Ep 1: Something About the History of AROTR

In honor of AROTR’s 20th anniversary, our first episode of Something Will Happen goes over the history of our beloved Beatles festival, Abbey Road on the River! We spoke with the producer of the festival, Gary Jacob, and got some great insights on how it all started.


We learn that while working other events, Gary noticed that Beatles tribute acts were attracting crowds at the same level of other big name performers. He pitched his idea for a festival that centered around these tribute acts and in Cleveland, Oh in 2002, Abbey Road on the River was born.

Gary tells us about the decision to move AROTR to Louisville, Ky and how he had some trepidation on how the festival would be received in a new city. Luckily, as Gary points out -and as we Beatles fans already know- “there’s no such thing as a city where the Beatles aren’t popular.”

We take a look back at some specific concerts and smaller spin off AROTR events that have happened over land, sea, and air (broadcast). We recall many of the notable names that have been a part of the festival including Pete Best, Louise Harrison, and Peter Asher. Most importantly, we reflect on how the real legacy of AROTR has been the friendships and community that has only gotten stronger over the last 20 years of sharing our love of the Beatles and their music.

Producers: Gary Jacob, Melissa Brumm

Editor: Emily Clopton

Theme Music: King Mixer

Learn more:

ENJOY THE SHOW?

 
Melissa Brumm