
Rooms are $239.00 per night. For Reservations, call 212-883-1234 and tell them you are coming to the FEST to get the reduced rates. The rates are subject to hotel review at any time, so we strongly suggest to call now if you know you are coming.

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MARCH 31, 20235 PM to 12 AM
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APRIL 1, 202311 AM to 1 AM
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APRIL 2, 202312 PM to 11 PM
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Peter AsherOf Peter & Gordon
Peter Asher
Of Peter & Gordon
We first came to know him in 1964 through the Paul McCartney penned #1 global smash “World Without Love” as the harmony half of Peter & Gordon. Now, the two-time Grammy Winner for Producer of the Year, head of A & R for The Beatles' Apple Records, and long-time manager and producer of James Taylor and Linda Ronstadt returns to the New York Metro Fest For Beatles Fans with a two-part presentation of “Peter Asher: A Musical Memoir of the 60s and Beyond”. Peter was last at the New York Fest with Jeremy Clyde in 2018, and with Chad & Jeremy in 2016, so this year's visit, with part one on Saturday, and part two on Sunday, marks the first New York Metro Fest presentation of his acclaimed "Memoir" show since the Grand Hyatt in 2014. "Memoir" has evolved considerably since then, with newly discovered pictures and video, so settle in for great songs and stories, since, as the Wall Street Journal says, "the exuberant Mr. Asher knew anyone who rocked and everyone who mattered.”
Peter will be participating in at least one signing session on Friday and two signings on both Saturday and Sunday. Exact times will be posted on our site a week before the FEST and in our program booklet. -
Pattie BoydAuthor of 'My Life In Pictures'
Pattie Boyd
Author of 'My Life In Pictures'
We are so honored to welcome back PATTIE BOYD to THE FEST stage for the first time in 15 years! Pattie first met George Harrison on the set of A Hard Day's Night. They started dating shortly afterwards and were married less than two years later (1966). Pattie was one of the top models during the Carnaby Street era in London in the mid 1960s . George wrote a number of songs for Pattie, none more magnificent than Something. 15 years ago, Pattie wrote her autobiography, Wonderful Tonight, another classic song written for her, but this time by Eric Clapton. Pattie's brand new coffee table book, My Life in Pictures was published in late December. It spans her entire career. You will be able to purchase signed copies of this amazing new book at Pattie's Exhibit Room at the FEST. She will also be bringing some of her vintage dresses for display and will have a slide show as well. Pattie will be participating in at least one signing session on Friday and two signings on both Saturday and Sunday. Exact times will be posted on our site a week before the FEST and in our program booklet.
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Mark RiveraRingo Starr's Music Director, Legendary Sax Player
Mark Rivera
Ringo Starr's Music Director, Legendary Sax Player
MARK RIVERA is Ringo’s musical director, Billy Joel's horn player and one of the top sax players in the business. Mark's long awaited autobiography, Sideman is being published in February and Mark can't wait to join us again to talk about his famed career, and of course join in the nightly jams with Liverpool. Mark was the one who arranged the ‘secret’ 70th birthday surprise for Ringo in 2010, when Paul came out and performed Birthday at Radio City Music Hall. It was a total surprise to Ringo, who ran out and almost leapt onto his kit to join in with his former bandmate. A moment to remember. Mark will be speaking, joining Liverpool during the concerts, and adding his amazing talents as the top horn player he is. Mark will be participating in at least one signing session on Friday and two signings on both Saturday and Sunday. Exact times will be posted on our site a week before the FEST and in our program booklet.
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Terry SylvesterLiverpool Legend, of The Swinging Blue Jeans & The Hollies
Terry Sylvester
Liverpool Legend, of The Swinging Blue Jeans & The Hollies
TERRY SYLVESTER is a native of Liverpool and former member of The Swinging Blue Jeans, The Hollies, and The Escorts. We are thrilled to welcome him back to the Fest stage! Terry will be participating in at least one signing session on Friday and two signings on both Saturday and Sunday. Exact times will be posted on our site a week before the FEST and in our program booklet.
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Joey MollandLiverpool Legend, of Badfinger
Joey Molland
Liverpool Legend, of Badfinger
Joey Molland is best known for being a member of Badfinger, the Beatles' protege band on Apple Records. He auditioned for Badfinger in November of 1969, joined the group shortly after, and remained with them until 1974. From Come and Get It and No Matter What to Day After Day, their driving sound made them an instant sensation in the early 1970s. In addition to his work with Badfinger, Molland played guitar on George Harrison's albums All Things Must Pass and The Concert for Bangladesh and played on John Lennon's Imagine. Joey is a native Liverpudlian who will be telling great stories from those hectic Apple days. Joey will be participating in at least one signing session on Friday and two signings on both Saturday and Sunday. Exact times will be posted on our site a week before the FEST and in our program booklet.
