Paul McCartney leads tributes as music mogul behind Queen dies (2024)

Tony Bramwell has died aged 78. (Image: Instagram The Beatles)

Legendary music mogul Tony Bramwell, who discovered Queen, has died aged 78.

He died on June 2 following a brief illness. Bramwell, who hailed from Liverpool, was also tour manager of The Beatles, befriending members Sir Paul McCartney, John Lennon and George Harrison.

McCartney, 81, shared an emotional tribute as he described Bramwell as a "good companion" to the band. He wrote: "Sad to hear of the passing of Tony Bramwell. He was a good companion to us through the Beatles journey.

"Always up for a laugh and I’m sorry to see him leave. Thanks Tony. Love ya! From Paul." The Beatles' official Instagram page also honoured the late star, writing: "Tony worked on many NEMS and Apple projects, from music videos to photo shoots, PR and more and will be missed by many friends and colleagues."

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Bramwell discovered iconic rock band Queen (Image: Getty)

Meanwhile, Lennon's sister added: "Tony was the 'man in the know' as he was around for the bulk of the Beatles journey. He will be missed at Beatle Week."

Born in 1946, Bramwell was a childhood friend of Harrison and was even there when McCartney met Lennon for the first time. He went on to become their road manager before carving out a career in his own right, becoming head of Apple Records.

Bramwell's experiences with The Beatles were documented in his 2006 book, Magical Mystery Tours. Quoted in the book, Let it Be hitmaker McCartney said: "If you want to know anything about The Beatles, ask Tony Bramwell. He knows more than I do."

The music manager was influential in creating videos for the band and went on to appear at the end of the All You Need is Love music video.

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Bramwell was close friends with The Beatles (Image: Getty)

After becoming a scout for Brian Epstein, Bramwell aided the discovery of Paul Simon, Queen and Eva Cassidy. In his later years, Bramwell regularly attended Liverpool's iconic International Beatleweek.

The Liverpool Beatles Museum paid tribute to Bramwell, branding him a "lovely man".

The statement said: "Everyone at the Liverpool Beatles Museum- Mathew Street is saddened to hear of the recent passing of Tony Bramwell. He was a lovely man. We enjoyed his company on many occasions. Condolences to his family."