The Beatles live: Star-Club, Hamburg

Saturday 21 April 1962 | Live

The Beatles performed their eighth night at the Star-Club in Hamburg, Germany, as part of a 48-night residency at the city's newest rock 'n' roll venue.

This was their first of three residencies at the Star-Club in 1962, during which they played a total of 172 hours across seven weeks. Their only night off during this stretch had been the previous day, Good Friday.

The engagement began on 13 April 1962 and would run through to 31 May, with The Beatles departing Hamburg on 2 June.

It marked their third extended Hamburg residency in under two years, following earlier performances at the Indra, the Kaiserkeller, and the Top Ten Club — crucial experiences that continued to refine their sound and stagecraft.

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FAQs

What was the Star-Club?

The Star-Club was a major rock 'n' roll venue in Hamburg, opened in 1962 and quickly becoming one of Europe's most important live music clubs.

How many nights did The Beatles play there in 1962?

They performed a total of 48 nights during this first residency.

How long did this residency last?

Around seven weeks, from 13 April to 31 May 1962.

Did they have any nights off?

Yes — only one, Good Friday (20 April 1962).

Why were the Hamburg residencies important?

These long, demanding engagements helped develop The Beatles into a polished, high-energy live band before their global breakthrough.

More from 21 April in Beatles History

→ 21 April in Beatles History – Full Timeline

→ The Beatles at the Top Ten Club, Hamburg – 21 April 1961

→ The Beatles at the Pigalle Club, London – 21 April 1963

→ 20 April in Beatles History

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