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Mark LewisohnThe World's Foremost Beatles Historian
Mark Lewisohn
The World's Foremost Beatles Historian
It is always a pleasure and an honor to have Mark join us! His books are at the top of all must-have Beatles books and of course, we are all waiting for the second volume of his all encompassing Volume two of his trio of supersized biographies. Mark will be participating in at least one signing session on Friday and two signings on both Saturday and Sunday. Exact times will be posted on our site a week before the FEST and in our program booklet.
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Ken DashowQ104.3 - Master of Ceremonies
Ken Dashow
Q104.3 - Master of Ceremonies
Ken Dashow's knowledge and love of music, and of course, The Beatles, can be heard weekday afternoons on Q104.3 FM. Beatles fans from around the world can listen to his Sunday Morning Breakfast With The Beatles show. On the web, he can be heard on iHeart Radio. His live Breakfast With The Beatles three times a year at the Cutting Room (around the Beatles birthdays) have become legendary (of course, not during the pandemic). You never know who is going to pop up on his show, always with plenty of live performances. This is Ken's 21st year as the Fest MC!
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LiverpoolWorld's Finest Beatles Tribute Band, Concerts All Three Nights
Liverpool
World's Finest Beatles Tribute Band, Concerts All Three Nights
LIVERPOOL, featuring Drew Hill, John Merjave, Glen Burtnik, and Chris Camilleri, is the World's finest Beatles tribute band. Their amazing concerts highlight every FEST, including the last hour of the concert when they bring up all the musical legends of their time to perform their hits live on our stage. For those of you who are new to the FEST and have never attended one of our celebrations, here are some of the artists Liverpool has played with over the past 40 years at the FEST - Harry Nilsson, Billy Preston, Donovan, Peter & Gordon, Billy J. Kramer, Klaus Voormann, Chad & Jeremy, Randy Bachman, Neil Innes and The Rutles, Gerry Marsden, Mike Pender (Searchers), Joey Molland, The Quarrymen, Ronnie Spector, Alan Parsons, Doris Troy, Norman "Hurricane" Smith, Peter Noone, Micky Dolenz, Seven Wings Members, Spencer Davis, Terry Sylvester (Hollies), Gary Wright, Albert Lee, Gene Cornish (Rascals), Max Weinberg, Mark Lindsay, Phoebe Snow, and Billy Kinsley (Merseybeats). For Liverpool, the focus is on the incredible music the Beatles created, and bringing that energy to the stage while performing note-for-note renditions. Friday evening, they welcome fans with a 60s (optional) Dress Up Night that includes a Look-Alike Contest, a Dress Up Contest, Door Prizes and more. Saturday and Sunday evening's concerts are not to be missed. You never know who is going to show up unannounced to join in the jam!
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The WeeklingsIn Concert on Saturday
The Weeklings
In Concert on Saturday
The Weeklings (JEM recording artists), America’s most unique celebration of the music and muse of The Beatles, features former members of Styx, Dave Mason, the original Beatlemania on Broadway, Jon Bon Jovi & The Kings of Suburbia, Southside Johnny and The Asbury Jukes, Bruce Springsteen drummer Max Weinberg’s Jukebox and BeatlesFest house band Liverpool. The band performs and records explosive renditions of Beatles album and Top 40 classics, uniquely arranged nuggets such as "Paperback Writer," "Baby You're a Rich Man," and "I Am the Walrus," 60s classic remakes like The Easybeats' 1966 garage rock hit “Friday On My Mind” featuring Peter Noone of Herman Hermit's fame on lead vocals, plus brilliant Beatles-inspired power-pop originals, like "Little Elvis," "In the Moment" and "3" -- the title track from their latest album chosen the No. 1 Coolest Song in the World 2020 on Sirius/XM's Little Steven's Underground Garage. The Weeklings bring their music to life through their extraordinary energy and musicianship, exceptional vocals, and charming stage presence.
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Black TiesIn Concert on Friday and Saturday
Black Ties
In Concert on Friday and Saturday
As a four piece rock and roll band based in central Jersey, The Black Ties' rollicking Beatles covers will have you on your feet! -
Cellophane FlowersIn Concert on Sunday
Cellophane Flowers
In Concert on Sunday
Jeff Lake and Cellophane Flowers have been gracing our NY METRO FEST stages since 2015. A guitar, voice, violins, viola, and cello take us on a classical journey through a set of Beatles songs that will blow away all in attendance.
