Dreaming the Beatles

NPR Best Book of 2017 and winner of the 2017 Virgil Thomson Award for Outstanding Music Criticism, this work offers an unconventional exploration of the Beatles, delving into their enduring significance for a generation that has never known a world without them. It is not a typical biography, song analysis, or breakup exposé, but rather a collection of essays that reflect on the band's impact on those who grew up with their music. The author examines why the Beatles remain more famous and beloved today than ever, nearly fifty years after their breakup. With a focus on the emotional connections people have with music, he highlights the Beatles as the ultimate pop culture phenomenon. The narrative reveals how four lads from Liverpool became the world's biggest pop group and continued to grow in stature even after their split. Their music transcends the past, resonating powerfully in the present. This book celebrates the Beatles' legacy, illustrating why they are still cherished and how they shaped the future we inhabit today.