a girl in my teens and did it up til my mid 30s, and i know so well the feeling of belonging, of fun, of learning. and also looking back at pictures and flyers and saying 'i really did do that!" Keep on rockin, gals, always!! xoxoxo

[@japhy6536]

This is easily a major picture - you can’t write stories this powerful ... incredible

[@amyleigh8394]

Absolutely

[@sergioypw]

No superheroes for dumb audience , no major picturue unfortunately

[@phoenix5054]

Japhy VanSanity Nope. It sounds like a flop in the making. Maybe a low-budget Netflix film.

[@pdxblackunicorn7398]

Japhy VanSanity yes this should be a movie

[@PincherVoice]

I agree. This would make a great movie.

[@doriangraye1971]

Somebody please write the script for the movie already

[@paulacrevaux5730]

Absolutely

[@doriangraye1971]

@@josh-cg8tz i know, right?

[@alsi1818]

The real story would itself seem like pushing feminist agenda, so what is the point really, yeah?

[@doriangraye1971]

@@alsi1818 I guess the same could be said about any female driven film at this day and age, yeah?

[@alsi1818]

I guess the same could be said of women today being alive itself, yeah?

[@journeyjerks821]

They are beautiful and still the same young girls. Quite inspiring, talented and wonderful human beings. Love you girls !👏👏👏

[@lindahandley5267]

What a story! I can't get over how they just created something out of nothing! No one knew how to play or sing and they just made it happen. I'm speechless. It reminds me of my best friend and I in high school, when we decided the only way she'd ever marry Paul and me marry George, was to join the Navy and go to England! She went as far as going to another state for the recruiting physical. When she got back and told me what they did to her with the physical, that was enough for me! We both started college and got homegrown husbands and forgot all about Paul and George...not really I've always been crazy about George!

[@kelliintexas3575]

This is EXACTLY how Elvis felt. He often talked about being born to sing, it was why he survived birth vs his twin. He felt it was fate & he never wanted to disappoint, he too wanted to help his family not have to work again. Must be so amazing to live your dreams! Clearly so lonely at the top. It's different now, there are examples to learn from now. When your the first at anything, it's always a guess if your making the right choice. You hope your making the best choices, but thats where a good stable up bringing comes in. Most creative people are risk takers, and that's how fame swallows up so many. These women had the BEST OF BOTH WORLDS. They lived their dreams, had fame, and got to marry, have kids & be normal people. I think even Elvis would have loved to have been able to have lived both. God blessed each of you. It certainly was fate! 🥰

[@kelliintexas3575]

Cause it's fate.

[@kelliintexas3575]

Elvis carried that why me around his ENTIRE LIFE. It's why he LOVED HIS FANS, It weighed SO HEAVY on his heart. Why did his twin die & he lived? Why was he given all his desires and children die of cancer? He gave away more money then he EVER kept or spent. He still gives to the SAME 50 charities every year 43yrs after his death. Those questions I think ate him alive. He was so alone and couldn't find answers in church or from friends like normal people. These girls were so lucky to have found a balance.

[@lindahandley5267]

@@kelliintexas3575 That makes so much sense Kelli! Elvis was so genuine and he truly loved people in general, especially his fans. I still miss him. You take care girl!

[@Codetutor-DemystifyCoding]

Mary saw the church and said.. "I am alright, there is a church". Burst out laughing. Whoever your editor is.. give that person a raise.

[@briangarrow448]

The Beatles, Kinks and Rolling Stones?!? My God, these ladies are my incredible!!

[@lordbuddybear]

And Hendrix!

[@eamonoz]

It was a small world back then

[@monsieurlaguillotine3481]

That definitely shouldn't discredit how awesome that is.

[@TheMerseySound1]

... Chuck Berry, The Animals, Jimi Hendrix...*

[@litsci1877]

Not to mention the Liverbirds!

