Get Back to the Beatles

The Lennon Assassination Conspiracy with David Whelan

Cha-Chi and David delve into the controversial death of John Lennon. They are joined by David Whelan, author of the book 'Mind Games: The Assassination of John Lennon,' who explores the possibility of a conspiracy behind Lennon's murder. Whelan shares his extensive research, which includes questionable details about Lennon's supposed killer, Mark Chapman, alleged ties to intelligence agencies, discrepancies in witness statements, and the lack of clarity surrounding the shooting's exact circumstances. The discussion raises critical questions about the official narrative and suggests the need for further investigation.Topics00:59 Introducing Today's Guest: David Whelan02:10 Discussing the Conspiracy Theory02:52 Skepticism and Public Reaction03:31 Research and Findings04:04 The Role of Mark Chapman09:45 Media and Documentary Challenges13:38 Theories and Evidence18:48 Mark Chapman's Background24:34 Medical and Forensic Details30:10 The Official Narrative of John Lennon's Final Moments32:23 Medical Anomalies and Discrepancies34:06 Conflicting Witness Statements36:56 The Role of Yoko Ono and Other Key Figures39:25 Speculations and Theories43:59 The Book and Its Impact48:52 Final Thoughts and Future Directions

Beatles Novelty Songs and Copyrights with Terry Crain

Chachi and David discuss the world of Beatles novelty music and memorabilia with special guest Terry Crain, author of 'Copywriting the Beatles.' The trio delves into the fascinating stories behind various Beatles novelty records from the 1960s, highlighting key tracks and their origins. They also touch on modern-day parodies and the extensive research behind Terry's multi-volume book. The conversation spans a range of topics, including Beatles merchandising, the significance of copyright in the music industry, and the unexpected careers of artists involved in Beatlemania.Topics00:49 Record Store Day and Beatles Collectibles01:26 Introducing Guest Terry Crain02:29 The Journey of Beatles Merchandise04:41 The Fascinating World of Beatles Copyrights13:38 Novelty Songs and Beatles Memorabilia29:40 Jump Up: A Musical Journey29:48 Byron Lee's Silver Screen Moment30:25 Ringo for President: A Beatles Fantasy33:49 The Girl from Liverpool: A Beatles Novelty36:45 Beatles Novelty Records: A Genre Explored45:31 Weird Al and Beatles Parodies47:53 Terry Crain's Beatles Insights54:13 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Fame and the Fab Four with Professor Cass Sunstein

In this episode of 'Get Back to the Beatles', host Cha-Chi Loprete and co-host David Gallant discuss fame and cultural phenomena with Professor Cass Sunstein, author of 'How to Become Famous'. The conversation explores factors behind the Beatles' success, touching on serendipity, social dynamics, and historical context. They also examine how modern fame compares with historical examples, discussing figures like Taylor Swift, Bob Dylan, and Elvis Presley. Sunstein shares insights into the unpredictable elements that create lasting celebrity status and reflects on how different eras and social mechanisms influence fame. The episode covers themes such as perseverance, cultural impact, and the evolution of media consumption.Topics01:13 Introducing Professor Cass Sunstein02:38 The Beatles' Lightning Strikes and Serendipity05:34 The Role of Geography and Social Structures13:59 Fame in the Modern Era vs. The Past24:00 The Influence of Social Proof and Download Experiments30:49 Reinvention and Longevity in Fame39:41 Concluding Thoughts and Farewell

Fab Four Fashion with Author Deirdre Kelly

In this episode of 'Get Back to the Beatles,' hosts Cha-Chi Loprete and David Gallant explore the sartorial impact of The Beatles with special guest Deirdre Kelly, author of 'Fashioning the Beatles: The Looks that Shook the World.' The discussion commemorates the 60th anniversary of The Beatles' appearance on the Ed Sullivan Show and their first performance at the Boston Garden. Kelly shares insights into how The Beatles transformed fashion through deliberate choices and cultural influences, from their early suits to the iconic Sgt. Pepper outfits. The episode also delves into how their style evolved alongside their music, reflecting broader cultural shifts during the 1960s. The hosts and guest highlight memorable moments, the role of LSD in their colorful fashion choices, and The Beatles' lasting influence on modern style.Visit https://deirdrekelly.com/Topics01:33 Special Guest: Deirdre Kelly on Beatles Fashion03:48 Deidre's Journey to Writing the Book06:47 The Beatles' Fashion Influence10:07 The Beatles' Early Fashion Choices16:18 The Evolution of the Beatles' Image27:09 The Beatles and the Boutique Scene31:56 Beatles' Fashion Evolution in the 60s33:23 Iconic Suits and Press Conference Styles34:32 A Hard Day's Night: Behind the Scenes40:18 Sgt. Pepper's Bold Fashion Choices41:21 Vintage Fashion and Military Influence44:31 Psychedelic Colors and LSD Influence53:10 Beatles' Accessories and Gender Fluidity54:54 Modern Influence and Legacy56:45 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

