Despite rain, McCartney rocks Piedmont Park
By Bo Emerson
A little rain didn’t dampen the spirits of a cross-generational crowd of 40,000 who came to Piedmont Park Saturday to sing old Beatles songs with an old Beatle.
Sir Paul McCartney, 67, put on an enthusiastic two-and-a-half hour show, his voice and energy undimmed by time. Plenty of parents (and grandparents) in the audience danced with little ones on their shoulders, and time-tripped back to when their own hearts went “boom” when they saw a certain someone standing there.
But McCartney’s appeal extended to younger audiences as well. Celia Way, 24, of Charlotte sported a tattoo between her shoulder blades of the words to the third encore, “The End,” from “Abbey Road,”: “And in the end the love you take is equal to the love you make.”
“It sort of fit where I was at the time,” she says, of getting the inking last March. McCartney’s music, she says, is up there with Kings of Leon, Led Zeppelin and just a shade below Tom Petty.
Flanked by 50-foot-tall video screens, McCartney and his young band kicked off the show at 8:40 under glowering skies with “Drive My Car,” Macca’s voice as blues-rootsy as it was in 1965.
After the Wings-era tune “Jet” McCartney switched his trademark Hofner bass for a Finster-esque electric guitar and segued from “Let Me Roll It” into a “Foxy Lady” coda.
“I had to do that,” he said with a grin. “Tonight’s the 40th anniversary of Woodstock and I had to do a little Jimi there.”
The show included newer material from his work under the pseudonym The Fireman including “Highway,” but no fan of the Beatles music went away from Saturday’s show unsatisfied.
Some of the pleasures involved hearing songs that are never played live, including a version of “A Day the Life” and the “Sgt. Peppers” reprise, sandwiched with the triple-guitar battle in “The End.” “Day-Tripper” and “Got to Get You into My Life” were both thunderous.
As McCartney switched to acoustic guitar for a solo version of “Blackbird” and a full-band treatment of “Eleanor Rigby” (with synthesized violins) the skies opened up.
But spirits stayed high, no one sat down, and the rain dwindled by the time of the pyrotechnics of “Live and Let Die.”
The Script, a band from Dublin, Ireland, ably opened the show.
McCartney played a set list almost identical to those earlier on the tour, and included tributes to his colleagues John Lennon and George Harrison (a version of “Something” played on ukulele) and his late wife Linda McCartney that are set pieces within the show.
The concert, a benefit for the Piedmont Park Conservancy, closed down 10th street and took over most of the park, and the massive column of concert-goers marching toward the Midtown MARTA station at the end of the evening indicated that many took the “green” part of the “Green Concert” to heart. (The trash left behind did not reinforce that impression.)
Many Midtown residents threw listening parties on their own decks and patios, enjoying the music from the comfort of home.
“We’re just chilling in our front yard,” said Patrick Allos, who sipped a beer in the late afternoon sun and waited for the music to begin, situated advantageously on Monroe Drive with his friend Alan Kippeny. “We’ve got some rib-eyes coming later.”
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© 2013 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
90 comments Add your comment
Ken Gray
August 16th, 2009
10:31 am
The last line in the AJC article is kinda funny if it wasn’t so sad as Sir Paul is against eating meat for ethical and environmental reasons.
The Boss
August 16th, 2009
10:56 am
“McCartney’s music is up there witb The Kings of Leon”…..
More prooof – as if we needed any – those under 40 know absolutely nothing about music.
TD
August 16th, 2009
11:00 am
Seriously………….. “a shade below Tom Petty.”
Roz Verrill
August 16th, 2009
11:03 am
The ‘old’ Beatle, Sir Paul McCartney, should have been referred to as a musician riveled by no other or at best “classy,legendary,extraordinaire,…etc” .
I am afraid Bo should’ve been assigned to report the Braves game.
Two more references to age with the statement ‘his young band’ and ‘voice was a bluesy as it was in 1965′. The focus of the concert was enjoyment of music, peace, and love delivered through timeless songs and a timeless phenomenal gentlemen.
Get Back, Loretta!
Jerry
August 16th, 2009
11:09 am
Than you for a nice article. I appreciate that you were writing it at 2:40 this morning. I also found myself up late last night reflecting on what a great show I had just seen. I could not believe how giving Paul was, sharing very personal stories and just leaving it all out on the stage. You might think that someone who is an MBE and a living legend beyond imagination would be different. I am really touched by what he gave us.
Kirsten Hughes
August 16th, 2009
11:14 am
Outstanding show!!! Greatest musician, great event, great audience (except the guy who passed out on the lawn in front of us – get real man), great amounts of trash left behind! Come on people – pick up your trash; however, there should have been more trash receptacles available. We carried our trash from the middle of the lawn to the exit before finding a can. Overall an incredible evening and the music was magical!
BillT
August 16th, 2009
11:17 am
150-plus minutes of music, 30-plus songs, a 67-year-old playing with the energy of a 23-year-old. I’ve been to maybe 200 concerts. Undoubtably a top three.
Kings of Leon? Are they playing Smiths Olde Bar or something?
Dino Vlachos
August 16th, 2009
11:21 am
Great concert by Mccartney (as expected) and pathetic reporting by the AJC (as expected). I thoroughly agree with Ken Gray’s observation about Emerson last sentence. Mccartney is a avid vegetarian for compassionate and environmental reasons. A concept both unknown and foreign to Emerson. Please go to http://www.meatyourmeet.com if you need more proof.
Matthew
August 16th, 2009
11:22 am
What’s sad is that as a 25-year old, I feel it necessary to apologize for both the writer and the young woman from Charlotte quoted in this story. This piece does not do McCartney justice – his voice has never struck me as truly bluesy, you could find at least a dozen better ways to describe his band than as “young” (could we comment on the hilarious facial expressions of the Samoan-looking drummer, perhaps?), and could we please do a better job illustrating the feel and emotion pouring from the show? As for the young girl’s quote, it’s embarrassing to have someone dare compare McCartney with a band whose hit is “Sex on Fire”.