[@RUSure-jm9rp]

"It's a long way to the top if you wanna rock and roll" AC/DC --- Great job ladies, I'm glad to find your story.

[@sharonteeling8422]

I love this doccy... makes me feel sad about the challenges woman have had to face in the music industry to be taken seriously but thrilled the gals never sold out.

[@MysticWolf1223]

These 'Almost Famous' documentaries that you guys have been doing are top tier phenomenal. Keep up the good work!

[@AmeliaDimoldenberg]

so good !!!!!

[@mj-yo7vt]

Just amazing!

[@joeschmoe6492]

I actually started a female rock band before these ladies, I just didn't tell anyone about it. Bunch of losers.

[@jontillas1496]

@@joeschmoe6492 didn't know that you were a girl.

[@checkyourhead9]

Agreed!!! Please dont ever stop. There are many of these stories

[@64north20west]

Very emotional. It took way too long for their story to get coverage. These ladies are priceless.

[@ikemreacts]

I'm shocked, I'm totally shocked.

[@sleepystars8482]

@@ikemreacts same...

[@alanhope9139]

Absolutely fantastic, I knew they existed, but never knew their incredible story, Wonderful ! ! ! !

[@melissaharper5043]

This is so very lovely, and I needed to hear this story. It took me through the whole range of emotions and was a bright spot in my day. I'm going to go practice guitar now. Thank you.

[@s.wellington4237]

These stories should be taught in school... this isn’t about fame, talent or money... it’s about love and it’s dedication to it.

[@wellesradio]

but at the same time, it was about money and fame.

[@fernandes5986]

Yes it's unheard of in the music buisness.

[@violettaschmieder2096]

@@BBxx19 I dont remember algebra or the exact chemical way plants make oxygen. And I dont need that. Didnt need to hear it then, didnt need to hear it now. But i needed to hear these womens story back then, and i needed to hear it now. And i will remember this over the things i had to learn in school. maybe 10 percent of it made me smarter. But what most of it did was keep me from developing a passion and a purpose. I can learn or teach myself anything if i want to. But i wont learn anything if i dont want to, it just doesnt stay in my head. Humans are like that. How is school supposed to teach you anything for the future when its actually you, a child, that will show the world into the future? Teach a child how to be the best and happiest version of itself and itll make the best future happen.

[@violettaschmieder2096]

did was prevent me from developing a purpose or a passion. I can learn or teach myself anything if I want to. If I don’t wanna learn it, it wont stay in my head. Thats just how humans are. How can school prepare children for the future with a stiff curriculum when its children that are going to show the world into the future. Teach a kid how to be the best and happiest version of themselves, and they will show you a better future, and not just a badly updated version of the past. Because Children make the future. They are it and they make it. So show them stories of people who were themselves, who worked hard for smth they loved, who taught themselves all they needed to know, because they wanted to.

[@4haruchan]

@@BBxx19 Define smarter. I bet that we girls would have appreciated if we didnt study only men all the time and cpuls study women that were successful to have feminine role models

[@LilChikyChan]

I feel so bad for not knowing about them until now. Better late than never to listen to all of their music :)

[@styromaniac6967]

It's not your fault. Why feel bad?

[@discosecret6363]

I own an LP, a decent sounding LP. I bought it used (and cheap), sometime in the mid-90s. Look for a copy on Discogs.

[@TheIndependentLens]

LilChikyChan they’re not that good! I see why they fizzled out.

[@Slappysan]

@@TheIndependentLens Their sound isn't why according to what you just watched. Or did you not watch?

[@TheIndependentLens]

@@Slappysan Hmmmmmm . . . So this is hindsight excuses when it's blatantly obvious just by listening to them? You need media to tell you what to think? You must be a Leftist.

[@booradley0x0]

This is so inspirational. I want to be an older lady with amazing stories to tell. Its amazing how the roles of women and the sacrifices haven't really changes all that much.

[@marknorris3769]

good luck polly

[@booradley0x0]

@@marknorris3769 lol that’s patronising.

