299: Ringo’s Beats and Threads with Gary Astridge

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 co-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 Look Up album of country music.

Gary's site: www.ringosbeatlekits.com

Julien's Auctions: https://store.juliensauctions.com/ShopCatalog?id=220

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