Paul Madison Square Garden reviews

Update (5/21/02) From Jackie and Gail:

My best friend and I had scalped tickets at the last minute for the Boston show on the 19th. We were way in the back - but WOW! - the best concert I have ever seen! We were flipping out, singing, crying, laughing (12345? Paul, where's your head at, man?) TOTALLYdug it. So.....................

I couldn't seem to leave it alone, so I was online all week reading stuff about the tour, etc. Found that there were front row center tickets still available for the Saturday show at MSG. Stop the presses!!!!! Damn the torpedoes - and the cost! You only live once, right? Hell, yeah!

We waited for the FEDEX guy to show up 11 AM, grabbed the train from Boston to NYC, and WE WERE THERE!!!!!! We were having a little bit of anxiety over whether or not these were real tickets or not, but we got in, walked towards our seats and yep, there we were - front row center. We looked up and his microphone was about 8 feet away from us. WOW-WEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Then: Lights down, Hofner silhouette, PAUL!!!!!!!!

I never thought I could leap so high! We were freaking out!!!!! We were looking at each other and saying, "This is Paul. He's right in front of us. He's looking at us. AAARRGGGHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Ok, keep it together. We can't appear like total mental cases. Oh, who are we kidding? AAARRGGHHHHH!!!!!!"

We are both 41 but this was like going with Mr. Peabody and Sherman into the WayBack machine - I had the best entertainment night of my life. Period. We were the ones holding the signs that said, "THANK YOU, BOY". Paul saw it and gave us a wink.

We had seen Paul during his 1990 tour and though my friend thought it was a great concert, I was rather disappointed. I thought the show had a dark tone to it, and the band were not really into it - just plodding along. The tempos were simply not good. I mean, it was ok, but nothing better than that.

This show was FANTASTIC in every regard. Paul's energy level (and at that distance, it was easy to see that he looked a bit tired - but who wouldn't?) was incredible, his vocals (though a bit scratchier than the Boston show - I'm sure cuz he had done 4 or 5 shows that week) were superb. And the band! Where did he find these guys? They are UNBELIEVABLE. Vocal harmonies were right on, note for note playing of songs (and you know how hard it is for a guitar player to not make a solo "his") which is what fans want to hear, let's face it. Killer drummer - Abe, didn't I sell you drumsticks at Daddy's once?

Well, not much more justice I could do to the evening other than what everyone else has said already. But know this: even though Paul may have had some down spots over his career (Press To Play, for one - ouch!) he is THE MASTER. A prolific songwriter and arranger. No one else in rock 'n roll constructed such intracate and beautiful melodies the way he did.

Paul, baby - YOU ARE IT! THANK YOU, BOY - for all of it!

Love,
Jackie and Gail

Update (5/9/02) From Joyce Marie Oliveira:

Hi Steve, I'm glad you posted a summary of Howard Stern's reaction to Paul's first show at MSG. I can't say that I'm into him that much anymore, but I do respect that he's a loyal Beatle fan and doesn't hold back his emotions. We had a good view of him and a woman who was with him at that show (an extremely stunning, tall, slim blond, wearing jeans and a white peasant blouse). Our seats were 4th row on the right, and Howard and his lady were sitting in the first level from the floor on that side. The couple of times I glanced his way, I could tell he was very into the show, despite the customary dark glasses he always wears now. My boyfriend told me that on Howard's show, Howard took a lot of ribbing from his cohorts about being such an unabashed Beatle/Paul fan. ... Oh and by the way, I also spotted Max Weinberg at the Rutherford NJ show, walking out from backstage on the right side before the show started. He asked for help to his seat and had an aisle seat on the floor. He, too, was very into Paul's performance and was boppin around and dancing for part of it.

