History of Paul McCartney in Timeline
Sir Paul McCartney is a highly successful English singer, songwriter, and musician, most famously known for his role in the Beatles. He played bass guitar and piano for the band, sharing songwriting and lead vocal duties with John Lennon. McCartney is celebrated for his melodic bass-playing, wide vocal range, and musical versatility, spanning various genres. His songwriting partnership with Lennon remains the most successful in music history.
1944: Family Rehoused in Knowsley
In 1944, the McCartney family was rehoused at a flat in Knowsley, indicating a change in their living situation during the war years.
1946: Move to Council Housing in Speke
In 1946, the McCartney family moved to a council housing development in Speke, providing them with new accommodation after the war.
1947: Attending Stockton Wood Road Primary School
In 1947, Paul McCartney began his formal education by attending Stockton Wood Road Primary School in Speke, marking the start of his academic journey.
1949: Transfer to Joseph Williams Junior School
In 1949, Paul McCartney transferred to Joseph Williams Junior School in Belle Vale due to overcrowding at Stockton Wood Road Primary School, changing his educational environment.
1953: Passing the 11-Plus Exam
In 1953, Paul McCartney passed the 11-Plus exam, allowing him to attend the Liverpool Institute, a grammar school, signifying a significant academic achievement.
1954: Meeting George Harrison
In 1954, Paul McCartney met schoolmate George Harrison on the bus from Speke, leading to a friendship that would later play a crucial role in the formation of the Beatles.
October 1956: Death of Mother, Mary McCartney
On 31 October 1956, Paul McCartney's mother, Mary McCartney, died of an embolism at the age of 47. This deeply affected the 14-year-old Paul and later became a connection with John Lennon, who also lost his mother at a young age.
July 1957: Meeting John Lennon
On 6 July 1957, at the age of fifteen, Paul McCartney met John Lennon and his band, the Quarrymen, at the St Peter's Church Hall fête in Woolton, marking the beginning of a pivotal partnership in music history.
1957: Joining The Quarrymen
In 1957, Paul McCartney began his music career by joining John Lennon's skiffle group, the Quarrymen, influenced by his father and rock and roll performers. This marked the beginning of his journey towards becoming a world-renowned musician.
1958: George Harrison Joins The Quarrymen
In 1958, George Harrison joined The Quarrymen as lead guitarist, solidifying the lineup of what would later become the Beatles.
1958: Death of John Lennon's Mother
In 1958, John Lennon's mother, Julia, died when Lennon was 17. This event created a connection between Lennon and Paul McCartney, who had lost his mother two years earlier.
1959: Meeting Dorothy "Dot" Rhone
In 1959, Paul McCartney met Dorothy "Dot" Rhone, his first serious girlfriend in Liverpool, at the Casbah club.
May 1960: Band Name Changes
By May 1960, the band, including John Lennon and Paul McCartney, had experimented with several names, such as Johnny and the Moondogs, Beatals, and the Silver Beetles, before settling on their iconic name.
August 1960: Adoption of The Beatles Name and Residency in Hamburg
In August 1960, the band formally adopted the name the Beatles and recruited drummer Pete Best shortly before beginning a five-engagement residency in Hamburg.
1960: The Beatles Formation
In 1960, The Quarrymen evolved into the Beatles, marking a significant milestone in music history. This transformation set the stage for Paul McCartney's rise to international fame as a key member of the band.
1961: McCartney Becomes Bass Player
In 1961, after Stuart Sutcliffe left the band, Paul McCartney became the bass player for the Beatles, solidifying his role in the group's instrumental lineup.
January 1962: Brian Epstein Becomes Manager
In January 1962, Brian Epstein became the manager of The Beatles, marking a pivotal moment in their career and future success.
June 1962: First Recording Contract with Parlophone Records
In June 1962, Paul McCartney, as a member of the Beatles, signed his first recording contract with Parlophone Records, which was a subsidiary of EMI.
1962: Start of successful songwriting
From 1962 to 1978, Paul McCartney wrote or co-wrote 43 songs that sold one million or more records.
1962: Rhone Accompanies Cynthia Lennon to Hamburg
In 1962, Dorothy Rhone accompanied Cynthia Lennon to Hamburg when The Beatles played there again.
April 1963: First meeting with Jane Asher
On April 1963, Paul McCartney met British actress Jane Asher when a photographer asked them to pose together at a Beatles performance at the Royal Albert Hall in London. This meeting marked the beginning of their relationship.
1963: Establishment of Northern Songs
In 1963, Dick James established Northern Songs to publish the songs of Lennon–McCartney, marking the beginning of a significant venture in music publishing.
1963: Popularity in the UK
In 1963, The Beatles gained significant popularity in the UK, achieving their first hit with "Love Me Do" and setting the stage for their international fame.
1964: The Beatles perform on The Ed Sullivan Show
In 1964 The Beatles made their groundbreaking performance on The Ed Sullivan Show.
1964: Introduction to Cannabis
In 1964, Bob Dylan introduced The Beatles to cannabis in a New York hotel room. McCartney recalls getting "very high" and "giggling uncontrollably."
1964: Purchase of Epiphone Casino
In 1964, Paul McCartney bought an Epiphone Casino guitar, knowing that the guitar's hollow body would produce more feedback. He has retained that original guitar to the present day.
