The Jazz Spy: Pete Goodall’s Double Life in Music and Espionage

Few musicians can say they lived a life like Pete Goodall. His story combines music, adventure, and secrecy. Now, through his new memoir The Jazz Spy, he shares how a simple love for music led him into the world of espionage.

A Liverpool Prodigy Before The Beatles

Pete Goodall was born in 1945 in Merseyside. He showed musical talent early. By age four, he was playing piano. Soon after, he picked up the guitar and joined local groups.
His talent caught the attention of Brian Epstein and Bob Wooler, who noticed him even before The Beatles rose to fame. However, Pete decided to follow his own path rather than chase stardom.

A Musician’s Musician

At eighteen, Pete moved to London. There, he became one of the most respected session guitarists in the city. His precision and ear for tone made him a favorite among top artists such as The Tremeloes, Georgie Fame, Percy Sledge, Thunderclap Newman, and The Foundations.
As a result, he earned the title of “the musician’s musician.”

The Spy Behind the Strings

However, Pete’s story did not end with music. During the Cold War, he was recruited by MI6. His life as a touring musician became the perfect cover for secret missions.
He travelled through South Africa, Eastern Europe, and Berlin, gathering intelligence while performing on stage. His code name soon became The Jazz Spy — a man who used rhythm as disguise.

Creating and Inspiring

After his spy years, Pete returned fully to music. He founded Pandora Music in Stratford-upon-Avon and worked with the Royal Shakespeare Company. He also co-wrote Pick n Tell with Pete Brown, lyricist for Cream.
In addition, he created the exhibition The Birth of The Beatles, featuring rare recordings and talks by John Lennon’s sister Julia. The show continues to tour worldwide.

A New Chapter: NAKUPENDA

Now in his 80s, Pete keeps creating. His new project, NAKUPENDA, which means “I Love You” in Swahili, launches in October 2026 at Brixton Library.
It will combine music, poetry, and art to explore the legacy of slavery and Black creativity. Furthermore, a UK tour and an Edinburgh Fringe performance are already confirmed.

From Memoir to Film

Interest in The Jazz Spy is growing fast. Both UK and US publishers have shown interest, and Pete Phillips of The Young Vic plans to adapt it for screen and radio.