down under with a legendary bang

McCartney’s joy was obvious at his first Sydney show

Last night, music legend Paul McCartney delighted fans at his first show in Sydney’s Allianz Stadium. The atmosphere was electric as 45,000 people, including multi-generation family groups, eagerly awaited the 81-year-old Beatles’ icon to take the stage. McCartney, who continues to receive eight-figure annual royalty cheques, proved that his love for music and performing is as strong as ever.

An Era-Defining Performance

From the moment McCartney picked up his iconic Höfner bass guitar and played the first chords of “Can’t Buy Me Love,” the joy he experiences from making music was palpable. This was not just another nostalgia-fueled performance; McCartney’s setlist included songs from his recent albums, showcasing his continued relevance as a musician. While some fans may have longed for the classic Beatles hits, McCartney’s newer material injected a breath of fresh air into the concert.

New Meets Old

McCartney’s blend of old and new material was met with enthusiasm from the audience. Songs like “New” and “Fuh You” demonstrated his ability to experiment with modern pop sounds while still maintaining his signature style. One standout moment was McCartney’s performance of “Dance Tonight,” where he accompanied himself on the mandolin and was joined by some comical and infectious “Dad-dancing” from his drummer, Abe Laboriel Jr.

At the same time, McCartney paid tribute to his musical journey by giving familiar hits a fresh twist. “Let Me Roll It” seamlessly transitioned into a snippet of Jimi Hendrix’s “Foxy Lady,” highlighting McCartney’s presence at the historic live cover performance by Hendrix of Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band. Classics like “Helter Skelter” took on a heavier and more dynamic sound, reminiscent of a Metallica performance, amplified by stunning graphics on the big screen.

The Evolution of a Legendary Voice

While McCartney’s voice may not possess the same power it did in his prime, his vocal abilities have evolved over the years. The mellowness added to his choirboy tone from the Beatles era brought new depth and emotion to songs like “Let Em In” and his solo acoustic guitar set, featuring heartfelt renditions of “Blackbird” and “Here Today.” The latter, written in the aftermath of John Lennon’s tragic murder, left the stadium in awe and silence.

However, McCartney proved that he can still capture the spirit of his iconic Beatles hits. “Get Back” and “Let It Be” showcased his passion, even after all these years, while a virtual duet with Lennon on “I’ve Got A Feeling” tugged at heartstrings. The mass sing-along to “Hey Jude,” conducted by McCartney himself, was a bucket list moment for fans and a testament to the timeless power of his music.

The End of an Unforgettable Night

As McCartney bid farewell to the audience, he left them longing for more. The energy of the crowd was electric, and one can only hope that there will be more opportunities to witness this living legend in action. McCartney’s “Got Back” tour of Australia continues tonight with a second show at Allianz Stadium before heading to Brisbane and the Gold Coast until November 4th.

Michael Bailey, a writer specializing in entrepreneurship and the arts, covers the concert for the Financial Review. Bailey’s insights capture the essence of McCartney’s performance and the enduring impact of his music.

Overall, McCartney’s joy and passion for music were evident throughout his performance in Sydney. His ability to blend old and new material, reinvent his back catalog, and captivate audiences with his legendary voice demonstrates his continued relevance as a musician. For fans fortunate enough to be present, this concert was undoubtedly a night to remember.

For more information on Paul McCartney’s tour and upcoming shows, visit his official website.