Paul McCartney closed out his 'Got Back' tour with a spectacular finale at The O2 Arena, London, last night, where he not only mesmerized the audience with his classic hits but also surprised them with special guest appearances from Ringo Starr and Rolling Stones’ Ronnie Wood.
The atmosphere was electric as the esteemed musician delivered his last performance of the year on December 19, 2024, showcasing why he remains one of the most iconic figures in music. With over 36 tracks performed during the concert, McCartney kept the audience engaged from the start of the show.
Before introducing his surprise guests, McCartney showcased his long-lost Höfner bass guitar, which had been stolen over half a century ago. "I haven’t played it in 50 years," he told the eager crowd, marking the emotional moment when he unveiled the instrument, which had not seen the stage since its theft. The guitar's reunion with McCartney added poignancy to the concert, echoing the rich history of his musical career.
Once he teased the audience by saying he had brought along "a special guest for you here. A Rolling Stone. Ronnie Wood," the crowd erupted with cheers as Wood joined him on stage for a rendition of 'Get Back'. This collaboration highlighted the crossover appeal of two legendary musicians, with McCartney’s and Wood’s chemistry palpable during their performance.
During the encore, the excitement escalated as McCartney announced, "We’ve got another surprise for you. Bring to the stage the mighty, the one and only Mr Ringo Starr!" The crowd went wild as Starr made his appearance, ready to perform alongside his long-time friend. The two proceeded to rock out to 'Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band (Reprise)' and 'Helter Skelter', thrilling the audience with classics.
Ringo, sharing his experience with the fans, exclaimed, "I’ve had a great night tonight… how about you? Shall we rock?" To which McCartney jokingly replied, "We can only rock if you can get on your kit, ma." This playful banter was just one of the many moments during the night, reflecting the camaraderie and artistry both musicians share.
Overall, McCartney’s setlist comprised several beloved tracks, including 'Hey Jude', 'Let It Be', 'Live and Let Die', and 'Wonderful Christmastime'—performed with added joy as it marked its first live rendition since 2018. Each song was special, reminding the audience of the various eras of McCartney's storied career.
The extensive set also featured McCartney's latest work, 'Now and Then', which is rumored to be the last Beatles' single and had been nominated for Grammy awards. It's worth noting how McCartney continues to innovate and bring his classic hits to new generations, even incorporating modern technology, like AI, to breathe life back to lost tracks.
The festive vibe was heightened with audience members enjoying the performance alongside notable names such as George Clooney, Martin Freeman, and Judi Dench, who were all spotted among the fans. Their presence only added to the celebration of the music legacy being honored on stage.
After Ringo’s departure, he affectionately told the crowd, "Give it up. I’m off now but I’ve had a great night. It’s fantastic, playing with me old mate." This sentiment echoed throughout the night as laughter and applause filled the air, illustrating the support for both artists and the joy their music brings.
McCartney concluded the night with 'The End', closing not just the concert, but encapsulating the essence of his 'Got Back' tour itself. The finale proved to be more than just another show; it was a celebration of decades of music, collaboration, and friendship.
Fans left with cherished memories, having witnessed legends sharing the stage, and it’s evident McCartney continues to leave his mark on the world of music, one unforgettable concert at a time.
