Hot times in Brazil

 

December 13, 2023

I am not sure how these fans got the opportunity to meet Paul last week, but good for them!  Way to go fans!

Soundcheck in Mexico

 Have any of you seen Paul's tour in Mexico?   How is it?  (Why do I ask -- I know that if you were there, it was amazing!) 

Paul Got Back to signing autographs for fortunate fans in Australia

Photos posted by Trav Holt on Facebook and shared here with his permission 

 We congratulate Travis Holt who was one of 4 lucky fans that met Paul McCartney on November 1, 2023 at a hotel in Brisbane, Australia.   Paul stopped and signed posters for the fans.   Travis has already gotten his in a frame and hanging on a wall in his home.   Way to go Travis!   

"Like a Dream"

Jacqueline Best (teacher), Brid Hennessey, Jordan Johnston, Jacob Wiener, Kaleb Walker, Noah Simpson
Faith Harriman, Daniel Reeves, Livvi Webster and Andy Riek (teacher) meet Sir Paul McCartney. Picture: MPL Communications

 The following story comes from the Sunshine Coast News and was published on November 6, 2023.  I could not find the author of the story.   I want to send my congratulations to these students and their teachers.   What an amazing unforgettable opportunity for them. 

A talented group of students lived a Beatles-worthy dream on Saturday as they rocked out with the legendary Sir Paul McCartney at his Gold Coast concert.

McCartney, a living legend and one of the most influential figures in the history of modern music, welcomed the members of Suncoast Christian College’s Senior Band, a group of eight exceptionally gifted students, to an exclusive meet-and-greet session.

The students had the unique opportunity to share a few moments with the former Beatle, exchanging stories and inspiration with one of the world’s greatest songwriters.

This once-in-a-lifetime experience left a lasting imprint on the young musicians and the entire school community.

“The entire day was like a dream, I couldn’t believe we got to meet such a huge musical legend,” said Jacob Wiener, a piano player and vocalist in the group. “Sir Paul McCartney is my ultimate lifelong musical hero and it was the opportunity of a lifetime!”

Principal Greg Mattiske couldn’t hide his enthusiasm.

“This was an absolute ‘Helter Skelter’ of excitement for all of us here at Suncoast. To meet a living legend like Sir Paul McCartney was a privilege and an honour,” he said.

Music teacher Andrew Reik, who encouraged the group to apply, said he hoped the experience would inspire the students.

“The dedication and hard work of our students paid off brilliantly,” he said. “Meeting Sir Paul McCartney was a major testament to their talent and effort, and I have no doubt our incredible students will go on to achieve great things in the world of music.”

The eight senior students won the prestigious Frontier Touring #GotBackToSchool competition, which granted them a ‘ticket to ride’ into McCartney’s sound check at his Gold Coast concert.

The students’ remarkable rendition of McCartney’s classic Maybe I’m Amazed showcased their talents and dedication, after forming the band and mastering the song in just two weeks.

The band, which includes members who play drums, piano, bass and guitar, along with a lead singer and back-up vocalists, clinched the top prize from a competition pool of more than 40 music classes across the country.

The win included an exclusive photo opportunity with the former Beatle, access to Sir Paul’s sound check and 40 coveted seats at his concert.

“Sir Paul has been a source of inspiration for me as a person and a musician,” Jacob said.

“He’s undoubtedly one of the greatest songwriters of modern times.”

Mr Mattiske expressed his pride in the students.

“This achievement is a testament to the students’ skill, hard work and dedication,” he said.

“We are delighted to see them receive such a well-deserved opportunity to meet a music icon like Sir Paul McCartney.

“It’s inspiring to see artists like Sir Paul encouraging the next generation of students.”

Music teacher Jacqueline Best also shared her enthusiasm.

“This win underscores the dedication, passion and musical talent of our students, and it highlights the incredible opportunities available to students at Suncoast Christian College,” she said.

“This extraordinary experience will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the young musicians and inspire them to pursue their dreams in the world of music.”

Another member of the winning group, Faith Harriman, revealed their aspirations beyond school.

“Sir Paul McCartney is a huge inspiration to all of us, and this win has motivated many of us to consider pursuing careers in music beyond our school days,” she said.

Lennon and McCartney meet Paul

 Paul called up two kids named Lennon and McCartney onto the stage during an Australian soundcheck.  

Paul's work on a Yellow Submarine Mural

 October 24, 2023 

Paul talks to Australian Fans

On October 17, 2023, Paul spoke to a small group of fans in Adelaide Australia.   Know who one of those fans happened to be?   And who got to ask Paul a question?  None other than former Beatles Photo Blog creator, Miss Tammy!    I am so happy for him!   Way to go Greg!   
 

The man behind the curtain

Photo taken by Mary McCartney 

 

Peter and Paul

 Peter Blake and Paul on June 25, 2022

Best birthday wishes for Paul

 June 16, 2022

I hope you all had a nice time celebrating Paul McCartney's 80th birthday yesterday.  I know that I sure did.  More importantly, I hope that Sir Paul himself enjoyed his special day. 

You want some peace and understanding....

Photo taken by Marvin Gee (posted with permission)

Paul sings "Coming Up" (with the video on the screen behind him) during the soundcheck in Baltimore on June 12, 2022.   
 

Remember me?

 

This is a great photo of Paul standing by the (repainted) original Magical Mystery Tour bus in Hollywood, Florida last month during the Got Back Tour.  

