Update! New Foreword by Olivia Harrison

We’re thrilled to share some extraordinary news as we celebrate a milestone: Artist Pass now includes a brand-new foreword by Olivia Harrison. 

Olivia Harrison’s foreword is the latest chapter in a relationship between Genesis and George Harrison that began in 1980 with the original edition of I Me Mine. That first project marked a turning point for the company and the start of a partnership that has since produced landmark volumes including Songs by George Harrison, Live in Japan, Concert for George, The Traveling Wilburys, and, most recently, Olivia’s own poetry collection, Came The Lightening.

If you've pre-ordered Artist Pass, you’ll be opening a book of lasting significance. Olivia’s introduction offers warmth and personal insight, leading into an unprecedented collection of new essays, interviews and rare, previously unseen material from over 200 contributors – among them George himself, with Dylan, Clapton, Page, Bowie and others whose work has shaped modern music. 

If you've yet to secure your copy, we highly recommend doing so today as we're down to the last 100 copies in this edition.

A Glimpse Into the Foreword

The following excerpt from Olivia Harrison’s new foreword to Artist Pass recalls the warmth and creativity surrounding Genesis’s collaborations with George Harrison – and includes a mention of Derek Taylor, the Beatles’ longtime press officer and close friend… 

Genesis Publications' unofficial headquarters often moved to Friar Park, each time George and Genesis founder, Brian Roylance, produced a book. Strategically located in our kitchen – teacups, elbows, and the continual shuffling of papers, photos and briefcases finally wore smooth patches in the dusty blue chenille tablecloth draped over the Art Nouveau table. 

The first collaboration between them was in 1978. It was the beginning of a long and productive friendship, during which time our children became playmates, teenagers and university graduates. George and Brian shared many interests, and high on that list were trees and gardening. The exchange of trees became their ritual, and today the boughs of those saplings are mature shelters of solace where we can reflect upon those times. 

Meetings always began with laughter and a flurry of conversation. Finally, the simple tape recorder would be positioned near George. His flow of consciousness, recollections would commence. George had an exceptional memory, and he answered Brian's questions with an innocent openness and impressive detail. I avoided interrupting their meetings, but the Harrison, Roylance, and sometimes Taylor threesome, although absorbed in their work, happily rose to greet Dhani and me each time we passed through the kitchen to the garden. 

Olivia Harrison, from her new foreword to Artist Pass. 

Exclusive to this announcement: two previously unpublished portraits of Olivia and George Harrison, captured by Genesis founder Brian Roylance. His photography is due to be featured in the forthcoming edition, Photo Pass.