1964: Popularity in the US
In 1964, The Beatles became popular in the US, igniting "Beatlemania" and solidifying their status as a global phenomenon. Paul McCartney co-wrote several early hits with John Lennon during this time.
1964: Moving from Forthlin Road
In 1964, the McCartney family moved out of 20 Forthlin Road in Allerton, where they had lived since his mother's earnings allowed them to move there.
August 1965: Release of Yesterday
In August 1965, the Beatles released the Paul McCartney composition "Yesterday" featuring a string quartet, included on the Help! LP. This song was the group's first recorded use of classical music elements and their first recording that involved only a single band member.
1965: Favoring Rickenbacker 4001S for Recording
From 1965, Paul McCartney favored his Rickenbacker 4001S bass for recording.
1965: Appointed as 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 culture.
1965: Northern Songs Public Stock Offering
In 1965, after a public stock offering, McCartney's ownership in Northern Songs decreased from 20% to 15%.
March 1966: Moving to St John's Wood
In March 1966, Paul McCartney moved from Jane Asher's parents' home in Wimpole Street, where he had been living for over two years, to his own home in St John's Wood.
June 1966: Release of Promotional Films
In June 1966, The Beatles produced short promotional films for the song "Paperback Writer" and its B-side, "Rain". These films, considered "the forerunner of videos", aired on The Ed Sullivan Show and Top of the Pops.
November 1966: Experimental Recording Sessions
Starting in November 1966, the Beatles, including Paul McCartney, began experimental recording sessions for their upcoming album, adopting an innovative approach to their music.
1966: The Beatles last concert for a paying audience
In 1966, Candlestick Park in San Francisco was the same venue at which the Beatles played their final concert for a paying audience.
1966: Meeting Linda Eastman at Shea Stadium
In 1966, Linda Eastman, then a music photographer, met the Beatles for the first time at Shea Stadium. She initially found John Lennon more interesting, but her fascination quickly shifted to Paul McCartney.
1966: McCartney Composed Yellow Submarine
In 1966, Paul McCartney composed the song that inspired the animated film, Yellow Submarine.
1966: Final Commercial Concert and Film Score for The Family Way
In 1966, The Beatles gave their final commercial concert at the end of their US tour. Later that year, Paul McCartney completed his first musical project independent of the group, a film score for the UK production The Family Way in collaboration with George Martin.
1966: Rumor of McCartney's Death
In 1966, according to a rumour that surfaced in October 1969, Paul McCartney allegedly died in a car crash.
1966: First Use of LSD
In late 1966, Paul McCartney eventually tried LSD for the first time.
February 1967: Release of Strawberry Fields Forever/Penny Lane
In February 1967, the Beatles released the double A-side single "Strawberry Fields Forever"/"Penny Lane", produced during experimental recording sessions, showcasing their evolving musical style.
March 1967: Second LSD Experience
In March 1967, Paul McCartney had his second "acid trip" with John Lennon after a Sgt. Pepper studio session.
May 1967: Becoming Acquainted with Linda Eastman
On May 15, 1967, Paul McCartney and Linda Eastman became properly acquainted at a Georgie Fame concert at The Bag O'Nails club in London. Linda was there to photograph rock musicians, and Paul recalls being uncharacteristically assertive in approaching her that night.
August 1967: Brian 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 of the group.
1967: Use of Fender Bassman for Amplification
By 1967, Paul McCartney had also begun using a Fender Bassman for amplification, in addition to Vox amplifiers.
1967: The Beatles Re-signed with EMI
In 1967, The Beatles re-signed with EMI for another nine years, continuing their recording contract.
1967: Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band and Leadership Role
Starting with the 1967 album Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, Paul McCartney gradually became the de facto leader of the Beatles, providing creative impetus for most of their music and film projects.
July 1968: Yellow Submarine Film Premiere
In July 1968, The Beatles' animated film Yellow Submarine, loosely based on McCartney's 1966 composition, premiered. Critics praised the film's visual style, humour, and music.
1968: Drumming on Paul Jones' rendition of "And the Sun Will Shine"
In 1968, Paul McCartney contributed drumming to Paul Jones' rendition of "And the Sun Will Shine".
1968: Formation of Apple Records
In 1968, The Beatles formed their own record label, Apple Records, and subsequently, their recordings were released through Apple, although the masters were still owned by EMI.
1968: "Hey Jude" Success
In 1968, The Beatles' composition "Hey Jude" achieved the highest sales in the UK and topped the US charts for nine weeks, becoming the longest-running Beatles single at seven minutes eleven seconds and the best-selling Beatles single, selling over five million copies soon after its release.
1968: Argument during The Beatles recording session
In 1968, during a recording session for The Beatles album, Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr had an argument over McCartney's critique of Starr's drum part for "Back in the U.S.S.R.", contributing to Starr temporarily leaving the band.
March 1969: Marriage to Linda Eastman
In March 1969, Paul McCartney married Linda Eastman, marking a significant event in his personal life.
September 1969: Lennon Leaves The Beatles
In September 1969, John Lennon privately left The Beatles, but agreed to keep it secret.