Mitchell
August 16th, 2009
11:27 am
Atlantans are so pathetic.
But spirits stayed high, no one sat down,
Who would sit down at a Paul McCartney concert?! Why would that even be a thought?
People leaving trash behind… that’s terrible.
I unfortunately didn’t go but part of me is kind of glad. I mean, only 40,000 people? Can’t we do better than that?
I know there was a lot going on yesterday but that’s still a little low. What could possibly get this city out in full force with their full attention?
College football, I suppose.
Mitchell
August 16th, 2009
11:30 am
Yeah, his band is not young.
I mean, the drummer is probably mid-30’s but that’s about as young as it gets. His ryhthm guitarist is at least 50 in spite of the bleach blond hair.
I mean, they’re a great band. Just not young.
Annette Woodward
August 16th, 2009
11:35 am
I agree with Roz and Jerry. Last night I experienced a living legend. I do not like the way Bo referred to him as an old Beatle. I did not see an old Beatle I saw Sir Paul McCartney, who was once a member of a group called the Beatles. Sir Paul is still making music and guess what Bo people are buying it.
Dano
August 16th, 2009
11:37 am
Wow!! Paul,you guys really rocked the park!!! I cannot believe I saw a Beatles concert (okay, minus John, Ringo and George) in 2009…Waaaaaaaay cool! The rain made it almost magical, very Woodstock. Come back soon Paul…Atlanta loves you.
Roz Verrill
August 16th, 2009
11:37 am
Mitchell -personally, I think they should only allowed 30,000. It was like being in a herd. Many fights and rude behavior. The conservancy is not able to handle the masses that were there. ‘
If there is another Macca concert, treat yourself and get there at 2pm.
~Everybody’s Gonna Dance Tonight~
boho
August 16th, 2009
11:46 am
Mitchell: You criticize Atlantans for not turning out in higher numbers for the show, yet you didn’t go yourself? Strange logic, dude. Face it: you didn’t miss a concert last night. You missed an historic event. Your loss.
jan
August 16th, 2009
11:55 am
I am still pinching myself Paul is the greatest ever and always and I was there. Its was magic, memories and a time of perfect harmony. The man has lost nothin since the beginning. The drive and wait was long to get up close, the heat was bad the restroom and garbage situation should have been better handled by the city. The rain was perfect and being close enough to scream” I love you Paul “and” Thank you” was priceless something I have wanted to say since 1970
Joe S.
August 16th, 2009
12:00 pm
What an incredible show!! Paul was not holding back, and hitting all the highs like guys 30 years younger wish they could. He was more than impressive, he was damned impressive. Great turnout from Atlanta, and make no mistake it wasn’t a summer shower they were standing through – it was an ominous lightning-fueled torrential downpour for at least 20 minutes. And still, hardly anyone left.
Great, great band. Very tight, all the tones locked in.
That, folks, is how you do a show.
Therese
August 16th, 2009
12:12 pm
I will forever be in awe of Sir Paul, for the life he has led, the values he stands for, the music he continues to create,but most of all for the fact that he is a constant in my life. There will never be a time when he will disappoint me. Last night proved that point…he is still the young man that captured my admiration so many years ago. From our vantage point sitting on the hill, all of those around us felt the same. I will never forget the concert and how priviledged I was to be there.
30 +
August 16th, 2009
12:13 pm
1/ This was a green concert, the trash was terrible. Rothbury festival in Meechigan had 70K+ people and less trash. Way to go atlanta.
2/ 40+ people need to know there is a lot of young musical talent. They might not have paid their “dues” as of yet, but to comment young folks don’t know music… come on.. Stop being small minded.
3/ Yes. Personal preference, in the Beatles shade above, Sir Paul, Shade below. Watch Running down a Dream then call me.
Doug
August 16th, 2009
12:16 pm
Enter your comments here
Lee
August 16th, 2009
12:17 pm
What a great show! Brought back lots of memories. I just wish the AJC would have assigned a better writer. What an awful review! ……….and Mitchell, if you can’t make it to the show, please don’t complain the “only 40,000″ that came out. Kinda tacky, dude.
Lee
August 16th, 2009
12:20 pm
typo correction – left out “about” before the “only 40,000″
Lontime Fan
August 16th, 2009
12:45 pm
Wow! What a concert! I’ve been to quite a few in my lifetime and Sir Paul’s is in the top 5! I loved the multigenerational aspect and a high point of the evening for me was two little girls (around 10) singing and dancing to the music. I will always remember singing “Hey Jude” (and many other songs) along with Paul.
I too was distressed at the garbage being left behind by others…perhaps biodegradable trash bags given out to the audience to gather their trash where they were partying? It seemed people just didn’t want to bother to pick up the multitudes of beer cans, water bottles, and food containers littering their own little area.
Great concert, total party atmosphere, so glad I was there!
Andrew
August 16th, 2009
12:52 pm
The Boss – c’mon. a girl from charlotte that is 24 with a back-tat does very little to represent “under-40″….
Sir Paul put on quite a show.
Oh yeah – I’m 30 and loved it.
Hotrod
August 16th, 2009
12:56 pm
I am just glad Paul is keeping the Beatles music still alive.
Some of the Wings stuff is pretty good as well.
The Beatles are a cornerstone for rock music now and the next 100 or more years, probably forever. Lucky are those who were there
last night.
Brian O
August 16th, 2009
1:02 pm
How in the world does Paul not give a shout out to Les Paul who passed away on Thursday? He played two of his guitars last nigh – one of them was the ‘Finster-esque’ one referenced by the writer (not sure how many of your readers get that reference – by the way, if you are going to use Finster-esque – please add that it was a Les Paul) Am I the only one who noticed?