[@marknorris3769]

@@booradley0x0 well i read your aspirational comment and thought to say something nice , i have daughter's , i didn't intend to sound insincere , or patronizing , yes absolutely , there is an incredible burden placed on modern women , to do it all , it's very hard to do , i watched my wife still doing it , and daughters beginning to do amazing things , it scares me , they can't imagine the sheer physicality of aspirations and family obligations , genius is only a ticket to admission

[@RosePetal17]

This is such a touching and beauiful Op-Doc! I am so moved by what these women accomplished, and what they went through. This is a fascinating series. Thank you!

[@williams.vincent4235]

I'm 58 and thought I knew pretty much all the important bands from the 60's and onwards - wrong! I never heard of the Liverbirds and what a wonderful story! I'm so glad I took the time to watch this.

[@ikemreacts]

I feel embarrassed, to be honest. How come I didn't know?

[@williams.vincent4235]

@@ikemreacts Me too. Lol

[@phoenix5054]

Steven Vincent They’re not important, they didn’t become popular.

[@monsieurlaguillotine3481]

They were popular though. Life just did what life does and the rest is history now.

[@TheMerseySound1]

@@phoenix5054 Popular in Europe

[@rolfrichter3984]

I was fascinated of them at a concert in 1965, Oldenburg, Germany. Me and my friend were talking to them backstage. The autographs I still have preserved.

[@2degucitas]

Awesome!

[@erikkaye1114]

You mean they were real?

[@drunaisis9797]

Tell us more, please

[@ElaAusDemTal]

Ist das cool!

[@ElaAusDemTal]

@@erikkaye1114 What? Did you even bother to watch the docu?

[@brendav7]

How wonderful!! I love you girls - I am so glad I got to see this :) I started singing quite late - around 36/38 and now I'm 57 and still singing - doing my first original songs, recording etc - having a ball. Really pleased you have these wonderful memories of what you achieved back then - with no regrets - SALUTE!!!!

[@Twittler1]

I’d never heard of them until this. What a happy, sad, emotional story, with so many ‘what ifs’ and ‘if onlys’. ❤️🥲

[@Cheepchipsable]

I'm sure there are lots of wannabe bands you never heard of.

[@Twittler1]

@@Cheepchipsable Oh, I know. And for every really good band that does make it, I reckon there’re probably another ten that were better, but just didn’t make it.

[@davidpalmer7175]

Agreed!

[@jeffw1267]

@@Cheepchipsable I'm just irritated that the title implies that the band was not famous BECAUSE they were women. Ever heard of Heart? That's been a popular band for the last 45 years Heart was fronted by two women (there were dudes in the band too, but who remembers their names). Yes? Maybe THIS female band should have made better music, so we'd remember them. They could simply be interviewed and list all their hit songs.

[@kelliintexas3575]

This is EXACTLY how Elvis felt. He often talked about being born to sing, it was why he survived birth vs his twin. He felt it was fate & he never wanted to disappoint, he too wanted to help his family not have to work again. Must be so amazing to live your dreams! Clearly so lonely at the top. It's different now, there are examples to learn from now. When your the first at anything, it's always a guess if your making the right choice. You hope your making the best choices, but thats where a good stable up bringing comes in. Most creative people are risk takers, and that's how fame swallows up so many. These women had the BEST OF BOTH WORLDS. They lived their dreams, had fame, and got to marry, have kids & be normal people. I think even Elvis would have loved to have been able to have lived both. God blessed each of you. It certainly was fate! 🥰

[@sarasullivan2027]

Y’all are killing it with these mini docs. Thank you for shining a light on these talented people!

[@r3nB055]

i didn't expect to get emotional, but when they accepted their friend even though she wasn't straight - that's when i began to tear up. Such amazing friends. I'm glad the two that are still with us are in touch and are good friends.