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Blac RabbitIn Concert on Sunday
Blac Rabbit
In Concert on Sunday
Blac Rabbit is a psychedelic rock band from Rockaway Beach NYC formed by twin brothers Rahiem and Amiri Taylor. While attending high school they learned how to play guitar, write songs and also taught themselves how to produce music, taking particular inspiration from the soul, rock and pop they listened to during their childhood, with The Beatles being the highest on their list.They grew to prominence in the Beatles world by going viral with their uncanny soundalike Beatles covers, busking in the subway, and it even landed them on the Ellen Show!In Late 2017 the duo released their first self titled EP "Blac Rabbit". The duo performed, produced, and mixed the album themselves along with the help of live drummer Patrick Jones. The group released their debut full length album "Interstella" in March of 2022.They performed at The Fest for Beatles Fans in 2019, and again in 2022. We are thrilled to welcome them back for a set on the Main Stage on Sunday! -
Annie TrezzaIn Concert on Friday and Saturday
Annie Trezza
In Concert on Friday and Saturday
In concert with her band on Friday on the main stage. On Saturday, Annie will perform solo on the Apple Jam stage. Annie Trezza is a singer-songwriter based out of Montauk, NY. Her love and passion for fine songwriting shows upon first listening. From the age of 6 years old she was singing along to every Beatles song and by age 15 knew all of the lyrics to many a Bob Dylan tunes. Growing up in a church allowed for the sounds of Gospel to influence and run through and through from a young age. Folky, surfy, soul filled sounds pair perfectly w/ her unique raspy voice and groovy guitar riffs. Her lyrics are inspired by heartaches, The Ocean, surfing, travels, loves lost and found, and Life itself. She recently had the opportunity of having not one, but Three original songs in neo-western thriller, The Last Victim. (Directed by Naveen A. Chathapuram and available to stream on Hulu). Her EP Blue Suitcase #2 was released in December 2019. Her second EP titled Something, Nothing. was recently recorded at the world class Bear Creek Studios w/ producer Ryan Hadlock (The Lumineers, Brandi Carlile, Vance Joy) and is set to be released December 2022.
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Magical Mystery GirlsIn Concert on Friday and Saturday
Magical Mystery Girls
In Concert on Friday and Saturday
In concert on the main stage on Friday night and Apple Jam stage on Saturday! The Magical Mystery Girls came together in 2017 as a one-time "supergroup" of female performers to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the release of The Beatles' revolutionary Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band album. The response was so overwhelming that they decided to keep the band together and to continue adding songs from the Beatles catalog. After several standing-room only shows to a loyal and growing following, the Magical Mystery Girls are now a sought-after act at festivals, concert venues, and clubs throughout the mid-Atlantic.
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WalrusIn Concert on Saturday
Walrus
In Concert on Saturday
In concert on Saturday
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Tom FrangioneThe Beatles Channel (SiriusXM) 'Resident Beatles Expert'
Tom Frangione
The Beatles Channel (SiriusXM) 'Resident Beatles Expert'
SATURDAY LATE NIGHT SPECIAL: PAUL McCARTNEY IN CONVERSATIONHear Tom Frangione’s exclusive interview with Paul McCartney, courtesy of our friends at The Beatles Channel on Sirius XM. In this interview, which has drawn notice worldwide, Paul discusses his classic album “Tug of War” and tells loads of great Beatles stories along the way.You’ll hear the entire hour-long interview, including material that wasn’t included in the broadcast special. So whether you’re a SiriusXM subscriber who caught the broadcast (or perhaps may have missed it), or haven’t yet signed up, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy.As an added bonus, a special visual presentation has been prepared by Natalie Palumbo, to accompany the interview.The interview will be presented on Saturday Night in the Grand Ballroom after the Liverpool concert, at around Midnight with an encore on Sunday in Video Room. -
Bruce SpizerLeading Authority on the Beatles Recordings
Bruce Spizer
Leading Authority on the Beatles Recordings
Bruce Spizer is one of the world's leading authorities on the U. S. Beatles recordings. His latest book is on the 50th Anniversary of Abbey Road. Bruce has been a guest at every FEST nationwide since 1998 - that's more than 50 FESTS!! His eight Beatles books are part of every collector and music aficionado's book shelves. His talks on many various topics are legendary in the Beatles world and we are certain he will come up with some great new subjects for 2023.
