History of Paul McCartney in Timeline
Sir Paul McCartney is an iconic English singer, songwriter, and musician renowned for his pivotal role in The Beatles. His bass playing, songwriting partnership with John Lennon, and vocal contributions were key to the band's global success. McCartney is celebrated for his melodic basslines, wide vocal range, and musical versatility across genres like pop, classical, and electronica, solidifying his status as one of history's most successful composers and performers. After The Beatles, he formed Wings and continued as a solo artist.
June 1942: Paul McCartney's Birth
In June 1942, James Paul McCartney was born. He would become a world-renowned English singer, songwriter and musician, gaining fame as a member of the Beatles.
1944: Family Rehoused in Knowsley
In 1944, the McCartney family was rehoused at a flat in Knowsley, reflecting the changes and challenges faced during the war years.
1946: Move to Council Housing in Speke
In 1946, the McCartney family moved to a council housing development in Speke, indicating a shift in their living circumstances after the war.
1947: Attends Stockton Wood Road Primary School
In 1947, Paul McCartney began attending Stockton Wood Road Primary School in Speke, marking the start of his formal education.
1949: Transfers to Joseph Williams Junior School
In 1949, Paul McCartney transferred to Joseph Williams Junior School in Belle Vale due to overcrowding at Stockton, indicating a change in his early schooling.
1953: Passes the 11-Plus Exam
In 1953, Paul McCartney passed the 11-Plus exam, allowing him to attend the Liverpool Institute, a grammar school, highlighting his academic abilities.
1954: Meets George Harrison
In 1954, Paul McCartney met George Harrison on the bus from Speke, forming a friendship that would later play a pivotal role in the Beatles' formation.
October 1956: Death of His Mother
On October 31, 1956, Paul McCartney's mother, Mary, died of an embolism, impacting him deeply and later creating a connection with John Lennon, who also experienced the loss of his mother.
1956: The Lyrics: 1956 to the Present
McCartney's book 'The Lyrics: 1956 to the Present' covers from 1956 onwards.
July 1957: Meets John Lennon
On July 6, 1957, Paul McCartney, at the age of fifteen, met John Lennon and his band, the Quarrymen, at the St Peter's Church Hall fête, leading to a close working relationship and the formation of the Beatles.
1957: Joins the Quarrymen
In 1957, Paul McCartney began his musical career by joining John Lennon's skiffle group, the Quarrymen, influenced by his father and rock and roll artists. This marked the start of his journey towards worldwide fame.
1958: Harrison Joins The Quarrymen
In 1958, George Harrison joined The Quarrymen as lead guitarist, further solidifying the lineup that would eventually become the Beatles.
1958: John Lennon's Mother Died
In 1958, John Lennon's mother, Julia, died, creating a connection between him and Paul McCartney, who had lost his mother two years earlier.
1959: Met Dorothy "Dot" Rhone
In 1959, Paul McCartney met his first serious girlfriend, Dorothy "Dot" Rhone, at the Casbah club in Liverpool.
May 1960: Band Name Experimentation
By May 1960, the band had experimented with several names, including Johnny and the Moondogs, Beatals, and the Silver Beetles, before settling on the name the Beatles.
August 1960: Adoption of the Name 'The Beatles'
In August 1960, the band officially adopted the name 'The Beatles' and recruited drummer Pete Best, marking a significant step in their journey to global fame.
1960: The Beatles Emerge
In 1960, the Quarrymen evolved into the Beatles. This transformation marked a significant milestone in music history, setting the stage for the band's global success.
1961: Becomes the Beatles' Bass Player
In 1961, after Stuart Sutcliffe left the band, Paul McCartney became the Beatles' bass player, a role that would define his musical contribution to the group.
January 1962: Brian Epstein Becomes Manager
In January 1962, Brian Epstein became the Beatles' manager, a key figure in their subsequent development and success, guiding them to global stardom.
June 1962: First Recording Contract
In June 1962, McCartney signed his first recording contract, as a member of the Beatles, with Parlophone Records, an EMI subsidiary.
1962: Start of successful songwriting
From 1962, Paul McCartney wrote jointly or solo 43 songs which sold one million or more records.
1962: Rhone Accompanied Cynthia Lennon to Hamburg
In 1962, Dorothy Rhone accompanied Cynthia Lennon to Hamburg when The Beatles played there again.
April 1963: Met Jane Asher
On April 18, 1963, Paul McCartney first met British actress Jane Asher when a photographer asked them to pose at a Beatles performance at the Royal Albert Hall in London.
1963: Northern Songs Established
In 1963, Dick James established Northern Songs to publish the songs of Lennon–McCartney.
1963: Popularity in the UK
In 1963, The Beatles became popular in the UK.
1964: Introduction to Cannabis
In 1964, Bob Dylan introduced The Beatles, including Paul McCartney, to cannabis in a New York hotel room, leading to McCartney's habitual use of the drug.
1964: Bought Epiphone Casino
In 1964, McCartney bought the Epiphone Casino, because the guitar's hollow body would produce more feedback.
1964: Beatlemania photos
In 1964, McCartney took photos that he later published in the book '1964: Eyes of the Storm'.
