Book Talk: Jim Windolf, author of Where the Music Had to Go

We all know The Beatles and Bob Dylan influenced the course of popular music, changing our social landscape along the way. But did they also influence and change each other? Acclaimed New York Times journalist and widely recognized Beatles expert Jim Windolf offers a definitive “yes,” with proof! Join us for an incredible and fun evening of stories, music, and a little bit of history.

Part dual biography, part cultural history, Windolf’s book Where the Music Had to Go (April 2026, Scribner) presents a portrait of how two beloved musical luminaries actively shaped one another’s work. Windolf is joined in conversation by Susan Morrison, New York Times bestselling author of Lorne: The Man Who Invented Saturday Night Live. The two are also joined for a special performance by singer songwriter Nellie McKay.

Packed with little-known anecdotes and revelations, including an account of every documented interaction between Dylan and the Beatles, and an exclusive interview with Paul McCartney, Where the Music Had to Go offers a critical framework for understanding the relationship between the two. Offering a fresh look into that complicated relationship, Windolf reveals a story of rivalry, generosity, and creative exchange that reshaped the direction of modern popular music.

This event has been programmed in tandem with our Summer Exhibition THIS LAND: Considering the American Landscape, which can be viewed June 21 – September 6 during our exhibition hours 11 AM – 5 PM, Thursday-Monday.