Paul McCartney is a name almost everyone knows. As a founding member of The Beatles, he helped shape music and popular culture in the 1960s and beyond. His impact is immense, influencing countless artists and fans. McCartney’s songs, both with The Beatles and in his solo career, continue to be loved by people all over the world.
Table of Contents
Early Life: Family, Childhood, Education, and Early Musical Influences
James Paul McCartney was born on June 18, 1942, in Liverpool, England. His parents, Mary and James McCartney, played a big role in his early life. His father, James, was a musician who played the trumpet and piano. His mother, Mary, was a nurse and midwife. Paul has a younger brother named Michael.
Paul had a typical childhood in Liverpool. He went to local schools and showed an early interest in music. His father often played jazz records at home, which inspired young Paul. Tragically, his mother died from breast cancer when he was just 14. This event deeply affected him and influenced his music later on.
Paul attended the Liverpool Institute High School for Boys. There, he met George Harrison, who would later become his bandmate in The Beatles. Paul’s early music influences included rock and roll, skiffle, and the jazz music his father loved.
McCartney began playing the guitar and quickly showed talent. In 1957, he met John Lennon at a church fete. John invited Paul to join his band, the Quarrymen. This meeting was the start of a legendary songwriting partnership. McCartney’s early years were full of musical growth. His family’s support and the friendships he formed in Liverpool set the stage for his future success with The Beatles.
Paul McCartney and John Lennon
Paul McCartney met John Lennon on July 6, 1957, at a church fete in Liverpool. John was performing with his band, the Quarrymen, when Paul was introduced to him by a mutual friend. Despite their different personalities, they quickly formed a close friendship. Paul said he was impressed by John’s natural musical talent and rebellious spirit.
Their bond grew stronger as they began writing songs together. Paul and John became an unstoppable team, creating some of the most famous songs in history. They complemented each other well; Paul was more melodic and organized, while John was more experimental and edgy. This partnership was crucial in shaping the unique sound of The Beatles.
As they spent more time together, Paul introduced John to his family, including his brother Michael, and father James McCartney. Their friendship was not just about music; they also shared personal moments and supported each other through tough times, like the death from breast cancer of Paul’s mother.
When the Quarrymen evolved into The Beatles, their bond strengthened even more. Along with George Harrison and later Ringo Starr, they became one of the most popular bands in the world. The Beatles signed their first recording contract in 1962, marking the start of their incredible journey.
The Beatles Era
The Beatles were formed in Liverpool in 1960. Paul McCartney joined John Lennon’s band, the Quarrymen, in 1957. Soon after, George Harrison and Ringo Starr joined, completing the lineup. Paul McCartney played bass and shared lead vocal duties with John.
The partnership between McCartney and Lennon was central to the band’s success. They wrote most of the songs together, often referred to as John and Paul or Paul and John. Their different styles balanced each other out. McCartney wrote more melodic and romantic songs, while Lennon preferred edgier, more introspective lyrics.
During the Beatles years, Paul and John co-wrote many of the band’s greatest hits. McCartney wrote songs like Yesterday and Hey Jude, while John wrote Imagine and Come Together. Their collaborative efforts resulted in a remarkable catalog of music, with their names appearing together on nearly all Beatles tracks.
Their friendship had its ups and downs, especially towards the end of the Beatles period. Creative differences and personal issues caused tensions, leading to the band’s breakup in 1970. Despite these challenges, their bond left a lasting impact on music history.
Early Struggles and Breakthrough Moments
In the beginning, The Beatles faced many challenges. They played in small clubs in Liverpool and Hamburg, Germany, honing their skills. Their big break came when they met Beatles producer George Martin, who helped them refine their sound.
Their first major hit was Love Me Do, released in 1962. This song’s success was a turning point for the band. The Beatles’ popularity skyrocketed with the release of Please Please Me and She Loves You.
Success in the 1960s
The Beatles in the 1960s were unstoppable. They released numerous hit albums and singles, including A Hard Day’s Night, Help!, and Rubber Soul. Beatles released albums that constantly evolved, showcasing their growing maturity as songwriters and musicians.
Paul McCartney played a crucial role in this success. He was not only a talented bassist and vocalist but also a creative force behind many of their biggest hits. His ability to write and perform a wide range of music made him indispensable to the band.