Gordon
August 16th, 2009
1:08 pm
Last night was surely a magnificent evening of musical history…on the 40th anniversary of Woodstock, complete with an evening shower, the 40,000 that chose to make the pilgrimage were treated to as great a rock and roll performance ever given. Sir Paul McCartney triumphed with over 2 1/2hrs of musical history…tightly performed on a state of the art stage with a crowd that spanned several generations…everyone rocking and swaying for the entire show. Paul is without a doubt the quintessential muscian of our time and it was truly an honor and a privilege to share a night in the park with him. Thank you Paul, for humbly showing us all what it means to be passionate and do what you love. Please ‘Get Back’ to Atlanta.
John
August 16th, 2009
1:10 pm
The fact that during a 20 minute torrential downpour, not a single person in the area I was in left or even complained would indicate to me that it was a great concert. I admit that I am a Beatles aficionado, but at 67 years of age, Sir Paul played and sang beautifully. It was also interesting to note that the crowd was a mix of young and old. Paul McCartney is one of the best musicians/composers of the 20th and 21st centuries.
Shirley
August 16th, 2009
1:17 pm
Hey, 30+, you say “40+ people need to know there is a lot of young musical talent,” and then you go on to compare Sir Paul with Tom Petty. Tom Petty is 59 years old. Hardly a “young musical talent.” I like Tom Petty also, but he ain’t no Paul McCartney. Also, traveling from Charlotte, I am embarrassed by the other Charlottean’s comment. Wow….Kings Of Leon….yeah. Last night was my third McCartney concert, my first concert from a wheelchair (car accident). Wish I could have been with you guys on the grass in front of the stage.
Becky
August 16th, 2009
1:20 pm
Nope, I noticed that too, Brian.
I was there last night and it was fantastic! The rain even made it more memorable somehow and did give us a little bit more of a Woodstock feel. Quite a wonderful experience…. We set out at 3:30p to get to the park and didn’t get home (still soaking wet) until 12:30a…I wouldn’t do that for just anyone!
Thanks a lot, Paul!
bajeha
August 16th, 2009
1:21 pm
McCartney’s concert goes right to my Top Three list — and I’ve been going to rock concerts since the 60’s. How fortuitous that this historic Atlanta event fell right on the 20th anniversary of the Piedmont Park Conservancy’s formation, the 40th of Woodstock (which I attended; last night’s rainstorm gave me an instant and welcome flashback); and the 43rd of the Beatles’ Shea Stadium performance. And how sad that the AJC’s crack reporter failed to note any of these historical music events in his “review”. Funny, the “old Beatle” didn’t forget to mention them in his remarks. Can I have Emerson’s job?
“Old Beatle” indeed. Will any of the Kings of Leon be drawing 40,000 + to a concert when they’re 67 years old? Will generations be singing along with them while they play? Kinda doubt it.
Other things Emerson should have reported on: The abysmal pre-concert crowd admissions handling by Ticketmaster and Peter Conlon Presents; the poor venue crowd design by Conlon (no pathways for security or emergency vehicles); and The Conservancy’s failure to have anyone address the audence about its work during the concert, or encourage patrons to pick up and desposit their trash at the end. Hello, Green Concert?
Disclosure: I am a Conservancy member. I plan to address my concerns in writing with suggestions for improvement to all of the above organizations and encourage other attendees to do the same.
Cam
August 16th, 2009
1:23 pm
His tribute to George Harrison nearly had me in tears. I think it is wonderful(and quite a commentary about the ordinary, generic rock music on our radio stations today) that so many younger people embrace the Beatles, Led Zeppelin and others from the 60’s and 70’s. I don’t think people 30 or 40 years from now will be getting teary eyed and nostalgic over an aging Brittany Spears or Kings of Leon concert. If they are still around of course.
Glenda O
August 16th, 2009
1:35 pm
From the minute Sir Paul McCartney came on stage to start the concert with “Drive My Car” to the fitting end of “The End,” the show was beyond amazing….beyond awesome, well like the lyric from “I Saw Her Standing There,” it was “way beyond compare!!” Even the rain added its Woodstock-esque effects to make the evening truly magical. It was an historic event at which I was privileged to be there. It was an event of a lifetime.
bajeha
August 16th, 2009
1:40 pm
To Becky and Brian re Sir Paul’s failure to note Les Paul’s passing: yeah, I noticed that too. Strange and inexplicable, especially given their similar names. Mr. Paul’s musical genius, inventions and designs made music as we know it today possible — especially that of rock musicians.
Sagegirl
August 16th, 2009
1:42 pm
Macca paved the way for talents like the great Tom Petty, so give the man his due. He was there in the beggining. I love them both and I’ve seen the film, Running Down A Dream. (Great film btw, see it if you can). I would stand in line to see either artist. They are the best of the best. However, to the person comparing Paul McCartney to Kings of Leon… Are you kidding me? PAUL ROCKS!
PJ
August 16th, 2009
1:55 pm
I have to echo bajeha’s comments. While this was a great show, there was a significant logistical failure. I was promised early entry for my presale ticket, but couldn’t find a single conservancy volunteer or APD office who even knew what I was talking about. Navigating the crowd was extraordinarily difficult, even for a large festival setting as this, due to the lack of any organizaion. I fully expected a short presentation or video before Macca’s performance related to the conservancy and stressing the “Green” aspect of the performance.
Giving people a little bit of the benefit of the doubt on the garbage–it had poured and everything was mudcaked and soaked, but yeah, it made me a little embarassed. I also was surprised by no reference to Les Paul, given that Macca used at least 2 and other than the Hofner, there were only Gibsons to be seen on stage.
Having said all that, I’m glad I was there. My wife and kids loved the show, and the rain didn’t get us down.
5 stars to Macca, 2.5 to ATL, 3 to the Conservancy.