October 1969: McCartney Death Rumor
In October 1969, a rumour began that McCartney had died in a car crash in 1966 and been replaced by a lookalike. This was quickly disproven.
1969: Depression During Beatles Breakup
During the breakup of the Beatles in 1969, Paul McCartney fell into a depression, from which his wife, Linda, helped him recover.
1969: Sale of Northern Songs to Associated Television
In 1969, Dick James sold a controlling interest in Northern Songs to Lew Grade's Associated Television (ATV), leading McCartney and John Lennon to sell their remaining shares.
1969: Drumming on Steve Miller Band's Tracks
In 1969, Paul McCartney played drums on Steve Miller Band's tracks "Celebration Song" and "My Dark Hour".
April 1970: McCartney Announces Departure From The Beatles
On 10 April 1970, Paul McCartney announced his departure from The Beatles, amidst business disagreements.
December 1970: Files Suit for Dissolution
On 31 December 1970, Paul McCartney filed a suit for the formal dissolution of The Beatles.
1970: First Solo Release
In 1970, Paul McCartney continued his musical career with his first solo release, McCartney, which reached number one in the US.
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, embarking on a new chapter in his music career.
March 1971: Receiver Appointed for Apple Corps
In March 1971, the court appointed a receiver to oversee the finances of the Beatles' company Apple Corps.
September 1971: Birth of Daughter Stella
In September 1971, the McCartneys' daughter Stella was born, named in honour of Linda's grandmothers.
1971: Purchase of Holly's publishing rights
In 1971, Paul McCartney bought the publishing rights to Buddy Holly's catalogue.
1971: Formation of Wings
In 1971, following the break-up of the Beatles, Paul McCartney and Linda Eastman formed the band Wings. Linda's inclusion in the band was met with some criticism, but Paul defended her musical contributions and dedication.
1972: Re-signing with ATV
In 1972, McCartney re-signed with ATV for seven years in a joint publishing agreement between ATV and McCartney Music.
1972: Fine for Cannabis Possession
In 1972, Paul McCartney was fined £1,000 by a Swedish court for cannabis possession.
1972: Theft of Höfner 500/1 bass
In 1972, Paul McCartney's original Höfner 500/1 bass was stolen.
1972: Wings First Concert Tour
In 1972, Wings began their first concert tour, starting with a performance at the University of Nottingham, followed by a tour of UK universities.
March 1973: Wings Achieve First US Number One
In March 1973, Wings achieved their first US number-one single with "My Love", featured on the album Red Rose Speedway.
December 1973: Denied US Visa
Due to prior drug convictions, the US government repeatedly denied Paul McCartney a visa until December 1973.
1973: End of Contract with ATV
In 1973, McCartney and John Lennon's contract with ATV ended, marking a change in their publishing arrangements.
1973: Collaboration on Ringo's Album Ringo
In 1973, Paul McCartney contributed instrumentation and backing vocals for "Six O'Clock", which he wrote for Ringo Starr's album Ringo. He also played a kazoo solo on "You're Sixteen" from the same album.
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 at Campbeltown Sheriff Court.
1973: Band on the Run Release
In 1973, The McCartneys and Laine recorded Band on the Run which became the first of seven platinum Wings LPs.
1974: Second US number-one single
In 1974, Wings achieved a second US number-one single with the title track "Band on the Run" and McCartney hired guitarist Jimmy McCulloch and drummer Geoff Britton.
1974: Brief Reconciliation with John Lennon
In early 1974, Paul McCartney and John Lennon briefly became close again after a strained relationship post-Beatles, and they played music together on one occasion. However, they grew apart again in later years.
January 1975: The Beatles Partnership Legally Dissolved
On 9 January 1975, an English court legally dissolved The Beatles' partnership, marking the formal end of the band.
1975: Grammy Win 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".
1975: Arrest for Marijuana Possession in Los Angeles
In 1975, Paul McCartney was arrested again for marijuana possession in Los Angeles, but Linda took the blame, and the court soon dismissed the charges.
1975: Wings Over the World Tour Begins
In 1975, Wings began their fourteen-month Wings Over the World Tour, which included stops in the UK, Australia, Europe, and the US. During this tour, McCartney performed Beatles songs live with Wings for the first time.
1975: Becoming a Vegetarian
Since 1975, Paul McCartney has been a vegetarian, influenced by seeing lambs in a field while eating a meal of lamb.
April 1976: Watching Saturday Night Live with Lennon
On April 24, 1976, Paul McCartney and John Lennon were at Lennon's home in the Dakota, watching an episode of Saturday Night Live when Lorne Michaels offered the Beatles $3,000 to reunite on the show. They considered going to the studio but decided against it, making this their last time together.
1976: Chart-Topping Albums
In 1976, Wings continued their success with the chart-topping album Wings at the Speed of Sound.
1976: Inauguration of Buddy Holly Week
In 1976, on the fortieth anniversary of Buddy Holly's birth, Paul McCartney inaugurated the annual "Buddy Holly Week" in England.
1976: End of Beatles' EMI Contract
In 1976, the Beatles' 1967 recording contract with EMI ended, marking a change in the distribution of McCartney's music.
September 1977: Birth of Son James
In September 1977, the McCartneys' third child, a son named James, was born.