All The Best,
Joyce

Update (5/8/02) From Peter Allen:

Howard Stern was at the 4/26 show and talked about it for a few minutes on his 4/29 program. He thought it was one of the best shows he ever saw. Here is a summary of what Howard said from a Stern fan site that summarizes each day of the program:

Howard's Paul McCartney Experience. 4/29/02. 8:20am
Howard said he saw the best rock show on Friday night. He went to see Paul McCartney on Friday and it was great. He wasn't sure he'd like the show but he did. He said he heard that Paul plays a lot of his new stuff at his show. Howard said he only played 3 new songs. The rest of his stuff was old Beatles and old Wings songs. Howard said McCartney really rocked with this show. He went through the some of the songs that Paul did and played some clips of the songs as he described the show to Robin. He said it was one good song after another. Paul's voice was also great during the show according to Howard. He said it was probably the best show he's ever seen. Robin said that she went to one of his shows and she wasn't that impressed. She said he didn't do all of the songs that Howard was mentioning. She also said she's not a fan of Wings so that wouldn't have done much for her. Howard said he loves Wings and a lot of his other solo stuff.

Update (5/7/02) From Joyce Marie Oliveira:

Hi Steve, I went to the Rutherford, NJ show and both MSG shows, and have been enjoying reading all the tour reviews by the fans on your site! I won't repeat what everyone else has been saying, just that I agree that he's never been better live than on this tour! My experience on Sat nite at MSG was one I'll never forget.

Patti Murawski, one of my nicest Beatle pals, mentioned me briefly in her review of that nite's show. I'd like to share a bit more detail on that with you, if you'll indulge me. Paul signed my UK import LP album cover of "Driving Rain" at the end of the show! And he did sign a bit more than just his first name, wrote the "M" and a long line to indicate his last name and the bottom of the 'y' at the end. Believe me, I didn't expect him to cross his "t", etc. in that situation, from the stage. Just wanna make it clear that he isn't shortchanging anybody, especially on autographs!!!

The real thrill was how it happened... He smiled really nice and tossed my LP cover back to me after signing it. Well, everybody else in the vicinity dove for it and 2 others caught it along with me. I had to tug at it a couple of times and tell them it was mine (as if they didn't know!).

This was the last autograph he gave and I assumed he walked off the stage. No way, he actually stayed there, watched what was happening AND pointed at the other people and then pointed at me, telling them to give it to me! He didn't leave the stage until he saw that I had it! As soon as he saw that it was back with me, he was outta there! What guy!!

All The Best,
Joyce

Update II (5/4/02) From Mary Roche:

My husband and I traveled from Scranton, PA to New York to see Paul. Now this was our fifth time seeing him live in concert. I think Paul just get "Better All The Time." Both my husband Danny and I thought he sounded amazing. We stayed over night at the Days Inn on 8th Ave and we had such a nice weekend but the concert made is so special for us. We sang along and loved ever song.

I was thrilled with all the Beatles tunes but I would be happy seeing Paul perform even more of this solo work. I have a wish list of more songs I wish I could have heard and I didn't want it to end. He seemed so happy and to be enjoying himself very much. Paul's band is also great!! If you haven't seen him yet and you have tickets, you are in for a magnificent show. Mary

From Patti Murawski:

One of my friends who was at the Garden saturday said Billy Crystal was at the Saturday show.

From Linda Driss:

It's been four days and I'm still glowing. I felt like I'd made it to heaven, and heaven was full of Beatles music! It's been 36 years since I was at Shea Stadium, and when I saw Paul and heard the first notes of "Hello, Goodbye", the tears just rolled down my face as I jumped up and down. I was 18 years old again, and felt like a time traveller!

When Paul sang for John, George and Linda, I cried again, and wished I could turn back time and they could be standing there on the stage with Paul.

And when they showed the films of the Beatles in NYC in 1964 and Paul sang "All My Lovin", I cried even more, and my heart was overwhelmed with pure joy!

THANK YOU PAUL MC CARTNEY -- a true artist and a good friend to your fans. We have travelled through time together and shared our life experiences. Your music was, is and always will be timeless. See you next time, Paulie! May health and happiness follow you (and those you hold dear) down your long and winding road.