Breakthrough Performances and Albums
The Beatles’ live performances were legendary. Their appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show in 1964 was a cultural phenomenon, drawing millions of viewers and solidifying their status as superstars.
Albums like Revolver and Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band were definitely emblematic of their unique approach to music. These records featured complex arrangements and groundbreaking production techniques.
Beatlemania and Global Fame
Beatlemania was a term coined to describe the intense fan frenzy directed towards The Beatles in the early 1960s. This phenomenon began in the UK and quickly spread worldwide. The Beatles, including Paul McCartney, experienced a level of fame and adoration that was unprecedented. Their concerts were filled with screaming fans, and their appearances caused near-riots.
Handling this level of fame was challenging for the band. McCartney and his bandmates often found themselves confined to hotel rooms, unable to go out in public without being mobbed. Despite the chaos, they managed to stay grounded and focused on their music.
Key Albums and Songs
Several key albums and songs defined this period. In 1964, The Beatles released A Hard Day’s Night, which included hit songs like Can’t Buy Me Love and A Hard Day’s Night. This album, and the accompanying film, showcased their charm and musical talent.
In 1965, they released Help!, featuring classics like Yesterday and Ticket to Ride. Paul McCartney played a significant role in these albums, contributing to their distinctive sound. Yesterday, written by McCartney, became one of the most covered songs in music history.
Later in 1965, The Beatles released Rubber Soul. This album marked a shift towards more mature and experimental music. Songs like Norwegian Wood and In My Life demonstrated their evolving artistry. McCartney’s bass playing and songwriting were central to the album’s success.
Managing Fame
Despite their global fame, The Beatles managed to produce groundbreaking music. They constantly pushed boundaries, both musically and culturally. Paul McCartney and John Lennon, often referred to as the two Beatles, were the driving force behind their innovative sound.
McCartney also became interested in various artistic pursuits outside of music. He collaborated with artists like de Kooning and explored different genres and styles. His relationship with his future wife Linda and their family, including daughter Stella McCartney, helped him stay grounded.
Musical Innovation
Paul McCartney’s contributions to The Beatles were important in shaping their sound and success. His creativity and versatility as a musician played a significant role in the band’s evolution. McCartney’s influence is especially evident in albums like Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band and The White Album.
Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, released in 1967, is often hailed as one of the greatest albums in music history. McCartney made significant contributions to this album, including the concept of the fictional band, which gave the album its unique identity. His song When I’m Sixty-Four added a whimsical touch, showcasing his ability to blend different musical styles.
The White Album, released in 1968, was another landmark in The Beatles’ career. This double album featured a wide range of musical genres, reflecting the band’s growing artistic maturity. McCartney’s song Blackbird was a standout track, highlighting his skill in writing simple yet profound lyrics. His versatility was also evident in songs like Helter Skelter, which pushed the boundaries of rock music.
Impactful Songs
Several songs penned by McCartney had a significant impact on music and popular culture. One of the most famous is Yesterday, released in 1965. This song, written by McCartney, is one of the most covered songs in history. Its timeless melody and heartfelt lyrics continue to resonate with listeners around the world.
Hey Jude, released in 1968, is another iconic song written by McCartney. Initially written to comfort John Lennon’s son, Julian, during his parents’ divorce, the song’s universal message of reassurance struck a chord with many. Hey Jude became one of The Beatles’ biggest hits and is often regarded as one of their greatest songs.
The Beatles’ Breakup
Several factors contributed to the band’s dissolution in 1970.
One major factor was creative differences among the members. As the band matured, each member’s artistic vision began to diverge. Paul McCartney and John Lennon, once a harmonious songwriting duo, started to clash over the direction of their music. George Harrison, too, felt stifled, wanting more space to contribute his own songs.
The increasing presence of business and financial issues also strained their relationships. The death of their manager, Brian Epstein, in 1967 left a void in their management structure. His absence led to disagreements over the band’s business affairs and direction.
Personal lives and outside interests further pulled the band apart. John Lennon’s relationship with Yoko Ono introduced new dynamics and tensions. Paul McCartney’s own evolving personal life, including his marriage to Linda McCartney, created additional distance.
The infamous Let It Be sessions were a tipping point. The recording process was fraught with tension and disagreements, which were well-documented in the film Let It Be. The band members found it increasingly difficult to work together, and the atmosphere became toxic.
