Were The HOLLIES As Good As The BEATLES? A Look At Their 60's Albums

[@vastariner]

My dad was in a band in the sixties - they never got so far as to get anything recorded beyond a demo, but they were on one of those dozen band roadshows. And one night they were on the same bill as the then-unknown Hollies. My dad said, I thought we were good, but the Hollies...they just completely blew everyone off stage without any effort at all. He's been a devoted fan ever since and has seen them dozens of times. It was one of the pleasures in my own life that I was once able to thank Graham Nash in person for the pleasure he's given to my dad over the years. His response? "We were just a bunch of kids doing what we loved." Isn't that what it's all about?

[@Parlogram]

Great story. Thanks for sharing it.

[@timhubbard8895]

Absolutely! That's a great story. My emoji says a lot about me, although older and long in the tooth, I like nothing more than blasting out a number on stage and surprising the youngsters! They finally get it, that we were wreckless youngsters too, once upon a time!

[@drjerry5389]

I have to mention how I came across George Martins oldest son Gregory Martin after listening to a mind-blowing interview with him about how he grew up with the Beatles members and heard stories from his dad George Martin that TOTALLY contradicts the official Beatles narrative. The Shadow of a Bass Player is a book that writes a sad story of a group who were forced into a "package" of a life-style they soon regretted. Gregory Martin also narrated the audio version of Memoires Of Billy Shears, which both Gregory and Giles Martin thought the "Billy Shears books" was a parody but author E U Harriet and co-author Paul McCartney pushes the "Paul is dead" idea in all the 666 pages of the 2 books about "Paul is dead and replaced insanity" on Paul McCartneys own publishing company.

[@childrenofminervaofficial4316]

The Parlophone/Warner/Rhino 2016 LP reissues of Evolution and Butterfly are very well done. Both come as 2 LP sets with mono and stereo versions and if I am not mistaken, are all-analog cuttings. They even replicated the glossy front covers, flipback sleeves (albeit double flipbacks) and "yellow/black" Parlophone labels.

[@mjanovec]

Something I forgot to mention in my previous comment is what a wonderful drummer Bobby Elliot is. He may be my favorite pop group drummer from the 60s, on par with Ringo. He had a knack for really tasteful, yet exciting, fills in the Hollies recordings. His snare drum parts in particular brought a huge energy to the Hollies hit singles. An underrated member of an underrated group.

[@LordFlashheart.11]

Totally agree. He is an awesome drummer and to be honest the Beatles used session drummers at times especially early on. Bobby was far superior than Ringo. Look at some of the hollies live footage on KZbin. Also Hicks was underrated as a lead guitarist..totally idiosyncratic. Great band.

[@JD-eq4dp]

Beatles used session drummers at times ? The only time was when Andy White played on Love Me Do. Everything else was Ringo apart from 3 tracks where McCartney picked up the sticks.

[@Harrisonianne]

​@@JD-eq4dp the thing is that (if you listen to those early Beatles vs Hollies records carefully) Ringo started to do some Bobbys style fills n Rubber Soul and practically all *Revolver* album. I was wondering why but since I knew that Paul McCartney wanted Bobby Elliott to join his wings n 1973 I finally knew what he wanted to do *mystery solved*

[@eddiemiles7676]

Being a born and bred Mancunian. To me, The Hollies have always been 2nd only to the Beatles. Thanks for taking the time to make this excellent video Andrew. Cheers

[@Parlogram]

Thanks for watching, Eddie.

[@NotAnotherWhiteBox]

It's not strictly true that the paths of the Hollies and the Beatles rarely crossed. Even before both bands were big, they often were on the same bill as each other. The Hollies took over the Beatles' residency at the Cavern after they got big, that's how their producer Ron Richards found them. Graham and Allan also wrote the words to 'Misery' down or John Lennon the night before they went to Abbey Road to record it, as John kept forgetting them. The Hollies shared Abbey Road three times during the 'Evolution'/'Sgt. Pepper' sessions, and were the only band who had decent access to what the Beatles were doing, even sharing orchestral session players on one occasion. Graham Nash got an early copy of 'Sgt. Pepper' from Brian Epstein as a result and passed on the recommendation of the Dutch design collective The Fool, who later famously worked on the original paint job for the Apple Boutique. The Fool did the back cover and lettering for the 'Evolution' album [As an aside, they also used photographer Karl Ferris first, who as a result, was sought out by Jimi Hendrix and Donovan to shoot the covers for the US version of 'Are You Experienced' and 'A Gift From A Flower To A Garden' respectively]. Allan Clarke also recalls getting to the studio one day and Paul McCartney was in there running 'Hello Goodbye' through on their piano and asked for Allan's opinion on it. George Harrison was quite friendly with Tony Hicks, who was known for being very matter of factly opinionated, and George Harrison sought Tony out to ask his honest opinion of 'Abbey Road' before it was released. The two of them also lived in the same neighbourhood.

[@moxievision]

Those are some great details, the Hollies certainly made great use of Abbey Road alongside the Beatles. Originating in Manchester, the Hollies were only an hour away from Liverpool, so I would imagine their paths would have crossed quite a bit, and I can see how the members would have felt a kinship, hailing from similar northern cities with similar sensibilities.

