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Paul McCartney
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
This reviewer is not an especially big Beatles fan. He knows, he knows, he knows — it’s a terrible sin for a music critic to feel ambivalence toward this band, and he will be punished severely in the afterlife. But lying about it would only make matters worse.
And so it was with some trepidation Tuesday night that he trudged into a sold-out Philips Arena, notebook in hand, thinking he might have to write something unpleasant about Paul McCartney’s concert, in the interest of telling the truth.
He is happy to report, however, that the show was a tour-de-force. The career-spanning 160-minute performance not only testified to McCartney’s artistic stamina, it reanimated a catalog of songs so overexposed that they’ve been systematically bled of their life force.
Against the odds, Sir Paul made them matter again. His voice, while not much worse than in his prime, is certainly not better. And his concert arrangements were generally straightforward, leaving the Beatles’ vintage studio work untouched. But he didn’t need a perfect voice, or a revisionist approach. He just needed to be himself, a 63-year-old boy.
McCartney came out wearing a goofy mismatched outfit and a bad haircut, and throughout the night he tugged at his jeans as though they were sliding down his Underoos. Along with all of that, however, came an infectious innocence, the innocence of someone still dazzled by his own powers of creation, someone who can’t dance but can write a pretty love song, someone who wants to hold your hand.
McCartney played a few tunes from his new album, “Chaos And Creation In The Backyard,� then joked about plugging the record, as though he were self-conscious about it, as though the billionaire singer-songwriter for the world’s most famous band has anything to be self-conscious about ever again.
He introduced “Too Many People� by exclaiming “This is for the Wings fans!� with no discernable irony. He dealt as gracefully as he could with the audience members who insisted on talking — and in some cases screaming — while he was trying to communicate. (Incidentally, the crowd’s behavior almost spoiled this reviewer’s mood. He found himself wondering how fans could spend $252 on a ticket, then gab through the show. And he wondered why the fans’ innermost thoughts couldn’t wait to be revealed at a time when they weren’t in the same room with a Beatle.)
In any case, McCartney carried on, playing his songs as though they were written yesterday. The parade of Beatles songs was enough to make ticketless fans stuck at home weep: “Eleanor Rigby,â€? “Penny Lane,â€? “Fixing A Hole,â€? “Please Please Me,â€? “Magical Mystery Tour,â€? “Yesterdayâ€? and a batch from “The White Albumâ€? including a noisy “Helter Skelter,â€? a sweet “I Willâ€? and a gorgeous “Blackbird.â€? Late in the main set came “Hey Jude,â€? a singular experience. McCartney has a special gift for making “na na na naâ€? sound profound. For this song the audience stopped talking and joined in a colossal chorus of na’s.
Around this time, Sir Paul noticed a fan hoisting up a baby. The kid looked too young to feed himself, much less sing along. But one got the feeling that he’d grow up to learn the words, and that he’d be reminded, emphatically, that one day long ago Paul McCartney came to town, and that he was there.
McCartney’s two encores were loaded with Beatles songs, and the most powerful came near the very end when McCartney, seated at an upright piano, played and sang “Let It Be.� Ever the master of the simple gesture, he provided ambiance by lighting a solitary candle. “When I find myself in times of trouble,� he sang, “Mother Mary comes to me. Speaking words of wisdom, let it be.�
At a moment in history when humankind is at war not only with itself, but also with nature, it’s plain that we have found ourselves in times of trouble. We have too few voices of universal reassurance, too few words of wisdom, too much pain to let anything be.
“And when the broken hearted people living in the world agree,� Paul McCartney sang, “There will be an answer. Let it be.�
This reviewer is not too proud to confess that, as the song unfolded, he felt a single tear slide down his cheek.