In September 1969, Paul McCartney left the band. The official announcement of The Beatles’ breakup came in April 1970, when McCartney released his solo album McCartney and publicly stated that he was no longer working with the band.
McCartney’s Reaction and Transition to Solo Career
The breakup of The Beatles was a challenging time for Paul McCartney. He expressed feelings of sadness and frustration over the end of the band that had defined much of his life and career. However, McCartney quickly transitioned to a successful solo career.
McCartney formed the band Wings with his wife Linda McCartney, and enjoyed significant success throughout the 1970s. Albums like Band on the Run and Venus and Mars produced hit singles and demonstrated McCartney’s continued relevance in the music industry. He collaborated with various artists and explored different genres, further solidifying his legacy.
McCartney’s solo career and contributions to music earned him numerous accolades, including entries in the Guinness Book of World Records for his achievements. He continued to be a prolific artist, invited McCartney to various prestigious events, and his influence on music remained profound.
Reflecting on The Beatles’ breakup, McCartney expressed a mixture of nostalgia and pride for what the band accomplished.
Solo Career and Wings
After Paul McCartney left The Beatles in September 1969, he embarked on a solo career that showcased his versatility and talent. His first solo album, McCartney, was released in April 1970. This album, recorded mostly at home, featured a raw and intimate sound. McCartney played most of the instruments himself, highlighting his multi-instrumental skills. The standout track, Maybe I’m Amazed, became one of his signature songs.
Following McCartney, he released Ram in 1971. This album, credited to both Paul and his wife Linda McCartney, was a mix of rock and pop with a touch of whimsy. Songs like Uncle Albert/Admiral Halsey became hits, showcasing McCartney’s knack for catchy melodies and inventive arrangements.
Formation of Wings
In 1971, McCartney formed Wings with Linda, guitarist Denny Laine, and drummer Denny Seiwell. Wings allowed McCartney to tour and perform live again, something he missed from his Beatles days. The band went through several lineup changes over the years but maintained a consistent output of music.
One of their first albums, Wild Life, was released in 1971 but received mixed reviews. However, McCartney and Wings quickly found success with subsequent albums.
Key Albums and Hits
One of the most significant albums from this period was Band on the Run, released in 1973. This album was a critical and commercial success, solidifying Wings’ place in rock history. It featured hits like Jet and the title track, Band on the Run.
Another notable album was Venus and Mars, released in 1975. This album continued the band’s success with songs like Listen to What the Man Said becoming major hits. McCartney’s ability to craft memorable tunes remained undiminished, and his work with Wings kept him in the spotlight.
Throughout the 1970s, McCartney and Wings released several successful albums and singles. Albums like Wings at the Speed of Sound and London Town produced hits such as Silly Love Songs and With a Little Luck. McCartney’s music from this era was characterized by its melodic richness and diverse influences.
McCartney collaborated with various artists and continued to explore different musical styles. His work during this period added to the extensive Beatles discography and established him as a solo artist capable of sustaining a successful career beyond his Beatles fame.
Success and Challenges
After The Beatles, Paul McCartney embarked on a successful solo career. He released numerous albums that showcased his versatility and creativity. His first solo album, McCartney, was well-received, featuring the hit song Maybe I’m Amazed. His follow-up, Ram, also garnered positive reviews and commercial success.
The formation of Wings brought further success. Albums like Band on the Run and Venus and Mars produced major hits and critical acclaim. McCartney appeared on numerous charts, and his music continued to resonate with fans worldwide.
Challenges and Personal Struggles
Despite his successes, McCartney faced several challenges. The breakup of The Beatles was a significant emotional hurdle. The public and media often compared his solo work to his time with The Beatles, which sometimes overshadowed his new material.
McCartney also dealt with personal struggles. The death of his wife, Linda McCartney, in 1998, after being wife of 29 years, was a devastating blow. Linda had been a constant support in both his personal life and career. This loss deeply affected him and his music.
In 2002, McCartney married Heather Mills. Their relationship was highly publicized and, unfortunately, their marriage ended in a highly publicized and contentious divorce in 2008. This period was marked by significant personal stress and media scrutiny.
Experimentation with Musical Styles
Throughout his solo career, McCartney experimented with different musical styles. He ventured into classical music, electronic music, and even released albums under pseudonyms to explore new genres without the weight of his famous name. For example, his work with the Fireman, an electronic music duo, showcased his willingness to push boundaries and innovate.