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Kenneth WomackAuthor of the Forthcoming Mal Evans Biography
Kenneth Womack
Author of the Forthcoming Mal Evans Biography
Kenneth Womack is putting the finishing touches on his most important Beatles book to date. It is called Mal Evans: The Official Biography and Archives. It is being published this coming June. Ken will give an extended preview at the NY Metro FEST of this highly anticipated book on one of The Beatles closest confidants. He also wrote the two volume George Martin Bio a few years back, plus John Lennon 1980, and All Things Must Pass Away. Ken is a literary critic and award-winning author who has written five books about the Beatles. Ken is the Dean of the Wayne D. McMurray School of Humanities and Social Sciences at at Monmouth University in New Jersey.
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Allan KozinnAuthor
Allan Kozinn
Author
Allan Kozinn (with co-author Adrian Sinclair) have written The McCartney Legacy, Volume a 720 page tome that covers Paul's career from 1969-1973. this is one of those books that is a must for all fans. This book was our bestselling book of 2022 and all copies we offer have been signed by both Allan and Adrian. We welcome Allan back to the FEST. It has been a while.
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David JacksAuthor
David Jacks
Author
David is the author of Peter Asher: A Life in Music Biography. Includes extensive interviews with Peter, James Taylor, Linda Ronstadt and dozens of others who have worked with Peter over the years. This is David’s first FEST appearance.
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David BedfordAuthor of "The Fab 104"
David Bedford
Author of "The Fab 104"
Liverpudlian David Bedford has finished up his new book, Looking For The 4th Beatle. His previous book, The Fab 104, refers to the number of musicians/friends/others who were involved with the Beatles story from the Quarrymen (July 6, 1957) until the day Ringo completed the band in August of 1962. David's first book, Liddypool, is one of those essential books to own, giving us a great glimpse of what it was like to grow up in Liverpool and how that influenced the Beatles. His always entertaining talks and A/V presentations have become fan favorites.
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The WagOn the Apple Jam Stage
The Wag
On the Apple Jam Stage
“If the Beatles and the Cowsills got it on backstage at Ed Sullivan, The Wag would totally be their love child.” -Wil Wheaton (Actor, Author)
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Kel SabatinoOn the Apple Jam Stage
Kel Sabatino
On the Apple Jam Stage
Kel Sabatino is a Brooklyn-based singer-songwriter. Her sound is influenced by a love of 60s/70s folk and rock, as well as more contemporary artists such as Norah Jones and Feist. She has been performing since a young age, with gigs at venues such as The Stone Pony, The Bitter End, and B.B. King's Blues Bar in NYC.
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Scott EricksonOn the Apple Jam Stage
Scott Erickson
On the Apple Jam Stage
With the addition of the Apple Jam Stage in 2015, long time Fest attendee Scott Erickson became a staple of our music lineup. Since then, he has consistently surprised us by playing group and solo songs we all-but-forgot about, as well as entire albums.
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Rowan AderholdOn the Apple Jam Stage
Rowan Aderhold
On the Apple Jam Stage
Rowan Aderhold is a 5th grade multi instrumentalist. His keen ear and instincts allow him to traverse many genres while he adds unique stylings and bluesy improvisation into all of his playing. Rowan loves The Beatles, The Who, Phish, The Grateful Dead, Frank Zappa, Genesis, Steely Dan, Pink Floyd/Roger Waters and so many more. While Rowan is predominantly self taught, he is now studying jazz piano under Luciano Salvatore and guitar with Ray Ippolito. Follow his musical journey at: rowanaderhold.com.
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Norwegian Wood with Joe DeJesuOn the Apple Jam Stage
Norwegian Wood with Joe DeJesu
On the Apple Jam Stage
Joe DeJesu is a singer/songwriter from Long Island. Joe had a busy 2022, releasing two new singles: “Another Sacrifice” and “United Together (We Will Survive).” The latter of which was picked up by The United Way of Long Island for their Covid-19 relief fundraising campaign. DeJesu has gained a huge following hosting his popular podcast, J.A.M. - Joe's Acoustic Mondays (currently airing on Facebook), which earned Joe the 2021 Bethpage Best of Long Island Award for Best Long Island Podcast. In addition, Joe performs regularly at Long Island’s best venues, including The Paramount, with acclaimed artist Mike Delguidice and other members of The Billy Joel Band. Joe also performs in numerous Beatles tribute acts and, in 2015, started the acoustic Beatles tribute Norwegian Wood with fellow Beatlemaniac and longtime fest attendee, Eddie Profet, Jr. Keep up with Joe on Facebook and Instagram @JoeDeJesuMusic.
