Paul McCartney Delivers Intimate Show to Overcome 82-Year-Old Cold

Paul McCartney surprised New York fans with a one-night-only concert at the Bowery Ballroom, delivering an intimate show that deviated from his usual stadium-sized performances. The 82-year-old Beatles legend performed with his band and a three-member horn section, playing a packed set list of Beatles classics and Wings hits.

The event was a stark contrast to McCartney’s previous performance in the New York area at MetLife Stadium, which drew tens of thousands of people. However, the Bowery Ballroom’s capacity of 600 people, including some gear occupying floor space, made it an ideal setting for the impromptu show.

Fans flocked outside the venue to secure tickets, with all selling out within 30 minutes. The event was held despite freezing temperatures in the low 30s and marked McCartney’s conclusion of his “Got Back” world tour.

During the performance, McCartney played iconic songs like “Lady Madonna,” “Hey Jude,” and “Blackbird,” which he wrote for the Civil Rights Movement. He also expressed hope for a return to unity and freedom, drawing parallels with his own experience performing at a concert in Kyiv with an audience of over 350,000.

McCartney’s next appearance is scheduled for the “SNL50 Anniversary Special” airing on NBC this Sunday, further solidifying his presence in New York.

Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/02/11/entertainment/paul-mccartney-nyc-surprise-show/index.html