Discography
Paul McCartney albums in order:
Studio Albums
- McCartney – April 17, 1970
- Ram (with Linda McCartney) – May 17, 1971
- Wild Life (with Wings) – December 7, 1971
- Red Rose Speedway (with Wings) – April 30, 1973
- Band on the Run (with Wings) – December 5, 1973
- Venus and Mars (with Wings) – May 27, 1975
- Wings at the Speed of Sound – March 25, 1976
- London Town (with Wings) – March 31, 1978
- Back to the Egg (with Wings) – June 8, 1979
- McCartney II – May 16, 1980
- Tug of War – April 26, 1982
- Pipes of Peace – October 31, 1983
- Give My Regards to Broad Street – October 22, 1984
- Press to Play – August 25, 1986
- Choba B CCCP – October 31, 1988
- Flowers in the Dirt – June 5, 1989
- Off the Ground – February 2, 1993
- Flaming Pie – May 5, 1997
- Run Devil Run – October 4, 1999
- Driving Rain – November 12, 2001
- Chaos and Creation in the Backyard – September 12, 2005
- Memory Almost Full – June 4, 2007
- Kisses on the Bottom – February 6, 2012
- New – October 14, 2013
- Egypt Station – September 7, 2018
- McCartney III – December 18, 2020
Classical Albums
- Paul McCartney’s Liverpool Oratorio – October 7, 1991
- Standing Stone – September 29, 1997
- Working Classical – October 18, 1999
- Ecce Cor Meum – September 25, 2006
- Ocean’s Kingdom – October 3, 2011
Electronic Albums (with The Fireman)
- Strawberries Oceans Ships Forest – October 15, 1993
- Rushes – September 21, 1998
- Electric Arguments – November 24, 2008
Live Albums
- Wings over America (with Wings) – December 10, 1976
- Tripping the Live Fantastic – November 5, 1990
- Unplugged (The Official Bootleg) – May 20, 1991
- Paul Is Live – November 8, 1993
- Back in the U.S. – November 11, 2002
- Back in the World – March 17, 2003
- Good Evening New York City – November 17, 2009
- Amoeba Gig – July 12, 2019
Compilations
- All the Best! – November 2, 1987
- Wingspan: Hits and History – May 7, 2001
- Pure McCartney – June 10, 2016
Awards and Honors and Other Accomplishments
Paul McCartney has received numerous awards and honors throughout his illustrious career, both as a member of The Beatles and as a solo artist. Here are some of the most significant:
- Knighthood: In 1997, Paul McCartney was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II for his services to music, becoming Sir Paul McCartney. This prestigious honor recognized his contributions to the arts and his impact on global culture.
- Grammy Awards: McCartney has won multiple Grammy Awards. As a member of The Beatles, he won several, including the Grammy for Best New Artist in 1965 and Album of the Year for Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band in 1968. As a solo artist, he continued to garner Grammy recognition, including wins for his solo work and collaborations.
- Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: Paul McCartney was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice—first as a member of The Beatles in 1988 and then as a solo artist in 1999. This rare achievement underscores his influence and success in both group and solo contexts.
- Academy Award: McCartney won an Academy Award for Best Original Song Score for the 1970 Beatles film Let It Be. This accolade highlights his exceptional songwriting and composition skills.
- BRIT Awards: McCartney has received multiple BRIT Awards, including the award for Outstanding Contribution to Music. This recognition celebrates his enduring impact on the British music scene.
- Polar Music Prize: In 1992, McCartney was awarded the Polar Music Prize, often referred to as the “Nobel Prize of Music,” for his significant contributions to music history.
- Kennedy Center Honors: In 2010, McCartney received the Kennedy Center Honors, one of the highest cultural awards in the United States, recognizing his lifetime of contributions to American culture through the performing arts.
Personal Life: Wives, and Children
Paul McCartney’s personal life has been as eventful and influential as his musical career. His first marriage was to Linda Eastman, an American photographer, on March 12, 1969. Their partnership was not only romantic but also professional, as Linda became a member of McCartney’s band, Wings.
Linda’s influence on Paul was profound. She encouraged his vegetarian lifestyle and animal rights activism, both of which became important causes for him. As a member of Wings, Linda contributed vocals and keyboards, and their collaboration produced several hit albums, including Band on the Run and Venus and Mars. Their partnership in music and life was a significant source of stability and inspiration for McCartney.