[@josh-cg8tz]

i was going to agree with you but im pretty sure your profile pic is a kpop artist

[@josh-cg8tz]

@Δέσποινα Κωστούλα the profile picture is kpop

[@r3nB055]

@@Lloydfernsehen i'm 14?

[@lottejohnson250]

@@Lloydfernsehen This was the 60's though... So it wasn't necessarily going to be automatic? No need to be rude.

[@kakolykia]

she was straight when they met

[@mr.radical2899]

Religious girl rolling joints with Jimmie Hendrix. Now there's an interesting sentence.

[@yvancluet8146]

sorry to be that guy, but... it's 'Jimi' Hendrix

[@ajaku]

What I would give to be a fly on the wall!

[@bravepart]

That's an incredible story and oh man, what a feels trip!

[@resabright8379]

I’m from America and came across this lovely documentary. What a great story. And the ladies are absolutely fabulous. Thank you for sharing their story.

[@vlad8606]

Only heard of them 16 minutes ago yet I’m crying.

[@ReformedWhiteKnight]

l'éléphant rouge - That’s not a good sign! At all! If you are older than 12 you should be able to control your feelings and emotions especially about things you just see in the media and they have no effect on your life whatsoever. It’s not a good sign if the emotions of an adult can so easily overpowering them. You really need to grow up. I am sorry but otherwise you will have a hard time facing reality outside of your home....

[@markjohnson9306]

Makes two of us..

[@ReformedWhiteKnight]

@@markjohnson9306 - grown men crying over a video which interprets (nothing more) the ups and downs of a girl band from the 60's? Seriously? Why are men so fragile these days and cry watching TV or youtube videos? I don't get it....

[@miazmatic5025]

Dude me too..

[@dossgirl64]

@@markjohnson9306 three of us, lol

[@wannad8290]

I want to see this story in the BIG SCREEN.

[@DeeBee2013]

It would make a good movie

[@1funkyflyguy]

@@DeeBee2013 It would make a great movie!!

[@MrSerbianOrthodox]

Great doc! Great directing... Such a beautiful and emotional story! Just amazing editing! Bravo!

[@TraneFrancks]

Possibly the most touching musical back story I've ever seen. They're absolutely delightful.

[@navraid]

“...and the wind whispers Mary, “ sings Jimi Hendrix

[@Mindgamingu]

NavRAID I think you are on to something my friend.

[@iamnotaskater11]

😳

[@lonelyghost1851]

omg

[@cazprescott9]

😮🤔

[@chaqui_xcx]

Wow!

[@RiverOfBlacklights]

Lots of comments here stating how sad this story is but, when you look at it from a different point of view, this a a very powerfully positive story. Why? Cause when one thinks about it, these women got to live a part of their lives that most people *_around the globe_* and spanning generations, *_NEVER_* get to experience. Most people, around the world, live their *_ENTIRE_* lives, decade after passing decade, doing things they don't want to do. The majority work and work in menial jobs and before they know it, their youth and much of their life is over and gone. In general, human beings have dreams at one time or another but, very few of them get to make their dreams a reality. Hats off to these women (and men with similar stories too) who took the chance, who took the risk to make their dreams come true, despite others telling them it was a lost cause or a bad idea. Hat's off to those right now, who are taking that chance as well. Make the most of it - the personal rewards will be well worth it...

[@alanbrito5239]

Based

[@stevemathew1340]

This. THIS!

[@YuuChanneru]

It's sad because the reason they didn't get famous was mostly sexism in the music industry and of the doctor's prejudice. (playing drums while pregnant is fine up until a certain point)

[@denisebarakahlawrence6412]

...and Hats off to You for writing such a balanced comment. Well stated.

[@drunaisis9797]

Noooooo, it is not sad story, it is absolutly beautiful happy story!

[@heathentongue]

Thank you for your film! I enjoyed getting to meet the Liverbirds! I will look up their music now! So happy they existed!

[@liizzset]

This was so beautifully done. A beautiful story. I cried a bit at the end.