1964: Moved from Forthlin Road
In 1964, Paul McCartney and his family moved from 20 Forthlin Road in Allerton, which had been their home since his mother's midwifery work allowed them to move there.
1964: Popularity in the US
In 1964, The Beatles gained popularity in the US
August 1965: Release of "Yesterday"
In August 1965, the Beatles released Paul McCartney's composition "Yesterday", featuring a string quartet, marking their first use of classical music elements and involving only a single band member in the recording.
1965: Favoured Rickenbacker 4001S
From 1965, McCartney favoured his Rickenbacker 4001S for recording.
1965: Public Stock Offering
In 1965, McCartney owned 20% of Northern Songs, which became 15% after a public stock offering.
1965: Appointed Member of the Order of the British Empire
In 1965, Paul McCartney was appointed as a Member of the Order of the British Empire, recognizing his contributions to music and British culture.
March 1966: Moved to Own Home
In March 1966, Paul McCartney and Jane Asher moved to McCartney's own home in St John's Wood in London after living at her parents' home for over two years.
June 1966: Promotional Films Aired
In June 1966, The Beatles' promotional films for "Paperback Writer" and "Rain" aired on The Ed Sullivan Show and Top of the Pops, representing an innovative approach to music promotion.
November 1966: Experimental Recording Sessions Begin
In November 1966, The Beatles adopted an experimental attitude during recording sessions, leading to innovative music.
1966: Met Linda Eastman at Shea Stadium
In 1966, Linda Eastman, then a photographer, first met The Beatles, including Paul McCartney, at Shea Stadium.
1966: Film Score for The Family Way
In 1966, Paul McCartney completed his first musical project independent of the group, composing a film score for the UK production The Family Way, which earned him an Ivor Novello Award.
1966: The Beatles Last Concert for Paying Audience
In 1966, The Beatles played their final concert for a paying audience at Candlestick Park in San Francisco, California, the same venue McCartney performed in 2014 before its demolition.
1966: First LSD Use
In late 1966, Paul McCartney eventually tried LSD for the first time.
1966: Composition of Yellow Submarine
Paul McCartney's composition of "Yellow Submarine" in 1966 became the inspiration for The Beatles' animated film of the same name, highlighting his creative influence within the group.
February 1967: "Strawberry Fields Forever"/"Penny Lane" Single
In February 1967, The Beatles released the double A-side single "Strawberry Fields Forever"/"Penny Lane", from the Sgt. Pepper's album.
March 1967: Second LSD Trip
In March 1967, Paul McCartney took his second "acid trip" with John Lennon after a Sgt. Pepper studio session.
May 1967: Became Acquainted with Linda Eastman
On May 15, 1967, Paul McCartney and Linda Eastman first became properly acquainted at a Georgie Fame concert at The Bag O'Nails club in London.
August 1967: Epstein's Death and McCartney's Leadership
In August 1967, Brian Epstein's death created a void in the Beatles' leadership, which Paul McCartney filled by stepping in as the de facto leader and business manager, changing the dynamics of the group.
1967: Began using Fender Bassman
By 1967, McCartney had also begun using a Fender Bassman for amplification.
1967: Beatles Re-signed with EMI
In 1967, the Beatles re-signed with EMI for another nine years.
1967: Creative Impetus Within The Beatles
Starting with the 1967 album Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, McCartney gradually became the band's de facto leader, providing creative impetus for most of their music and film projects.
July 1968: Premiere of Yellow Submarine
In July 1968, The Beatles' animated film Yellow Submarine premiered, showcasing the band's creativity and experimental approach to art and music.
1968: Argument During "The Beatles" Recording
During a recording session for The Beatles in 1968, McCartney's critique of Starr's drum part for "Back in the U.S.S.R." led to an argument, contributing to Starr temporarily leaving the band.
1968: Drumming on Paul Jones' rendition
In 1968, McCartney played drums on Paul Jones' rendition of "And the Sun Will Shine".
1968: Release of "Hey Jude"
In 1968, The Beatles released "Hey Jude", which achieved the highest sales in the UK that year and topped the US charts for nine weeks.
1968: Formed Apple Records
In 1968, after forming their own record label, Apple Records, the Beatles' recordings would be released through Apple although the masters were still owned by EMI.
March 1969: Marriage to Linda Eastman
In March 1969, Paul McCartney married Linda Eastman, marking a significant life event.
September 1969: John Lennon's Private Departure
In September 1969, John Lennon privately left The Beatles, though he agreed to keep it quiet for business reasons.
October 1969: Death Rumor
In October 1969, a rumor circulated suggesting that Paul McCartney had died in a car crash in 1966 and been replaced, but this was quickly disproven.
1969: Sold Shares of Northern Songs
In 1969, James sold a controlling interest in Northern Songs to Lew Grade's Associated Television (ATV) after which McCartney and John Lennon sold their remaining shares.
1969: Drumming on Steve Miller Band's tracks
In 1969, McCartney played drums on Steve Miller Band's tracks "Celebration Song" and "My Dark Hour".
1969: Depression during Beatles Breakup
In 1969, as the Beatles were breaking up, McCartney fell into a depression, marking a challenging period in his life.
