What was the true reason for Pete Best leaving?

[PennyLane]

Everyone has their own theories about why Pete Best left the band. I am trying to figure out exactly why myself, and any input you beatle fans have would be great! Thanks!

[DIGIT]

I remember reading a long time ago that Pete was considered the best looking member of the band.I don't beleave he left because George Martin didn't think he was a good enough drummer.I think Paul had had enough compitition and wanted Pete ousted.This is just my therory.

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[bearkat77]

Can't remember where I heard or read it; but Pete was ousted for several reasons.
1. He would not change his hairstyle to match the others.
2. He could not keep a steady beat for the songs.
3. John, Paul and George urged Brian to dump Pete for his nonconformity.
4. George Martin didn't consider Pete that good of a drummer.

Any of these reasons may or may not be true. It seems to be one of those never ending points of trivia.

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[Jerry]

Yeah, I've heard George Martin told Brian Epstein that Pete would have to be replaced for session work. When Epstein went to the others with the news, they told him that they were leaning towards replacing Pete already. So that kind of cemented the deal.

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[SleepyHead]

I really think it was an accumulation of things:
Pete didn't conform - at all. He was too shy, too fond of being the "different" one, and reports from others who knew them when suggest Pete didn't go in for the Prellies and other little help-mes the others took from time to time. Also, they had used Ringo before, and there is always a certain something that just clicks when you get with the right people....
I think that's why Pete was replaced.

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[Paperbackwriter]

all i know is that petey wasn't considered by martin to be as good as ringo. something about not wanting to tour and go to germany. or was that sutcliffe, who fell and hurt his head in germany, or maybe epstain was the one that didn't like petey.
forever ///o-o\\\

[Andrea]

Sleepyhead's account pretty much matches my understanding of it, too.

Can I get an English->NorCal translation for "Prellies?" http://www.beatlelinks.net/ubb/smilies/images/icons/confused.gif

[SleepyHead]

Actually, I'm not sure what "prellies" were other than some drug or the other...anybody else know, or want to guess?

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[bearkat77]

"Prellies" were a form of amphetamines (uppers) to keep them going during their long hours performing on stage in Hamburg.

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[beatlemethisbeatlemethat]

i think it was all of these reasons! lol. he might have been kept around only cause his mom owned the club and when they started to become big George Martin didnt like him and so Ringo comes. And he was shy and good looking and probably cpmpetition with Paul. Could you imagine John, Paul, George and Pete! That doesnt sound good =0(