[@KarlFerris]

This is absolutely correct information, as I (Karl Ferris) was there in Abbey Road Studios with Graham Nash & Donovan recording 'Evolution' and 'A Gift From A Flower To A Garden', in the other studios there at the same time...And we all visited and hung out together with our friends The Beatles and listened to each other's current tracks...Also we were invited to many events & parties together, such as the 'Technicolor Dream', 'Yellow Submarine', 'The Magical Mystery Tour' & 'A Day In The Life' Wrap party, ect...And if you want to hear more about that very special time & scene, it's all in my new Limited edition Photo book 'The Karl Ferris Psychedelic Experience'...Available Signed by me, from my Icon contact...

[@DOTCoolestreviews]

When you think of Manchester music you CRIMINALLY think of Joy division and Oasis but in my opinion, The Hollies were the grandfathers of Manchester Music. The Hollies are the Hidden 60's great. Thank you parlogram for making this group have a video dedication of their amazing 60's Discography 👍👌🙏😁

[@KieroUnasBotasAGoGo]

@@DOTCoolestreviews think very the same, Tony Hicks alone was the epitome of the Britpop boy looks, so underappreciated and ages before the Beatles he looked that way may I say thank to the fact that The Hollies "didn't have a image" like the Beatles or The Stones - the boy was himself all the time, no rules to follow that's what made him the coolest. In the same league s Steve Marriott of The Small Faces

[@bruceterrell9287]

A sleeper hit that I always loved was When Your Light Turns On. I found it on the flip of a 45 (maybe Dear Eloise) and then on Evolution. It rocked a little harder than they usually did and had great Vox amp jangle and harmony. Can't understand why I don't see it discussed with more passion.

[@CoinOpTV]

Excellent video - big fan of The Hollies!

[@starmanbrinley9936]

Hi Andrew - I love your Beatles work, but I'm seriously *ecstatic* to see you cover the Hollies! So underrated (or dismissed) by most aficionados of this period, but their tight playing, melodies, and soaring voices are way too stellar to be forgotten! I have a giant collection of both LPs and CDs by them, and I can say that for sound quality, the CDs are a mixed bag - the EMI remasters from the 90s and 00s are almost always so treble-heavy that they're unlistenable! However, believe it or not, I've found many budget compilations to be the best - totally warm, balanced, the right amount of brightness on the guitars but a nice deep bass. 1993's "The Best Of The Hollies" is 10 songs (8 hits and 2 B-sides in stereo) from the Nash years on CEMA Special Markets, but it sounds flawless! As does the budget 10-track CD "Super Hits". There are plenty other CDs I highly recommend for both mix and mastering variations (but I'll save that for another time haha!) but I can confirm that the CD "All The Hits & More" sounds great as well! Sound quality aside, for convenience and content, I recommend the three "Complete Hollies" sets that have *all* their content in chronological order from 1963 to 1988! I'd love to know if you've ever heard "Confessions Of The Mind" - their 1970 album which is one of their finest LPs and stylistically is really where their 60s sound ends. Thanks again Andrew and take care!

[@michaelrochester48]

You can always guess the year a photo of the hollies took place by Bobby Elliot hair. It went from receding to wearing a cap, to wearing a hat, to wearing a toupee

[@DoctorInsomnia-qw7us]

Receding, cap, hat, toupee. Makes sense now. Thank you for cracking the code.😂

[@johnp5333]

This got me curious. Will have to give The Hollies a proper listen. Brilliant stuff as always Andrew!

[@Parlogram]

Thanks John - have fun!

[@Townshend90125]

You have no idea how helpful this video was, I was looking into getting into their music and wanted to know how their albums were. This video was a great way to sum up all the albums from 1964-1969.

[@michaelbrooke6326]

Yes, indeed!

[@Authori_tah]

The Hollies are criminally underrated.

[@bobsoldrecords1503]

The Hollies Greatest on American Epic sound's fantastic. I've been told it's the only plàce you can hear eàrly stereo mixes of their older tracks, but I doubt that. It sounds great, nonetheless

[@chrissygerwitz520]

And your ability to use thoughtful and meaningful words is criminally overrated.

[@billtheroux2466]

FAX

[@BoynamedMagnus183]

@@chrissygerwitz520 ?

[@grahampaulkendrick7845]

I always loved the Hollies in the 60s. They were my second favourite band after the Beatles back then.

[@PeasGraveny]

The Hollies were the best vehicle for the splendid sixties-nomenal songwriting skills of G.Gouldman with their perfect harmony vocal blend. I wish they had done a few more of his tunes

[@colin_d_smith]

A fascinating diversion, Andrew. My dad was a Hollies fan. Well, he was a Shadows fan primarily, but if he had to choose between The Beatles and The Hollies, he would have chosen The Hollies. A big revelation to me in recent years was the discovery that possibly my favorite Hollies song, Bus Stop, was written by a young Graham Gouldman, later of 10cc. This is probably not news to anybody watching your content, but I was impressed. Naturally, The Hollies' arrangement--especially those harmonies--put the icing on a great song. I'll have to check out some of the albums you recommend. Thanks!

[@Parlogram]

Glad you enjoyed it, Colin.

[@markmiwurdz202]

I read that Graham Gouldman was only 17 (?) when he wrote "Bus Stop". And he co-wrote "Look Through Any Window" with Charles Silverman. Brilliant tunes!

[@Kmg_24]

I bought a fine copy of 'The Hollies Greatest' for £2.50 a few years ago. I was also very generously given most of their singles, amongst thousands of other 45s, from a family friend. I consider 'Bus Stop' to be one of the best hits of the era. Excellent video, as always.

[@Musicradio77Network]

“Hollies’ Greatest” was their UK album with songs that were US hits on both Imperial and Epic labels during that period. Here in the US “The Hollies’ Greatest Hits” was released in 1973 on the Epic label.