I just think it is really funny that he is standing next to a sign that says "Remember me?"   Yes Paul -- we remember both you and the bus. 

Got Back Tour - An honest Paul McCartney concert review

 

This past Saturday (May 28, 2022) I saw Paul McCartney perform at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida.    I flew to Orlando from my home in the St. Louis area because I wanted to see this tour.  It was literally a dream come true to see Paul again in concert.  All during the lockdown in 2020,  I was super focused on the fact that I wasn't able to go any Beatles events -- especially seeing Paul McCartney live.   I questioned if 2019 was really going to be my last concert and I didn't want that.    I am beyond happy that I had a chance to see him again and can accept that it could be the last time. 

Here are my honest thoughts about the concert 

Thought #1 -  A Paul McCartney concert is actually not really about just hearing Paul McCartney sing his hits.   It is about the experience.

I am sure I have written about this before.   People who just go to hear Paul McCartney perform songs are missing out on the true experience.    The atmosphere is worth taking in.   It is fun to watch the fans arrive and see the t-shirts and outfits everyone chose to wear.   It is amazing to meet up with friends that you may have only spoken to over social media.   The excitement of listening to DJ Chris play the Paul songs and then seeing the screen show can't be beat.    I really advise you to take the entire day for Paul.  Traffic at these events have been a nightmare and some ticket holders have missed the entire concert because of traffic.   Take this advice:  arrive before 4:00pm.  

Thought #2 -  The limo watch is very stressful but worth it.

Sometimes the limo watch to see Paul arrive is easy and other times it is like the one in Orlando and it is stressful.   No one knew where Paul was going to enter.   Many fans were sent on a wild chase around the stadium in the search for Paul.   Here is my advice on the limo watch:  if someone (ANYONE) tell you that Paul is already inside of the stadium, do not believe it and keep waiting.    If you are able to see Paul arrive -- it is SO worth it!   There was a very small group of us and Paul saw me in my Minnie Mouse ears with a British flag on it and smiled right at me!  

Thought #3 -   The handicapped section isn't the best seats in the house.

Due to my mom needing a motorized scooter due to long Covid, we had to get seats in the handicapped section of the Stadium.   I purchased the best seats we could get on the field.    While I knew we wouldn't be up in the very front, I thought we'd get the seat that I chose on the Ticketmaster site.   Now I am not sure if this is standard or just in Orlando.  When we arrived the handicapped section was "first come-first serve."   The seats weren't numbers and so we had to sit wherever we could fit.   I had picked seats that were closer to the stage than where we ended up.   That wasn't a huge deal, but some people who got there right as the concert was starting, could not squeeze into a spot and I am not sure what they did. 

Thought #4 -  Paul doesn't sing as well as he once did -- but it still isn't bad.

There has been a lot of talk each year about how Paul's voice doesn't sound very good anymore.   And to a certain extent that is true.   Songs such as "Can't Buy Me Love" and "Maybe I'm Amazed" were ones where Paul couldn't sing the higher notes or hold notes out as long.   However -- he is almost 80 years old and is on a big tour.   So what if he can't sing as strong has he one could?   He still sounds good and there is no doubt that it is Paul singing.   He sounds just like Paul McCartney!   I am thankful for the band for helping Paul out in the singing because they can fill in some of those high notes that he just isn't capable of singing anymore. 

Thought #5 -  The setlist  hasn't changed very much and that is fine! (the jokes are getting old though)

Paul sang basically the same songs he has sang in concert over the past 10 years (maybe more).   And you know what?   I love it!    It dawned on me that Paul must have a reason for singing these songs.  Either it is because that is what fans (casual and hardcore) want to hear or maybe because HE wants to sing those songs.     I was happy to hear "She Came in Through the Bathroom Window" because I don't recall hearing that one before.   And the "I've Got a Feeling" with the "Get Back" film of John singing his part while live Paul sang his was really amazing.     While the same songs didn't bother me -- the same jokes made me roll my eyes.   The whole "Sign my butt" joke is OLD and was never funny.   Taking off his jacket and saying "this is the only wardrobe change for the evening...haha," has been overdone.    Paul is such a Dad with his Dad jokes.    Paul needs someone to write some new material for him.     

One interesting observation  -  "My Valentine" used to be the song where people left for their beer and bathroom break.   During this song, Paul shows the video with Johnny Depp doing sign language to it and playing the guitar.   He has shown this same video literally for 10 years during his shows.   Now since the Johnny Depp trial, people have been staying for the song and cheer whenever Johnny is on the screen.    I've seen people online say how bold it is for Paul to take such a strong stand in favor of Johnny Depp and I want to say, "People -- this is the same video he has shown for years.  It is on Youtube.  You just didn't notice because you left to get beer."   

Go see Paul on the Got Back Tour --  It is a night you won't forget. 

*All photos taken by Sara Schmidt 

Paul has Got (tten) Back!

 April 28, 2022 - Spokane, Washington

I am SO super excited that Paul is back out on the road and waving to his fans during a limo watch this evening!  And look!  There is Brian Riddle.   This right here is my sign that life has gotten back to normal.   

I will be seeing Paul late next month in Orlando.   Anyone else going to that show?   Where are you seeing Paul?   Remember what I always say -- your chances of meeting Paul McCartney go up to about a 1% chance if you are in the same town as him, otherwise it is a .000001% chance.