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Bethany VollaroOn the Apple Jam stage
Bethany Vollaro
On the Apple Jam stage
On the Apple Jam stage
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Steff ReedOn the Apple Jam stage
Steff Reed
On the Apple Jam stage
Steff Reed is a Musician, Educator, and Activist. By sharing his story, Reed shows others that they are not alone. He is a Black Man that loves and gives greatly, modeling that emotional sensitivity and compassion can make us stronger as a community.
As a singer, songwriter, producer and multi instrumentalist, Steff Reed is known to affect audiences with his spiritual, uplifting energy and song. He is unafraid to be vulnerable and open in his own story, sharing lessons of resilience, healing, self-betterment. Reed blends genres of folk rock, alternative rock, pop rock to culminate in inspirational, humanitarian messages.
Over the years, Reed has gained national acclaim as a producer and song-writer having worked with the likes of Trey Songz, Jhene Aiko, Eric Roberson, Swizz Beatz, Kenny Lattimore and Gordon Chambers on songs that made it to the Billboard Charts.
As an Educator, Reed has taught thousands of youth between the ages 4-24 over the last 15 years. In 2013, he was nominated for the GRAMMY Music Educator Award and taught a “Power of Love” workshop at NYU/Ed Sullivan Fellows.
Reed is currently building a Brooklyn-based non-profit, Power of Love, in partnership with Judson Memorial Church. His latest music project is of the same name. By using his social capital and influence, Reed is scaling his impact to empower wider audiences and impact real political change.
Steff is inspired by socially-conscious artists like John Lennon, Prince, Tracy Chapman, U2, Jean Michel Basquiat, and Jimi Hendrix.
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Penny LaneOn the Apple Jam stage
Penny Lane
On the Apple Jam stage
On the Apple Jam stage
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Gabriel MayersOn the Apple Jam Stage
Gabriel Mayers
On the Apple Jam Stage
Gabriel Mayers is an Indie Folk singer and busker from Brooklyn, New York. He has been featured in the New Yorker, starred in a Vh1 reality television series and his original song, ‘Sixty Charisma Scented Blackbirds’ has over 1 million streams worldwide.
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Blue Hawk House BandOn the Apple Jam stage
Blue Hawk House Band
On the Apple Jam stage
On the Apple Jam stage
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BeatlesqueOn the Apple Jam stage
Beatlesque
On the Apple Jam stage
On the Apple Jam atage
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mr. RAYKid's Concert
mr. RAY
Kid's Concert
Kid's Concert
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Gary AstridgeRingo's Drum Kits Curator
Gary Astridge
Ringo's Drum Kits Curator
We are delighted to welcome back Ringo's personal Drum Curator GARY ASTRIDGE. This year, Gary is bringing a life size Peace Sculptured Hand (made from an actual casting of Ringo's right hand)! Take photos with the sculpture at the FEST and share on social media to spread Ringo's message of Peace and Love!
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Jude Southerland KesslerJohn Lennon Author/Historian
Jude Southerland Kessler
John Lennon Author/Historian
Jude Southerland Kessler's fifth volume of the history of John Lennon is out now. It is called, Shades of Life: Part 1. This is an amazing book and a must read for all Beatles fans, especially John fans. The first volume in the series is Shoulda Been There, the second is Shivering Inside, the third is She Loves You, and the fourth is Should Have Known Better. A featured writer on the Fest's Blog for the last four years, Jude's A/V presentations at the FEST are original and you will even learn new things about the Beatles.
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Simon WeitzmanDirector/Producer of Here, There & Everywhere
Simon Weitzman
Director/Producer of Here, There & Everywhere
Simon has been creating Here, There & Everywhere - A film celebrating 50+ years of Beatles Fandom. Featuring fans from around the world (some very familiar to this audience) the film is a loving showcase of stories and talent celebrating the unique Beatles family. The film is due out later this year. Look out for Simon and fellow producer Stuart around The Fest as they will be doing some further interviews and vox pops for the feature. The Beatles In Stereographic 3D - Paul Skellett and Simon Weitzman present the final book box set celebrating seminal parts of The Beatles career in stereographic 3D. The project took 15 months to complete and the sets feature viewing glasses designed by Queen's Brian May. In addition to the new 3D book, Simon has served as Researcher and Project Wrangler for the tremendous books Tom Murray's Mad Day Out, Eight Arms To Hold You, and All You Need Is Love.
