Show Topic: The Beatles Spotlight – Liverpool, Legendary Collections & Inside the Recording Studio

This Thursday, July 23rd, 2026, we’re dedicating another special edition of The Beatles Spotlight to the music and remarkable legacy of the Fab Four. Throughout the program, you’ll hear nothing but Beatles classics as we continue exploring the people, places, and stories that made John, Paul, George, and Ringo the most influential band in music history.

This week’s guests offer unique perspectives on every stage of the Beatles’ incredible journey. We’ll travel back to Liverpool to discover the city’s rich Beatles heritage, visit one of the world’s finest Beatles museums, learn about a tribute band dedicated to preserving every corner of the Beatles’ catalogue, and step inside Abbey Road Studios to uncover the recording techniques and musical innovations that forever changed popular music.

We’ll also take an in-depth look at Recording the Beatles, the definitive study of the group’s studio sessions, and explore George Martin: The Scores, the landmark publication that reproduces Sir George Martin’s original handwritten orchestral scores and reveals the creative brilliance behind many of the Beatles’ greatest recordings. It’s a fascinating look at how innovation, musicianship, and collaboration combined to create timeless music.

Whether you’re fascinated by Liverpool history, rare Beatles memorabilia, the band’s recording sessions, or simply love the music of the Fab Four, this promises to be another unforgettable Beatles celebration. Mark your calendars and join us for this special edition of The Beatles Spotlight. Don’t miss it!

Guest(s) for our show:

Date: Thursday, July 23rd, 2026

🎤 Mike & Bernadette Byrne

Mike and Bernadette Byrne are the founders of The Beatles Story, the world-famous Beatles attraction located at Liverpool’s Royal Albert Dock. Since opening in May 1990, the museum has welcomed millions of Beatles fans from around the globe and has become one of Liverpool’s premier destinations.

Mike was a Merseybeat musician and knew members of the Beatles during their early years, while Bernadette was a regular at the Cavern Club and developed a close friendship with the band, including dating George Harrison in the early 1960s.

They’ll share personal memories of Liverpool, Beatlemania, and the creation of one of the world’s greatest Beatles attractions.

🏛️ Harlen Brown

Harlen Brown is the curator of the Penny Lane Beatles Museum, home to more than 1,600 Beatles artifacts collected over four decades. His remarkable collection preserves the history and legacy of the Fab Four through rare memorabilia and unique historical pieces.

We’ll discuss the museum’s exciting reopening in St. Petersburg, Florida, this August and hear some of the fascinating stories behind the collection.

https://pennylanebeatlesmuseum.com/

🎸 Apple Jam

Formed in Seattle in 2005, Apple Jam has earned a reputation as one of America’s premier Beatles tribute bands. Rather than relying on costumes or impersonations, the group focuses on faithfully recreating the Beatles’ music with exceptional musicianship.

The band is especially celebrated for performing deep album cuts, solo recordings, rare material, and songs written by the Beatles but never officially released, giving audiences a fresh appreciation of the Fab Four’s remarkable catalogue.

https://applejamband.com/home

🎼 Brian Kehew

Musician, producer, historian, and author Brian Kehew returns to the program to continue our conversation about the Beatles’ revolutionary recording techniques.

As co-author of the acclaimed Recording the Beatles, Brian has spent years researching every aspect of the band’s work at Abbey Road Studios.

We’ll explore the recording equipment used during the Beatles’ sessions—including microphones, mixing consoles, tape machines, speakers, and outboard gear—and discuss George Martin: The Scores, the extraordinary collection of Sir George Martin’s handwritten musical scores and archives that offers an unprecedented insight into the work of the Beatles’ legendary producer.

Show Topic: The Beatles Spotlight – From Liverpool to the Recording Studio

This Monday, July 20th, 2026, we’re devoting the entire show to the music and remarkable legacy of The Beatles. Throughout the program, we’ll feature classics from every era of the Fab Four’s extraordinary career while exploring the stories, people, and places that helped shape the world’s most influential band.

From their beginnings in Liverpool to their groundbreaking studio recordings, this episode offers a fascinating look at the history behind the music.