April 1970: Departure from The Beatles
On April 10, 1970, Paul McCartney announced his departure from The Beatles amidst business disagreements with his bandmates, which marked a crucial moment in his career.
December 1970: Lawsuit for Dissolution
On December 31, 1970, McCartney filed a lawsuit for the formal dissolution of The Beatles, legally challenging the band's structure.
1970: First Solo Release
In 1970, McCartney released his first solo album, "McCartney", which reached number one in the US, marking the beginning of his solo career.
1970: Solo Debut and Formation of Wings
In 1970, after the Beatles disbanded, Paul McCartney debuted as a solo artist with the album McCartney and formed the band Wings with his wife Linda and Denny Laine, marking a new chapter in his musical career.
March 1971: Receiver Appointment
In March 1971, a court appointed a receiver to oversee the finances of Apple Corps, The Beatles' company, during the band's dissolution.
September 1971: Birth of daughter Stella
In September 1971, the McCartneys' daughter Stella was born, named after Linda's grandmothers.
1971: Bought Buddy Holly's publishing rights
In 1971, McCartney bought the publishing rights to Buddy Holly's catalogue.
1971: Formation of Wings
In 1971, after the Beatles' break-up, Paul McCartney and his wife Linda formed the band Wings. This move was met with criticism, as some questioned Linda's musical abilities and her inclusion in the band.
1972: Re-signed with ATV
In 1972, McCartney re-signed with ATV for seven years in a joint publishing agreement between ATV and McCartney Music.
1972: Wings' First Concert Tour
In 1972, Wings began their first concert tour with a debut performance at the University of Nottingham, and continued with an unannounced tour of UK universities.
1972: Cannabis Fine in Sweden
In 1972, a Swedish court fined Paul McCartney £1,000 for cannabis possession.
1972: Stolen Höfner Bass
Paul McCartney's original Höfner 500/1 bass was stolen in 1972.
March 1973: Wings' First US Number-One Single
In March 1973, Wings achieved their first US number-one single, "My Love", from their second LP, "Red Rose Speedway".
December 1973: US Visa Denied
Until December 1973, the US government repeatedly denied Paul McCartney a visa due to his drug convictions.
1973: End of contract with ATV
In 1969, James sold a controlling interest in Northern Songs to Lew Grade's Associated Television (ATV) after which McCartney and John Lennon sold their remaining shares although they remained under contract to ATV until 1973.
1973: Voted Best Rock Bassist
In 1973, McCartney was voted the best rock bassist in Creem's Reader Poll Results.
1973: Collaboration on "Six O'Clock"
In 1973, Paul McCartney contributed instrumentation and backing vocals for "Six O'Clock", a song he wrote for Ringo Starr's album Ringo. He also played a kazoo solo on "You're Sixteen".
1973: Conviction for Illegal Cultivation
In 1973, Scottish police found marijuana plants growing on Paul McCartney's farm, leading to his conviction for illegal cultivation and a £100 fine.
1973: Band on the Run Album
In 1973, the McCartneys and Laine recorded "Band on the Run", which became the first of seven platinum Wings LPs and topped charts in both the US and UK.
1974: Voted Best Rock Bassist
In 1974, McCartney was voted the best rock bassist in Creem's Reader Poll Results.
1974: Second US Number-One Single
In 1974, Wings achieved a second US number-one single with the title track "Band on the Run", continuing their chart success.
1974: Brief Reconciliation with John Lennon
In early 1974, Paul McCartney and John Lennon briefly became close again and played music together, despite their strained post-Beatles relationship. In later years, they grew apart.
January 1975: Legal Dissolution of The Beatles
On January 9, 1975, an English court legally dissolved The Beatles' partnership, officially ending the band.
1975: Voted Third Best Rock Bassist
In 1975, McCartney was voted the third best rock bassist in Creem's Reader Poll Results.
1975: Grammy Award for Band on the Run
In 1975, Paul McCartney and Wings won the Grammy Award for Best Pop Vocal Performance for the song "Band on the Run", recognizing their musical achievements.
1975: Marijuana Arrest in Los Angeles
In 1975, Paul McCartney was arrested again for marijuana possession in Los Angeles, but his wife Linda took the blame, and the court dismissed the charges.
1975: Wings Over the World Tour Begins
In 1975, Wings began their fourteen-month Wings Over the World Tour, marking the first time McCartney performed Beatles songs live with Wings.
1975: Became a Vegetarian
Since 1975, Paul McCartney has been a vegetarian.
April 1976: Saturday Night Live Reunion Offer
On 24 April 1976, Paul McCartney and John Lennon considered reuniting on Saturday Night Live after Lorne Michaels offered them $3,000, but they decided against it. This was their last time together.
1976: End of Beatles' contract with EMI
Following the break-up of the Beatles, McCartney's music continued to be released by Apple Records under the Beatles' 1967 recording contract with EMI which ran until 1976.
1976: Chart-Topping Albums
In 1976, Wings continued their success with the chart-topping album, Wings at the Speed of Sound.
1976: Inaugurated Buddy Holly Week
In 1976, on the fortieth anniversary of Holly's birth, McCartney inaugurated the annual "Buddy Holly Week" in England.