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By Tyler Smith
September 21, 2005 11:36 AM | Link to this
dear ajc, i am an avid beatles fan. my dad got me into the music and i only regret that i cant see them all play. What i will say is that paul’s show was a spectacle i will never forget, though the show had a weak start. it started with a parade of computer drum machine music, which is the type of ‘music’ that causes me to enjoy classic rock and blues so much. followed by what can only be described as an A&E biography of pauls life, very unecessary, as im already very familiar with it. those two details got both me and my father in a rather sour mood. but then paul came out, and all bitterness was soon forgotten in the barage of classic beatles and solo songs being played. we both especially enjoyed how paul managed to mix it up, playing songs from his new album(far from being bad)and older pre-beatle material (ex.’in spite of all the danger). he also impressed me by giving some background into how the songs were written, personal experiences, and interaction with the audience, something not many people in that position do. he smiled and joked a lot as well, which as a fellow musician i can say is good for putting the audience at ease, which he did very well. yes it is fair to say that i walked away that night feeling that it was well worth the risk of missing school the next day, also a risk many parents felt was worth taking. i left the concert feeling very satisfied, and more than a little deaf. well done paul, it was an experience i will never forget. i only wish he would teach me how to play ‘yesterday.’ i just cant get it right.
By Marc
September 21, 2005 12:15 PM | Link to this
Wow. As a former Atlantan now living in Savannah, I was not able to make it to the show. I am sure it was wonderful.
Moreso, I am so impressed by Nick Marino’s positive review that I see that there is one voice that can unite people of many different backgrounds and tastes, and it happens to be the “63 year old boy” named Paul McCartney.
Also, to Tyler, great writing. Good luck with your music.
By Eric S
September 21, 2005 12:25 PM | Link to this
There are so few popular artists who have done so much and yet remain relevant in their later years. If a song can truly heal a broken spirit, and it can, then Paul is a miracle worker. His sincerity and energy are real and palpable…his contribution to the modern pop culture of the world cannot be overstated.
By aching4aiken
September 21, 2005 12:30 PM | Link to this
I’m impressed, Nick, with your ability to shed the cynical trappings of a reporter and let the music and the moment carry you to another place and review. Bravo. I’ve now seen Sir Paul in every Atlanta concert he’s given, save one, and can report that like wine, he gets better with age. Last night was not just a nostalgia trip for me, as I originally expected, but a reminder of what good songwriting is all about and that too few good songs are being written today. I also was forced to listen to too many rude idiots who must have thought they were at Chastain. They did not mar my evening though as I chose to immerse myself in Sir Paul and the music. It was a good effort for my powers of focus. They are the losers.
By Lee Robinson
September 21, 2005 1:11 PM | Link to this
I can especially relate to the part about people shelling out $200 bucks for a ticket and not shutting their mouths long enough to hear the music. This is exactly why I did not go to this concert. Those people always seem to sit next to me. I remember a few years ago, when U2 came to town, it was the worst concert experience of my life. I was a teenager in the 80’s so I grew up with U2 and looked forward to seeing one of the legendary bands of my time, but this was ruined by a bunch of 40-somethings that insisted on screaming and yelling and being totally oblivious to anyone sitting around them—-and they were not the exception, but the rule. So, I just want to thank all of you arrogant, snobby, upper middle class suburbanites in retrospect for ruining what would have otherwise been an enjoyable evening many years ago. Yes, I am bitter about it still to this day. And I’ve been to over 100 concerts in my life. Nick, I’m glad you were able to halfway enjoy the show.
By fred
September 21, 2005 1:17 PM | Link to this
I have seen paul three times and could not go last night due to work commitments. relax, I’ve got tickets to see him in vegas in november. they are truly one of a kind and we won’t see there kind again. we should all just be glad that he still enjoys doing what we love and be happy that we still get to see him. btw, I’ve seen ringo once (at chastain) and I agree that they only get better with age.
By Mather68
September 21, 2005 1:46 PM | Link to this
I looked at the photos from the concert and have one question: How long did the photographer stay for? One song? Two? What a BORING set of shots!
By sid
September 21, 2005 1:49 PM | Link to this
I would be curious to know if the reviewer (& others) saw him in ‘02. last night was was good but personally I thought the set list was far better last time. I had read it was going to be different (which is fine) and was encouraged when he opened with Majical Mystery Tour but there were quite a few songs I just did not know. the stage was really cool (the whole thing was a modular display like the ramps at the superbowl) but that is the only thing I would say was better than ‘02 (which was the greatest concert I have ever seen). just my 2c… others?
By Andisheh Nouraee
September 21, 2005 1:55 PM | Link to this
A great review. Thanks, Nick.
As a longtime McCartney, one of the things that really moved me was the song selection. It meant a lot to me that about 1/3 of the show was dedicated to obscurities (obscure by Beatles/McCartney standards, that is).