[@Kmg_24]

About $3.50

[@andrewhaddon7689]

Finally,at last the Hollies have an in-depth video.'Look Through Any Window' is a brilliant single with soaring vocals and a catchy guitar riff.Maybe in a future video you will go over Donovan's L.p's from the '60's.

[@alm5693]

I burned a copy of Hollies Greatest Hits for my sister and my teenage niece later referred to "Look Through Any Window" as "that stalker song". Still love it but I haven't heard it the same since.

[@michaelbailey6980]

For me, my favorites were Stop, Stop, Stop, On a Carousel and Bus Stop.

[@theglavine]

One of the first jangle pop & power pop tunes. Awesome!

[@OperationPhantom]

Greatly enjoyed this chronological look at the Hollies 60s album output. I have the "Clarke, Hicks & Nash Years" 6 CD compilation mostly covering this era. It's a mixed bag concerning mono/stereo versions, as well as (re)mastered sources used. It's basically a compilation of a whole lot of earlier released material plus previously unreleased (on CD) material, a lot of it remastered by Peter Mew ("at Abbey Road"). It sounds pretty good overall but the mono/stereo inconsistencies may bother some. If found for a reasonable price (it was a budget release originally) it would be an easy recommendation; the booklet includes an interview with Graham Nash and some nice pictures. It's probably worth mentioning though, that this box set presents the songs in chronological RECORDING order, so any semblance of the original sequencing of the albums is lost. This may bother those familiar with the original albums... A true labour of love mono box would certainly be nice but probably the overall quality of the catalogue and the lack of sufficient demand will prevent this from happening...

[@moxievision]

I have that set as well, found the ordering a bit strange, but I have most of the original albums so I appreciate it as a different way to experience the songs.

[@NotAnotherWhiteBox]

A superb video Andrew, thanks for shedding some light on perhaps the most underrated band of the 1960s! I've been suggesting a mono vinyl boxset for years, but the Hollies aren't interested. They're in a fairly unique position that they own all their own masters as of 'Bus Stop' in mid-1966 onwards, so unless the record company specifically approaches them to collaborate on a release, it's up to them to do it. That infamous mis-management back in the 1960s continues to this day sadly when it comes to their recorded legacy. Their core back catalogue were first overhauled in 1990 and then again in 1999, but left a lot to be desired. Just about all subsequent re-releases stem from those 1999 transfers. The only exception is the 50th anniversary vinyl pressings of 'Evolution' and 'Butterfly' done by Parophone, which are all-analogue transfers with authentic replica sleeves (not quite on the level of the Beatles' mono box) with heavyweight vinyl. 'Hollies Greatest' has never officially been released on CD or reissued after 1978 (which is incredible given the fact that it was number one for six weeks and remained in print for a decade!) and the mono mix of 'Jennifer Eccles' has never been re-released anywhere other than that LP and the original single.

[@LindyL1964]

Enjoyed this review. Idk about all the comparisons and such, but I do know I love The Hollies music!! They’re my favorite!! ❤

[@Parlogram]

Thanks for watching!

[@jduff59]

Bobby was a hell of a good drummer and their first bassist Eric was on the same high level. Tony is a very fine guitarist, but very restrained, and their harmonies were more crisp and clean than the other beat groups. What they didn't have was a songwriting team om par with Lennon/Mac. I think they were on top of the 2nd level, just behind The Beatles, Stones and The Rutles.

[@sproutstanding]

I'm with you all the way on your analysis of The Hollies albums Andrew. It shouldn't be forgotten that their wonderful (best ever in my opinion) track Wings shared vinyl with The Beatles original version of Across The Universe on the No one's Gonna Change Our World charity album (for many years the only source of both tracks)

[@Parlogram]

Agreed. 'Wings' was definitely one of their best.

[@Sp33gan]

Thank you, Andrew! I've always thought The Hollies to be an underrated band and almost forgotten as so many have been. Their harmonies were incredibly tight and very distinctive and they recorded a host of wonderful tracks that go much deeper than just the hit singles. That said, if compared to The Beatles, they don't stand up as well. In all honesty, precious few could. I was lucky enough to pick up copies of their earliest albums re-issued on the Beat Goes On label, based in Suffolk. The quality seems strong and I enjoy almost every track on its own merits. Upon listening to them again, I do find they remained in the cover band style for a lot longer than their contemporaries did, not graduating to fully embracing the rapid changes Rock and Pop were going through at the time. Had they not recognised the need for growth they'd have surely gone the way of Gerry and the Pacemakers, Billy J Kramer with the Dakotas, and Freddie and the Dreamers. Even Dave Clark failed to acknowledge the changes in music and the DC5 lost ground with every passing year. While my copies of the early Hollies albums aren't originals, I do still love to play them as they contain a large number of gems that make for strong album cuts.

[@musicobsessive56]

Loved this. The Hollies were the soundtrack to my childhood with the obligatory single every 3 months for year after year. I have just procured a mono copy of the 1968 greatest hits collection in pristine condition and it sounds fabulous. One of the best purchases I've made in a long time.

[@Parlogram]

Congratulations & enjoy!

[@AppleCorp3]

The Music for Pleasure label might be another fun diversion from The Beatles. They had some interesting compilations and cover variations of reissues!

[@FD13NYC]

I’ve always loved the The Hollies. Evolution and Butterfly are my two favorites. Excellent LP’s, I’d love to see a mono box set as well.

[@sergeipelissier5690]

@FD13NYC There is a mono CD box, but stereo mixes are awesome!

