Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr delighted fans during their recent reunion at the O2 stadium in London on December 19, as McCartney wrapped up his highly anticipated Got Back tour. The iconic duo performed several classics, energizing the crowd with renditions of 'Helter Skelter' and 'Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band' during the encore of the evening's performance.
Anticipation filled the air as McCartney welcomed Starr to the stage, exclaiming, 'Please welcome to the stage the mighty, the one and only, Ringo Starr!' The excitement was palpable as Starr took his place, who declared, 'I want to tell you, I've had a great night tonight,' before joining McCartney and his band for the musical number.
'Should we rock?' McCartney asked the audience, prompting roaring approval. Starr humorously responded, 'Get on your kit, lad!' and hopped on the drums to join the festivities. Together, they launched enthusiastically back through time, performing 'Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band (Reprise),' which is part of the groundbreaking 1967 album, as well as 'Helter Skelter' from the 1968 self-titled album often referred to as The White Album.
This reunion marked one of the few times McCartney and Starr have performed 'Helter Skelter' together, as the Beatles had ceased live performances two years before the song's release. Prior to this event, the pair had only shared the stage for the song on select occasions, including shows at London's O2 and Dodger Stadium.
Fans shared their joy on social media, posting photos and videos capturing the magic of the evening. One viral post featured a recreated image of McCartney and Starr from the mid-60s, highlighting the pair's enduring friendship and musical legacy.
Interestingly, McCartney also used the show to showcase his original 1961 Höfner 500/1 bass guitar, which had been stolen from him decades ago. After being recovered recently, this was the first time McCartney performed live with the beloved instrument since its return. The nostalgia surrounding the guitar brought forth excitement among fans who recognized its historical significance.
Aside from Starr's enthusiastic collaboration, McCartney's final show also welcomed other iconic musicians, including Rolling Stones’ guitarist Ronnie Wood, who joined him on stage for 'Get Back,' another classic from The Beatles' catalog. Wood's surprise appearance added to the celebratory atmosphere during the concert.
Another special guest included Olivia Harrison, the widow of late Beatle George Harrison, who appeared in backstage footage captured by McCartney’s daughter, Mary. Mary is continuing her father’s legacy by documenting these special moments, including her father singing '(Theme From) The Monkees' during intimate backstage sessions between set performances.
The concert is cemented not just as another entry on McCartney's storied career but as part of his recent reunion with Starr. The two have been working together again on new music as well, having recorded 'Now and Then,' which is based on Lennon's demo from the 1980s. This song also features contributions from George Harrison's recordings during the Anthology sessions.
Critics and fans alike have already praised 'Now and Then,' with the song being named one of the best musical tracks of 2023 and has been nominated for two Grammy awards for the upcoming ceremony, showcasing the enduring influence of the Beatles' music even decades after they disbanded.
Meanwhile, the legacy of The Beatles continues to be celebrated creatively, with upcoming films being created to dramatize their monumental career. Skyfall director Sam Mendes will lead the project, with hints dropped about potential casting decisions, including Barry Keoghan as Ringo Starr and Paul Mescal as McCartney.
The reunion at the O2 stadium was more than just another performance; it symbolized the resilient bond between two of the music world's most treasured figures. With the laughter, cheers, and heartfelt memories shared on stage and off, McCartney and Starr reminded fans of their lasting impact — both as individuals and as part of the unforgotten legacy known as The Beatles.
