Living the Beatles Legend: The Untold Story of Mal Evans
The Not Old Better Show, Art of Living Interview Series
Welcome to The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series on radio and podcast. I’m Paul Vogelzang, and today, we dive into a narrative that not only revolutionizes our understanding of an iconic rock band but challenges conventional thought about who deserves a place in the annals of history. Joining us today is Smithsonian Associate and Beatles historian and author Kenneth Womack. Ken Womack will be appearing at Smithsonian Associates coming up, so please check out our website for more details about Ken Womack’s presentation, titled, Living the Beatles Legend: The Untold Story of Mal Evans: We have a lot to unpack today. So, let’s get into it. What you’re about to hear challenges the way we view history, music, and the people who stand just outside the limelight.
In advance or Ken Womack’s presentation at Smithsonian Associates, our conversation today takes an unexpected turn as Womack delves into his latest work—a biography about Mal Evans, Womack’s book, Living the Beatles Legend: The Untold Story of Mal Evans Mal Evans was The Beatles’ longtime personal assistant. For those of you unfamiliar with Evans, you’re not alone. His story is largely untold, and much of what’s been written about him has turned out to be incorrect. With the aid of extensive research, this book aims to correct the record. The Evans that emerges from Womack’s work is a far cry from the hulking background figure that history has often painted. Malcolm Evans, the Beatles’ long-time roadie, personal assistant, and devoted friend, was an invaluable member of the band’s inner circle. Evans loomed large in the Beatles’ story, a towering figure in horn-rimmed glasses, contributing as a performer and sometimes as a lyricist while struggling to protect his beloved “boys.” He was there for the whole group’s remarkable story, from the Shea Stadium triumph to the creation of the timeless cover art for Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band and the famous Let It Be rooftop concert.
That, of course, is our guest today, Smithsonian Associate, Beatles historian, and author of the new book Living the Beatles Legend: The Untold Story of Mal Evans. Ken Womack graciously agreed to read a passage from his wonderful book, and now please join me in welcoming back to The Not Old Better Show on radio and podcast, Smithsonian Associate Ken Womack.
So, for those of you who are 60 and above, who might have lived through Beatlemania, how does this resonate with you? Does it make you reflect on the icons of your past and the unsung heroes who enabled them? How would you, like Evans, make your second act in life just as compelling as your first? What a treat to speak with author Smithsonian Associate Ken Womack about his upcoming presentation, titled, Living the Beatles Legend: The Untold Story of Mal Evans and his new book, Living the Beatles Legend: The Untold Story of Mal Evans. Please check out our show notes today for more details about Ken Womack’s upcoming Smithsonian Associates presentation. My thanks to the Smithsonian team for all they do to support the show. My thanks to you, my wonderful audience here on radio and podcast. Be well, be safe, and let’s talk about better©. The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series on radio and podcast.
For more information, please visit Smithsonian Associates: https://smithsonianassociates.org/ticketing/tickets/untold-story-mal-evans