Stevie
August 16th, 2009
1:56 pm
This was the greatest show I have ever witnessed. It was like unicorns and rainbows floating on the wings of tiny gold covered and diamond encrusted angels. Thank you so much Sir Paul. You are a saint and a sage. Like Mother Teresa and the Pope rolled into one to form a kind green, vegetarian giant with blue eyes and probably x-ray vision who can sing such sweet melodies. I love you so much. Anyone who disagrees is a hater. Please stop the negativity.
jude
August 16th, 2009
2:10 pm
It was the concert that I have dreamed of for forty-five years. I was surrounded by people who were as overwhelmed by Sir Paul’s respect for the audience and his truly everlasting talent. Our son gave us the tickets because he knew that it was a dream of ours to see Paul McCartney in person. We happened to sit in front of a couple who had driven from Illinois to see the concert. We ended up sharing a blanket to sit and then to cover up briefly from the rain. She was just like me….totally awestruck. We screamed just as if we were those 13 year-old girls watching Ed Sullivan on TV. Both of our parents thought we had lost our minds back then. I have seen many concerts, but not one as heartwarming and professional as this. It was our first trip to Piedmont Park and I applaud the staff there for the way in which we were treated and how quickly we entered and left the facility. To my Illinois friend, Sandy we did it! A dream come true for a couple of old broads! And, yes, your husband does look like “Paul”!
cece
August 16th, 2009
2:14 pm
Paul McCartney is a living legend. A wonderful talented living legend. It was a magical concert. Thank you, Sir Paul.
(The AJC should have sent someone else to cover the concert. Poor Bo Emerson was not a good choice. Can’t believe he would finish his “article” with a meat-eating reference!!!!!!! Sir Paul is a vegetarian!!!!!!..And if he said “old” one more time… ahhhhh!!!!)
CLAX
August 16th, 2009
2:40 pm
I was truly mesmerized. I was enthralled. I was goose-pimpled before the rain even started. How could anyone have ANYTHING negative to say about the concert? I would have gone to this concert to see the most amazing stage set up and pyrotechnics set to Live and Let Die! (Did you actually hear the ROAR of those four solid fuel rocket engines at the front of the stage go off twice!!!!? “You People” have no idea how lucky we were to have a National Treasure of the UK and in our presence in this little southern backwater. The only disappoint is that local resident and fellow Englander Elton John did not drag his bloated ass on stage to do a number with Paul like Billy Joel had the class to do in the Big Apple at Citi Field last month. Elton is the beneficiary of McCartney’s trailblazing artistry and its the least he could do…he owed that much to McCartney and Atlanta. Otherwise…..I’m still VerKlempt over the whole the entire experience. Paul became the No. 1 concert to now No. 2 Carly Simon concert in Chastain a decade ago.
LZ
August 16th, 2009
2:52 pm
As a 37 year old, I grew up listening to The Beatles because I had older siblings. The Beatles will carry on forever because they are the rock and roll band that started it all. For me, last night was magical and amazing to see a legend. What else would you expect from the AJC? Last night, their first article was about the rain and counterfeit tickets. Oooh! 10 counterfeit tickets and that was the headline. Although the 1960’s was a tumultuous era and The Beatles had their own rocky relationships with each other, they were about the hopes and dreams of the world working towards one goal: peace, love and happiness. And, Sir Paul’s concert is representative of that goal. From the opening riff of Drive My Car to the whimsical A Day in the Life, it was an emotionally charged show. One could only imagine being transported back to the Cavern Club listening to The Beatles when they started making their way through the universe.
Kathy
August 16th, 2009
2:55 pm
I guess because I live in the woods in a small village on the gulg coast of Alabama, I have been left behind. Who is The Kings of Leon?
Brook
August 16th, 2009
3:28 pm
We loved the concert!! Sir Paul was awesome and the number of huge hits that he played really was amazing! One major complaint: blanket politics. We sat close to the stage on a hill that was, of course, quite crowded. As early ticket holders we had expected to get in at 4pm instead of 5pm, but they did away with that plan (no complaint on that issue here). What we found incredibly frustrating was the attempts by all of our neighbors to cover vast areas with their blankets (even if there were only two concert goers on said blanket) and then complain when other audience members even stepped on the corner of their blanket in an attempt to find a spot of their own. Open seating means open seating, and it also means you need to be more flexible than you might be if you had a ticket with an assigned seat. Once the concert started ppl seemed to loosen up, but come on Atlantans, show a little respect for your neighbors and be ready to crowd in for a great show, rather than act like it’s your right to demand an acre of space for you and your spouse … poor form!
LC
August 16th, 2009
3:29 pm
Sir Paul was awesome, the energy and excitement was so thrilling. as mentioned by another he is classy, legendary, extraordianaire. It was a privilege for the city of Atlanta and Piedmont Park to have Paul McCartney decide that our park would benefit from his charitable generosity. thank you Sir Paul for most memorable concert. We danced and sang along all night!! the rain didn’t stop the fun, my neighbors even offered a blanket to my friends to cover our heads during the rain.
Bill
August 16th, 2009
3:33 pm
I have seen Paul many times…even saw (but couldn’t hear) the Beatles at Shea Stadium 45 years ago last night (although I didn’t realize it until Paul mentioned it. We were surrounded by people of all ages who had never seen him before. We told them they could expect a superb show. They were not disappointed. He was awesome. I didn’t even mind the rain. I am, however disappointed in the review by ATC. I;m not sure he was even there to see and hear the magic of the evening. I sang every song along with him and it truly was a magical evening…..definitely worth the drive from Birmingham, AL. Long live Paul and the musical magic he makes. I loved the tributes to Johnm George, Kinda, and Jimi.. Last night was perfect and I want to thank my children for giving me the tickets as a birthday present. Thank you, Paul for an evening my wife and I will never forget….and in the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make…..
Roz Verrill
August 16th, 2009
3:34 pm
It is great to see people responding to this magical concert and to know that apparently there we truly a shared extraordinary moment in time with those we don’t know.
Next time the venue should be more secure with less people.
I LOVE PAUL
LET ME ROLL IT TO YOU.
Bill
August 16th, 2009
3:45 pm
sorry for the typos……the tributes to John, George, Linda, and Jimi…..
Northern Songs LTD
August 16th, 2009
3:57 pm
A tour de force for Macca — can you believe he sang ‘I’m Down’ in the same key as the Shea stadium show all those years ago — , but a poor performance by the organizers. I second the earlier remarks by ‘bejahe’ and ‘PJ’.
