🎙️ Show Topic: Arrangements of Music – Beatles and Rock Innovation

The show of Monday, July 28th, 2025 was on Arrangements of Music with Beatles and Rock Artists and how they blend music genres together.

We thank our guest Tom Vincent for coming on the show as a replacement. He shared his great memories about The Beatles and how they blended music, especially with the fantastic arrangements done by George Martin.

We also discussed artists like The Who, Bob Dylan, The Moody Blues, America, The Kinks, Bad Company, Nicky Hopkins, The Beach Boys, Crosby, Stills and Nash, and a few others.

Additionally, Tom sang a couple of songs and played some of his music on the show.

🎧 Don’t miss it! Tune in for rich stories, musical moments, and a tribute to the arrangements that changed everything.

 

Guest(s) for our show:

Date: Monday, July 28th, 2025

🎤 Tom Vincent

Tom Vincent is a singer, songwriter, musician, and Beatles tribute performer known for his portrayal of Paul McCartney.

Tom brings the energy of the Fab Four to life with uncanny precision, but his talents go beyond tribute. He has also written and performed his own original music.

On this episode, Tom shares captivating stories about the Beatles, his tribute journey, and the artists who shaped his musical path.

We’ll also be spinning some of Tom’s original tracks, giving listeners a taste of his unique sound rooted in rock’s golden era.

🎙️ Show Topic: All Beatles – Songs, Stories & Their Musical Circle

This Monday, July 21st, 2025, we took it back to the heart of it all: The Beatles!

From the Liverpool clubs to the global stages, their sound shaped generations and their influence still resonates today. We’re spinning all Beatles music, plus a few tunes from the extended Beatles family: Gerry and the Pacemakers, Billy J. Kramer, Peter and Gordon, Badfinger, and more. These were the bands in their orbit, mentored, produced, or inspired by the Fab Four themselves.

We’re bringing together four passionate guests: an author spotlighting George Harrison’s visit to Benton, Illinois; a Rock & Roll detective uncovering lost Beatles stories; a Lennon historian chronicling John's mid-60s evolution; and Billy J. Kramer himself, one of the very artists championed by Lennon and McCartney during the British Invasion. This is the Beatles universe like you've never heard it before, personal, historical, and deeply musical.

📅 Mark your calendars: Tune in Monday, July 21st, 2025. Whether you're a lifelong fan or just getting your feet wet in Beatlemania, this show will leave you with something new to love.

🎧 Don’t miss it! Stream it as soon as it's uploaded and join the conversation on the music, the memories, and the magic of The Beatles and their extended musical family.

Guest(s) for our show:

Date: Monday, July 21st, 2025

1. 📚 Robert Bartel

Robert Bartel is a Beatles author from Illinois, best known for his book The Beatles We Love: From Me to You.

He’ll join us to discuss George Harrison’s 1963 visit to Benton, Illinois, long before Beatlemania hit America, and the new documentary film A Beatle in Benton chronicling this pivotal moment.

2. 🕵️ Jim Berkenstadt

Known as the Rock & Roll Detective, Jim Berkenstadt is an acclaimed author and historical entertainment consultant who has worked closely with Apple Corps and the Harrison estate.

He’s the author of The Beatle Who Vanished, the story of temporary Beatle Jimmy Nicol, and Black Market Beatles. Jim joins us to uncover the Beatles’ hidden stories and rare recordings.

https://rockandrolldetective.com/

3. 📝 Jude Southerland Kessler

Jude Southerland Kessler is the author behind the ambitious John Lennon Series, chronicling Lennon’s life in exhaustive and vivid detail.

She returns to the show to talk about Volume 5.2 of her series, Some Forever: Shades of Life, covering August 1965–August 1966, a transformative era in Lennon’s evolution.

https://www.johnlennonseries.com/

4. 🎤 Billy J. Kramer

A chart-topping British Invasion artist, Billy J. Kramer was managed by Brian Epstein and given several Lennon–McCartney songs, scoring hits like “Bad to Me,” “I’ll Keep You Satisfied,” and “From a Window.”

