Peter Jackson’s 3-part Beatles docu-series released by Disney is a treat for every Beatles fan, me included. There is enough chatter about it on the web, so I will limit my post to my random observations:
Paul was clearly the most ambitious of the lot and also the mastermind behind a lot of what the Beatles did. His focus, discipline and ability to do hard work, while shepherding the others, can be seen. He also cared about improving each day and making each day have meaning.
Ringo seemed to be the most laid back band member. He would simply do what he was told to do, without debating ideas.
John was vocal about what he thought, sometimes undiplomatic, unlike Paul. When George brought ‘I, Me, Mine’ to the group, John said to him, “Do you know we are a rock and roll band and what kind of songs we write?” Later Paul and Ringo provided their support for the song and it was eventually recorded.
You are a creative genius but your genius is curtailed by those around you. It would be unfulfilling and your only option would be to quit. Especially if you are also the quite one. That was the story of George Harrison.
When you become really good at what you do, life becomes fun. Billy Preston is a living (not literally) example. It was a joy to watch how effortlessly his musicality blends in, and how much fun he seems to be having in the studio.