Doug
August 16th, 2009
3:59 pm
Must say I was disappointed in your review. An old Beatle singing old Beatles songs. That’s your opening ?really?
Paul rocked last night and I must assume that you really don’t care for the Beatles or Paul.
I would also venture that the crowd was much much larger than 40,000. Did you count the ones listening outside the main gate. The ones on the hill towards the Botanical gardens?
Sorry but your review made his concert sound dull and ordinary -it was anything but!
Heather J.
August 16th, 2009
4:00 pm
Sir Paul put on one HECK of a show! I was amazed by his energy, his talent, and by his charisma! Aside from the grumpy man behind us, who yelled at everyone who dared to touch his blanket, the crowd was fun, friendly, and enthusiastic! The downpour only added to the magic of the show! I loved all of the tributes he made to John and George, and how he hopped from one instrument to the next without even flinching! My husband and I abandoned our make-shift blanket/umbrella and danced in the pouring rain as fireworks exploded over the stage during “Live and Let Die.” What a magical night!!
Sir Paul is welcome in Atlanta ANYtime!
Kemp
August 16th, 2009
4:16 pm
I never imagined a weekend away from home could be so great. I am an old Beatles fan, but my wife too is a Sir Paul fan. Lawn seating for someone who had bilateral knee replacement five weeks ago could have been a downer, but I got to talk and meet my neighbors, visit with the friends that came with us from S. Georgia,and talk to folks in the lines for food and toilets, and then the concert. I was completely blown away that a performer could be so dead on and constant for so long, and all while seeming to be enjoying doing it, and actually happy to be there with us.
I sang along on practically every song- for an old man, it was a truly magical weekend.
Thank you Sir Paul, Atlanta, and Piedmont for one of my “lifetime” experiences.
Louise
August 16th, 2009
4:42 pm
Consider the microwaved pop idols of today as backdrop to Paul McCarthy performing at Piedmont. It was stunning to hear a musician/performer/entertainer who has been in the business for virtually my whole life be so profoundly superb at singing (not one instance of “pitchiness”), playing, producing and acknowledging where he came from, where he’s been, where he still might go and what his audience wants. It makes me weep to think I almost didn’t buy a ticket. Kudos to the fans who braved their camp-outs on the lawn alone because their middle-aged compatriots were overwhelmed by the potential inconveniences brought on by the concert restrictions, port-o-potties, weather, etc., as well as to the sympathetic “neighbors” who invited those of us who are horizontally challenged on to their blankets when last-minute interlopers wormed their arrogant behinds and heads in front of those of us who had suffered the heat and the wait for our sight lines to Sir Paul. I wish it could happen tonight all over again.
LJ
August 16th, 2009
4:51 pm
Now I know why I never read the AJC(well rarely). That was the worst review I’ve ever read. Were you even there? Well I was, and as expected, Sir Paul was incredible. He Rocked……never a pause, the band was so tight, he didn’t even stop long enough to take a breath!!!! As a lot of other people mentioned, the rain was so fitting being the 40th anniversary of Woodstock. Ya, I was there too. Kings of Leon????????How could anyone !!!!!!! Sorry Paul. Thanks for an awesome night. AJC – time for a new music reviewer
Marge
August 16th, 2009
4:53 pm
Paul fans, we ARE in the know. His boyish charm (who cares what age) has not faded in the least. Sister and I saw him August 17th, 1965 in Toronto and seeing him last night was just as riviting as it was so many years ago! He was unbelievable fantastic!!! A true performer, musician and especially song writer. I was surprised with the number of people there at the low audience participation….where was the noise Atlanta!??? Also, we have a bone to pick with the folks in charge of selling the VIP tickets. False advertising for one!! No more complaints though….Paul you are and always shall be…the Greatest!!! Love ya!!
Steve Damsker
August 16th, 2009
4:57 pm
Awsome Paul McCartney concert, and kudos to those who assisted in setting up Piedmont Park for a truly trouble free experience. One other feat of sheer amazement is that MARTA actually ran trains to North Springs without having to change at Lindburg. Now if only that could be done following late-ending sports events including Braves, Hawks and Thrasher games. Keep trying, Atlanta. “I think I can – I think I can – I knew I could – I knew I could…..”
Alb
August 16th, 2009
5:05 pm
“Old” Beatle? ” “A step below Tom Petty?” “The Kings of Leon?”
First of all, how old was the person writing this article? They remind me of the old joke back in the 70’s ‘”Oh, Paul McCartney was in a band before Wings?”
Ok, here’s the truth. I took my 17 year old daughter to her first Macca concert in Columbus, Ohio, in 2005. It was my fifth. Before the concert, we went to get her a t-shirt. On the way back, I started crying, and she asked, ‘dad, what’s wrong?” To which I replied, “you just don’t understand. You will never hear anything greater than what you are going to hear tonight. My God, this is Paul McCartney. There hasn’t been anyone as great in rock music – though John might have been his equal.
That night was a magical mystery tour, through marmalade skies, with blackbirds flying around a fool on the hill. He drove his car down a long and winding road through the 60’s, into the 70’s, and into the 00’s, all the time guaranteeing that we have a smile on our faces with a very good time had by all. And in the end, when he played his next to last song – Let it be – my daughter who didn’t always understand me needless to say, pulled my arm around her, snuggled in under my arm, and said, “Dad, now I understand.”
His last song, please, please me, was a coda to our understanding that he did, indeed, please us.
There has never been anyone like him and never will be again.
Sir Paul, thank you. For your music, your life, your presence with us. Let it be.
Dan Baker
August 16th, 2009
5:18 pm
This was my fifth McCartney concert, and I was surprised that he didn’t introduce the members of the band. Of course, we all went to see Sir Paul, but his sidemen were just as important to the overall concert and deserved their moment in the acclaim, especially Wix, who’s been with him for years and who leads the musicians and handles all the keyboard and synthesizer parts. Our group of five — ages 26 through 61 — were very pleased with the show overall. Thanks, Paul and the conservancy.
