Chas Newby, an early bassist for the Beatles who filled in to play some live shows in the 60s, has passed away aged 81.
Newby was part of John Lennon's original band The Quarrymen and was The Beatles' first left-handed bassist, before Paul McCartney.
Following The Beatles' success in Hamburg, Newby filled in for then-bassist Stuart Sutcliffe when he was unable to play with the band.
Newby would perform in live shows with the iconic band featuring John Lennon, George Harrison, Ringo Starr, and Paul McCartney.
Lennon offered Newby the chance to tour with the band in West Germany but he declined in order to go to University. Sutcliffe rejoined the band before leaving as the four members rose to fame.
The news of Newby's passing was announced by The Cavern Club in Liverpool, where the band famously played and has since become a hotspot for budding musicians.
The club wrote: "It's with great sadness to hear about the passing of Chas Newby. Chas stepped in for The Beatles for a few dates when Stuart Sutcliffe stayed in Hamburg and latterly he played for The Quarrymen. Interestingly, he was also the first left-handed bass guitarist in The Beatles. RIP Chas Newby thoughts and well wishes from everybody at The Cavern Club."
Roag Best, the brother of the former Beatles drummer Pete Best, penned: "Both Pete and I and the whole Best family absolutely devasted to hear the very sad news with regards to one of the families closest friends Chas Newby passing last night.
"Many of you will know him for playing bass guitar for both The Beatles and The Quarrymen, but to us he was laid back Chas with the big smile. We’ll truly miss him. Forever in our thoughts. God bless you Chas."
Fans and colleagues alike have flooded social media with heartfelt tributes for the bassist, as one person wrote: "Very sad to learn the former (temporary) Beatles bass player Chas Newby has passed away. He also played with the re-formed Quarry Men. A wonderful and funny family man who will be missed."
A second penned: "Absolutely gutted to learn from Roag Best that Chas Newby, the Beatles' first left handed bass player, and friend of the Best family for nearly 70 years has passed away. A lovely man, always generous with his time. God bless you, Chas."
A third person added: "RIP Chas Newby, fill-in Beatle and fair chap. He deputised for Stuart on a few dates when the Beatles returned from Hamburg the first time, end-1960, including the momentous Litherland date. Latterly he’s been one of the Quarry Men too. A charming man, always a pleasure to meet."
Newby worked as a mathematics teacher at a high school before rejoining the Quarrymen where he played in the band between 2016 and 2022.
A cause of death is yet to be announced.
Our thoughts are with Newby's family, friends, and fans at this time.