Joining me is an outstanding panel of Beatles historians, authors, researchers, and recording experts. We’ll visit the historic streets of Liverpool where the Beatles began, examine Beatlemania’s lasting impact in Canada, explore fascinating “what if” moments that could have changed music history, and take an in-depth look at George Martin: The Scores—the extraordinary three-volume collection that opens the door to George Martin’s original handwritten arrangements and offers an unprecedented glimpse into the musical genius behind the Beatles’ recordings.

We’ll also discuss the Quarrymen, the Beatles’ impact on Canada during the height of Beatlemania, the group’s timeless recordings, and the meticulous musical arrangements that helped redefine popular music.

Whether you’re interested in Beatles history, songwriting, recording techniques, or the cultural impact of the Fab Four, this episode offers something for every Beatles fan.

From Penny Lane to Abbey Road, and from Liverpool to the recording studio, this program celebrates the music, innovation, and enduring legacy of the greatest band in rock history.

Mark your calendars for this special Beatles edition. Don’t miss it!

Guest(s) for our show:

Date: Monday, July 20th, 2026

📚 David Bedford

Liverpool historian, Beatles author, and respected tour guide David Bedford returns to share his remarkable knowledge of the city where the Beatles’ story began.

Through his guided tours, David introduces fans to iconic landmarks including Penny Lane, St. Peter’s Church, and the Casbah Coffee Club, bringing Beatles history vividly to life.

We’ll discuss his acclaimed book What If: What Could Have Happened, which explores more than 300 fascinating “what if” scenarios that could have dramatically changed Beatles history. We’ll also talk about his work with the Quarrymen and his continuing efforts to preserve Liverpool’s rich Beatles heritage.

davidabedford.com
beatlestours.co.uk

🍁 Piers Hemmingsen

Canadian Beatles author Piers Hemmingsen joins us to discuss his latest book, The Beatles in Canada: The Evolution 1964–1970, the second volume in his acclaimed series documenting the Beatles’ enormous influence on Canadian music, culture, media, and society.

We’ll also explore the Beatles’ visits to Canada, their impact on Canadian fans, and John Lennon’s memorable performance at the Toronto Rock and Roll Revival Festival, one of the defining moments of his post-Beatles career.

thebeatlesincanada.com

🎙️ Brooke Halpin

Los Angeles-based Beatles author and broadcaster Brooke Halpin has spent decades researching and celebrating the music of the Fab Four.

He is the author of several Beatles books, including Experiencing the Beatles: A Listener’s Companion, Do You Really Know The Beatles?, and A Magical Mystery Time.

Brooke also hosts the radio program Come Together with The Beatles, where he continues to share his passion and extensive knowledge of the band’s music and legacy with listeners around the world.

🎼 Brian Kehew & Kevin Ryan

Music historians, producers, and audio engineers Brian Kehew and Kevin Ryan are internationally respected as the co-authors of Recording the Beatles, widely regarded as the definitive reference on the recording techniques, equipment, and studio innovations behind the Beatles’ groundbreaking music.

We’ll focus on their remarkable three-volume publication George Martin: The Scores, which reproduces Sir George Martin’s original handwritten orchestral and musical scores.

The collection offers an unprecedented look into Martin’s genius as arranger and producer, revealing how he helped shape many of the Beatles’ most celebrated recordings.

Show Topic: 60s Music Spotlight – The Raw Energy of Garage Rock

This Thursday, July 16th, 2026, we’re turning up the volume with a special edition of 60s Music Spotlight celebrating the exciting world of Garage Rock. Emerging in the mid-1960s, garage rock became one of the most energetic and influential movements in rock and roll, fueled by the excitement of the British Invasion and the driving rhythms of surf rock. Young musicians across America picked up guitars, formed neighborhood bands, and created a raw, powerful sound that would inspire future generations of rock musicians.

Throughout the show, we’ll revisit the artists whose straightforward, high-energy recordings captured the rebellious spirit of the era. Their music was loud, passionate, and often recorded with minimal production, giving garage rock its unmistakable character. Although many of these bands enjoyed only brief chart success, their influence can still be heard in punk rock, alternative rock, and modern garage bands today.