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Eric CashBeatles Fine Artist and Illustrator of "Once Upon A Time In Liverpool"
Eric Cash
Beatles Fine Artist and Illustrator of "Once Upon A Time In Liverpool"
Internationally acclaimed artist Eric Cash is back again this year at the FEST displaying and selling his traditional style oil paintings of scenes from The Beatles history through his imaginative eyes. Eric, who has been at most Fests since 2008, continues to be one of the most well known Beatles artists going.
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Skylar MoodyPanelist
Skylar Moody
Panelist
Skylar Moody is a NYC-Metro based Beatles content creator for TikTok (@lucyinthesky.lar) and YouTube as well as a budding music journalist. From the age of 15, she has been deeply influenced by the work of The Beatles. Their impact has inspired her to connect with fans around the world and become the voice of her generation that keeps the band's legacy alive. Skylar on Wordpress
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Ken MichaelsDJ & Podcast Host
Ken Michaels
DJ & Podcast Host
Ken has been hosting weekly Beatles programs in the New York areasince 1982 on stations WNYT, WDHA, B-103 and nationally on XM Radio.His syndicated Beatles show "Every Little Things" is currently heard onover 50 radio stations. He also co-hosts the popular Beatles talk-showpodcasts "Things We Said Today," "Talk More Talk: A Solo-BeatlesVideocast," and runs his own You Tube channel "Ken Michaels Radio." -
Vivek TiwaryAuthor of The Fifth Beatle
Vivek Tiwary
Author of The Fifth Beatle
Vivek Tiwary is the author of The New York Times best-selling graphic novel The Fifth Beatle - The Brian Epstein Story. Vivek is a multiple Tony Award winner (Green Day's American Idiot, The Addams Family, The Producers), and he's very excited to be joining us. Vivek os also the producer of Jagged Little Pill on Broadway.
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Rob LeonardHost of Beatlesongs
Rob Leonard
Host of Beatlesongs
Rob Leonard is the host of “Beatlesongs”, a radio show dedicated to the music and history of the Beatles together and apart. This unique show airs every Friday from 8pm to 11pm on 90.3FM WHPC Garden City, New York. Streaming at www.nccradio.org. The show started over 39 years ago and has been on the air for over 30 years (1984-1987 and 1996 to the present) Rob is also the co-host of the Beatles podcast “The Fab 4 Free 4 All” with friends Mitch Axelrod and Tony Traguardo www.fab4free4all.com
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Piers HemmingsenAuthor of "The Beatles In Canada"
Piers Hemmingsen
Author of "The Beatles In Canada"
Author of The Beatles In Canada: The Origins of Beatlemania! Piers' book offers a whole new perspective for U.S. fans. We certainly did not know that She Loves You made it to No. 1 in Canada in December, 1963, before we ever heard of the Beatles! Piers has created the standard for Canada's Beatles history, much as Bruce Spizer has done with his series of U.S. books.
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Susan ShumskyAuthor of "Maharishi & Me"
Susan Shumsky
Author of "Maharishi & Me"
Susan has written a book from her personal experiences in the 1960s and beyond, called Maharishi & Me: Seeking Enlightenment. Susan learned TM in early 1967, and studied with the Maharishi in Rishikesh in 1970. She ended up working for him for six years in Europe, really getting to know him. We welcome Susan back for her third year. This story has never been told, until her book was published, and is very fascinating.
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Madeline BocaroAuthor of In Your Mind - The Infinite Universe of Yoko Ono
Madeline Bocaro
Author of In Your Mind - The Infinite Universe of Yoko Ono
A New Yorker and passionate rock and roll fan, Madleline has written In Your Mind - The Infinite Universe of Yoko Ono, the ultimate biography. She explores Yoko’s extraordinary life, art and music, illuminating Yoko’s spirit and her vision. Also explored is the extraordinary love story of John & Yoko and the work they did together.Now in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Library & Archives!On several Best Music Books lists and Gift Guides.Recommended by Olivia Harrison on Instagram.Recommended on Apple Jam - The Beatles Channel - Sirius XM. -
Wally PodrazikPanel Discussions
Wally Podrazik
Panel Discussions
Wally Podrazik has been the Discussions Room host at almost all of our Chicago FESTS (and numerous other cities) since 1977. Wally is one of the most respected Beatles historians in the world and from 1976-1983 wrote three books (with Harry Castleman) that became an early part of a journey to delve deeply in The Beatles history. Wally's insights make his contributions to the daily discussions with our guest authors invaluable.
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Susan RyanBeatles Historian
Susan Ryan
Beatles Historian
Susan Ryan started an online publication over 19 years ago called Rooftop Sessions, where fans submitted stories and prose about the Beatles. Now she hosts groups of women Beatles historians and comes up with new topics to explore each year in always fascinating talks. Susan also conducts Walking Tours of Beatles and John Lennon sites around New York City.
