Paul McCartney Offers Behind-the-Scenes Look at Surprise Bowery Ballroom Concerts in New Video Tour Diary

© 2024 MPL Communications Ltd / Photographer: MJ Kim

Paul McCartney has shared a new video on his official YouTube channel. Titled “Paul McCartney Rocks The Bowery – Tour Diary,” it presents a behind-the-scenes look at the musician’s surprise arrival and subsequent three-night run at the intimate, 498-capacity venue, The Bowery Ballroom in New York City. 

The video begins with clips of McCartney’s arrival and initial soundcheck, interspersed with the real-time show announcement, and reactions from staff and fans alike, which capture fans’ eagerness to bask in the musician’s talents. 

From the hustle to procure tickets to its sold-out status on night one, the video takes viewers through each step of the process, including the bassist’s walk to the venue doors, where one reporter asks McCartney, “What are you hoping to get out of this night?” To which he responds, “Fun!” 

It continues with backstage access, showcasing band rituals, a harmony-filled warm-up, and ultimately the show itself, which presented hits from McCartney’s salad days with The Beatles, and ensuing tenure leading the Wings. 

“I love being back in New York City. Great crowd. A lot of young kids–we love them–it reminds me of the old days,” he says over video of the jubilant crowd. 

Following the completion of night one, discussions begin for the ensuing performances, including a conversation on ticket prices and the agreed-upon $50 entrance fee, as well as their method for eliminating scalpers from scooping up passes. 

Day two presents increased interest in procuring tickets. Band conversations showcase each player’s appreciation for the intimate nature of the venue, emphasised by the soft acoustics of “Blackbird.” 

Like the nights prior, the third day was kept a secret, but fans were more eager than ever, even camping out for a shot at access, with fans claiming they spent 18 hours waiting and calling the decision “Worth it,” “We never thought about going home once.” 

The video captures the magnetism of McCartney’s songs and character. Watch below.