1978: End of successful songwriting period
From 1962 to 1978, Paul McCartney wrote or co-wrote 43 songs that sold one million or more records.
1978: Acquisition of Publishing Rights for "Love Me Do" and "P.S. I Love You"
In 1978, McCartney acquired the publishing rights for "Love Me Do" and "P.S. I Love You" from Ardmore & Beechwood, an EMI subsidiary.
1978: London Town Album Release
In 1978, Wings released London Town, which spawned the US number-one single "With a Little Luck" and achieved commercial success.
1979: Signing with Columbia Records
In 1979, McCartney signed with Columbia Records in the US and Canada, reportedly receiving the industry's most lucrative recording contract to date, while remaining with EMI for distribution throughout the rest of the world.
1979: Back to the Egg Album
In 1979, Wings released Back to the Egg, which featured a rock supergroup called "Rockestra" and marked the end of the band's concert tour.
1979: Guinness Recognition as Most Honored Composer and Performer
In 1979, the Guinness Book of World Records recognized Paul McCartney as the "most honored composer and performer in music", with 60 gold discs and significant sales as part of the Beatles.
1979: Wings Last Number-One Hit
In 1979, the live version of Coming Up, recorded in Glasgow, Scotland, became Wings' last number-one hit.
1979: MPL Communications Publishes McCartney's Songs
Since 1979, MPL Communications has published McCartney's songs, managing his music publishing rights.
January 1980: Arrest in Japan for Cannabis Possession
In January 1980, when Wings flew to Tokyo for a tour of Japan, customs officials found approximately 8 ounces (230 g) of cannabis in Paul McCartney's luggage, leading to his arrest and deportation.
December 1980: Reaction to Lennon's Murder
On December 9, 1980, Paul McCartney learned of John Lennon's murder the previous night. When approached by reporters, McCartney responded with "It's a drag", which drew criticism for appearing superficial, though he later explained his intended melancholy.
1980: McCartney II Release
In 1980, Paul McCartney released his second solo LP, McCartney II, which reached number one in the UK and number three in the US.
1980: Resumption of Solo Career
In 1980, Paul McCartney resumed his solo career after leading the band Wings throughout the 1970s. He continued to create music and perform as a solo artist, further solidifying his legacy.
April 1981: Wings Discontinued
In April 1981, Wings was discontinued after Denny Laine quit due to disagreements over royalties and salaries.
1981: Attempt to Purchase Northern Songs Catalogue
In 1981, McCartney and Yoko Ono attempted to purchase the Northern Songs catalogue, but Grade declined their offer.
1981: Directing Rupert and the Frog Song
In 1981, Paul McCartney asked Geoff Dunbar to direct a short animated film called Rupert and the Frog Song. McCartney was the writer and producer and also added some of the character voices.
1981: Backing Vocals on "All Those Years Ago"
In 1981, Paul McCartney sang backup on George Harrison's tribute song to John Lennon, "All Those Years Ago", which also featured Ringo Starr on drums.
1982: Collaborations and Chart Success
In 1982, Paul McCartney collaborated with Stevie Wonder on "Ebony and Ivory" and with Michael Jackson on "The Girl Is Mine."
1982: Release of "Here Today"
In 1982, Paul McCartney released "Here Today", described as a haunting tribute to his friendship with John Lennon.
1983: Reflection on Relationship with Lennon
In 1983, Paul McCartney expressed regret for not making more effort to connect with John Lennon before his death and reflected on his typically human and standoffish behavior.
1984: "Do They Know It's Christmas?" Sales Record
By 1984, the charity single "Do They Know It's Christmas?" overtook Mull of Kintyre's UK sales record, selling 2.5 million copies.
1984: Give My Regards to Broad Street Film Release
In 1984, Paul McCartney starred in, wrote, and produced the film Give My Regards to Broad Street, which received negative reviews but a successful soundtrack album.
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, which includes re-recordings of several McCartney-penned Beatles songs.
1984: Arrest for Marijuana Possession in Barbados
In 1984, while on holiday in Barbados, Paul McCartney was arrested for possession of marijuana and fined $200.
1985: Return to Capitol Records
In 1985, McCartney returned to Capitol Records in the US, remaining with EMI until 2006.
1985: Live Aid Performance
In 1985, Paul McCartney participated in Live Aid, performing "Let it Be", but technical difficulties affected the audio.
1985: Production of The Real Buddy Holly Story
In 1985, Paul McCartney produced and hosted 'The Real Buddy Holly Story', a documentary featuring interviews with musicians and the Holly family.
1985: Sale of ATV Music to Michael Jackson
In 1985, Robert Holmes à Court sold ATV Music to Michael Jackson after acquiring its parent company, Associated Communications Corp.
1986: Press to Play Album
In 1986, Paul McCartney collaborated with Eric Stewart on Press to Play, where Stewart co-wrote more than half the songs.
1988: Release of Снова в СССР
In 1988, Paul McCartney released Снова в СССР, an album initially available only in the Soviet Union, featuring covers recorded in two days.
1988: Induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with The Beatles
In 1988, Paul McCartney was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of The Beatles, celebrating the band's significant impact on 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.
1989: Recording of 'Ferry Cross the Mersey'
In 1989, Paul McCartney participated in the charity recording of 'Ferry Cross the Mersey'.