[@glengamble526]

I just love the drummer’s spirit. When they show her playing more recently, she STILL has that SAME cheeky grin on her face and the absolute joy and love of drumming, shining in her eyes. Fantastic.

[@MusicfromMarrs]

I’m still wondering why that doctor said playing the drums would end her pregnancy. Did he mean the gif lifestyle? Or was that OB more of an SOB? Playing the drums shouldn’t be that traumatic.

[@ImSimplyAHuman]

@@MusicfromMarrs sounds like she had a high-risk pregnancy. I had one and continued working in spite of being terribly ill.. and I lost the baby 😖

[@MusicfromMarrs]

@@ImSimplyAHuman sadly, I hope that a high risk pregnancy was the reason. In the 60s and 70s a lot of women were discouraged from working if they got pregnant. And for years, corporate jobs used the “you might get pregnant “ excuse as a way not to hire or promote women. I’m sorry for your loss, and hope that you are happy and healthy now.

[@wsfaso]

@@MusicfromMarrs more than likely has to do with proper rest, touring takes a lot out of a person.

[@MusicfromMarrs]

@@wsfaso perhaps. I toured with a group for 6 years. We did have women who were pregnant on a few tours, and they did fine; they simply didn’t party afterwards, and you can sleep on the bus.

[@Vivalarosa45]

Rolling joints with Hendrix...now that's a story.

[@mistertamura6190]

Such a magnificent little documentary about happenstance, music, and friendship. This is all I’m asking for from platforms like KZbin or Vimeo.

[@MARKETMAN6789]

What a lovely video ,I really enjoyed it and am happy that they were all friends ,and that those living still are ,loved it xxx

[@islandmanmikep]

This story deserves a movie. I would run to the theater to see it.

[@MothGirl007]

Same.

[@robertglass3944]

Ditto

[@FreedomofSpeech865]

Yessss

[@Mindartcreativity]

You‘re literally watching a movie already😂

[@ricestrada5556]

Yep

[@miguimau]

You were cool girls and now you are cool ladies. :) Your band sounds great.

[@joananthony6323]

Love their version of Love Hurts. Pam had a good voice.

[@miguimau]

@@joananthony6323 Indeed. And their "Long Tall Shorty" ? So good. kzbin.info/www/bejne/b3WYqGiCoZl3oLM

[@SuperDolly64]

I LOVE this-I'm from Liverpool and I have never heard of this group-lovely lovely story thank you for posting!!

[@jak6326]

Oh wow, the tears won;t stop - an amazing story thank you x

[@maybeonemore]

I need my The girls from Liverpool Movie.

[@Trund27]

maybeonemore immediately!!!!

[@samanthaallen7556]

Defo

[@mariyamoon2692]

Very good idea

[@samarasamora3454]

@@Trund27 1

[@samarasamora3454]

@@samanthaallen7556 Hi

[@jayw115]

Hollywood will not make an original story like this on film, but they want a female version of fight club

[@cazprescott9]

That's why it's important to support independent filmmakers. Since there's already a musical about them, someone will probably film it and do a behind the scenes/making of documentary 😊

[@dabdella1460]

To happy for Hollywood

[@katenikii]

Female Fight Club already exists and it' s called "Gone Girl" directed by the same person. I don't get the point of removing men from the film when it was written by and for men, FC is a brilliant film and a book about toxic masculinity. Same for other films, just turning stereotypes upside down, not playing with them, only shows that stereotypes themselves are stupid, it's not empowering or entertaining whatsoever. Gender roles matter because people who stick with them are still alive.

[@fabio78]

True, there’s an amazing, emotional film there waiting to happen.

[@stevestarr9769]

OMG just WOW. Every time I think I know a lot about that era of rock & roll, I realize how little I really know. I'm so glad I found this......beautiful.

[@japupkind8493]

Me in tears. Thank you dear Ladies, best wishes to you and your families. NYT - thanks too.