September 1977: Birth of son James
In September 1977, the McCartneys' third child, a son named James, was born.
1977: Voted Third Best Rock Bassist
In 1977, McCartney was voted the third best rock bassist in Creem's Reader Poll Results.
1978: End of initial successful songwriting period
By 1978, Paul McCartney wrote jointly or solo 43 songs which sold one million or more records.
1978: Acquisition of Publishing Rights
In 1978, Paul McCartney acquired the publishing rights to two of The Beatles' earliest songs, "Love Me Do" and "P.S. I Love You," from Ardmore & Beechwood, an EMI subsidiary.
1978: Release of London Town
In 1978, Wings released the album "London Town", which spawned a US number-one single and achieved commercial success despite unfavorable critical reception.
1979: Signed with Columbia Records
In 1979, McCartney signed with Columbia Records in the US and Canada, while remaining with EMI for distribution throughout the rest of the world.
1979: Final Concert Tour
In 1979, Wings completed their final concert tour with twenty shows in the UK, debuting live performances of several Beatles songs.
1979: Guinness Book Recognition
In 1979, the Guinness Book of World Records recognized Paul McCartney as the "most honored composer and performer in music".
1979: "Coming Up" Live Version
In 1979, the live version of "Coming Up", recorded by Wings in Glasgow, Scotland, became the group's last number-one hit.
1979: MPL Communications Published Songs
Since 1979, MPL Communications has published McCartney's songs.
January 1980: Arrest in Japan for Cannabis Possession
In January 1980, Paul McCartney was arrested in Japan after customs officials found approximately 8 ounces (230 g) of cannabis in his luggage, leading to his detention and subsequent deportation without charge after ten days.
December 1980: Lennon's Murder
On 9 December 1980, Paul McCartney learned of John Lennon's murder the previous night. His initial reaction, "It's a drag", was criticized, though he later explained his melancholy.
1980: Release of McCartney II
In 1980, McCartney released his second solo LP, "McCartney II", which topped the charts in the UK and reached number three in the US.
1980: Resumes Solo Career
In 1980, Paul McCartney resumed his solo career after the success of Wings, showcasing his versatility and continued influence in the music industry.
April 1981: Discontinuation of Wings
In April 1981, Wings discontinued after Denny Laine quit due to disagreements over royalties and salaries, marking the end of the band.
1981: Directed 'Rupert and the Frog Song'
In 1981, McCartney asked Geoff Dunbar to direct a short animated film called Rupert and the Frog Song; McCartney was the writer and producer, and he also added some of the character voices.
1981: Backup on "All Those Years Ago"
In 1981, McCartney sang backup on George Harrison's tribute to John Lennon, "All Those Years Ago", which featured Ringo Starr on drums.
1981: Attempt to Purchase Northern Songs Catalogue
In 1981, Paul McCartney and Yoko Ono tried to purchase the Northern Songs catalogue but were unsuccessful as Grade declined their offer.
1982: Collaborations and Chart Success
In 1982, McCartney collaborated with Stevie Wonder on "Ebony and Ivory" and with Michael Jackson on "The Girl Is Mine", achieving significant chart success.
1982: Release of "Here Today"
In 1982, McCartney released "Here Today", a song described as a tribute to his friendship with John Lennon.
1983: McCartney's Reflection on Relationship with Lennon
In 1983, McCartney expressed regret about not making more effort to connect with John Lennon before his death.
1983: Took up painting
In 1983, McCartney took up painting after watching Willem de Kooning work in his Long Island studio.
1984: Give My Regards to Broad Street Film
In 1984, McCartney starred in, wrote, and produced the film "Give My Regards to Broad Street", which received poor reviews but had a successful soundtrack.
1984: Arrested in Barbados
In 1984, Paul McCartney was arrested in Barbados for possession of marijuana and fined $200.
1984: Appearance in Give My Regards to Broad Street
In 1984, Ringo Starr appeared as a fictional version of himself in Paul McCartney's film Give My Regards to Broad Street, and played drums on most tracks of the soundtrack album.
1985: Produced 'The Real Buddy Holly Story'
In 1985, McCartney also produced and hosted The Real Buddy Holly Story, a documentary featuring interviews with Keith Richards, Phil and Don Everly, the Holly family, and others.
1985: Participation in Live Aid
In 1985, McCartney participated in Live Aid, performing "Let It Be", although technical difficulties initially affected the broadcast.
1985: Michael Jackson Buys ATV Music
In 1985, Michael Jackson purchased ATV Music, the parent company of Northern Songs, leading to McCartney's later criticism of Jackson's handling of the catalogue.
1985: Returned to Capitol Records
McCartney returned to Capitol in the US in 1985, remaining with EMI until 2006.
1986: Collaboration on Press to Play
In 1986, McCartney collaborated with Eric Stewart on the album "Press to Play", with Stewart co-writing many of the songs.
1988: Release of Снова в СССР
In 1988, McCartney released "Снова в СССР", a collection of covers initially available only in the Soviet Union.
1988: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction (The Beatles)
In 1988, Paul McCartney was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of the Beatles, recognizing the band's immense contribution to music history.