1989: Solo Touring
Since 1989, Paul McCartney has been touring as a solo artist, bringing his music to audiences worldwide and continuing to showcase his talent and influence in the music industry.
1989: Lawsuits Persist Until 1989
Sporadic lawsuits against EMI, Allen Klein, and each other persisted until 1989, years after the band's dissolution.
April 1990: Largest Paying Stadium Audience
On 21 April 1990, during the Paul McCartney World Tour, Paul McCartney performed for the largest paying stadium audience in history, with 184,000 people in attendance.
1990: Return to the Höfner Bass
Around 1990, Paul McCartney changed back to the Höfner bass, stating that the lighter bass inspired him to play more sensitively.
1990: Favourite Guitar Players
In 1990, Paul McCartney stated his favourite guitar players were Eddie Van Halen, Eric Clapton and David Gilmour, stating, "but I still like Hendrix the best".
1990: Last Pittsburgh Concert
In 1990, due to venue issues, this was the last time Paul McCartney performed in Pittsburgh before 2010.
1991: Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Society commission and MTV Unplugged performance
In 1991, the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Society commissioned McCartney to create a musical piece for its sesquicentennial, resulting in Liverpool Oratorio. Also in 1991, McCartney performed acoustic songs on MTV Unplugged, which was later released as a live album titled Unplugged (The Official Bootleg).
1992: BAFTA Award for Animated Film
In 1992, Paul McCartney and Geoff Dunbar won a BAFTA award for their animated film about the work of French artist Honoré Daumier.
1993: Collaboration with Youth and album releases
In 1993, McCartney collaborated with Youth of Killing Joke as the Fireman and released their first electronica album, Strawberries Oceans Ships Forest. McCartney also released the rock album Off the Ground in 1993, followed by the New World Tour and the Paul Is Live album.
1995: Oobu Joobu radio series and Royal College of Music Fellowship
In 1995, McCartney recorded a radio series called Oobu Joobu for Westwood One. Also in 1995, Prince Charles presented him with an Honorary Fellowship of the Royal College of Music.
1995: Dissolution of Northern Songs and Merger with Sony/ATV
In 1995, Northern Songs was formally dissolved and absorbed into the Sony/ATV catalogue, following Jackson's merger with Sony.
1995: Guest Appearance on The Simpsons
In 1995, Paul McCartney made a guest appearance on 'The Simpsons' episode "Lisa the Vegetarian" and directed a short documentary about the Grateful Dead.
1995: Narrating 'Devour the Earth'
In 1995, Paul McCartney narrated the documentary 'Devour the Earth', written by Tony Wardle, which highlighted animal rights issues.
1997: Publication of Many Years from Now
In 1997, Barry Miles released the official biography of Paul McCartney, called Many Years from Now.
1997: Flaming Pie and Standing Stone Release
In 1997, McCartney released the rock album Flaming Pie, featuring Starr on drums and backing vocals in "Beautiful Night." Later that year, he released the classical work Standing Stone, which topped the UK and US classical charts.
1997: Nervousness After Lennon's Death
In 1997, Paul McCartney mentioned that after John Lennon's death, the remaining ex-Beatles became nervous that they might also be murdered.
1997: Support for Decriminalisation of Cannabis
In 1997, Paul McCartney spoke out in support of decriminalisation of cannabis, advocating for a change in drug laws.
1997: Knight Bachelor Appointment
In 1997, Paul McCartney was appointed as Knight Bachelor for his services to music, a high honor acknowledging his lasting 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: Death of Linda McCartney
In April 1998, Linda McCartney, Paul's wife, died of cancer.
1998: Linda McCartney's death
In 1998, Linda McCartney died from breast cancer at the age of 56. Paul McCartney sought counseling to cope with the loss and the guilt he felt about not being perfect during their marriage.
1998: Collaboration on Vertical Man
In 1998, Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr collaborated on Starr's album Vertical Man, with McCartney providing backing vocals on three songs and instrumentation on one.
April 1999: "Concert for Linda" tribute performance
In April 1999, McCartney gave an unannounced performance at the "Concert for Linda," a benefit tribute for his late wife, held at the Royal Albert Hall in London, organised by Chrissie Hynde and Carla Lane.
1999: Run Devil Run release
In 1999, McCartney released Run Devil Run, an album of covers with three McCartney originals, recorded in one week with Ian Paice and David Gilmour. It was inspired by Linda McCartney prior to her death.
1999: Ensuring Linda McCartney Foods Remains 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: Induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a Solo Artist
In 1999, Paul McCartney was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a solo artist, further recognizing his individual achievements and influence in music.
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, Paul McCartney's first UK exhibition of paintings opened, featuring 500 canvases at the Arnolfini Gallery in Bristol, England.
October 2000: Art Debut in Liverpool
In October 2000, Paul McCartney's art debuted in his hometown of Liverpool at the Walker Art Gallery. He expressed excitement as it was a place he and John Lennon used to visit.
2000: VH1 film 'Two of Us'
In 2000, VH1 released the fictionalized television film "Two of Us", which depicted the events of Paul McCartney and John Lennon watching Saturday Night Live at Lennon's home in the Dakota on April 24, 1976.