[@kaleidojess]

She looks so happy when she’s playing drums.

[@karlsinclair9918]

I'd heard of them and heard a track or two. Good to see this, it was a great watch. Lovely ladies.

[@TNbear0126]

That was very sweet. I love the old clips I see of Sylvia. She always looked like she was having fun at the drums!

[@MaxMiniTV]

These ladies were so punk rock before there was punk rock!

[@8bitdiedie]

Maximalist Minibus The Velvet Underground says hi

[@davehoward22]

60s slits

[@MaxMiniTV]

@@davehoward22 100%

[@Decimator-jh4gu]

Yes.

[@notagod-5174]

Not *punk* rock but it WAS rock

[@elliotw.888]

<a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="713">11:53</a> when she says "I had a wonderful life" it really reminded me of that scene from the movie "Yesterday", in which the alternate universe John Lennon who lived to 78 says something along the same lines, and it really struck me just how different things could've been for these four women if they'd gotten famous

[@grahaigh]

Well, that was really good. I love watching stuff that's surprisingly good.

[@viviennepopek]

I never knew about them, what a lovely story. Thank you for sharing this with us 💖 👍💞👋💖👋💞👍 🎶TheLiverBirds🎶 👍💞👋💖👋💞👍

[@jasnoswarez]

How is this the first time I’m hearing about them? As a musician who has done a lot of touring this left me thinking about what success really is in life

[@nebsu_]

@Adam Smith yeah i gave them a listen. Its okay, but nothing special. Their drummer is great, but the vocals are really lacking :/

[@lunardream6021]

One thing I don’t understand, is when John Lennon told them “Girls don’t play guitars” when his mother was the one who first taught him how to play.

[@lunardream6021]

Ketan Sajwan I thought about that too, and maybe he was joking, since he did that a lot too.

[@cherish78748]

John Lennon was not at all known for treating women well in general, not at all surprised to hear he said that.

[@prschuster]

Hopefully, he outgrew his ignorance as he got older.

[@hydrolito]

John Lennon did to much dope so he could have forgot.

[@JoRiver11]

Sounds like cocky young male crap.

[@garytwitchett9359]

Fascinating Documentary. I'd never heard of them before. Thanks for posting 👦🎶👍

[@caryd67]

I’ve watched this probably 6 times now, it’s an oddly emotional experience, this film, and I’m not sure why.. I just love these ladies!

[@ihazthots]

"We started as friends and we ended it as friends." That's more than The Beatles can say. I'm gonna go stream some Liverbirds now.

[@YouGetThePicture_08]

honestly, same.

[@peterembranch5797]

True, true. On the other hand, The Beatles were actually quite good, and modestly successful.

[@rhyfelwrDuw]

Me too :D

[@Krabadaque]

Wait a minute - the Beatles did end as friends even though the "divorce" itself, of course was painful.

[@experience5988]

Easy when you´re a failure.

[@TheVirginianRambler]

My girlfriend sent me the link to this, and now I understand why. This is a beautiful story about self empowerment and being able to stand strong in the face of adversity. Not to mention a tale of no regrets, never looking back. Beautiful

[@nyctransmutationcircle.4766]

You guys are awesome!!!! Thanks for the video.

[@heavyshift1]

What a lovely little doc! Being a touring musician i hear their story. Best wishes to them. x

[@assianeu197]

All these stories of women who didn’t have the booming careers they deserved cause the industry was so macho

[@TheMerseySound1]

Neu bornchild The Liverbirds did, but it was on the European continent

[@nicovargas7776]

There was a lot of female groups back then though that were fantastic. Including *gasp* black ones! Maybe it wasn't patriarchy, just others were better. And they had to stop top soon. They did turn down Epstein for manager.

[@ariesred777]

@Laura-Lee Gillion Agree with you.The girls never mentioned anything about writing their own music and lyrics like John and Paul even back then.That would have helped a lot.