JUNE
August 16th, 2009
5:35 pm
Paul McCartney is a musical genius. Always has been. The thing that struck me as so wonderful, though, was the obvious pleasure, fun, enjoyment and even humility sparking from his eyes and flowing through his voice as he performed. He still loves what he does and it shows! Last night was an experience never to be repeated for me, a magical night shared with Sir Paul the Master Magician. Many thanks and much love to my daughter Christa for her loving gift of the tickets and her time away from her family, not to mention her physical determination to push her Mama in a wheelchair all over the ATL, Marta, over potholes and speed bumps, and up/down hills at the Park. This, my friends, is unconditional love to make sure I got to experience a once-in-a-lifetime up close and personal evening with Paul McCartney. (Who is that ignorant person who could only describe his as an old Beatle? Next time send him/her to report on grand opening of nursing home for OLD PEOPLE over 35.) ADA seating and accommodations by the Park were not perfect, but for an outdoor concert they made a great effort to take care of us. Thank you for that. Greatest thanks to Paul for sharing himself with us. He rocked the park. To the law enforcement of Atlanta, thank you too. I felt safe and secure by your presence and reassuring attitude.
Eric
August 16th, 2009
5:59 pm
Bo you are the worst writer they could have ever picked to do this commentary. And only the AJC would screw up this bad. Also grab a 24 year old, why don’t you grab a 12 year old, or somebody that would have a clue? Paul McCartney can’t even be put in the same sentence with Tom Petty or the Kings of Who? I think you would probaly offend Tom Petty if you made that statement to him. The beatles and Elvis have the title they sold more albums then anybody in HISTORY. Which Paul was a major member.
Also to 30+ get a life, There haven’t been any good bands in the past 10 years, too bad they want to make the American Idol jerk offs, because they can’t actually send people out and look for talent anymore.
Paul sold like 47,000 at Piedmont and it was a AWSOME show, the venue sucked and it was not set up well, but that was Piedmonts parks fault. The last time Paul was here Mitchell? he played the Georgia dome, thats 60,000 plus he sold it out. The cap for Piedmont was 50,000. Not everybody likes outdoor shows, I went because I never seen him before, and if he came again and played the Ga Dome or Phillips i would be there in a second. Try going before opening your mouth.
cjs
August 16th, 2009
6:12 pm
ok, let me clear up exactly what i said to bo before the show…
he asked who some of my other favorite artists are and i said “oh…the doors, led zep, bob dylan, tom petty..” and he asked me “what about new artists?” and i responded with kings of leon and a few others.
just want to make it clear that i do NOT think kings of leon and sir paul are on the same level, at all…never will be.
yes, tom petty & the heartbreakers are my favorite band of all time.
this show was epic and something that will give me chills every time i think about it. i never thought i would get to see any of the beatles perform, and when paul came out on stage i was also one of those teary eyed screaming girls from shea stadium.
Hank
August 16th, 2009
6:25 pm
Have been reading all the shows reviews since NYC openning. Got tickets for our show here in Tulsa tomorrow nite. I am so frigin excited !!
Eric
August 16th, 2009
6:35 pm
Cjs I wasn’t commenting on you, I was commenting on Bo, hes the writer? You have your own opinion and you cleared it up. Every generation has their faves, I’m 40 my generation was Van halen and Metallica, my sister who went to the show is 47, hers is Aerosmith, Led Zeppelin. etc……. We both loved the Beatles. Everybody has their own opinion, Just the way BO wrote the story was not good.
I agree the show was freaking awsome, but BO made it seem like Paul was just a old geezer. He’s a Icon, give him a little respect.
I wish BO would clear it up like you did. Thanks
Alb
August 16th, 2009
6:50 pm
cjs, thanks for your comment. It helps to clear things up a bit. But Bo still wrote a pathetic review, and doesn’t get it.
sharon
August 16th, 2009
10:28 pm
Seriously, how could you possibly compare Sir Paul McCartney with Kings of Leon. AND, just for the record, my 26 year son knows more about Sir Paul’s music as well as other many classic artists of that era. I raised him right!!!!
BeatleBailey
August 17th, 2009
12:09 am
Historic concert and performer and I was there. It was electric and transcended generations. My 13 year old and his friends know all the words to almost all of his songs! They are listening to the music I grew up with. When has THAT happened before?! Oh, yeah… his “young band” was awesome!
KCBeatlesChick
August 17th, 2009
12:57 am
AMAZING concert! I’ve been waiting since 1964 to finally see a Beatle. But Sir Paul is more than just a Beatle. He has a lifetime musical career and he is still a remarkable performer. It’s obvious that he still respects his fans as much as we respect him. I’ll treasure last night forever.
Tony Blevins
August 17th, 2009
3:49 am
Paul will always be the best! I’ve seen him 3X now and loved all 3 shows. My wife, her daughter, and I went to the extravaganza Saturday night. I’d built up how great he is in concert for years, because his voice is still identical to the records from a few generations ago, and as always he was spot on perfect. His band, who have been together for all 3 shows I’ve seen, were fantastic as usual! My wife, and her daughter were not disappointed at all. The rain only added to the special aspect of the day.
I’m 49, and can remember the Beatles playing on Ed Sullivan in 1964. It is one of my very first memories. The greatest thing about Paul McCartney is I remember him before I knew how to read or write. I remember him before I could drive, work or marry. I remember how they changed not just music and pop culture, but all things 60’s. His famous group and their iconic songs have been the fabric of mine and my wife’s lives since we were little children.
Although, my life and my wife’s life have changed greatly since first hearing about Sir Paul, on Saturday night we were both children again. Our childhoods came full circle Saturday night. And life, was really good again! Paul helped us reconnect with our roots. 2009 was 1964 again!
I’ve seen 100s of concerts. My 3 favorites are the 3 that I saw Mr. McCartney perform, including Saturday night. Thank you Sir Paul! Thank you! Thank you!