November 2001: Reaction to Harrison's death
After George Harrison's death in November 2001, Paul McCartney remembered him as a lovely, brave man with a wonderful sense of humor. He reminisced about their shared history and said he would always love him as a baby brother.
2001: Publication of Blackbird Singing
In 2001, Paul 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: Marriage to Heather Mills
In 2002, Paul McCartney married Heather Mills in a civil ceremony. Mills was a former model and anti-landmine campaigner.
2002: Lennon as Greatest Hero
In 2002, Paul McCartney told Mojo magazine that John Lennon was his greatest hero.
2003: Birth of Beatrice Milly McCartney
In 2003, Paul McCartney and Heather Mills had a child named Beatrice Milly, in honour of Mills' late mother and one of McCartney's aunts.
2003: Meeting with Vladimir Putin on Anti-Landmine Campaign
In 2003, Paul McCartney and Heather Mills urged Russia to join the anti-landmine campaign during a meeting with Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin.
2003: Highest Income within Media Professions in the UK
In 2003, Paul McCartney earned £40 million, making him the highest-earning individual within media professions in the UK that year.
2003: Back in the US/World release
In 2003, the double live album Back in the US, recorded during the Driving World Tour, was released internationally as Back in the World.
2004: Release of Tropic Island Hum
In 2004, Paul McCartney and Geoff Dunbar worked together on the animated short film Tropic Island Hum, and released the accompanying single.
2004: Media Animosity Commentary
In 2004, Paul McCartney commented on the British public's animosity towards his partners, particularly in relation to his relationships with Jane Asher and Linda Eastman.
2004: Donation to 'US Campaign for Burma'
In 2004, Paul McCartney donated a song to an album to aid the 'US Campaign for Burma', supporting Aung San Suu Kyi.
July 2005: Live 8 performance
In July 2005, McCartney performed at the Live 8 event in Hyde Park, London, opening the show with "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" (with U2) and closing it with "Drive My Car" (with George Michael), "Helter Skelter", and "The Long and Winding Road".
July 2005: Live 8 Performance and Record Release
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, reaching number one on the UK Official Download Chart within forty-five minutes of its recording.
2005: Increased Annual Income
By 2005, Paul McCartney's annual income had risen to £48.5 million.
2005: Super Bowl XXXIX halftime show
In 2005, McCartney headlined the halftime show at Super Bowl XXXIX.
2005: Publication of High in the Clouds
In 2005, Paul McCartney's first children's book, 'High in the Clouds: An Urban Furry Tail', a collaboration with Philip Ardagh and Geoff Dunbar, was published by Faber & Faber.
April 2006: Separation from Heather Mills
In April 2006, Paul McCartney and Heather Mills separated.
2006: Ecce Cor Meum release
In 2006, McCartney released the classical work Ecce Cor Meum.
2006: End of Contract with EMI
In 2006, McCartney's contract with EMI ended, marking a change in his recording arrangements.
2006: Campaign Against Seal Hunting in Prince Edward Island
In 2006, Paul and Heather McCartney travelled to Prince Edward Island to raise international awareness of seal hunting, debating with Danny Williams on Larry King Live.
November 2007: Beginning of Relationship with Nancy Shevell
In November 2007, Paul McCartney began his relationship with Nancy Shevell.
2007: Memory Almost Full release
In 2007, McCartney released the rock album Memory Almost Full.
2007: Signing 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: Electric Arguments release and Liverpool performance
In 2008, McCartney released his third Fireman album, Electric Arguments. Also in 2008, he performed at a concert in Liverpool to celebrate the city's year as European Capital of Culture.
2008: Public Statement on Football Allegiance
In 2008, Paul McCartney addressed speculation about his football allegiance, stating his family's support for Everton F.C. but also expressing support for Liverpool F.C.
2008: Donation to Aid Still Required's CD
In 2008, Paul McCartney donated a song to Aid Still Required's CD, which was organised to raise funds to assist with the recovery from the 2004 tsunami in Southeast Asia.
September 2009: Beatles catalogue reissue
On 9 September 2009, EMI reissued the Beatles catalogue following a four-year digital remastering effort, releasing a music video game called The Beatles: Rock Band the same day.
2009: RIAA Certification
As of 2009, Paul McCartney had 15.5 million RIAA-certified units in the United States as a solo artist, and an additional 10 million with Wings, marking a significant milestone in his solo and band career.
2009: Sales of RIAA-Certified Units in the US
As of 2009, Paul McCartney had sales of 25.5 million RIAA-certified units in the US, highlighting his continued popularity and success as a recording artist.
2009: Guinness Recognition as Most Successful Songwriter
In 2009, Guinness World Records again recognized Paul McCartney as the "most successful songwriter" for 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: Narrating 'Glass Walls' Video
In 2009, Paul McCartney narrated a video for PETA titled 'Glass Walls', which was harshly critical of slaughterhouses and the meat industry.
2009: Letter to the Dalai Lama
In 2009, Paul McCartney wrote to Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama, questioning his meat consumption and advocating for a vegetarian diet.
July 2010: Surprise Appearance at Starr's Birthday Concert
On July 7, 2010, Paul McCartney made a surprise appearance at Ringo Starr's seventieth birthday concert at Radio City Music Hall in New York, performing the Beatles' song "Birthday" with Starr's band.