Linda and Paul had four children: Heather (Linda’s daughter from a previous marriage whom Paul adopted), Mary, Stella, and James. Mary McCartney became a successful photographer, while Stella McCartney gained fame as a renowned fashion designer. James McCartney followed in his father’s footsteps, pursuing a career in music.
Linda’s battle with breast cancer ended tragically when she died in 1998. Her death was a devastating loss for McCartney, but her legacy continued to influence his music and activism.
Subsequent Marriages
After Linda’s death, McCartney eventually found love again. He married Heather Mills in 2002. Their relationship was highly publicized, and they had one daughter, Beatrice, born in 2003. However, their marriage faced significant challenges and ended in a highly publicized and contentious divorce in 2008. Despite the difficulties, McCartney remained committed to his daughter Beatrice, ensuring that she grew up with the support and love of both parents.
In 2011, McCartney married Nancy Shevell. This marriage brought a new chapter of happiness and stability to his life. Nancy, a businesswoman, has supported McCartney in his personal and professional endeavors. Their relationship has been relatively private compared to his previous marriages, allowing them to enjoy a more peaceful and low-key life together.
Impact on Music and Personal Growth
McCartney’s family life has had a significant impact on his music and personal growth. The support and inspiration he received from Linda were evident in many of his songs and projects. His collaboration with her in Wings marked a creative and successful period in his career.
The birth of his children also influenced McCartney’s music. Songs like Hey Jude, originally written for John Lennon’s son Julian, and later songs inspired by his own children, reflect his deep affection and concern for family.
McCartney’s personal experiences, including the joys and sorrows of his marriages and family life, have deeply influenced his songwriting and artistic expression. His ability to channel his personal life into his music has helped him remain relatable and beloved by fans around the world.
Despite the challenges, McCartney’s resilience and dedication to his family have been evident throughout his life. He has balanced his legendary career with his roles as a husband and father, showing that even one of the most famous musicians in the world values the importance of family.
Philanthropy and Activism
Paul McCartney has been a passionate advocate for animal rights for many years. His commitment to this cause was greatly influenced by his first wife, Linda McCartney. Together, they promoted a vegetarian lifestyle and animal welfare, becoming leading voices in the movement.
One of the most notable campaigns McCartney supported is Meat Free Monday, which encourages people to abstain from eating meat one day a week to reduce their environmental footprint. This initiative highlights the environmental impact of meat production and promotes healthier, more sustainable eating habits.
McCartney has also been a long-time supporter of PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals). He has participated in various campaigns and events to raise awareness about the treatment of animals. His song “Looking for Changes” was used in a PETA campaign to highlight animal cruelty issues.
Environmental Issues
In addition to animal rights, McCartney is deeply involved in environmental activism. He has supported various organizations and initiatives aimed at combating climate change and promoting sustainability.
McCartney has been vocal about the need for environmental protection, often using his platform to advocate for change. He performed at the Live Earth concert in 2007, an event designed to raise awareness about global warming and inspire action to protect the planet.
McCartney’s philanthropy extends beyond animal rights and environmental issues. He has supported numerous charitable causes throughout his career, using his fame and resources to make a positive impact.
One significant area of his philanthropy is his support for music education. McCartney has donated to various programs and schools to help young musicians develop their talents. He established the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA) in his hometown, providing a space for aspiring artists to learn and grow.
McCartney has also been involved in humanitarian efforts. He has participated in and supported events such as Live Aid and Concert for Bangladesh, which raised funds for famine relief and disaster aid. His involvement in these concerts helped bring attention to important global issues and demonstrated his commitment to using his talent for the greater good.
Drug Abuse and Personal Struggles
Paul McCartney’s experiences with drug use began during The Beatles era. Like many artists of the 1960s, The Beatles experimented with various substances. McCartney first tried marijuana in the mid-1960s, introduced by Bob Dylan. This experience marked the beginning of a period where drug use became more prevalent within the band.
McCartney’s experimentation didn’t stop at marijuana. He and his fellow Beatles also used LSD, a popular psychedelic drug at the time. The Beatles expressed that these experiences influenced their music, contributing to the creation of albums like Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band and The Magical Mystery Tour. The psychedelic sounds and lyrics from these albums reflect the band’s altered states of consciousness during this period.