[@childrenofminervaofficial4316]

@FD13NYC, I totally agree with you regarding Evolution and Butterfly. Both are amazing albums and along with For Certain Because, the three Hollies albums everyone should own.

[@orbtastic]

Yeah, probably the two best LPs. I'd be over that mono boxset like a tramp on chips. I have four different CD boxsets. To me, they always seemed (in retrospect) a group with a bit of an identity crisis. Reading Nash's autobio you can sort of see why, he had aspirations of things that his bandmates did not. Probably summed up by him smoking weed and his bandmates turning their nose up and sticking to their beer. Of course, we all know where he ended up after leaving the band.

[@childrenofminervaofficial4316]

@@orbtastic what might be keeping a mono LP box set from happening is that all the Hollies albums up to For Certain Because.... are owned outright by Warner Music. Everything after that is owned by the Hollies who license the material to Warner. There might be some legal and licensing issues which would be a stumbling block. I hope a mono box becomes a reality.

[@orbtastic]

@@childrenofminervaofficial4316 yeah can’t say I understand licensing these days. Rhino seem to pump out those box sets but I think the two I have are on Warner (Albeit the second has a parlophone logo too)

[@mjanovec]

I think you hit the nail on the head with For Certain Because, Evolution, Butterfly, and the Greatest Hits compilation. Those are the four that one really needs for their collection. After Nash left, they kind of lost me... though they still had some good singles. It's a shame their CD reissues are somewhat spotty. The Nash era has some CDs that nicely represent both the mono and stereo albums (smartly putting the mono mixes first)... but it seems like many of the CDs were a bit heavy on the noise reduction. They sound a bit suffocated. While I'd love a mono LP box set, I'd also settle for a well mastered mono CD box set.

[@Musicradio77Network]

“Hollies Sings Hollies” was a UK album from 1969 that includes many of the songs that were later released on a US album “He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother” later that year which includes the title song which was released as a single in the UK, not on the UK album, but on a US release. The albums “Evolution” and “Butterfly” were released in the UK only, but never got any US releases, because the Hollies switched labels from Imperial to Epic in 1967 and songs from both “Evolution” and “Butterfly” were ended releasing them in the US as singles.

[@bryanpalmer9660]

Good to see the Hollies albums given a more balanced review-part liked their LP In the Hollies Style which I felt was unjustly overlooked considering it had some strong orig comp on it(to you my love,Come on home,) in my view,lack of album success could be attributed to (a)lack of strong orig comp and (b) their lack of strong image unlike Beatles,Rolling Stones,etc despite this their LPs were always good value thanks for the post Auckland New Zealand 2021

[@Parlogram]

Thanks for watching, Bryan.

[@mbvideoselection]

Thank you Andrew for giving "The Group Standing In The Beatles' Shadow" their due reverence at last. It happens far too rarely as you say. Yes, they took longer to develop, but any comparison with the Beatles "machine" is instantly unfair as I know you know but many people looking back with hindsight don't realise, not knowing how many barriers there were to breaking the mould back then.

[@professorhamamoto]

Bobby Elliot ranks among the top ten pop/rock drummers. We already recognize the genius of Alan Clarke and Graham Nash.

[@nrod66]

Well, Andrew, I have all of their albums in my collection, but my favourite is Butterfly. That´s a great album no doubt about it. Would like to see you posting other videos like that, about other sixties bands. Cheers, Nelio.

[@alm5693]

Thank you! The Stop Stop Stop album (the US version of For Certain Because) was the first stereo album I ever bought (the mono was out of stock). I've loved them since the mid-60's but their late 70's records got a lot harder to love. For Certain and Evolution are my favorites. Romany is an unusual and lovely record made when Allan Clarke was out of the band for a while and they replaced him with a Swedish singer (Mikael Rickfors) who's style was completely different. The Hollies recorded a second album with Rickfors that was only released in Germany.

[@Draganism]

It is interesting that when you were talking about The Hollies, I'd heard of them, but I couldn't think of one song that I knew of theirs although I know every Beatles' song. With your comparison with the Beatles I decided to chase up some of their content on KZbin and was blown away. I knew heaps of their music and a lot of it would be amongst my favourite songs. Wow. Lost gems. Thank you for motivating me to follow up this music again. I'll certainly never dismiss The Hollies again. Have you listened to the "the Australian Beatles", The Easybeats? Some great content there too mate!!! Great video content.

[@Parlogram]

Many thanks, Jeff.

[@eldiablo8580]

Thank you for this excellent video Andrew. I absolutely fell in love with the Hollies a few years ago and never realised how many diverse styles they went through in their career. I'm a Beatle fan first and foremost, but I'm of the opinion that the Hollies 3 part harmonies are better and more distinctive than the Fab Four. Interesting to know that Tony Hicks was who Paul McCartney gave an acetate of Abbey Road to guage his opinion, (he said it was as good, if not, better than Pepper) and as a Neighbour of George at Henley-on-Thames, Paul Hicks has been lifelong friends with Dhani Harrison, so no wonder he got the job of remastering ATMP50. Cheerio

[@moondogaudiojones1146]

The Hollies stereo US box set would be nice, too. I’m glad you’re a fan of the Hollies. They were a great band, albeit, sadly represented in the UK as comparatively so, in the US. I loved ‘em!

[@louisbonilla6780]

I love The Hollies and enjoy back to back with The Beatles in release sequence beginning in 1963 with "STAY" - Good work Andrew!

[@56dinosaur]

"Little Lover" was, even in 1964, an old outtake. It features early drummer Don Rathbone.