He joins us to reflect on his incredible career and his long friendship with the Beatles. Billy is promoting upcoming appearances at Fest for Beatles Fans in Chicago and International Beatleweek in Liverpool.

https://billyjkramermusic.com/

Show Topic: Beatles & Rock Music Special + Fest for Beatles Fans Preview

The episode of my podcast aired on Thursday, March 20th, 2025, was a Beatles and Rock Music special featuring an exciting mix of Beatles classics and tracks from legendary rock artists such as Bad Company, Three Dog Night, The Monkees, Badfinger, Wings, Billy J. Kramer, and more. We covered a variety of genres, including rock, power pop, British Invasion, and other rock subgenres.

This episode also previewed the Fest for Beatles Fans in Jersey City, happening March 28th-30th, 2025. We welcomed an incredible lineup of guests, from tribute artists to legendary musicians, who shared their experiences and stories from the Beatles and rock music world.

A big thanks to our guests Linda and Esmerelda from The Magical Mystery Girls on their tribute to the Beatles, especially their performances of Sgt Peppers and Abbey Road; Drew Hill shared his moments at Fest for Beatles Fans with his band Liverpool; Cole Larravide discussed his love of the Beatles and his performances in Liverpool; and Simon Kirke recounted his greatest moments with Free and Bad Company and his performances with Ringo Starr.

The recording is now available for you to enjoy. Tune in to relive the sounds of the 60s and 70s, chat with incredible musicians, and gear up for the Fest for Beatles Fans in Jersey City!

Guest(s) for our show:

Date: Thursday, March 20th, 2025

We’re delighted to be able to welcome the following guests:The Magical Mystery Girls, Drew Hill, Cole Larravide, Simon Kirke

🎸 The Magical Mystery Girls

The Magical Mystery Girls are an all-female Beatles tribute band based in the Baltimore/Washington area. Since forming in 2017, each member has brought incredible musicianship and vocal talent to recreate authentic, note-for-note renditions of The Beatles’ music.

Performing live woodwind arrangements and rarely heard Beatles songs, they have played entire albums like Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band and Abbey Road—all live, no tracks!

🔗 More on The Magical Mystery Girls

🎹 Drew Hill

Drew Hill is a multi-talented keyboardist, musician, and performer from New York with an extensive career in music. He is a full-time musician, playing as a solo artist, studio musician, and musical director.

He has performed with some of the biggest names in rock and Beatles history, including Harry Nilsson, Billy Preston, Donovan, Peter & Gordon, Billy J. Kramer, Klaus Voormann, Chad & Jeremy, Randy Bachman, The Quarrymen, Micky Dolenz, Spencer Davis, and many more.

Drew will be discussing his upcoming performances at Fest for Beatles Fans, his collaborations with legendary artists, and his career in music.

🎤 Cole Larravide

Cole Larravide is a Rockville, MD / Washington, DC-based singer-songwriter known for his non-stop touring and electrifying performances.

He has played at world-famous venues like The Cavern Club (Liverpool), Whisky A Go Go (LA), Blues Alley (DC), The Horseshoe Tavern (Toronto), and The Cobblestone (Dublin).

Cole recently toured as a special guest with Three Dog Night and opened for Beatles’ original drummer Pete Best in Columbus, Ohio. He performed at International Beatleweek 2024 in Liverpool and is set to return in 2025.

🔗 More on Cole Larravide

 

🥁 Simon Kirke

Simon Kirke is a legendary English musician and drummer, best known as the co-founder of Bad Company and Free.

His work with Bad Company produced classic albums like:

1. Bad Company (1974)
2. Straight Shooter (1975)
3. Run with the Pack (1976)

These albums reached the top five in both the UK and US charts and included timeless rock anthems such as:

• Can’t Get Enough
• Feel Like Makin’ Love
• Rock ‘n’ Roll Fantasy
• Shooting Star

Before forming Bad Company, Simon was also a founding member of Free, known for their massive hit All Right Now.

Show Topic: All Beatles and Fest for Beatles Fans Special

The episode of my radio show that aired on Monday, March 10th, 2025, was a special All Beatles edition, focusing on the magic of The Beatles and the Fest for Beatles Fans in Jersey City.