1988: Induction into Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
In 1988, Paul McCartney was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of the Beatles.
September 1989: Launch of World Tour
In September 1989, Paul McCartney launched the Paul McCartney World Tour, his first in over a decade, signaling a return to live performances on a large scale.
1989: Flowers in the Dirt
In 1989, McCartney released Flowers in the Dirt, his previous number-one solo album in the UK before McCartney III.
1989: Participated in "Ferry Cross the Mersey" Recording
In 1989, Paul McCartney participated in the charity recording of "Ferry Cross the Mersey".
1989: UK's Wealthiest Musician
Since 1989, McCartney has been the UK's wealthiest musician, with an estimated fortune of £730 million in 2015.
1989: Solo Touring Begins
Since 1989, Paul McCartney has been touring as a solo artist, further solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest performers of all time.
April 1990: Largest Paying Stadium Audience
On April 21, 1990, during the Paul McCartney World Tour, McCartney performed for the largest paying stadium audience in history, with 184,000 people attending his concert in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
1990: Changed back to the Höfner
Around 1990, McCartney changed back to the Höfner.
1990: Last concert in Pittsburgh before 2010
In 1990, McCartney performed his last concert in Pittsburgh until 2010, due to the old Civic Arena's logistical limitations.
1990: Favorite Guitar Players
In 1990, McCartney said that his favourite guitar players were Eddie Van Halen, Eric Clapton and David Gilmour, stating, "but I still like Hendrix the best".
1991: Orchestral Music Commission and MTV Unplugged Performance
In 1991, the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Society commissioned McCartney to create Liverpool Oratorio. He also performed on MTV Unplugged, which led to a live album release.
1992: Won BAFTA award
In 1992, McCartney worked with Dunbar on an animated film about the work of French artist Honoré Daumier, which won them a BAFTA award.
1993: Collaboration with Youth and New World Tour
In 1993, McCartney released an electronica album with Youth as The Fireman, launched the rock album Off the Ground, and embarked on the New World Tour.
1995: Northern Songs Dissolved
In 1995, Jackson merged his catalogue with Sony establishing Sony/ATV Music Publishing. Also in 1995, Northern Songs was formally dissolved and absorbed into the Sony/ATV catalogue, with McCartney receiving writers' royalties.
1995: Guest appearance on the Simpsons
In 1995, McCartney made a guest appearance on the Simpsons episode "Lisa the Vegetarian" and directed a short documentary about the Grateful Dead.
1995: Narrated Documentary
In 1995, Paul McCartney narrated the documentary Devour the Earth.
1995: Honorary Fellowship and Oobu Joobu Radio Series
In 1995, Prince Charles presented McCartney with an Honorary Fellowship of the Royal College of Music. He also recorded the Oobu Joobu radio series.
1997: Miles wrote McCartney's biography
In 1997, Barry Miles wrote McCartney's official biography, Many Years from Now.
1997: Release of 'Flaming Pie' and 'Standing Stone'
In 1997, McCartney released the rock album 'Flaming Pie', featuring Ringo Starr, and his classical work 'Standing Stone'.
1997: Anxiety After Lennon's Death
In 1997, McCartney stated that Lennon's death made the remaining ex-Beatles nervous that they might also be murdered.
1997: Support for Decriminalisation
In 1997, Paul McCartney spoke out in support of decriminalisation of cannabis.
1997: Knighthood for Services to Music
In 1997, Paul McCartney was knighted for his services to music, marking one of the highest honors he received for his contributions to the industry.
1997: Collaboration on Flaming Pie
In 1997, Ringo Starr played drums and sang backing vocals on "Beautiful Night" from Paul McCartney's album Flaming Pie.
April 1998: Linda McCartney's death
In April 1998, Linda McCartney, Paul's wife, passed away due to cancer.
1998: Linda McCartney's Death
In 1998, Linda McCartney died at the age of 56 from breast cancer. Following Linda's death, Paul sought counseling to cope with his grief and guilt.
1998: Collaboration on Vertical Man
In 1998, Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr collaborated on Starr's Vertical Man, with McCartney providing backing vocals on three songs and instrumentation on one.
April 1999: "Concert for Linda" and Working Classical
In April 1999, McCartney performed at the "Concert for Linda" tribute at the Royal Albert Hall. Also in 1999, he continued to explore orchestral music with Working Classical.
1999: First Art Exhibition
In 1999, McCartney first exhibited his paintings in Siegen, Germany, featuring portraits of Lennon, Andy Warhol, and David Bowie.
1999: Release of 'Run Devil Run'
In 1999, McCartney released 'Run Devil Run', an album of covers and originals dedicated to Linda McCartney.
1999: Ensured Linda McCartney Foods Remained Free of Genetically Engineered Ingredients
In 1999, Paul McCartney spent £3,000,000 to ensure Linda McCartney Foods remained free of genetically engineered ingredients.
1999: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction (Solo Artist)
In 1999, Paul McCartney was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a solo artist, solidifying his place as one of music's most influential figures.
1999: Solo Induction into Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
In 1999, Paul McCartney was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a solo artist.