[@rolandbogush2594]

Fascinating video as always - thank you! I always remember thinking of the Hollies as being kind of Second Division compared to the Beatles, Stones & Who. I thought their version of Frankie Valli's 'Stay' was excellent. I just checked out Hollies Sing Dylan, and I think a lot of other people did Dylan much better....

[@Transterra55]

Fantastic coverage of an underrated group….

[@Parlogram]

Many thanks!

[@chickenvasquez78]

The Hollies are one of the kind the coolest MerseyBeat (or Manchester-Beat) group. ❤

[@48musicfan]

Really enjoyed this look at the Hollies’ 60s catalog. I would love to also hear your take on the Stones’ 60s output. Already looking forward to what you have planned for next week.

[@Parlogram]

Noted, Roger. Thanks for watching this one.

[@48musicfan]

Just thought you also might like to tackle the Who’s UK albums. I know I would.😃

[@nandokinks]

Wooow... great video, my friend!!! Thanks to you I got some great stunning copies of 60's Hollies albums!!!

[@Parlogram]

Glad you enjoyed it, my friend!

[@SQDLVR]

Hey Andrew. Can you do a video of the American Hollies album. Thanks handsome man!

[@AndalusiaGBSpringthorpe6227]

The Hollies are my favourite British band, the band I would have followed if I had been old enough to truly experience the 1960's. They're a sort of British Beach Boys, lush harmonies, great guitars & total underestimation by the general populace, just like The Beach Boys.

[@patrickblau558]

Can you make more The Hollies Videos ?

[@glen-scott]

Thanks for the heads up about The Hollies Greatest (mono version). I picked up a copy from my local record store today and it sounds wonderful!

[@swansong007]

I think Graham Nash leaving was a turmoil the Remainder of the Hollies never really got over. Plus his unique voice could never be replaced.

[@gregoryirwin263]

Several years ago the last two hollies albums with nash were released on vinyl featuring both mono and stereo versions in a double LP both sound fantastic the covers are also done really well definitely worth checking out

[@russellthechemist8291]

I have both of those. They were ridiculously good value at about £20 each for 2 LP's per set. Great Sound Quality.

[@Seej1982]

I have the Butterfly pressing. Sounds good (regardless of what the vaguely hinted source may be), but the mono LP has far too much deadwax for my liking.

[@Seej1982]

@QuadRaSphere Records and Radio I'm sure it sounds great. It's on my wishyouawishlist 😉

[@childrenofminervaofficial4316]

I concur. Those reissues are amazing and were done with great love and care.

[@ianhughes9928]

Excellent appraisal of the Hollies 60's albums Andrew.Really enjoyed it,Ian

[@Parlogram]

Glad you enjoyed it, Ian.

[@LolliPop2000]

Thanks for this informative video! As an American in the 60s, I didn't know anything about the Hollies, until the media told me Crosby Stills & Nash was a "supergroup" because Nash had been in something called The Hollies. Now I can see why, and I'll have to check out their 60s material!

[@beatlemania2006]

Awesome video! I've been a fan of the Hollies since I listened to one of the many, MANY compilations on cassette. There was a time when I did collect all their albums if possible. I do think the Butterfly album is their best album.

[@Parlogram]

Glad you enjoyed it, Todd.

[@moondogaudiojones1146]

Being from the States, it was hard comparing the Hollies with anyone we were hearing at the time. It definitely was the US versions of adding singles and Lp tracks that kept them going for us (maybe just me). When I heard the British versions I was aghast! It was stepping into the past considering what was going on. Those singles were brilliant, here, but the UK Lp’s lacked genius that would show up a few years later...more on this😂🍷

[@goodiesguy]

Fantastic to see The Hollies get appreciation. Have you thought of doing some videos of Cliff and the Shads early albums? They're vastly underrated and have some fantastic, hard driving British rock and roll, especially the 1960 LP 'Me and My Shadows.

[@OlavARod]

Now I really need to start listen to the hollies. They have always just been in the back of my mind. Sure, when I see one of their albums, I look at it, but I don’t buy it for some reason… I am 99% sure that I will LOVE them, so don’t really know why I haven’t given them a proper chance. I will mow though!! Thank you for making this wonderful, magnificent video. I learned A LOT. :)

[@Parlogram]

Have fun listening to them, Olav. You won't be disappointed.

[@OlavARod]

@@Parlogram thanks! :)

[@retronostalgiafan8635]

Great video Andrew! I also just listened to butterfly and realized how good of an album they had at a brief time. As a pre teen, the first two hollies songs I listen to was listen to me and stay

[@danielreichberg9860]

Thanks for this run-through. I get the urge for Butterfly immediately.

[@TheWalrusWasDanny]

I've been covering Hollies b-sides (singing them with tutorials on YT) and had a revisit of yer vid...thanks for the advice on FCB/Butterfly and Evolution!! I'll get to them!! LOL!!

[@mars7934]

My Dad always liked The Hollies and often played his 20 Golden Greats cassette in the car when I was young so their music always reminds me of him. Great songs and great singles band. I always thought Tony Hicks was a very good guitar player and quite similar to Harrison on those earlier hits.

[@grahampaulkendrick7845]

Bobby Elliott was a great drummer too!

[@alfman5567]

@@grahampaulkendrick7845 Hi Paul! Yes. Bobby is an absolut great drummer. Bobby must not make a show on the drums. Anytime Bruce Springsteen was angry about his drummer and told him: Play this part like the drummer from The Hollies. Bobby have the best TIMING from nearly all aroud drummers and that`s it. This is the point. Bobby is one of the most underrated drummers on earth.