We celebrated the Beatles’ legacy while highlighting the exciting happenings at the festival, complete with special guest appearances and plenty of Beatles music!

This episode featured insights into the enduring influence of the Beatles, including solo music, memorable moments from their tours, and their lasting impact on music history.

We discussed everything from the early days of Beatlemania to their solo years and how their music continues to inspire new generations.

This was an episode you wouldn’t have wanted to miss!

The recording has been uploaded for an in-depth look at The Beatles’ history, unforgettable live performances, and the incredible guests who bring their stories to life.

And don’t forget: Fest for Beatles Fans was just around the corner!

Guest(s) for our show:

Date: Monday, March 10th, 2025

We're delighted to be able to welcome the following three guests: James Liverani, Ken Dashow, Larry Kane

1) James Liverani

🎸 James Liverani is a musician and photographer who had the once-in-a-lifetime experience of performing with Paul McCartney during a soundcheck.

At Fest for Beatles Fans in Jersey City, he will be showcasing his talents in the Apple Jam Sessions, where he will be performing Beatles solo hits.

🔗 More on James Liverani

2) Ken Dashow

🎙Ken Dashow is a legendary radio disc jockey from New York City’s WAXQ Q104.3, where he has hosted the long-running Breakfast with The Beatles show.

His deep knowledge of Beatles history, combined with his engaging radio presence, has made him a beloved figure among Beatles fans worldwide.

3) Larry Kane

📚 Larry Kane is a renowned journalist, news anchor, and author, best known for his book Ticket to Ride: Inside the Beatles 1964 Tour That Changed the World.

He holds the unique distinction of being the only broadcast journalist to travel to every stop on The Beatles’ 1964 and 1965 American tours.

Over the years, he has authored three books about The Beatles, as well as a memoir and a novel, offering a rare firsthand perspective on Beatlemania and the band's rise to global fame.

🔗 More on Larry Kane

Guest(s) for our show:

Date: Wednesday, March 5th, 2025

1. 📖 David Bedford

David Bedford is a renowned Beatles author and historian from Liverpool.

His books, including Liddypool, The Fab One Hundred and Four: The Evolution of The Beatles, Finding the Fifth Beatle, and The Country of Liverpool, explore the band’s origins, key influences, and untold stories.

David will also share details about his upcoming book, The Beatles: What If, as well as his upcoming appearances at Fest for Beatles Fans in Jersey City and International Beatleweek in Liverpool. In addition to his work as an author, David has also performed with The Quarrymen, adding a unique personal perspective to his Beatles research.

🔗 More on David Bedford

2. 📖 Susan Shumsky

Susan Shumsky is the author of Maharishi & Me and The Inner Light: How India Influenced The Beatles.

Her books offer a deep look into The Beatles’ spiritual journey, particularly their time spent in India with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, and how that experience shaped their music and personal lives.

🔗 More on Susan Shumsky

3. 🥁 Gary Astridge

Gary Astridge is a historian, author, lecturer, and curator of Ringo Starr's Beatles-era drum kits and gear.

He has collaborated directly with Ringo Starr on the book Beats & Threads, which documents Ringo’s iconic drum kits and stage outfits from his time with The Beatles.

His meticulous research and preservation efforts have helped shed light on Ringo’s influential drumming style and legacy.

🔗 More on Gary Astridge

4. 📖 Paul Ferrante

Paul Ferrante is a fiction author whose book, 30 Minutes in Memphis: A Beatle Story, offers a unique historical fiction take on the legendary band.

We’ll discuss his inspiration for the novel and how The Beatles' music and legacy continue to influence storytelling in creative ways.

🔗 More on Paul Ferrante

My podcast episode, which aired on Thursday, February 27th, 2025, was about The Beatles and the upcoming Beatles on the Beach Festival, which will take place from March 6th to 9th, 2025, in Delray Beach, FL.

This episode featured all Beatles music, along with exciting discussions about the festival and the incredible musicians who will be performing.

This was an episode not to be missed!