I can’t believe the amount of beer everyone poured through before and during the show. Nothing against drinking beer at a concert, but this was history, and not just another rock concert. You’d think they’d want to be sober enough to remember this event of all events.
PS- for the first time ever I actually cried when Paul sang John’s “Give Peace a Chance”. It was my most special moment I’ve ever had at a concert. Only Sir Paul could trigger that kind of emotion! Thanks Paul! All we need is Love!
Kelly Mills
August 17th, 2009
8:30 am
I am 40 years old and grew up with the music of the Beatles, because my parents and my aunt loved their music. My aunt and I took our children (who range in age from 10 to 21) to see the show Saturday night. It was amazing to me to be at that concert and hear the songs from the author and original artist of those songs. The kids completely loved it, and we have taught them that all the bands that came after the Beatles were influenced by the Beatles. You can’t discuss the history of rock & roll without mentioning the architects. I rushed out to get the paper today, to see the review and I am dumbfounded. I am embarassed that the highest praise is that Paul McCartney is on par with Kings of Leon. With 40,000 people in that crowd, the reporter couldn’t speak to anyone who understands what an honor it was to attend that show? How he is 67 but looks 50 and rocks like nobody’s business? Where was he during Helter Skelter? AJC, if you want my 10 year old to rewrite the article and tell everyone what that show was really like, let me know.
Ripley
August 17th, 2009
8:53 am
I saw The Beatles three times (Atlanta in 1965, Memphis TWICE in one day in 1966), Paul (and Linda) seven times in 1989-1990:(NYC twice – MSG, Atlanta twice-Omni, Tampa-stadium show, DC 4th July RFK stadium and Raleigh stadium as well as three concerts 1993: Atlanta-GA Dome, Orlando-stadium and Charlotte Blockbuster Theater (filmed for tv special); one concert in Alanta in 2002 at Phillips and one concert in 2004 at Phillips. In all I’ve seen him perform fifteen times (16 now) and I’ve never, ever heard or seen him give any thing less than his all. On Saturday night once again he gave his all to ensure we enjoyed ourselves and sounded about as great as he ever has. His love of performing creates a beam of pure joy that shines on us all. I have never been disappointed by him and the only time I’ve ever heard his voice even slightly off was in Atl in February 1990 when he had to postpone a show for two days for a bad cold. Even then, he sounded better than 99.99% of performers
My only criticism would be for the Conservancy. The mile long line for entry was not propertly maintained and people simply walked through the park from Piedmont Rd and got in without waiting in the hour long line I and most others waited in. They should have had the Piedmont Rd entrance closed. Also, they REALLY needed to rope off a designated path about midway down the field going up the the right side hill for the “field” people to get to the johns and food – I got trampled all day and all through the concert by drunks.
Sir Paul, please come back soon and please (for your older fans) come to a venue with seats!
Love you.
cowo
August 17th, 2009
9:51 am
There’s little I can add to all that’s been said before. This was my 16th time to see Paul (including 4 Beatles concerts), and he’s as good today at 67 as he was in 1964 at 22(in Gator bowl Stadium in a hurricane. Still fabulous voice (which Rolling Stone magazine once called “the most finely tuned instrument in music”), still sexy and gorgeous, and more energetic than any 25 year old I know.
Do hope he’ll return to Atlanta soon in a venue with seats, for this old gal with bad knees and arthritis.
There are many pretenders (Presley, Jackson come to mind) to the title KING where music is concerned, but Saturday night we all saw the true KING – long live the King!
Lovely show, lovely man – a wonderful time was had by all!
Will love you all my life, Paul.
Mark - Rochester, NY
August 17th, 2009
3:14 pm
My wife and I made the trip from Rochester, NY and a friend of ours flew in from Buffalo, NY to see Paul – what a show!! Without a doubt it was the best concert I’ve ever seen, nothing else comes close. 34 songs, 2 and a 1/2 hours, incredible. Paul does everything right, 8 encores?? Talking with the crowd, the funny stories, tribute to Jimi, John and George,
The power of “Live and Let Die” was awesome. The venue was laid out perfectly, as we never waited for anything, food, drinks, port-a-johns. We had a beer vendor visit us in the 20th row, talk about service. The place was trashed afterwords, but what do you expect with that many people being there for 8 hours? The clean up crew was on top of it the minute people started to leave. Obviously, the organizers had that well-planned as well. We had a great time in Atlanta!
Robin
August 17th, 2009
7:25 pm
This was my first Paul McCartney concert and must say it’s the best I have ever seen. I took my 21 year old daughter and many moments we had tears in our eyes. As I read the comments with tears in my eyes,again I am so thankful to have been there! My daughter’s comments to a friend that did not attend was “it was magical”. PLEASE HURRY BACK PAUL! I will never miss another one!
Thunderstruck
August 17th, 2009
7:56 pm
Kelly Mills,
I couldn’t agree with you more. This article appears on PAGE 4 of Section D (?) of the Aug. 17 edition the printed AJC, and only takes up a quarter of a page at that. Here we have THE legend of rock legends visiting our city, giving a once-in-a-lifetime concert, a truly epic event – and he can’t even get Page 1 treatment in Section D. The fans posting here are far more respectful and appreciative of Sir Paul than was today’s AJC.
Ken
August 17th, 2009
7:56 pm
Imagine if they tried to have some rapper for the thugs instead of Paul or Dave? How many robberies, stabbings, fights, and shootings do you think would take place? You put 40,000 thugs all together and you will have major issues!
dave
August 17th, 2009
8:38 pm
I wish Furman Bisher had covered the concert and written the review . . . his perspective is always in sync with yesterday, today and forever.
Joe P.
August 17th, 2009
8:40 pm
Why’s everyone so up in arms over the amount of trash left behind? It literally was ALL picked up by the staff immediately after the show. Everyone knew there would be a huge crew cleaning up afterwards. I hardly suspect any detriment to the environment.
Everyone is talking like the garbage was left in the park forever. Seriously I’m an environmentalist and I had no problem with how the trash was handled by the concert goers or the staff.