[@alfman5567]

Mars79. In the 60th Tony Hicks was the best Guy on the guitar from the North Of England. It`s so - George Harrison was so good as Tony Hicks was.

[@mars7934]

@@alfman5567 I never said Harrison was as good as Hicks I said similar as in terms of style. Very melodic players and lyrical solos and licks. And yes GPK Bobby was and still is a great drummer.

[@markmiwurdz202]

@Graham Paul Kendrick. Don't forget the other guy in The Hollies' rhythm section - Eric Haydock (RIP). Have you ever noticed that Eric played a six-string electric bass (with vibrato bar)? And long before even a five-string bass was fashionable! Do you remember when the band appeared on "Blue Peter" all those years ago? I think it was John Noakes dog Shep who took a liking to Tony Hicks' trousers and tried to take a bite out of them! One thing you could not fault with The Hollies was the superb vocal harmonies of Graham Nash and Allan (Albert) Clarke, with Tony Hicks where needed. Plus the contribution from Ron Richards in the recording studio. A big thank you to all the boys in all the line-ups for the great music of The Hollies. Stay safe and well.

[@timbradley135]

Great episode! I was a major Hollies fan back in my ill-spent youth. Too bad you couldn’t include some of the music - copyright issues? I thought it was kind of a rule that UK record companies didn’t include hit singles on their albums for a long time.

[@childrenofminervaofficial4316]

Regarding not having singles on albums, not all bands followed that rule. The Kinks are a good example of that.

[@stevelang6727]

Interesting video as ever....I have never really checked out The Hollies, beyond an awareness of 1 or 2 of their hits. Will have to investigate further now!

[@Parlogram]

Have fun, Steve!

[@elvisspringsteen72]

Really enjoyed this diversion into The Hollies. I’m a big fan. Saw Graham Nash on his most recent UK tour. He opened with Bus Stop. Well worth checking out his album This Path Tonight.

[@Parlogram]

Glad you enjoyed it, Mark.

[@leesharra1413]

Great video, thanks. I've never been much of a Hollies fan other than knowing Stay and Bus Stop. I will have to check out the Nash driven Evolution and Butterfly from 1967. Hard to believe that the band gave Graham Nash so much grief about doing "Marrakesh Express" that he fell upwards to CSN(&Y).

[@stanleykostrzewski7222]

Very entertaining , thanks for that . My first album ever was "Hollies Sing Hollies" , great album , I still have it and play it on a regular basis . Nash was a big loss , I have been fortunate to see his solo tour in Manchester a couple of times , excellent.

[@Parlogram]

Glad you enjoyed it, Stanley.

[@peatmoss3753]

I think a strong comparison point for For Certain Because... would be the Rolling Stones' landmark Aftermath album. Both came out in 1966 and marked a departure from rock 'n' roll covers into more varied styles and all original material. I have a UK mono copy of Hollies' Greatest on the way to replace my tinny Epic Hollies Greatest Hits from 1973. Thanks for the outstanding content as usual!

[@Parlogram]

Thanks for watching, Peat!

[@alm5693]

Has anyone heard the Sundazed versions of the first four US Hollies albums in mono? I've had issues with QC on Sundazed pressings/delivery in the past.

[@michaellennon13]

You mentioned the Hollies before, in the unboxing video, but forgot to give them a go. I'll definitely check this time. Btw, I introduced you to my mum today. We watched together many of your videos 😁 . It's just... too much info in every one. I find it struggling to remember all you said even at the moment the video ends. Hahaha. So, yeah, I have to go back and rewatch most of the times. I'm not complaining by any way. Luckily, I've never felt boring while rewatching. You keep me hooked 🙃

[@Parlogram]

Do check them out, Michael. You won't be disappointed. Keep watching the videos and 'Hi' to your mum.

[@shelleylyme6402]

Big thanks for a terrific, informative review 👍

[@Parlogram]

Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it 👍

[@melonmaniac]

Very good presentation, keep the variety going.

[@Parlogram]

Thanks, will do!

[@ashlarhogmany]

How lovely to feature The Hollies. I am a bit of a fan of the band as well as The Beatles. I am mainly a singles collector of The Hollies, got just one album which is the greatest hits from 1968. It features the yellow Parolophone lettering in stereo. I love the mix of Yes I Will. Was that version on the mono record? I have seen them in concert aswell in Torquay many years ago when Allan Clarke was lead singer sadly now retired. A great band, thanks for doing the video. Any chance of covering the very rare Billy Fury revival on Parlophone in the late 60s? I have one single from that era, Beyond a Shadow of a Doubt, none charted and worth a pretty penny

[@mraverage17]

Thank you Andrew, have always loved them and great of you to run through their back catalogue as I have only ever had 20 Golden Greats which was an early purchase on CD but, still long after the Red album in cassette! So why is it a power station, is meant to make us think of Manchester?

[@nickwebb9290]

It’s nice you’ve given The Hollies an airing on your channel, thanks it was a good move 👍

[@Parlogram]

Glad you enjoyed it, Nick.

[@MSMediaRotterdam]

Especially the later Hollies' sixties songs are my favorites. But a lot of people have forgotten 'Wiggle That Wotsit' (1976), being a good one too! Thanks for posting.

[@toucan221]

Yes I certainly enjoyed this diversion, to do this occasionally would be a good Thing, my favourite holly song is The Air That I breathe- simply brilliant 😀😀😍😎

[@fanbladeinstruments]

You don't need to apologize for putting out something non-Beatles related, the people who enjoy the minutia of Beatles trivia also enjoy learning about other bands too. A great informative video, thank you for what you do.