You mentioned a few, but I’m also still giddy about hearing him perform “I’ll Get You” (the UK B-side to “She Loves You”), “I’ll Follow The Sun,” and “In Spite Of All The Danger,” a McCartney/Harrison composition that appeared on Anthology Vol. 1. Happy surprises, all of them.
By harry fitch
September 21, 2005 2:28 PM | Link to this
Thank you, Paul. I wish more artists from our aging rock n roll generation would sing songs we knew solely from their albums or (a sign of those times) nearly commercial-free FM radio. Sure, he played some “usuals” but to do the first song he, John, and George ever recorded (with two others, paying a pound each to get it done)and rarities like “For No One” from the Revolver album delighted this Beatles and McCartney fan. There were more than the big AM hits to his lifetime of artistry, and he showed it last night.
By William Anfin
September 21, 2005 3:17 PM | Link to this
I’ve been to all five of Paul’s North American tours starting in 1976 and I thought the set list last night was the best I have seen and heard - loved the arrangements, especially “Fixing A Hole” and “I Will”. Was very gratified to hear “In Spite Of All The Danger” which the Beatles did on radio broadcasts on the BBC - love to get my hands on a tape of the Quarrymen original. Yes, it amazes me how poor the fan behavior was although I was fortunate that it was minimal where I was. It also amazes me how many people have to get up and go somewhere during the show. I didn’t leave my seat (except to stand up) for a second. Like movies, people need to know how to go to a concert.
By Mike Kennedy
September 21, 2005 3:20 PM | Link to this
“This reviewer is not too proud to confess that, as the song unfolded, he felt a single tear slide down his cheek.”
“We’re at war with nature!!!!”
Gads….I’m gonna puke.
By Swangirl
September 21, 2005 3:23 PM | Link to this
Thanks for the review. I couldn’t afford to go to the concert but I did see him perform in the Georgia Dome when it was brand spanking new. The guy has the energy and spark of a kid, that’s something that always amazes me. And unlike a lot of rock legends, he’s not resting on his laurels but still making good music and enjoying it thoroughly.
By Paul
September 21, 2005 3:52 PM | Link to this
This blogger is not afraid to confess that this reviewer is a self-important blowhard.
By Victor C
September 21, 2005 3:59 PM | Link to this
I remember being too young when Paul came to my hometown (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) to perform before what turned out to be his biggest audience ever. Yesterday I was given the chance to sample what my fellow townspeople enjoyed back in 1990, and I must say I was delirious at the end. His voice is in excellent shape (some critics say that it’s even stronger than in the 1990’s) and the song selection was real treat. ‘Till There Was you’, ‘I Will’, and ‘Blackbird’ were real treats, as I had no idea he would play them. The only song that I really missed was “Michelle” (one of my favorites), but you can’t blame him for having so many great songs to choose from.
I agree that it’s completely rude when people start shouting non-stop as if they were watching a football game or something. Nonetheless, I don’t have a problem with an occasional (and tasteful) shout here and there, to sort of engage Paul a bit. I think that was the case for most of the show (at least from where I was sitting, on the floor section).
I’m going back to Phillips Arena to watch U2 in November and I hope I don’t have such a lousy experience as Lee Robinson! I’m sorry man, don’t lose hope!
Macca rules!
By ANDY G.
September 21, 2005 4:11 PM | Link to this
INTERESTING REVIEW ALTHOUGH I CANNOT UNDERSTAND HOW ANYONE BLESSED WITH THE GIFT OF SOUND COULD NOT BE A BEATLES FAN. I WAS HAPPY TO READ THAT THE REVIEWER ENJOYED THE SHOW, AND WHAT A SHOW IT WAS. I SYMPATHIZE WITH THE PEOPLE WHOSE EXPERIENCE WAS EFFECTED BY THE RUDE AND INSENSITIVE BEHAVIOR OF OTHERS.MY WIFE AND I ARE A COUPLE OF FORTY SOMETHINGS AND LAST NIGHT WE CELEBRATED OUR ANNIVERSARY ENJOYING A MUSICAL EXPERIENCE OF A LIFETIME PERFORMED BY PERHAPS THE MOST SIGNIFICANT MUSICIAN OF OUR GENERATION.