Susan
August 17th, 2009
9:04 pm
Great Concert with a few exceptions……those who paid a lot to get in were corralled on a hill to the side where the view of the stage was terrible. While we had unlimited access to food and drink, the Diet Cokes were almost 2 years out of date–they all were as I checked cases of drinks! That’s a way to thank those who paid $400.00 per ticket—serve them drinks that should have been thrown away long ago! I’l buy the cheap tickets next time, get a great view, and pay for a drink!!!!
RAMBLE ON!!!
August 17th, 2009
9:49 pm
Can’t find anyone else to interview “a shade below Tom Petty”? Even Tom would be pi$$ed at that.
I would have bet my house he was going to do “Maybe I’m amazed”. His drummer is a beast, and he kills it on that song.
Sam
August 17th, 2009
9:54 pm
Yawn…old people “rockin out.”
Steph
August 17th, 2009
10:01 pm
I know Sam, I looked athe concert pictures and thought to myself “overweight drunk people and kids, what a rock n roll party! I bet there was alot of fights over whose SUV gets the worse gas milage.
Luke
August 17th, 2009
10:27 pm
I think my favorite part was glancing over at my mom, who saw The Beatles play the Hollywood Bowl in 1964 when she was 13 and then a year later at Dodger Stadium, smiling from ear to ear singing every word. What a special evening. When it started raining while he played My Love, my wife said, “He made God cry.”
Pat
August 17th, 2009
11:15 pm
Instead of going out to a fancy dinner for our 37th wedding anniversary, we celebrated by getting tickets to see Paul. We are so glad we did. What an awesome show. We saw Paul last time he was in Atlanta and he was just as amazing this time. He truly connects with the audience. I can’t think of another performer that has his presence. We traveled from Birmingham and would do it again in a second. I have loved the Beatles since 8th grade. The review in Atlanta paper was done by someone that has no sense of music appreciation.
Brett
August 17th, 2009
11:41 pm
Thanks for clearing that up, cjs. Just another example of the hack work that was this review. An old Beatle singing old Beatle songs? Out of all the adjectives you could have used to describe the greatest living legend in rock, those are the ones you choose Bo? Nice work. And Sam and Steph, grow up.
ralphingo
August 18th, 2009
6:44 am
Had McCartney played Phillips Arena instead, 20,000+ fans would not have been able to see the BEST SHOW OF THEIR LIVES!!!! Thank you Sir Paul…
Thunderstruck
August 18th, 2009
9:09 am
Sam and Steph,
You both were obviously not even at the concert, so your opinions and casting of dispersions mean zero to me. Brett is right.
For the record, I was there and had a grand total of one beer. I lift weights, and I run 10Ks and half marathons. Though I am likely older than both of you, I am confident that I could wipe the floor with either one of you in any test of physical endurance. Those who sit around with nothing better to do than to criticize that which they did not experience likely do not spend much time doing what they should do to take care of themselves.
OZZFEST
August 18th, 2009
10:00 am
Paul was amazing…totally killer and the night was a “once in a lifetime thrill”. Sadly, the Piedmont Park Conservancy botched the entire VIP process for everyone who paid $400. The Piedmont Park Conservancy advertised early admission for the VIP ticket. It took 30 minutes to get the first 500 people (I counted…I was about the 500th person in line.)through the “ONE TICKET TAKER” entrance on Monroe…while we could see hundreds of people streaming down the hill on the other side of the park at the St Charles entrance. My girlfriend was directly in front of Paul’s microphone about at 4:02…WHERE HE WAS STILL PERFORMING HIS SOUNDCHECK (IN PERSON)…and she paid $80 for a non-early admission ticket. Explain that one to me!! People in the VIP line were furious. Once inside the VIP area, I waited in a line of only 14 people (I counted.)for another 30 minutes to buy a t-shirt…the VIP area sold out of all XL shirts one hour after the gates opened…I had to go buy one in the general admission area. They had schwag beer…Bud, Bud Light, and Bud select…and they were lukewarm until after 7 or so meaning that that had not been properly iced down. In the end I must say not even the major downer caused by the clearly unprepared PPC could diminish the PAUL McCARTNEY experience. Paul is the pinnacle of music, their is none higher.
Melody
August 19th, 2009
3:45 pm
Paul voice and musicianship were absolutely superb, but he also had charisma and star quality to boot. I will never forget his show! It was one of the best concerts I’ve ever gone to.
MPE
August 20th, 2009
1:24 am
There will obviously be differences of opinion regarding the show, but the comments regarding Mr. Emerson’s writing and review of the concert have definitely dampened my spirits more than the rain did. First of all, Bo Emerson has been writing about the Atlanta music scene for longer than the majority of you have probably lived here and to claim that he has no knowledge of the Atlanta music scene or music at all is moronic. Second, attacking him for what was said in a quote indicates that you either don’t know what a quote is or simply didn’t read the article. Third, as a long time reader of the AJC and admirer of Bo’s work I remember that he himself is a long time vegetarian so ending with the comments about meat were not written in ignorance of Sir Paul’s feelings towards its consumption. People can attack the AJC all they want, but it seems to me that certain blog comments detract far more and are of greater embarrassment than the paper’s content. Mr. Emerson, I am still a huge fan of your writing and I dearly hope we can expect more music reviews from you in the future.
Roz Verrill
August 20th, 2009
8:24 pm
MPE- What a load of BS. If you were Paul, what would you think of a return visit to ATL with a DA reporter covering a historical event. You are obviously biased toward this writer.
JoJo was a man who thought he was a loner…….
pkat
August 26th, 2009
2:05 am
Reading the beginning of this post, so many people have no idea what a great force this Man has contributed to the human race. He, along with The Beatles, changed how we view concerts, being that they introduced the “Stadium” concert perception. A man in Atlanta came up with a new way to project the sounds of the concert in Atlanta. Paul McCartney is the Mozart or Beethoven of our day. These are all Men who will live forever through their music. Oh joy! Rapture! I am blessed that I was at Piedmont Park with Paul!