2010: Consol Energy Center Opening
In 2010, McCartney opened the Consol Energy Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
2010: Collaboration on 'Y Not'
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: Signing with Decca Records
In August 2011, McCartney left EMI and signed with Decca Records, the same record company that famously rejected the Beatles back in January 1962.
September 2011: Ocean's Kingdom release
In September 2011, McCartney released his first score for dance, a collaboration with Peter Martins called Ocean's Kingdom on Decca Records.
October 2011: Marriage to Nancy Shevell
On October 9, 2011, Paul McCartney married Nancy Shevell in a civil ceremony at Marylebone Town Hall in London. The wedding was attended by close friends and relatives.
2011: Third Best Bassist of All Time
In 2011, Rolling Stone readers' poll voted Paul McCartney the third best bassist of all time.
February 2012: Kisses on the Bottom release and MusiCares Person of the Year honor
In February 2012, McCartney released Kisses on the Bottom, a collection of standards. In the same month, the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences honored him as the MusiCares Person of the Year.
June 2012: Queen Elizabeth's Diamond Jubilee Concert
In June 2012, McCartney closed Queen Elizabeth's Diamond Jubilee Concert held outside Buckingham Palace, performing a set that included "Let It Be" and "Live and Let Die".
December 2012: 12-12-12: The Concert for Sandy Relief
On 12 December 2012, McCartney performed with former Nirvana members (Krist Novoselic, Dave Grohl, and Pat Smear) during the closing act of 12-12-12: The Concert for Sandy Relief.
2012: Joining Artists Against Fracking
In 2012, Paul McCartney joined the anti-fracking campaign Artists Against Fracking, demonstrating his environmental advocacy.
2012: Gross Revenue from On the Run Tour
In 2012, Paul McCartney's 18-date On the Run Tour grossed £37 million.
August 2013: Release of "New" title track
On 28 August 2013, McCartney released the title track of his upcoming studio album New.
October 2013: New album release
In October 2013, Paul McCartney's studio album New was released.
January 2014: Grammy Awards Performance
On January 26, 2014, Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr performed "Queenie Eye" from McCartney's album New at the 56th Annual Grammy Awards.
February 2014: The Night That Changed America: A Grammy Salute to The Beatles CBS Airing
On 9 February 2014, CBS aired The Night That Changed America: A Grammy Salute to The Beatles, a primetime entertainment special taped on 27 January 2014 at the Ed Sullivan Theater featuring McCartney and Ringo Starr that celebrated the legacy of the Beatles and their 1964 performance on The Ed Sullivan Show.
May 2014: Tour cancellation due to virus
In May 2014, McCartney cancelled a sold-out tour of Japan and postponed a US tour due to contracting a virus.
July 2014: Return to touring
On 5 July 2014, McCartney resumed touring with a high-energy three-hour appearance 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, the same venue where the Beatles played their final concert for a paying audience in 1966.
November 2014: The Art of McCartney tribute album release
In November 2014, a 42-song tribute album titled The Art of McCartney was released, featuring artists covering McCartney's solo and Beatles work.
2014: Latest UK Number One
As of 2014, Paul McCartney's latest UK number one was the title track of his LP release that year, "Pipes of Peace".
2014: Collaboration with Kanye West
In 2014, Paul McCartney collaborated with American rapper Kanye West on the song "Only One", marking a foray into hip-hop and a new direction in his musical collaborations.
January 2015: "FourFiveSeconds" single release
In January 2015, McCartney collaborated with Kanye West and Rihanna on the single "FourFiveSeconds". A music video was released, and they performed it live at the 57th Annual Grammy Awards.
February 2015: Saturday Night Live 40th Anniversary Special
In February 2015, McCartney performed with Paul Simon for the Saturday Night Live 40th Anniversary Special, including "I've Just Seen a Face" and "Maybe I'm Amazed."
February 2015: "FourFiveSeconds" performance at Grammy Awards
On 8 February 2015, Paul McCartney performed FourFiveSeconds with Kanye West and Rihanna live at the 57th Annual Grammy Awards.
April 2015: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction
In April 2015, Paul McCartney inducted Ringo Starr into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
September 2015: Hollywood Vampires album release
On 11 September 2015, McCartney shared lead vocals on the Alice Cooper-led Hollywood Vampires supergroup's cover of his song "Come and Get It", which appears on their debut album.
2015: Collaborations with Kanye West and Rihanna
In 2015, Paul McCartney continued his collaborations with Kanye West, working on the songs "FourFiveSeconds" (with Rihanna) and "All Day", further exploring new musical genres and partnerships.
2015: Opposition to Reintroduction of Fox Hunting
In 2015, Paul McCartney opposed British prime minister David Cameron's decision to allow a free vote on amending the law against fox hunting, calling it cruel and unnecessary.
2015: Quitting Cannabis
In 2015, Paul McCartney quit cannabis, citing a desire to set a good example for his grandchildren.
June 2016: Pure McCartney release
On 10 June 2016, McCartney released the career-spanning collection Pure McCartney, including songs from his solo career, Wings, and the Fireman.