We’ll feature music from legendary groups including The Kingsmen, The Standells, Count Five, Paul Revere & the Raiders, The Beau Brummels, The 13th Floor Elevators, The Bobby Fuller Four, The Kinks, Tommy James & the Shondells, The Troggs, The Yardbirds, The Music Explosion, The McCoys, Love, and many more. Together, these artists helped define one of the most exciting chapters in 1960s rock music.

Join me as we celebrate the raw sound, unforgettable guitar riffs, and youthful spirit that made garage rock one of the foundations of modern rock and roll.

Mark your calendars for this high-energy trip back to the 1960s.

Don’t miss it!

Show Topic: 60s Music Spotlight – Surfin’ Music & the California Sound

This Monday, July 13th, 2026, we’re celebrating the unforgettable sounds of Surfin’ Music and the California Sound, two of the most influential musical movements of the 1960s.

From sun-soaked harmonies and infectious melodies to groundbreaking songwriting and studio innovation, this episode explores the music that captured the spirit of Southern California and helped define an era.

We’ll feature classic hits from The Beach Boys, Jan & Dean, and other artists who helped create the distinctive California Sound, while also exploring how surf music evolved into sophisticated pop and rock recordings that continue to inspire musicians around the world. It’s a journey through one of the most creative and influential periods in American popular music.

Joining me is special guest David Beard, Editor-in-Chief of Endless Summer Quarterly, the official magazine of The Beach Boys and the group’s only officially endorsed publication. David will discuss his outstanding new book, All Summer Long: Conversations with the Beach Boys from Surfin’ to SMiLE, which chronicles the band’s remarkable evolution from their early surf hits through the groundbreaking albums Pet Sounds and SMiLE. Through firsthand recollections, the book offers an intimate look at Brian Wilson’s extraordinary creativity and the musical legacy of The Beach Boys.

If you’re a fan of surf music, harmony vocals, and the golden era of the California Sound, this is a show you won’t want to miss.

Mark your calendars and join us for this special celebration of one of the most important chapters in music history.

Don’t miss it!

Guest(s) for our show:

Date: Monday, July 13th, 2026

🏄 David Beard

David Beard returns to the show as Editor-in-Chief of Endless Summer Quarterly, the official magazine of The Beach Boys and the only publication officially endorsed by the band.

For years, David has documented the history, music, and legacy of one of America’s greatest groups.

We’ll focus on his new book, All Summer Long: Conversations with the Beach Boys from Surfin’ to SMiLE, which chronicles the band’s extraordinary creative evolution from their early surf music recordings through Pet Sounds, “Good Vibrations,” and the ambitious SMiLE project.

Drawing upon firsthand recollections from those who lived the story, the book offers a remarkable look inside one of the greatest creative periods in rock history.

esquarterly.com

Show Topic: Atlantic Records – A Legacy of Rhythm, Soul & Rock

This Thursday, July 9th, 2026, we celebrate one of the most influential record labels in music history—Atlantic Records.

Founded in 1947 by Ahmet Ertegun and Herb Abramson, Atlantic became a driving force in the evolution of rhythm and blues, soul, rock, pop, and jazz, helping launch and shape the careers of some of the greatest recording artists of the 20th century.

Throughout this special episode, we’ll explore the remarkable history of Atlantic Records and the visionary people behind its success. From the pioneering work of Ahmet Ertegun and legendary producer Jerry Wexler to the groundbreaking engineering innovations of Tom Dowd, Atlantic helped redefine how popular music was recorded, produced, and shared with audiences around the world.

We’ll also look at the important roles played by affiliated labels such as Atco Records and Stax Records, whose contributions helped expand Atlantic’s extraordinary musical legacy.

The soundtrack for this journey features an outstanding lineup of Atlantic recording artists, including Ray Charles, The Coasters, LaVern Baker, Aretha Franklin, Bobby Darin, The Rascals, Buffalo Springfield, Led Zeppelin, Yes, Roger Daltrey, Dusty Springfield, Julian Lennon, and many others. Together, these performers represent the remarkable diversity and lasting influence of one of the music industry’s most successful labels.

From rhythm and blues classics to arena rock masterpieces, Atlantic Records has spent nearly eight decades shaping the soundtrack of generations.

