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For most whose lives were changed by The Beatles, it can only remain a dream that they would one day meet one, much less work alongside one and develop a key role in that Beatle’s life and develop a friendship. But Buffalo, New York native Gary Astridge was one exceptional fellow, whose passion for percussion, inspired by the 1964 Ed Sullivan Show debut, would impact his life in ways far beyond imagining. He took up drums and was so curious about the details of Ringo’s set-up that he made it a lifelong study. Then came the day that Ringo needed him to solve a problem, leading to projects and experiences few could conceive… As Ringo’s drum curator and historian, he found himself in non-stop demand in ways no one could have predicted. All of this led to his authorship of a lavish book depicting not only the history of Ringo’s drums but also the numerous iconic outfits he wore during The Beatles’ career. The results of this research have been published in a new book, Beats and Threads, available through Julien’s Auctions. Gary comes to the show sharing the stories of his journey and his one-of-a-kind experiences wit Ringo, at a time when the drummer is experiencing a career renaissance with his new country album, Look Up. Gary’s site: http://www.ringosbeatlekits.com  Julien’s Auctions: https://www.juliensauctions.com/en

In this “Goldilocks Zone” of Beatles scholarship, where we are far enough from their heyday to achieve some critical distance but close enough to access people who knew them (plus the two survivors), a golden age has arrived where heretofore unexplored aspects shining light and understanding on their story is being explored. One of the most insightful historians is Richard Mills, whose book, The Beatles and Fandom: Sex, Death and Progressive Nostalgia has arrived, revealing how the fandom evolved and what it meant in the greater context of explaining The Beatles’ enduring appeal. Every angle from the sexuality expressed by 1st gen fans in the pages of Beatles Monthly to fan conventions and tribute bands, to the ascension into myth that comes with death is discussed. If that sounds heavy and academic, our conversation was not: think of it as a visit with a favorite professor and you’ll get the idea.