By Macca Dave
September 21, 2005 4:16 PM | Link to this
As a person who plays Paul McCartney in an all Beatle band, I was disappointed that I was not able to make Macca’s big show last night, however, I have seen him the three times prior. My experience is that he gets better with age, and the songs age like a fine wine. I am sure last night was no different. How many 63 year old men can still pull off songs like “Helter Skelter’ and “Too Many People”? Some of these aren’t easy for the most seasoned singer half his age. I’m sure the writers of many reviews of his works can’t sing in the shower let alone get in front of thousands of people to perform dozens of songs picked from hundreds that they have written. Paul is on the way to 64, and I ask the question that he asked way back in 1967. “Will you still need me, when I’m 64?” The answer is yes and far beyond. Keep on rocking Macca, we the true fans are with you, and no in between line overtones from a critic will change that. Note to AJC: Please, start hiring musicians who know about music to start writing collums instead of people who just buy music because the only instrument they can play is the CD player. Thank you and good night.
By David Hammar
September 21, 2005 4:35 PM | Link to this
To the three corporate idiots who probably had free tickets and sat behind me in Sec 3, Row C, drinking beer constantly, non stop talking before spilling beer and then leaving one hour before the show ended: I hope you woke up with a huge headache and got chewed out by your fat ugly wives this morning. If not for fear of being arrested I would have smacked all of you! Do us all a favor next time and stay home.
By Mark Griffin
September 22, 2005 9:18 AM | Link to this
Hi Nick,
Having written you after the Simon and Garfunkle concert a few years back to pick a little at your review I had to write again to compliment you on your McCartney review. Especially for someone who admits to being “not an especially big Beatles fan” you really nailed it. I came of age in the 60’s and I am a major admirer (as opposed to just a fan) of the Beatles and of Mccartney in particular. I think he is overlooked and underrated at times as a songwriter by many critics perhaps because he is willing to expose his sentimentality. I was looking forward to an enjoyable evening of nostalagia. What we got turned out to be much more that that. Arguably there is no one else in the popular music industry of McCartney’s status and someone at that level could get away with “phoning in” a performance and still sell out consistently and generally satisfy his audience. McCartney obviously cares about his music and his audience too much to do that. You did a nice job of capturing the quality of the performance and describing the grace and innocence with which he connected with the audience. Well done.
Take Care,
Mark
By georgia
September 22, 2005 12:08 PM | Link to this
I was there Tuesday night and as a long-time Beatles/McCartney fan I was thrilled beyond words. I was also at the 2002 show and I thought his voice and energy level were even better at this one. As for the new songs, I loved them. I bought his new CD the first day it went on sale and it has been playing nonstop in my car stereo ever since. It is a great CD and very reminiscent of some earlier McCartney work with the Beatles. I took a friend to the concert who has been a fan for 41 years and it was her first time to see him live. I don’t think anything can top the experience of seeing Paul live and I can’t wait until the next concert!! I will always be a fan.
By mccartney fan
September 22, 2005 1:06 PM | Link to this
From someone that has seen Elvis Presley, Stevie Wonder, Elton John,and Billy Joel, along with a few others, no one and I mean no one provides the kind of showmanship, electricity, and connection with the audience as Sir Paul does. Someone mentioned the DJ from Tuesday night and included that as part of the show - that wasn’t even a warm up of the total experience, I don’t even count that - it was merely muzak in the elevator. So if you are reading this heading out to another show, don’t worry, it’s only 15 minutes. McCartney is onstage for 2 and a half hours!
I must admit as Paul came onstage and opened with Magical Mystery Tour my eyes teared up with the sheer excitment and thrill of seeing him again for the 3rd time. He never puts on a bad show and you always walk away wanting more. I could have stayed all night!
Just got his new album and like another reviewer it has been in my cd player all week, got it Tuesday, really enjoy the songs - though some have commented on the simple rhymes - these songs like older McCartney/Lennon songs speak to you when you are down, happy, or just following the sun!
Well done Paul, we’ll see you everytime you come to Atlanta!
By Judy
September 22, 2005 3:40 PM | Link to this
I couldn’t agree more about the concert. I came up from Pensacola FL and this is the 3rd time I’ve seen Paul. Just when you think he couldn’t have a better concert than the last one, he does. I loved the personal touch of him sharing pictures from his home and his life. I don’t think there is a bad seat or too much money to spend on a Paul McCartney concert! You get more back than what you spend believe me! He still rocks the house!