September 2000: UK Exhibition of Paintings
In September 2000, the first UK exhibition of McCartney's paintings opened, featuring 500 canvases at the Arnolfini Gallery in Bristol, England.
October 2000: Art Debut in Liverpool
In October 2000, McCartney's art debuted in his hometown of Liverpool at the Walker Art Gallery.
2000: Two of Us Television Film
In 2000, VH1 fictionalized the 1976 Saturday Night Live reunion offer event in the television film Two of Us.
November 2001: Harrison's Death
In November 2001, after George Harrison's death, Paul McCartney expressed his affection and admiration for Harrison.
2001: Published 'Blackbird Singing'
In 2001, McCartney published 'Blackbird Singing', a volume of poems and lyrics to his songs, and gave readings in Liverpool and New York City.
July 2002: Marriage to Heather Mills
In July 2002, McCartney married Heather Mills.
2002: Lennon as Greatest Hero
In 2002, McCartney told Mojo magazine that Lennon was his greatest hero.
2002: Marriage to Heather Mills
In 2002, Paul McCartney married Heather Mills, a former model and anti-landmine campaigner.
2003: Highest Income in the UK
In 2003, McCartney earned £40 million, the highest income that year within media professions in the UK.
2003: Birth of Beatrice Milly McCartney
In 2003, Paul McCartney and Heather Mills had a child, Beatrice Milly, named in honor of Mills's late mother and one of McCartney's aunts.
2003: Meeting with Vladimir Putin
In 2003, Paul McCartney and his then-wife, Heather Mills, met with Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin to urge Russia to join the anti-landmine campaign.
2003: Birth of Daughter Beatrice Milly
In 2003, the McCartneys welcomed their child, Beatrice Milly.
2003: Release of Back in the World
In 2003, the double live album Back in the World was released internationally. It was a result of the Driving World Tour.
2004: Worked on 'Tropic Island Hum'
In 2004, McCartney worked with Dunbar on the animated short film Tropic Island Hum.
2004: Media Animosity Comment
In 2004, Paul McCartney commented on the media's negative reaction to his relationships, stating the public didn't like him giving up on Jane Asher and marrying Linda.
2004: Donated Song to Aid Burma Campaign
In 2004, Paul McCartney donated a song to an album to aid the "US Campaign for Burma", in support of Aung San Suu Kyi.
July 2005: Live 8 Performance
In July 2005, McCartney performed at the Live 8 event in Hyde Park, London.
July 2005: Fastest-Released Single in History
In July 2005, Paul McCartney's performance of "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" with U2 at Live 8 became the fastest-released single in history.
2005: Income Increased
By 2005, McCartney's income rose to £48.5 million.
2005: Super Bowl Halftime Show
In 2005, McCartney headlined the halftime show at Super Bowl XXXIX.
2005: Published 'High in the Clouds'
In 2005, McCartney's first children's book, 'High in the Clouds: An Urban Furry Tail', was published, a collaboration with writer Philip Ardagh and animator Geoff Dunbar.
April 2006: Separation from Heather Mills
In April 2006, Paul McCartney and Heather Mills separated.
2006: Classical Work "Ecce Cor Meum" Release
In 2006, McCartney released his classical work "Ecce Cor Meum".
2006: Seal Hunting Awareness
In 2006, Paul and Heather McCartney travelled to Prince Edward Island to raise international awareness of seal hunting.
2006: End of contract with EMI
McCartney returned to Capitol in the US in 1985, remaining with EMI until 2006.
November 2007: Relationship with Nancy Shevell
In November 2007, Paul McCartney started a relationship with Nancy Shevell.
2007: Release of "Memory Almost Full"
In 2007, McCartney released the rock album "Memory Almost Full".
2007: Signed with Hear Music
In 2007, McCartney signed with Hear Music, becoming the label's first artist.
May 2008: Divorce from Heather Mills
In May 2008, Paul McCartney and Heather Mills divorced acrimoniously.
2008: Liverpool European Capital of Culture Concert and Fireman Album Release
In 2008, McCartney performed in Liverpool to celebrate the city's year as European Capital of Culture. He also released his third Fireman album, Electric Arguments.
2008: Donated Song to Aid Still Required's CD
In 2008, Paul McCartney donated a song to Aid Still Required's CD, to raise funds for recovery from the 2004 tsunami in Southeast Asia.
September 2009: The Beatles Catalogue Reissue
On 9 September 2009, EMI reissued the Beatles catalogue following a remastering effort. A music video game called The Beatles: Rock Band was also released the same day.
2009: RIAA Certification
As of 2009, Paul McCartney has 15.5 million RIAA-certified units in the United States as a solo artist, plus another 10 million with Wings.
2009: Record-Breaking Songwriting Achievements
As of 2009, Paul McCartney has written or co-written a record 32 songs that have topped the Billboard Hot 100 and had sales of 25.5 million RIAA-certified units in the US, showcasing his unparalleled success as a songwriter.
2009: Guinness World Records Recognition
In 2009, Guinness World Records again recognized Paul McCartney as the "most successful songwriter" having written or co-written 188 charted records in the United Kingdom.