Join me as we celebrate the artists, producers, executives, and recordings that made Atlantic Records one of the most respected names in music history.

Mark your calendars for this fascinating look inside a legendary record label. Don’t miss it!

No guest featured for this episode. This special broadcast is dedicated to celebrating the history, artists, producers, and enduring legacy of Atlantic Records.

Show Topic: Rock Music Spotlight – From Rockabilly to Merseybeat

This Monday, July 6th, 2026, we’re taking a musical journey through the sounds that helped launch the British rock revolution. From 1950s rock and roll and rockabilly to skiffle, Merseybeat, British Invasion, power pop, and the timeless music of The Beatles, this episode celebrates the artists and styles that transformed popular music on both sides of the Atlantic.

Long before Beatlemania swept the world, skiffle and American rock and roll were inspiring a new generation of young musicians in Liverpool and throughout the United Kingdom. Those influences would eventually evolve into the Merseybeat movement and give rise to legendary bands whose music continues to influence artists more than half a century later. We’ll revisit the songs, sounds, and stories that defined this remarkable era of musical innovation.

Joining me are four outstanding guests who continue to keep this music alive through authentic performances and decades of dedication to classic rock and Merseybeat. From the stages of Liverpool’s legendary Cavern Club to international festivals and concert venues, each guest brings a unique perspective on preserving the spirit and excitement of the music that changed the world.

Whether you’re a lifelong Beatles fan, a lover of British Invasion classics, or simply enjoy great rock and roll, this episode is packed with memorable music and fascinating conversations. Mark your calendars for another exciting edition of Rock Music Spotlight. Don’t miss it!

Guest(s) for our show:

Date:Monday, July 6th, 2026

🎤 Lucky (The TR5’s)

Lucky is the lead singer and musician with The TR5’s, a band dedicated to recreating the excitement of 1950s rock and roll and the early 1960s sounds of skiffle and Merseybeat.

Their performances capture the energy and authenticity of the music that inspired a generation of British musicians.

thetr5s.com

🎸 Den Pugsley

Den Pugsley is lead vocalist and bass guitarist for The Overtures, one of the United Kingdom’s premier 1960s tribute bands.

Formed in 1989, the group has earned an outstanding reputation for faithfully recreating the music, harmonies, and style of the golden age of British pop and rock.

theovertures.com

🥁 Tony O’Keefe

Tony O’Keefe is the drummer for The Shakers, a Liverpool-based 60s beat group and longtime resident band at the world-famous Cavern Club.

Founded in 2005, The Shakers specialize in authentically recreating the raw Merseybeat sound that emerged from Liverpool and Hamburg during the early 1960s.

The band’s performances feature classic hits alongside deep album tracks and B-sides, preserving the authentic spirit of the British Invasion era.

The Shakers Facebook

🎶 Steve McDonald & Grant Roberts (McDonald’s Farm)

Steve McDonald and Grant Roberts represent Scotland’s McDonald’s Farm, a band formed in 1974 and long recognized as one of the resident acts at Liverpool’s iconic Cavern Club.

Throughout their remarkable career, they have shared the stage with members of The Beatles’ extended musical family, including Denny Laine, Steve Holley, Laurence Juber, Neil Innes, Joey Molland, and Pete Best. Their performances celebrate the enduring legacy of Merseybeat and classic British rock.

mcdonaldsfarmband.com

Show Topic: Psychedelic Rock Spotlight – Celebrating The Doors & Remembering Jim Morrison

This Thursday, July 2nd, 2026, we journey into the colorful and groundbreaking world of psychedelic rock, exploring one of the most creative movements in popular music.

Emerging during the mid-1960s and flourishing into the early 1970s, psychedelic rock blended experimental sounds, innovative studio techniques, blues, folk, and hard rock into a genre that forever changed the direction of modern music.

Throughout the show, we’ll feature legendary artists who helped define the psychedelic era, including The Beatles, Jefferson Airplane, Grateful Dead, Jimi Hendrix, 13th Floor Elevators, The Kinks, The Who, Donovan, The Byrds, Traffic, Procol Harum, Moby Grape, Janis Joplin, and many others.

Their groundbreaking recordings pushed musical boundaries and inspired countless artists who followed.