2016: Solidarity for Orlando Shooting Victims
Following the 2016 Orlando shooting, Paul McCartney expressed his solidarity for the victims during a concert in Berlin.
2016: Grammy Nominations for Hip-Hop Record
In 2016, Paul McCartney's collaboration on "All Day" earned him two Grammy Award nominations for Best Rap Song and Best Rap Performance, marking his first hip-hop record to be nominated for a Grammy.
January 2017: Filing Suit Against Sony/ATV Music Publishing
In January 2017, Paul McCartney filed a lawsuit against Sony/ATV Music Publishing in United States district court. The suit sought to reclaim ownership of his share of the Lennon–McCartney song catalogue beginning in 2018.
June 2017: Confidential Settlement with Sony/ATV
In June 2017, Paul McCartney and Sony agreed to a confidential settlement regarding the ownership of his share of the Lennon-McCartney song catalogue.
2017: Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales cameo
In 2017, McCartney appeared in a cameo role as Uncle Jack in the adventure film Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales.
2017: Collaboration on Give More Love
In 2017, Paul McCartney played bass on Ringo Starr's album Give More Love.
2017: Drumming on Foo Fighters' "Sunday Rain"
In 2017, Paul McCartney played drums on "Sunday Rain" from the Foo Fighters' album Concrete and Gold.
June 2018: Release of "I Don't Know" and "Come On to Me"
On 20 June 2018, Paul McCartney released the songs "I Don't Know" and "Come On to Me" from his upcoming album, Egypt Station.
July 2018: Performance at The Cavern Club
On 26 July 2018, Paul McCartney performed a gig at The Cavern Club with his regular band.
December 2018: O2 Arena Performance with Starr and Wood
On December 16, 2018, Ringo Starr and Ronnie Wood joined Paul McCartney onstage at his concert at London's O2 Arena to perform "Get Back".
2018: Release of 'Egypt Station'
In 2018, Paul McCartney returned to Capitol Records for the release of his album, '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: Publication of Hey Grandude!
In September 2019, Paul McCartney's children's book, 'Hey Grandude!', illustrated by Kathryn Durst, was published by Random House Books.
December 2020: Release of McCartney III
In December 2020, Paul McCartney's 18th solo album, McCartney III, was released and became his first number-one solo album in the UK since 1989.
December 2020: McCartney III Chart Success
In December 2020, the release of Paul McCartney's album McCartney III and its charting at number 2 on the US Billboard 200 made him the first artist to have a new album in the top two chart positions in each of the last six decades.
2020: Call for Ban on Chinese Wet Markets and Support for Ecocide as a Crime
During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Paul McCartney called for Chinese wet markets to be banned and expressed support for making ecocide a crime at the International Criminal Court.
2020: Ninth Greatest Bassist of All Time
In 2020, Rolling Stone magazine ranked Paul McCartney the ninth greatest bassist of all time. Also in 2020, Bass Player magazine ranked him the third best bass player of all time.
2020: Broadcast of Cavern Club Performance
On Christmas Day 2020, the BBC broadcast Paul McCartney's July 2018 performance at the Cavern Club as 'Paul McCartney at the Cavern Club'.
April 2021: Release of McCartney III Imagined
In April 2021, Paul McCartney released 'McCartney III Imagined', an album of reinterpretations, remixes, and covers of songs from his album McCartney III.
September 2021: Release of Grandude's Green Submarine
In September 2021, Paul McCartney's follow-up children's book, 'Grandude's Green Submarine', was released.
November 2021: Release of The Lyrics: 1956 to the Present
In November 2021, Paul McCartney's book 'The Lyrics: 1956 to the Present', based on conversations with Paul Muldoon, was released.
2021: Fifth Greatest Bassist of All Time
In 2021, a MusicRadar readers' poll voted Paul McCartney the fifth greatest bassist of all time.
April 2022: Start of "Got Back" Tour
On 28 April 2022, Paul McCartney's "Got Back" tour commenced in the United States, his first tour in the country since 2019.
June 2022: Headlining Glastonbury Festival
On 25 June 2022, Paul McCartney headlined the Glastonbury Festival a week after his 80th birthday, becoming the oldest solo headliner at the festival. Dave Grohl and Bruce Springsteen were special guests during his performance.
2023: Publication of 1964: Eyes of the Storm
In 2023, Paul McCartney published the book '1964: Eyes of the Storm', which is a collection of photos he took during the height of Beatlemania in 1964.
December 2024: O2 Arena Reunion Performance
On December 19, 2024, Ringo Starr and Ronnie Wood joined Paul McCartney again at the O2 Arena in London, performing "Get Back", "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band (Reprise)" and "Helter Skelter". McCartney performed "Get Back" with his stolen Höfner 500/1 bass, recovered in 1972.
2024: One of the wealthiest musicians in the world
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 financial achievements.
2024: Sponsorship of Tree Register Yearbook
In 2024, Paul McCartney continued his connection to The Tree Register by sponsoring the first ever Tree Register Yearbook.
February 2025: Performance on Saturday Night Live 50th Anniversary Special
In February 2025, Paul McCartney performed on the Saturday Night Live 50th Anniversary Special, backed by his touring band, performing a medley of "Golden Slumbers", "Carry That Weight", and "The End".
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