Listeners enjoyed incredible Beatles music, festival insights, and fascinating stories from our amazing guests.

The recording has been uploaded to our site, so be sure to listen as we celebrated The Beatles and the excitement of the Beatles on the Beach Festival!

Guest(s) for our show:

Date: Thursday, February 27th, 2025

We’re thrilled to welcome three fantastic guests who are keeping the Beatles’ legacy alive through music and radio:

1. Ian Cooney

🎸 Ian Cooney is an entertainer and musician from Delray Beach, FL, known for his performances covering 50s and 60s music, British Invasion hits, American Bandstand classics, and classic rock favorites.

At Beatles on the Beach, Ian will be performing as Rent-a-Beatle, delivering his own take on Beatles classics.

🔗 More on Ian Cooney

2. Stephen Marks

🎹 Stephen Marks is a talented pianist specializing in Beatles melodies. Stephen has performed in New York, Cleveland, and Florida at major Beatles events like Fest for Beatles Fans and Abbey Road On The River.

This year marks his first-ever appearance at Beatles on the Beach, where he will bring the Fab Four’s melodies to life in a whole new way.

🔗 More on Stephen Marks

3. Joe Johnson

🎙 Joe Johnson is a well-known radio personality and host of Beatle Brunch, Joe has spent years celebrating The Beatles’ music, history, and legacy on the airwaves, making him one of the most recognized voices in Beatles media.

🔗 More on Joe Johnson & Beatle Brunch

The latest episode of my podcast, which aired on Monday, January 20th, 2025, was a celebration of The Beatles and their timeless music.

This episode took listeners on a journey through the Fab Four’s iconic hits, spanning from the height of Beatlemania to their groundbreaking studio years. We also featured a special spotlight on Ringo Starr, including tracks from his album Look Up.

The episode brought together an exceptional lineup of guests who shared unique insights and personal connections to The Beatles:

• Colin Hall discussed his book PreFab, offering a deep dive into the life of Quarrymen drummer Colin Hanton and the band’s early days.
• Jeff Lake introduced his project Cellophane Flowers, an innovative fusion of Beatles songs with rock and classical music, performed by a singing string quartet.
• Jonathan Pretus expressed his admiration for The Beatles, shared details about his podcast on the Fab Four, and previewed his upcoming performance at the Fest for Beatles Fans.
• Gary Burr shared fascinating stories from his experiences working with Ringo Starr, providing a rare glimpse into the drummer’s artistry and legacy.

We also highlighted the upcoming Fest for Beatles Fans, scheduled to take place in Jersey City from March 28th to 30th, 2025. This exciting event is a must for Beatles enthusiasts, offering a chance to celebrate the music, history, and enduring legacy of John, Paul, George, and Ringo.

The recording of this fabulous episode is now available on our website.

Click to listen and immerse yourself in the magic of The Beatles!

Don’t miss the chance to hear exclusive insights from our amazing guests and to learn more about the Fest for Beatles Fans.

Guest(s) for our show:

Date: Monday, January 20th, 2025

1) Colin Hall

Colin Hall is a Beatles expert, author, and speaker hailing from Liverpool, where he became the custodian of Mendips, John Lennon’s former home in Woolton.

Over the years, Colin has hosted more than 200,000 visitors, earning two awards for his outstanding work at Mendips.

He also contributed to the successful WBBC production company with Bob Harris and Trudie Myerscough-Harris, which won a Sony Award for the BBC Radio 2 documentary “The Day John Met Paul.” Beyond his custodial and production endeavors, Colin has penned two books:

• The Songs The Beatles Gave Away
• PreFab! (co-written with Colin Hanton, the original drummer in The Quarry Men)

PreFab! has since been adapted into a documentary film, selected for both the Florida Film Festival 2022 and the Cleveland Film Festival 2023, highlighting Colin’s dedication to uncovering and preserving Beatles history.

For more information, visit:
TheColinHall.com

2) Jeff Lake

Jeff Lake is a musician who formed Jeff Lake & The Cellophane Flowers, a project dedicated to performing Beatles music reinterpreted for string quartet and voice.