’All You Need Is Love’ Author Steven Gaines

Cha-Chi and David, along with guest Steven Gaines, explore the historical and cultural significance of The Beatles through Gaines' books, including 'All You Need Is Love: The Beatles in Their Own Words.' The episode delves into behind-the-scenes stories, personal interactions with The Beatles, and their enduring legacy in music and society. Gaines discusses his unique journey in compiling the book, his personal experiences with The Beatles, and the broader academic perspective on their impact. Touching on themes like friendship, the magic of the '60s, and the innovative use of The Beatles' music in education and radio, this episode offers an in-depth look at the band's contributions to culture and their lasting influence.Topics00:45 Special Guest: Steven Gaines on His Beatles Books01:44 The Journey of 'All You Need Is Love' 06:03 Publishing Challenges and Historical Insights10:17 Reflections on Beatles' Legacy and Cultural Impact15:23 Exploring the Beatles Through Rare Interviews and Stories35:05 Personal Anecdotes and Encounters with The Beatles42:12 A Candid Conversation with George Harrison42:52 The Beatles' Influence on Culture and Meditation43:58 Fashion Statements: The Abbey Road Outfit Story45:32 Reflecting on the Beatles' Legacy and Personal Stories46:56 Exploring the Summer of Love and Its Impact49:18 The Tragic Tale of Brian Epstein53:17 The Controversial Release of 'The Love You Make'01:01:07 Paul McCartney: A Personal Glimpse01:02:36 The Enigmatic Magic Alex01:04:26 Cynthia Lennon's Memorable Visit

Ivor Davis and His Tour with the Beatles

In this episode the special guest is Ivor Davis, an award-winning author and journalist who traveled with The Beatles during their 1964 tour. Ivor has recently updated his book "The Beatles and Me on Tour" to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the tour.During the interview, Ivor reflects on his experiences traveling with The Beatles and how his perception of the band has evolved over the years. He recalls the excitement and chaos of being on tour with the then relatively unknown British band, mingling with celebrities like Elizabeth Taylor and Cary Grant, and witnessing The Beatles' rise to international stardom.The hosts and Ivor discuss the lasting impact of The Beatles on popular culture, their versatility in various art forms, and their enduring appeal to younger generations. They also touch upon the importance of The Beatles' music and how it continues to resonate with people today.The conversation delves into the personalities of individual Beatles, particularly John Lennon and Paul McCartney, and their contributions to the band's legacy. Ivor shares personal anecdotes about reconnecting with John Lennon and Paul McCartney in later years and discusses his interactions with Mal Evans, The Beatles' trusted companion.The interview concludes with Ivor's reflections on the ongoing influence of The Beatles and their continued relevance in popular culture, evidenced by recent recognition at the Oscars and Grammys.Get Ivor's book at https://ivordavisbooks.com/Topics covered:[00:01:00] Ivor Davis's Background and Career[00:02:00] Update on Ivor's Book "The Beatles and Me on Tour"[00:03:00] Reflections on The Beatles' 1964 Tour Experience[00:04:00] The Beatles' Rise to International Stardom[00:06:00] Brian Epstein's Vision and Legacy[00:08:00] The Beatles' Enduring Appeal to Younger Generations[00:10:00] Paul McCartney's Recent Performances and Influence[00:11:00] Ivor's Reconnections with John Lennon and Paul McCartney[00:13:00] Mal Evans and His Role with The Beatles

Author Ken Womack: ’Living The Beatles Legend’

Cha-Chi and David are joined by Ken Womack, author of 'Living The Beatles Legend,' the story of Malcolm Evans, the Beatles’ long-time roadie, personal assistant, and devoted friend.

’Beatles On Film’ Author Steve Matteo

Steve Matteo, author of 'Act Naturally: The Beatles On Film' joins the show. In the book, a "comprehensive deep-dive into the band’s movies," Matteo follows the origins, filming, and fan reception of projects from the 1964 premiere of A Hard Day’s Night through 1970’s Let It Be to the release of Get Back in 2022. Get the book: https://a.co/d/aZEBzPn

Philip Norman, Author of ’The Reluctant Beatle’

The guest is Philip Norman, author of "George Harrison: The Reluctant Beatle."Norman is also the author of the New York Times bestseller "John Lennon: The Life" and the million-copy selling "Shout!: The Beatles in Their Generation"Get the book: https://a.co/d/gZ6VJhM

’Wings’ Legend Denny Laine Needs Your Help

Elizabeth Hines, Denny’s Laine's wife, joins the show asking for a helping hand on Denny’s behalf.For the past two months, he’s been in and out of the hospital concerning an illness in his lungs that developed after his short bout with COVID last year.Elizabeth explains Denny's struggle and reveals that Denny's old bandmate Paul McCartney is indeed helping out.The GoFundMe page for Denny Laine: https://gofund.me/0f8aa638