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James CampionAuthor of Take a Sad Song: The Emotional Currency of "Hey Jude"
James Campion
Author of Take a Sad Song: The Emotional Currency of "Hey Jude"
In Take a Sad Song: The Emotional Currency of "Hey Jude," author James Campion dives deeply into the song's origins, recording, visual presentation, impact, and eventual influence, while also discovering what makes "Hey Jude" a classic musical expression of personal comfort and societal unity conceived by a master songwriter, Paul McCartney. This journey into the song includes the insights of experts in the fields of musicology, sociology, philosophy, psychology, and history. Campion also reveals commentary from noted Beatles authors, biographers, music historians, and journalists and, finally, a peek into the craft of songwriting from a host of talented composers across several generations. "Take a Sad A Song'' made Rolling Stone Magazine's Best Music Books of 2022!
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Darren DeVivoDJ on WFUV
Darren DeVivo
DJ on WFUV
Radio disc jockey Darren DeVivo has been a major part of New York City’s WFUV for well over thirty years. Since making his on air debut in February 1984, Darren has been part of WFUV’s evolution into one of the country’s leading non-commercial, cutting edge music stations. After years of spinning tunes during different hours of the day and evening, Darren can be heard Monday through Thursday nights from 10pm until 2am and Saturday afternoons from 1pm until 4pm on 90.7 FM, 90.7 FM-HD2, www.wfuv.org and on the WFUV app. In addition, Darren co-hosts the Beatles podcast, “Things We Said Today,” with Fest attendee Ken Michaels and Allan Kozinn. Darren is also a long time Fest attendee, joining us for the first time in 1982 and missing only one year (2013) along the way!
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Scott FreimanCreator of Deconstructing The Beatles
Scott Freiman
Creator of Deconstructing The Beatles
SCOTT FREIMAN is a composer, a musician, and a software entrepreneur. He is the creator of Deconstructing The Beatles, a series of multimedia presentations about the composition and production techniques of the Fab Four. Scott has presented his lectures to sold out audiences throughout North America at theaters, museums and corporations, such as Pixar, Google, and Facebook, and has also lectured at colleges and universities and taught a 13-part course at Yale University entitled The Beatles in The Studio.
Scott is featured in seven Deconstructing the Beatles films now available on DVD. They include films on the Birth of the Beatles, the 1963 Beatles, Rubber Soul, Revolver, Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, Magical Mystery Tour, and The White Album, and Abbey Road. -
Laurie JacobsonAuthor of Top of the Mountain: The Beatles at Shea Stadium 1965
Laurie Jacobson
Author of Top of the Mountain: The Beatles at Shea Stadium 1965
In August 1965, during a sweltering heatwave, 56,000 people traveled by plane, car, bus, ferry, and subway train to pack New York's Shea Stadium on a Sunday evening—not for a baseball game, but for a rock and roll concert. This idea was the crazy dream of concert promoter Sid Bernstein. No rock band had ever played a baseball stadium, and no one believed he could pull it off. But on that glorious night, The Beatles sold out Shea Stadium, shattering all existing box office and attendance records in show business history. Oh, and they also changed the world. Against the backdrop of a remarkably volatile year in our nation's history, Top of the Mountain: The Beatles at Shea Stadium, 1965 delivers all the detail and excitement of Shea and the spirited, curious new generation who would soon claim the decade for its own. Told through first-person interviews and quotes, a unique cast of characters tells the story: celebrities then and celebrities now, writers, agents, producers, photographers, opening act performers, fans, security guards, radio personalities, cameramen, and media—all of whom were part of the night. Caryn Johnson (Whoopi Goldberg) and Steven Lento (Little Steven Van Zandt); future Beatle wives Linda Eastman and Barbara Bach; established stars like Bobby Vinton and Ed Sullivan; and artists hoping one day to equal this success, such as Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Felix Cavaliere and The Rascals, Marvin Gaye, and more share their memories of this remarkable night in Top of the Mountain.
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Steve MatteoAuthor of "Let It Be"
Steve Matteo
Author of "Let It Be"
Steve Matteo is the author of Let It Be (33 1/3-Bloomsbury) and Dylan (Sterling). He has written for such publications as The Absolute Sound, Literary Hub, Dan's Papers, Scenes, Under the Radar, Boomer magazine, The Alternate Root, Versopolis, Ugly Things, Pulse, The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, New York magazine, Time Out New York, Rolling Stone, Spin, Interview, Elle and Salon. Steve's talk this year ties in perfectly with the celebration of Let It Be.