2009: Citi Field Concerts and "Good Evening New York City" Release
In 2009, McCartney performed three sold-out concerts at the newly built Citi Field in Queens, New York. These performances yielded the double live album "Good Evening New York City" later that year.
2009: Performance at David Lynch Foundation Benefit
In 2009, Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr performed "With a Little Help from My Friends" at a benefit concert for the David Lynch Foundation.
2009: Narrated "Glass Walls" Video
In 2009, Paul McCartney narrated a video for PETA titled "Glass Walls", which was critical of slaughterhouses and the meat industry.
2009: Wrote to the Dalai Lama
In 2009, Paul McCartney wrote to the Dalai Lama questioning why he was not a vegetarian.
July 2010: Surprise Performance at Radio City Music Hall
On 7 July 2010, Paul McCartney made a surprise appearance at Ringo Starr's 70th birthday concert at Radio City Music Hall, performing "Birthday" with Starr's band.
2010: Opened Consol Energy Center
In 2010, McCartney opened the Consol Energy Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, marking his first concert in Pittsburgh since 1990.
2010: Collaboration on 'Y Not' Album
In 2010, Paul McCartney collaborated on Ringo Starr's album Y Not, playing bass on "Peace Dream" and singing a duet with Starr on "Walk with You."
July 2011: Yankee Stadium Concerts
In July 2011, McCartney performed at two sold-out concerts at the new Yankee Stadium.
August 2011: Signed with Decca Records
In August 2011, McCartney left EMI and signed with Decca Records, the same company that rejected The Beatles.
September 2011: Release of "Ocean's Kingdom"
In September 2011, McCartney released "Ocean's Kingdom", his first score for dance, in collaboration with Peter Martins.
October 2011: Marriage to Nancy Shevell
On 9 October 2011, Paul McCartney married Nancy Shevell in a civil ceremony in London.
2011: Rolling Stone Readers' Poll Result
In 2011, McCartney was voted the third best bassist of all time in a Rolling Stone readers' poll.
February 2012: MusiCares Person of the Year and Kisses on the Bottom Release
In February 2012, McCartney was honored as the MusiCares Person of the Year and released Kisses on the Bottom.
June 2012: Queen Elizabeth's Diamond Jubilee Concert
In June 2012, McCartney closed Queen Elizabeth's Diamond Jubilee Concert, performing a set that included "Let It Be" and "Live and Let Die".
December 2012: 12-12-12 Concert for Sandy Relief
In December 2012, McCartney performed with former members of Nirvana during the Concert for Sandy Relief.
2012: On the Run Tour Grossed £37 Million
In 2012, McCartney's 18-date On the Run Tour grossed £37 million.
2012: Joined Artists Against Fracking
In 2012, Paul McCartney joined the anti-fracking campaign Artists Against Fracking.
August 2013: Release of "New" Title Track
On 28 August 2013, McCartney released the title track of his upcoming studio album "New".
October 2013: Release of "New" album
In October 2013, McCartney released the album "New".
January 2014: Grammy Performance
On 26 January 2014, Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr performed "Queenie Eye" at the 56th Annual Grammy Awards.
January 2014: Taping of Grammy Salute to The Beatles
On 27 January 2014, a primetime entertainment special was taped at the Ed Sullivan Theater to celebrate the Beatles' legacy.
February 2014: Airing of Grammy Salute to The Beatles
On 9 February 2014, CBS aired "The Night That Changed America: A Grammy Salute to The Beatles", featuring performances of Beatles songs.
May 2014: Cancelled Tour Due to Virus
In May 2014, McCartney cancelled a tour of Japan and postponed a US tour due to contracting a virus.
July 2014: Resumed Tour in Albany, New York
On 5 July 2014, McCartney resumed his tour with a performance in Albany, New York.
August 2014: Final Concert at Candlestick Park
On 14 August 2014, McCartney performed in the final concert at Candlestick Park in San Francisco, California.
November 2014: Release of Tribute Album "The Art of McCartney"
In November 2014, "The Art of McCartney", a 42-song tribute album, was released. Also in 2014, McCartney wrote and performed "Hope for the Future" for the video game Destiny.
2014: Latest UK Number One
As of 2014, McCartney's latest UK number one was with the title track of his LP release that year, "Pipes of Peace".
January 2015: Collaboration with Kanye West and Rihanna
In January 2015, McCartney collaborated with Kanye West and Rihanna on the single "FourFiveSeconds", also released a music video for the song.
February 2015: Saturday Night Live 40th Anniversary Special
In February 2015, McCartney performed with Paul Simon for the Saturday Night Live 40th Anniversary Special.
February 2015: "FourFiveSeconds" Performance at Grammy Awards
On 8 February 2015, McCartney, West and Rihanna performed "FourFiveSeconds" live at the 57th Annual Grammy Awards.
April 2015: Induction into Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
In April 2015, Paul McCartney inducted Ringo Starr into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
September 2015: Hollywood Vampires Collaboration
On 11 September 2015, the Hollywood Vampires, led by Alice Cooper, released their debut album featuring McCartney on their cover of his song "Come and Get It".
2015: Quit Cannabis
In 2015, Paul McCartney quit cannabis to set a good example for his grandchildren.