[@ariesred777]

@{} Agree

[@jbela]

@Laura-Lee Gillion Yes sexulation today still exists,it's getting old. Feel like a long way to go.Needs to change. I'm a musician and still feel that

[@lesnyk255]

"(our manager) - Brian Epstein!" "Who??" "Brian..... How old are you?" Thank you for this! That made my day.

[@drghdrgh1140]

Haha Like little boy..dont you know your history

[@AserHapi]

The disrespect

[@laurisaarinen1126]

Epstein? Hmm... Related to that other infamous Epstein is he?

[@gavrochethenardier957]

@@AserHapi for who????

[@MattAlexanderMe]

Who is the interviewer that he doesn't know who Brian Epstein is?

[@reneekennedy716]

wonderful story/great documentary! Makes me wish I knew the ladies in their day! Thank you for sharing this!

[@AlexEscalante]

Very touching documentary. Didn't know about them, and I'm glad I saw this, thank you!

[@allysonhanks7367]

Hello Alex how are you doing. I believe you are healthy and also having a nice weather where you are. I want a new friend Ok!

[@kittyythecat]

Wow, this did make me cry. They never got big as the Beatles but had so much heart. The fact that they didn't care if one of their friends was dating another woman. They just wanted her to be happy. It's sad hearing about how women don't have "good" friendships like men. How they aren't "strong" as men's. I think it's wrong to assume gender is related to how strong your friendship will be. Being there for each other and wanting to give happiness to those around them is what made their friendship so strong. Tbh, I don't think those two ever regretted their days. I'm glad about that.

[@davanmani556]

Pink Bunny www.reddit.com/r/OldSchoolCool/comments/8pvtu7/a_lesbian_couple_about_to_kiss_at_a_beatles/

[@channamation]

I love The Liverbirds. They were great musicians. They were the inspiration and backbone to my animation. I created an all-female rock band that takes place in the 60's. I am still working on the story on how they came together. I am glad their story has finally been told.

[@markw999]

While I was watching this I was thinking "this is a film." Good luck.

[@retromodernism1799]

What a story and what a wonderful touching film. Great work Ben & everyone involved in the making.

[@old50Scat]

What a marvellous little documentary. Never heard of them until now . I loved it .

[@lucaslouzada44]

One very humane perspective of how showbiz intersects real life...

[@00000sei]

Hi 2020, I need a Netflix series of this. Thanks future.

[@ZoeyPaigeLunaPhD]

Sarah Fajardo lmao. From your mouth to god’s ears

[@jungwong9411]

I’ve never heard or known of these love ladies until KZbin recommended me this video. This is a one nostalgic, heartwarming, and very powerful story. Thank you for sharing this to us all 🙏🏽

[@teye-master]

Beautiful story! And I love how the girls just did it! I've toured the world with my wife (who's a very talented rock drummer and flamenco percussionist - the cajon) and now our daughter plays the guitar and the piano, and her voice is a gift from heaven. Our son is starting piano. I've had the privilege of working with incredibly talented ladies both musicians and guitar makers. I REALLY enjoyed the story of the Liverbirds, thanks for making and for posting it!

[@ADeoetRegina]

this is so beautiful. i just randomly clicked on it and didn't expect to get this emotional, but it's such an amazing story. true rock legends

[@OddWeird461]

This was so well done. I’m really annoyed that I never knew about them until just now. Much more interesting than the Beatles, imo. Thanks for shining the light on these incredible women.

[@zaphodbeeblebrox655]

These women should have had a better chance to be heard, but the Beatles were amazing.

[@oneaviatiorandminecraft]

Both bands are great imo

[@jordynsimmons1107]

@@paulastiles8873 same

[@middle-aged-mom-discoversstuff]

This was beautiful to watch. Such a wonderful story - even the sad parts.

[@pootle5096]

What a wonderful little film. I'll have to see if there are any clips on youtube now!