[@Parlogram]

Thanks for that!

[@timhubbard8895]

Although I'm into my Beatles in a big way, I have a very nice early yellow Parlophone Stereo copy of the 1968 "Hollies Greatest" album. It's in virtually mint condition and the excellent EMI stereo recording that they did at Abbey Road in the 60's proved the point that those exacting white lab coated sound engineers where really onto something. The sound on some of those early stereo EMI albums in my opinion could even be described as beautiful! A real snapshot in excellent magnetic tape recording technology.

[@jamesstvincent]

Excellent. 👏👏👏 The Hollies are criminally underrated, especially in The States. I would love to see a similar video about The Kinks…

[@Parlogram]

Thanks for watching, James and for an excellent suggestion.

[@KieroUnasBotasAGoGo]

You must be aware how close and similar was their career path to the Hollies, even though Ray Davies claimed that he was very impressed by the way how The Hollies were always PRO and such a tight band as he and The Kinks were rising to fame, early days and how they encouraged them to keep on making music. that was why Graham Nash was chosen to be their R&RHOF induction speech er

[@bobsoldrecords1503]

Hollies Sing Dylan was given to me as a birthday present in 1972. One of my favourite albums of all time

[@joelcrowservo]

“King Midas in Reverse” is as brilliant as (almost) any other 45 released in 1967. How it wasn’t a gigantic smash I have no idea. At least Graham didn’t give up on it and continued performing it with CSN&Y. As an aside, my true favorite Hollies track will always be their version of “Peggy Sue Got Married” with Buddy Holly himself. If you’ve never heard it, folks, track it down!

[@briandoherty3364]

Super video- really interesting. Do you ever stray into the Dylan mono vinyl stuff? Anyway- thanks again- really good as always!

[@bvfgfvbgch4853]

This is a great video. Im only just getting into them. So far I have evolution and butterfly.

[@oren587]

Thank you. This was very interesting and eye openning.

[@Parlogram]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@patrickmoore7506]

A fewnotes worth mentioning: * "In the Hollies' Style" was never issued in the US in any capacity. * "Hollies" (1965) was reissued in the UK in stereo as Starline SRS 5008 in 1969. * "Would You Believe" was reissued in stereo on MFP as "I Can't Let Go" in 1974 * "For Certain Because", was reissued in the UK in stereo as Starline SRS 5088 in 1971. It was issued in the US with the title "Stop Stop Stop" in 1966, and the only Hollies album on Imperial to be 100% true stereo. In general, the Imperial albums use a lot of fake stereo and "processing" Speaking of "Butterfly", there are several versions of the album worth seeking out: the West German Hansa issue, the US Epic mono and stereo versions of the "Dear Eloise/King Midas In Reverse" album, and the UK mono. When Sundazed Records reissued this album (using the UK track lineup) in the US on CD in 1998, they used the UK stereo master. In 1978, EMI reissued "Evolution", "Butterfly", Hollies Sing Dylan", and "Confessions Of The Mind", with "Butterfly" and "Confessions Of The Mind" with new cover artwork. As far as the UA "Very Best Of" goes... the 1967 "Greatest Hits" on Imperial is far worse. That's why I got the UK Parlophone issue in 1988. Another album worth investigating is the Hansa "Greatest Hits" LP from 1968. That album features not just hits, but also B-sides (including a version of "Blowin' In The Wind" recorded just prior to Graham's departure), all in true stereo.

[@Parlogram]

Great info, Patrick. Many thanks!

[@moxievision]

Weirdly, we did get In the Hollies Style in Canada, with slightly altered artwork, as part of Capitol's "6000 Series" which issued a number of unique releases by UK beat groups like the Dave Clark Five, the Hollies and even three uniquely Canadian Beatles LPs. I kinda like how the Canadian version of Stop Stop Stop uses the US title but the UK artwork. Usually the releases were unique because they were on Epic in the States (like the Dave Clark Five), but that's a weird one where they merged US and UK versions. (Like Kinks Kontroversy, which has the US cover art from Reprise, but is on the Canadian Pye label.)

[@KieroUnasBotasAGoGo]

Good spot on Hansa's Hollies' Greatest (! Something to add - that album features "Like Every time Before" an exclusive Germany/Sweden B-side and of course, one of those B-side which could have worked better as an A-side.

[@NLKINK]

I used to have a cheap MFP musiccassette of the compilation album Long Cool Woman In A Black Dress. The carddoard cover was something special as it was more or less wrapped around the case holding the musiccassette. The Hollies were very succesful in The Netherlands during the sixties, but their succes continued wel into the seventies, the era in which I discovered rock and popmusic. I even remember a Dutch television special around 1974-1975 about them where some members were interviewed and songs were played.

[@Bruce15485]

Always been a big fan of The Hollies. I have many of their albums and seen them live in concert. One of my favourite albums of the Hollies is "Hollies" released in 1974.

[@albertguder6605]

I always loved the Hollies and for certain because,evolution and butterfly are indeed fantastic albums.the German 1967 issue on Hansa has a much longer version of Elevated observation

[@peterx1957]

Hi Andrew thanks for this interesting video. Seems that the Hollies didn't get the same respect as The Beatles in the studio. Interesting how EMI could treat 2 recording groups in remarkably different ways. I wonder how they'd have fared under Sir George Martin? I'm somewhat shocked that all of these albums were deleted from catalogue. However, fortunately they were all collected together on a very good 6 CD set called "The Clarke, Hicks, Nash Years - The Complete Hollies April 1963 to October 1968". It's contains digital remasters from the late 1990's but this comp was issued in 2011. Your non-Beatles videos are always fascinating. I look forward to seeing more. Cheers mate 😊👍

[@Parlogram]

Cheers Peter!

