Chas Newby, Former Beatles Bassist, Passes Away at 81 — The Left-Handed Pioneer Before McCartney
Chas Newby, the man who briefly stood in as bassist for The Beatles during their early rise, passed away on May 22, 2023, at the age of 81. While his time with the band was short, his role holds a unique and meaningful place in Beatles history.
In December 1960, Chas Newby played several live performances with the group after their first stint in Hamburg. At the time, Paul McCartney had not yet transitioned to bass guitar, and Newby was brought in to fill the role. What makes his contribution remarkable is that he was the first left-handed bass player to perform with The Beatles—foreshadowing the iconic image that McCartney would later embody.
Though he chose to return to university rather than join the band permanently, Chas Newby Beatles bassist legacy remains a fascinating “what-if” chapter in rock history. Had he stayed, the lineup—and music history—might have looked very different.
Newby went on to lead a quiet life as a mathematics teacher and remained a humble figure, occasionally sharing his memories of those early days with fans and historians. His brief but meaningful connection to one of the most influential bands of all time makes him a beloved figure among Beatles enthusiasts.
He may not have become a household name, but Chas Newby’s place in the Beatles story is secure. He was, quite literally, the left-handed bassist before Paul—a subtle but memorable presence in the formation of a legend.
Rest in peace, Chas Newby.