Legal Troubles
McCartney’s drug use led to several legal issues over the years. One of the most notable incidents occurred in 1980 when McCartney was arrested in Japan for possession of marijuana. He was detained for nine days before being released and deported. This incident had a significant impact on his image and his ability to tour in certain countries.
These legal troubles extended into his personal life as well. The scrutiny and pressure from these incidents strained his relationships, both personal and professional. McCartney had to navigate the challenges of maintaining his career while dealing with the repercussions of his actions.
Impact on Personal Life and Professional Relationships
The impact of McCartney’s drug use on his personal life was profound. The arrests and public attention brought stress and tension into his relationships. Despite these challenges, his wife Linda McCartney stood by him, offering support and stability. Their strong partnership helped him cope with the difficulties he faced.
Professionally, McCartney’s drug use and subsequent legal troubles sometimes strained his relationships with his bandmates and collaborators. However, his talent and commitment to his music allowed him to maintain his career and continue producing successful work.
McCartney eventually made the decision to reduce his drug use and focus on healthier habits. The support of his family, particularly Linda, played a crucial role in this transition. Linda’s influence encouraged him to adopt a more health-conscious lifestyle, which included a vegetarian diet and regular exercise.
Reflecting on these experiences, McCartney acknowledged the impact of his past drug use but also emphasized his growth and resilience. He has spoken openly about these challenges, sharing how they influenced his perspective on life and music.
The experiences of drug use and the struggles that came with it influenced McCartney’s music and outlook on life. Songs like Got to Get You into My Life were inspired by his experiences with marijuana, while other tracks reflect the broader impact of his journey through these challenges.
Overcoming his struggles with drugs led McCartney to a more reflective and introspective approach to his music. He has often used his platform to advocate for healthier lifestyles and to share his personal journey with fans.
Filmography and Other Works
Paul McCartney ventured into film early in his career with The Beatles. The band’s foray into cinema began with A Hard Day’s Night (1964), a groundbreaking film that combined a comedic narrative with musical performances. The movie’s soundtrack, also titled A Hard Day’s Night, featured several iconic Beatles songs, with McCartney contributing hits like And I Love Her.
Following this success, The Beatles starred in Help! (1965), a zany adventure film that further showcased their comedic talents and musical prowess. The soundtrack included classics such as Yesterday, a song written by McCartney that became one of the most covered songs in history.
In 1968, The Beatles released the animated film Yellow Submarine, in which they provided the soundtrack and appeared in a brief live-action segment. McCartney contributed memorable songs like All Together Now and Hey Bulldog to the film’s whimsical and psychedelic atmosphere.
Their final film, Let It Be (1970), documented the making of their last studio album. The film captures the band’s creative process and internal tensions during this period. McCartney’s contributions to the film included live performances of songs like Let It Be and The Long and Winding Road.
McCartney is also a published author. He has written several children’s books, including High in the Clouds, co-written with Geoff Dunbar and Philip Ardagh. The book, which explores themes of adventure and environmentalism, was well-received and showcased McCartney’s storytelling abilities.
In the literary world, McCartney has shared his poetry and lyrics in the book Blackbird Singing (2001). This collection includes a range of his written works, offering fans insight into his creative process and the thoughts behind his famous songs.
Wrapping It Up
Paul McCartney is a music icon whose songs have become part of our cultural DNA. From The Beatles to his solo career, his music spans generations, leaving a lasting impact on fans worldwide.
Whether it’s Yesterday or Live and Let Die, McCartney’s tunes continue to resonate, proving that great music knows no boundaries.
References
https://www.thebeatles.com/
https://www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/stories/when-paul-mccartney-met-john-lennon
https://beatlescityexplorer.co.uk/the-beatles-history/#:~:text=In%20November%201956%2C%20a%20Beatles,Quarrymen%20%2D%20as%20a%20rhythm%20guitarist.
https://www.museumofyouthculture.com/beatlemania/
https://www.udiscovermusic.com/stories/yesterday-beatles-song-story/
https://pickinguprocks.com/2021/01/04/the-wonder-of-it-all-paul-mccartneys-solo-years-part-4-the-21st-century/
https://www.guitarworld.com/features/the-story-of-paul-mccartney-and-wings
https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/paul-mccartney-knighted