2015: Comments on Fox Hunting Vote
In 2015, Paul McCartney voiced his opposition to the reintroduction of fox hunting following British prime minister David Cameron's decision to allow a free vote on amending the law against it.
2015: Estimated fortune
Since 1989, McCartney has been the UK's wealthiest musician, with an estimated fortune of £730 million in 2015.
June 2016: Release of Pure McCartney
On 10 June 2016, McCartney released the career-spanning collection Pure McCartney.
2016: Expressed Solidarity for Orlando Shooting Victims
In 2016, Paul McCartney expressed his solidarity for the victims of the Orlando shooting during a concert in Berlin.
January 2017: Lawsuit Against Sony/ATV Music Publishing
In January 2017, McCartney filed a suit against Sony/ATV Music Publishing to reclaim ownership of his share of the Lennon–McCartney song catalogue.
June 2017: Settlement with Sony/ATV
In June 2017, McCartney and Sony reached a confidential settlement regarding the lawsuit.
2017: Pirates of the Caribbean Cameo
In 2017, McCartney appeared in a cameo role in the film Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales as Uncle Jack.
2017: Drumming on Foo Fighters' album
In 2017, McCartney played drums on "Sunday Rain" from the Foo Fighters' album Concrete and Gold.
2017: Collaboration on 'Give More Love' Album
In 2017, Paul McCartney played bass on Ringo Starr's album Give More Love.
June 2018: Release of "I Don't Know" and "Come On to Me"
On 20 June 2018, McCartney released "I Don't Know" and "Come On to Me" from his album Egypt Station.
July 2018: Performance at The Cavern Club
On 26 July 2018, McCartney played a gig at The Cavern Club with his regular band.
December 2018: O2 Arena Performance
On 16 December 2018, Paul McCartney was joined onstage by Ringo Starr and Ronnie Wood to perform "Get Back" at his concert at London's O2 Arena.
2018: Wrote 'Hey Grandude!'
In 2018, McCartney wrote the children's book 'Hey Grandude!' together with illustrator Kathryn Durst.
2018: Returned to Capitol
McCartney returned to Capitol for 2018's Egypt Station.
July 2019: Freshen Up Tour Appearance
In July 2019, Ringo Starr made an appearance on the final day of Paul McCartney's Freshen Up tour, performing "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band (Reprise)" and "Helter Skelter".
September 2019: Published 'Hey Grandude!'
In September 2019, the children's book 'Hey Grandude!' written by McCartney and illustrated by Kathryn Durst, was published.
2019: "Got Back" tour
Before April 2022, the last time McCartney had toured the United States was in 2019.
December 2020: Release of McCartney III
In December 2020, McCartney's 18th solo album, McCartney III, was released via Capitol Records, becoming his first number-one solo album in the UK since 1989.
December 2020: Chart Success with McCartney III
In December 2020, the release of his album McCartney III and its subsequent charting at number 2 on the US Billboard 200 earned McCartney the feat of being the first artist to have a new album in the top two chart positions in each of the last six decades.
2020: Comments on Chinese Wet Markets and Ecocide
In 2020, Paul McCartney called for Chinese wet markets to be banned and commented on ecocide, supporting the campaign to make it a crime at the International Criminal Court.
2020: Ranked Ninth Greatest Bassist
In 2020, Rolling Stone magazine ranked McCartney the ninth greatest bassist of all time, and Bass Player magazine ranked him the third best bass player of all time.
April 2021: Release of McCartney III Imagined
In April 2021, an album of "reinterpretations, remixes, and covers" titled McCartney III Imagined was released.
September 2021: Released 'Grandude's Green Submarine'
In September 2021, 'Grandude's Green Submarine', a follow-up to 'Hey Grandude!', was released.
November 2021: Publication of 'The Lyrics: 1956 to the Present'
In November 2021, McCartney's book 'The Lyrics: 1956 to the Present' was released, based on conversations with Paul Muldoon and later named Book of the Year by Barnes & Noble and Waterstones.
2021: MusicRadar Readers' Poll Result
In 2021, McCartney was voted the fifth greatest bassist of all time in a MusicRadar readers' poll.
April 2022: "Got Back" Tour Start
In April 2022, McCartney's "Got Back" tour started in the United States, his first in the country since 2019.
June 2022: Glastonbury Festival Headliner
In June 2022, McCartney headlined Glastonbury Festival a week after his 80th birthday, becoming the oldest solo headliner at the festival, with Dave Grohl and Bruce Springsteen as special guests.
2023: Publication of '1964: Eyes of the Storm'
In 2023, McCartney published the book '1964: Eyes of the Storm', featuring photos from the height of Beatlemania.
December 2024: O2 Arena Performance
On 19 December 2024, Ringo Starr and Ronnie Wood joined Paul McCartney at the O2 Arena in London, performing the same three songs as in 2018 and 2019.
2024: One of the Wealthiest Musicians
As of 2024, Paul McCartney is one of the wealthiest musicians in the world, with an estimated fortune of £1 billion, reflecting his enduring success and influence.
2024: Sponsored Tree Register Yearbook
In 2024, Paul McCartney sponsored the first ever Tree Register Yearbook, continuing his connection to The Tree Register.