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Debbie GreenbergFormer owner of The Cavern
Debbie Greenberg
Former owner of The Cavern
DEBBIE GREENBERG was the owner of the Cavern Club in Liverpool. Her book, Cavern Club: The Inside Story. Goes into the great history of this most famous club on the planet. She will also be giving aA/V presentation over the weekend. -
Kit O'TooleAuthor of "Songs We Were Singing"
Kit O'Toole
Author of "Songs We Were Singing"
Kit O'Toole, the author of Songs We Were Singing: Guided Tours Through the Beatles’ Lesser-Known Tracks, is a Chicago-based freelance writer and blogger who has written about rock, jazz, and R&B for over 20 years. As a blogger, Kit writes for Something Else Reviews (including the popular column “Deep Beatles”), Blinded by Sound (including the column “Deep Soul”), and Cinema Sentries, and previously served as a music editor for Blogcritics. Kit is also a longtime contributing editor for Beatlefan magazine. -
Anthony RobustelliAuthor of "I Want To Tell You: The Definitive Guide To The Music Of The Beatles Volume 1: 1962/1963"
Anthony Robustelli
Author of "I Want To Tell You: The Definitive Guide To The Music Of The Beatles Volume 1: 1962/1963"
Anthony Robustelli's book, I Want To Tell You: The Definitive Guide To The Music Of The Beatles Volume 1: 1962/1963 digs deep and provides detailed analysis of the music the Beatles recorded in 1962 and 1963. At the FEST, Anthony will be providing added flavor to his stories in fascinating A/V Presentations over the weekend.
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Patti Gallo-StenmanAuthor of Diary Of A Beatlemaniac
Patti Gallo-Stenman
Author of Diary Of A Beatlemaniac
Author of Diary of a Beatlemaniac: A Fab Insider’s Look at the Beatles Era. The memoir is compiled from her own diary, weekly Teen to Teen newspaper columns, extensive scrapbooking and original snapshots. Patti was also Co-President of the Official Victor Spinetti Fan Club of America, Chapter #1. A journalist by profession and Philly girl, she is no stranger to the Fest for Beatles Fans but is making only her fourth FEST author appearance.
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Sara SchmidtAuthor of Happiness is Seeing The Beatles
Sara Schmidt
Author of Happiness is Seeing The Beatles
Feb 25th note: My new book, Dear Beatle People: The Story of The Beatles North American Fan Club, will premiere at the upcoming NY Metro Fest (March 31-April 2).This book has been highly anticipated. The cover and inside illustrations are by Beatle artist Eric Cash. Mark Lewisohn gave me his blessing on the book and allowed me to use a few interviews he conducted for Tune In. The book is 377 pages with over 100 photographs, many in color. No one has ever written about the Beatles Fan Clubs, especially the ones in the United States. I uncovered some great stories that have never been heard before about fan club officers meeting The Beatles in person during their U.S. tours and at their homes. There are also many extra fun things in the book for fans to discover.Sara Schmidt is a second-generation Beatles fan who runs the popular website "Meet The Beatles...For Real." She is the author of the book "Happiness is Seeing The Beatles: Beatlemania in St. Louis," and her new book, "Dear Beatle People: The Beatles North American Fan Clubs" will be available soon. -
Terri WhitneyAuthor of "Any Rhyme At All"
Terri Whitney
Author of "Any Rhyme At All"
Terry Lilly Whitney, a.k.a. The Rockin’ Rhymer, is a Michigan native who has been part of the poetry jam and other activities at the Chicago Fest for several years. Her new book, Any Rhyme At All, will be available at the Fest.
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Michael VentrellaAuthor of Beatles on the Charts
Michael Ventrella
Author of Beatles on the Charts
Author of the brand new book "Beatles on the Charts."
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More to ComeSee you at the Fest!
More to Come
See you at the Fest!
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More to ComeSee you at the Fest!
More to Come
See you at the Fest!

The Overflow hotel is the Hyatt House, located right around the corner from the Hyatt Regency. It is at One Exchange Place. Their Phone Number is 201-395-0500, or call 1-800-993-4983 for Reservations. To receive the FEST rate ($239-Studio King or $269-Queen) you must mention you are coming to the FEST For Beatles Fans to get these rates.
CLICK HERE for the room link for the Hyatt House overflow hotel.
In regards to the PATH service, you can take the Path straight to Exchange Place from Lower Manhattan.
For directions to the hotel, HEAD HERE