Our main spotlight will be on The Doors, one of the most influential and distinctive bands of the era. Formed in Los Angeles by Jim Morrison, Ray Manzarek, Robby Krieger, and John Densmore, The Doors created a sound unlike any other, combining poetic lyrics, blues, jazz, and psychedelic rock into timeless classics.

We’ll revisit landmark albums including The Doors, Strange Days, Morrison Hotel, and L.A. Woman, exploring the music that established the band as true rock legends.

This episode also serves as a heartfelt tribute to Jim Morrison, whose passing on July 3rd, 1971—55 years ago this week—marked the loss of one of rock’s most charismatic and influential frontmen.

His artistry, songwriting, and unmistakable voice continue to inspire musicians and fans around the world.

Mark your calendars for this special celebration of psychedelic rock and the enduring legacy of The Doors. Don’t miss it!

No guest featured for this episode.

This special broadcast is dedicated to celebrating the music of The Doors and honoring the life and legacy of Jim Morrison on the 55th anniversary of his passing.

Show Topic: Rock Music Spotlight – Classic Sounds of the 60s and 70s

This Thursday, June 25th, 2026, we’re bringing you another edition of Rock Music Spotlight, featuring an exciting mix of music from the 1960s and 70s. From British Invasion favorites and folk rock classics to soft rock gems and timeless pop hits, this episode celebrates the artists and songs that helped define one of the most creative periods in music history.

The music of these decades continues to connect generations through memorable melodies, outstanding songwriting, and performances that have stood the test of time. Whether it’s the harmony-driven sounds of folk rock, the energy of British bands that conquered America, or the classic radio staples that remain popular today, this show offers something for every fan of vintage rock and pop music.

Joining me once again is singer, musician, and entertainer Michael Barrett from California. Known for his versatility and outstanding vocal range, Michael has built a reputation as both a gifted solo performer and a respected member of one of America’s premier Beatles tribute bands. His appreciation for classic music and dedication to live performance make him a perfect guest for this special edition of the show.

We’ll discuss his musical journey, the artists who influenced him, his work performing Beatles music, and the enduring appeal of the songs that continue to inspire audiences around the world. Mark your calendars for this exciting look back at the music of the 60s and 70s. Don’t miss it!

Guest(s) for our show:

Date: Thursday, June 25th, 2026

🎤 Michael Barrett

California-based singer and musician Michael Barrett returns to the show to discuss his lifelong passion for music and his career performing the classic songs of the 1960s and 70s.

Michael is a founding member of The Sun Kings, Northern California’s premier Beatles tribute band, where he performs the vocal role of Paul McCartney while also playing keyboards, guitar, harmonica, and percussion.

As a solo performer, Michael presents a wide-ranging repertoire on acoustic guitar and keyboards, covering artists from multiple genres while adding his own original compositions to the mix.

Known for his engaging stage presence, remarkable vocal range, and genuine love of performing, he has entertained audiences both large and small with the same enthusiasm and professionalism.

We’ll discuss his work with The Sun Kings, his influences as a musician, and his appreciation for the music that continues to inspire fans around the world.

Paul McCartney Birthday Celebration

Join me this Thursday, June 18th, 2026, for a special birthday celebration honoring Paul McCartney, who turns 84 on June 18.

We’ll play music from Paul’s amazing career with The Beatles, Wings, and his solo years. The show will feature songs Paul has written from 1956 to today.

We’ll also spotlight his 2021 book, The Lyrics, a two-volume collection covering 154 songs from his Beatles, Wings, and solo career.

Our special guest is singer and musician Tom Vincent, who portrayed Paul McCartney with Beatles tribute band The Beatlemaniax USA. Tom joins me to talk about Paul’s music, legacy, and incredible journey from The Beatles to Wings and beyond.

Mark your calendars for Thursday, June 18, 2026. Don’t miss it!

Guest(s) for our show:

Date: June 18, 2026

Tom Vincent is a singer and musician who portrayed Paul McCartney with Beatles tribute band The Beatlemaniax USA.

He joins us to discuss Paul McCartney’s career with The Beatles, Wings, and his solo years as we celebrate Paul’s 84th birthday.