By Keith
September 22, 2005 3:43 PM | Link to this
First, my compliments to the reviewer for the praise and respect you afforded Paul, even after admitting you aren’t a huge Beatles fan (SHAME ON YOU!). I was there Tuesday, along with my 22 year old son, and I’m STILL getting goose bumps just remembering the experience. I saw Wings in ‘76 at the Omni and have always considered that one of THE best performances I’ve seen (and I’ve seen HUNDREDS of acts in concert), but now have to say, unequivically, that this show topped that show easily. Paul just gets better with age, like any fine wine. I can remember 2/9/64, lying on the floor of our living room, drinking in the life-altering experience of the Beatles’ first Sullivan appearance. From that day on, my whole musical experience has been rooted on everything Beatles. Having missed the last Atlanta concert, I jumped at the chance for tickets this time, and in the process, gave my son the concert experience of his life. From the opening strains of Magical Mystery Tour, I was in heaven, with a smile plastered on my face that couldn’t have been wiped off if I’d tried. Due to my lifetime of soaking up all I could by and about the Beatles, I was brought to tears many times, just from the sheer magic some of the songs worked on me. I’ll Get You was the first to take me back decades, and spawn the teary eyes. By the time The Long and Winding Road came, I was a mess. As I said, I’ve been to hundreds of concerts over the years, and I’m truly hard-pressed to name a better one than this one. And my son’s thoughts? I don’t think his feet have touched the ground yet. My only regret is that when I bought the tickets I was so shocked at the prices that I went for the “cheaper” seats in the upper level. If/when Paul comes back, I’ve sworn that no matter what it takes, I WILL go for the best seats I can. I would have to recommend to anyone who likes music even just a little: DON’T MISS THIS MAN IN CONCERT!!
By Anne Marie
September 22, 2005 5:20 PM | Link to this
As a long time Beatle/McCartney fan, I found the concert to be spectacular, as always. I first saw the Beatles in a little known concert they performed in NYC at the Paramount Theatre, and again at Shea Stadium. From the very beginning you knew they were special. Paul loved to perform. It’s why he still does it.(He certainly doesn’t need the money!) You can feel his excitement. I think he gets as much pleasure as his audience. I have no shame in saying that the music of Lennon/MCartney brought enormous joy to my life. I have seen Paul in three concerts since and have never been disappointed. While there, it is pure euphoria!! It was great to hear “Eleanor Rigby” and “I’ve got a Feeling.” and ” Please, Please me” I particularly love his ending from the Abbey Road album, ” and in the end the love you take is equal to the love you make.” That about says it all.
By Rani
September 23, 2005 2:14 PM | Link to this
Reading your review makes me VERY happy that I sold my soul on ebay to get some second hand tickets. I will be attending the Portland show in November, and I am beyond thrilled that I decided not to let this pass me by. Thank you for an honest, thoughtful review.
By Abby Greer
September 28, 2005 10:54 AM | Link to this
What a fantastic night my dad and I had a blast we got to Philips Arena and went to get a shirt and a program and when we got to our seats I could see the stage and when I saw Paul I just went nutts I was standing up listening to what Paul had to say and I sang along to all of the songs I clapped and I cheered.My dad and I can’t wait to see him again soon. Well done Paul and thank you for all of the love and also thank you for your smile because you made me smile too!
By Trish
September 28, 2005 3:29 PM | Link to this
Paul McCartney’s concert fullfilled a life long dream of mine. I couldn’t afford to see him the last time he came to town and still couldn’t this time but was online April 24th to splurge on some great seats. I ended up in section 211 Row G which I thought would be pretty good. We were underneath the section above us which totally distorted the sound. We had to struggle to understand Pauls wonderful intros to the songs. I went to the bathroom and sadly the sound was better in there! There was also very little air flow around our seats. The air came on once with great relief but did not stay on.
Thank you Paul for a wonderful evening. I remember kissing the tv when you were with the Beatles on Ed Sullivan. You sang every song I would have wanted to hear. You get cuter and better with age. Loved Blackbird!! No thanks to Phillips Arena for disappointing seats and sound. I would think twice before I went to another show at Phillips Arena.