This unique approach breathes new life into timeless songs, blending classical and contemporary influences to captivate audiences with fresh arrangements.

Jeff’s passion for The Beatles is evident in every performance, underscoring the group’s adaptability across genres.

Whether he’s recording new tracks or appearing live, Jeff Lake provides a fascinating glimpse into how these classic songs can continue to evolve and enchant listeners.

For more information, visit:

• Cellophane Flowers
• About Jeff Lake

3) Jonathan Pretus

Jonathan Pretus, a musician and Beatles fan from New Orleans, co-hosts the popular podcast “Ranking the Beatles,”where he and his co-host delve into the band’s catalog, ranking and discussing each song. He is also part of The Walrus, a New Orleans-based Beatles tribute that has toured the Southeast and West Coast.

Before his work with The Walrus, Jonathan toured extensively as the guitarist of the 90s rock band Cowboy Mouth and as the singer, guitarist, and songwriter for his own critically acclaimed group, The Breton Sound. His songwriting chops even landed him on America’s Got Talent, and his music has been featured on radio stations nationwide.

For more information, visit:

• Ranking the Beatles
• The Walrus
• Jonathan Pretus Linktree

4) Gary Burr

Gary Burr is a songwriter whose work has reached into both pop and country music, penning or co-writing hits for Ringo Starr, Garth Brooks, Joey Molland, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Joe Cocker, Reba McEntire, Kelly Clarkson, Lady Antebellum, and Tim McGraw, among many others.

He was part of the Ringo & the Roundheads tours and collaborated with Ringo on numerous songs, reinforcing a direct connection between his craft and the Beatles legacy.

Beyond songwriting, Gary has authored the book “Reunion: A Rock ’n’ Roll Fairy Tale,” showcasing his versatility as both a musician and storyteller. His ability to craft memorable tunes across genres—and with rock royalty—solidifies his reputation in the industry as a songwriter of profound skill and heart.

 

 

The latest episode of our podcast, which aired on Monday, December 9th, 2024, celebrated The Beatles, their incredible life, music, and enduring legacy.

As part of marking the 60th Anniversary of their U.S. Visits, this episode examined some key moments in Beatles history during the month of December.

It explored their iconic albums, including Beatles for Sale, Rubber Soul, and Magical Mystery Tour, as well as their legendary recording sessions for Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band.

Additionally, it reflected on the singles they released, their unforgettable moments in music, and other milestones.

The episode also paid tribute to John Lennon, who was tragically shot 44 years ago on December 8th, 1980.

Listeners were captivated by three extraordinary guests who offered unparalleled insights into The Beatles' world.

An acclaimed author took listeners behind the scenes of the legendary Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band sessions.

A renowned filmmaker and photographer shared rare, intimate moments from The Beatles’ time in India.

A journalist recounted her unforgettable experience interviewing John Lennon on the day of his tragic passing. These perspectives shed new light on the Fab Four's music, legacy, and enduring influence.

The episode is now available on our website—be sure to check it out for a deep dive into The Beatles' music and legacy!

Guest(s) for our show:

Date: Monday, December 9th, 2024

1) Gene Popa

Gene will discuss his latest Beatles book, The Colour of Your Dreams, which dives into the recording sessions of Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band.

His insights will offer a fascinating look into one of the most groundbreaking albums in music history.

2) Paul Saltzman

Paul Saltzman is a renowned film and television producer and director from Canada.

Paul will share his personal experiences with The Beatles in India, where he photographed the Fab Four, Donovan, Mia and Prudence Farrow, and Mike Love.

His photos, considered "some of the best intimate shots" ever taken of the band, have been exhibited in galleries worldwide.

Paul will also discuss his upcoming appearance at Fest for Beatles Fans in Jersey City.

Learn more about his work at paulsaltzman.com.

2) Laurie Kaye

Laurie will talk about her book, Confessions of a Rock 'n' Roll Name-Dropper: My Life Leading Up to John Lennon's Last Interview.

She will share her experiences from John Lennon’s final interview on December 8th, 1980, just hours before his untimely death.

Learn more about Laurie’s story at confessionsofarocknrollnamedropper.com.