[@chriscampanozzi6516]

Very cool. Thanks for the great work.

[@Parlogram]

Thanks for watching, Chris.

[@TheWalrusWasDanny]

Great video...TY!! Danny

[@andygaines9686]

66 to 69 a is great run of albums!! thanks! I really like the US versions of the earlier albums!

[@alexnejako777]

...they are very listenable and even had a hit in 81 with the cover of Stop in the name of love

[@sabbathbloodysabbath3351]

Which compact disc releases would you recommend for their 60s studio albums? A mono box sounds great, hopefully they will eventually release it on both vinyl and CD

[@harvey1954]

"When Your Lights Turned On" should have been released as an A-side. In America it was left off their albums and could only be found as a B-side to "King Midas" which sunk like a stone in the USA>

[@KieroUnasBotasAGoGo]

OMG YES all those garage-like sounding Hollies songs easily would have made it into the charts in the US totally agree. I know (from Bobby Elliott's memoir) that they got suggested to turn into a music style close to *The Association* but they didn't dig that much the idea lol😂

[@brenthooton3412]

Interesting to see these album covers and compare them against what Parlophone was issuing on the earlier Beatles covers. The same 1963 Parlophone logo, the white tab at the top, the same "mono" type, similar formatting for the rear cover notes and track listing... We gripe about Capitol adjusting the track listing on Beatles albums, but that seems to have been a common thing for American issues of British albums... you mention the Hollies here, and the Stones, the Who, the Kinks, the Moody Blues... even Are You Experienced as late as 1967... others?

[@emilchimeev]

Could you please do The Searchers video? They’ve been great back in the day

[@cheffrey82]

Interesting video! I've not paid much attention to the Hollies before so I will have to check them out. IMO, the biggest rivals to the Beatles weren't the Stones (as great as they were), but the Kinks. Ray Davies was every bit as good as Lennon or McCartney when it came to writing classic songs. Would love to hear your thoughts on the Kinks too!

[@mrmojorisin2595]

I never got into The Hollies, sold off my UK 1st pressings of Would You Believe? + Evolution, it must be 10 years ago now. But maybe i should give them another chanse =) Btw, you should do some Beatles episodes where you focus on Scandinavian pressings, that would be very interesting indeed! =) Cheers

[@krizcapricornstar9131]

There is also the curio the "After The Fox" soundtrack Album 1966. A mediocre Peter Sellers comedy, where they sang the title song. The complete Album is on KZbin for those interested. It's quite a good soundtrack in my opinion.

[@orbyfan]

The movie was mediocre, but contained a very funny performance by Victor Mature. The title song is catchy.

[@krizcapricornstar9131]

@@orbyfan Yes, I agree it was a brilliant self-parody and I like Victor Mature. He was in some amazing Film Noir classics. In all fairness "After The Fox" did contain some good gags, the scene in the trial where a pretentious film critic praises the crazy movie they made. That was very funny. However, it's not a great film in my opinion. Yes, I liked the theme music.

[@charliemaguire2210]

Hi Andrew, Henry here, great video again thks for posting. I also love the Hollies although it's a bit of a stretch for me to say they rival the Beatles ( Gramophone in 1967 called Evolution , unkindly, " Corporal Pepper " }. You are spot on about Lennon, in his brilliant Bob Harris interview he mentions his " Lennon slams Hollies " in a way that says it was more about him than them ( opps Bob look i did it again " its about me - again " ) However - & i am not 100% on this - I think Ron Richards was at the helm only for the first Beatles session with Pete Best at EMI which probably gave the group the excuse to have Pete Best fired & Ringo hired, & indirectly led to Andy White being hired for the first single recording proper because either nobody at EMI had any idea how the new drummer would perform or or even if there was an actual drummer change. In the end I believe it was GM who produced the single not Ron but as we know, two versions exist with both Ringo & Andy, Ringo on the 45 & Andy on the LP. The upset this probable misunderstanding caused to Ringo remained a source of regret to GM until his passing. With regard to the Hollies, the more adventurous direction pushed by Graham was indeed resisted by Ron but he reluctantly gave it a stab ( as the previously more adventurous Stop Stop Stop & On a Carousel had been successful ) but the poor sales of both Evolution & Butterfly & the relatively poor performance ( for them ) of the BRILLIANT King Midas - plus the lukewarm reception to recording Marrakesh Express meant that when he took that car journey with Cass Elliot to see Crosby his life would change forever & his Hollies days numbered. As Mickie Most once said to Tony Hicks, I think in relation to Midas, that, aside from the Beatles, everybody has their place on the dart board, & it's best not to stray too far off that place. It was a warning to the Curious as MJ James might say. One final thing, there is their 1969 budget Starline LP " Reflections " which is where you can find the stereo mixes for the Hollies 1965 self titled LP, & there is of course " Wings " which appears on the famous " Change our World " 69 Starline LP. Cheers mate ! Not arf !

[@Parlogram]

Nice one, Henry!

[@charliemaguire2210]

typo " M R James "

[@this_is_angel74]

Love The Hollies! Great harmonies, excellent material. The fact that they covered Judee Sill is proof of their strength in interpretation. Just scored a used US Hollies hits on the Epic label