Ticketing staff at the venue’s box office scrambled to cope with demand: the concert, which was announced without warning just hours before the performance, sold out almost immediately.
A Cozy Venue for a Music Legend
The Bowery Ballroom, which holds about 575 people, stood in stark contrast to McCartney’s recent New York shows, like his concert in 2019 at MetLife Stadium. Word of the appearance spread quickly, and fans crowded the club, hoping to see a once-in-a-lifetime show in person.
A Setlist Spanning Decades
McCartney, 82, delighted the audience with a ranging setlist that summed his storied career. Highlights included:
- “A Hard Day’s Night”
- “Let It Be”
- “Hey Jude”
- “Maybe I’m Amazed”
- “Jet”
He also sang “Now and Then,” a song written by John Lennon in the late ’70s and released as a recording in 2023.
Personal Touches and Engaging with the Audience
During the evening, McCartney offered stories from his past as well as from the audience, reminiscing about his time with The Beatles in the early days and his years on the American circuit. It was definitely a night to remember, and the open setting added a nice element with close interaction between the artist and his fans.
Upcoming Appearances
The surprise performance comes ahead of McCartney’s return, sandwiched between an appearance on the “Saturday Night Live” 50th anniversary special set for Feb. 16, 2025, alongside Christina Aguilera, Bad Bunny, and others, to help mark the show’s legacy.
FAQ
Why did Paul McCartney pick the Bowery Ballroom for a surprise concert?
McCartney’s performance at the Bowery Ballroom was a rare chance for fans to see him up close in the intimate venue, making for a special and unforgettable show.
How were tickets distributed for the surprise concert?
Tickets were available only in person, at the Bowery Ballroom’s box office, and were sold on a first-come, first-served basis; they sold out within half an hour of the announcement.
What songs did Paul McCartney sing at the concert?
This version of the concert had a setlist of Beatles favorites, Wings gems, and solo tracks, including “A Hard Day’s Night,” “Let It Be,” “Hey Jude,” and “Now and Then.”
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