From Jason Schecter:

Definately the best backup band he's had especially in the vocal harmonies department. I wish they would have attempted the harmonies on Here, There, And Everywhere since I know that they could have if they rehearsed it.

I was hoping that with all the dough he has made over all these years he can certainly afford real musicians to play the orchestral parts in some of the songs instead of having a keyboardist recreate them. I went to see Brian Wilson last Summer and that backup band the Wondermints were incredible. I wish Brian's voice would have held up as well as Paul's though, but with all the craziness he's gone through I'm just happy that he's still here with us.

Paul doesn't have to hire a full orchestra but at least a horn section and a string quartet to give his already great sounding band an even more tremendous sound. Well maybe next time around. I also wish (along with one of the other reviewers) that he had played some of his Flaming Pie material more than the Driving Rain stuff. Flaming Pie does sound more Beatlesque and would have blended in more with this concert. I guess that stuff will "Sit on the shelf" like Getting Better did for 35 years.

Well speaking of Getting Better, his singing is sounding better than ever (even makes me wonder if he could belt out heavier stuff like Helter Skelter or Oh Darling!). He sang every song I wanted to hear from both his Beatles and Wings catalogues. My cousin wished he sang Uncle Albert/Admiral Halsey but I think he would have had to arrest himself for appearing as if he had been smoking some "funny stuff" if he had sang that riduculous song. (he told the audience before the show was named honorary detective by the NYPD).

The concert had everything from emotional ballads and hard rockers. Also you can understand why Brian Epstein (Beatles original manager) fell in love with their (Beatles) charm and sense of humor with all of the funny stories he told, especially the one about Japanese massage woman who sang Yesterday.

I hope Paul stays excited for a long time about touring (those massage people better give him good ones) and hope that he will return back to the Garden (damn sounds like a Woodstock lyric). Also best wishes to Paul and I hope that with his new love and new excitment from touring and playing music he comes up with great album soon.

From John Corcoran:

I'll open with a quote my brother sent me today - seems appropriate here: "When someone tells you something defies description, you can be pretty sure he's going to have a go at it anyway." -- Clyde B. Aster

I have never been so moved by a performance as I was last Friday at Madison Square Garden. Paul was really on top of his game and the band breathed new life into the material. They were true to the original material, but you could definitely see each performers' handiwork in the end product. What a voice, what a performer, and what a wonderful person.

This was my first opportunity to see any of the Beatles, and the concert left me feeling like I had fulfilled a life dream. A week after and I still feel giddy talking about the show.

What a monumental task to put together a set list for this tour. It must have been a painstaking effort to pick and choose material from a prolific 40-year career...but he chose so well.

The show defies description...

From Ellen and Anthony Barbera:

Just saw Paul McCartney at the Garden on Friday night (4/26/02). Absolutely amazing! No other words to describe it ... the man and the music are ageless ... timeless. His talents, which span so many generations, never fading ... . Went to the concert with a dear friend who (was) not particularly a fan ... well ... she IS now!!! She didn't realize how many of his songs she actually knew!!! We sang, we danced, we ROCKED! We laughed and we cried ... we loved it all!!! Thanks for the wonderful night, Paul!!!

Signed ~ A fan since 1964 and a brand new fan!!!

From Corinne White:

BTW, the key board player from BonJovi - Dave Bryan - was in the audience on Friday night. Love to see celebrity fans of celebrities. {Especially true music lovers.}

Update (5/4/02) From Patti Murawski:

Hi Steve,

Some notes on the MSG Shows. Quite a different atmosphere from 1989-90 when Paul soloed at the Garden last (not counting the concert for NYC). There were waiters in the aisles hawking champagne with strawberry garnish at $7.50 a pop, and they had a LOT of takers!

Both days blocks of tickets were released in the afternoon, so if you think you have been shut out of the show, go anyway. Go early and check the box office.

Different vending stands didn't have all the mechandise available. In the main entrance on 7th Avenue, on both lobbies (left and right) there were three mechandise stands. Some had items different than the others, and some ran out of certain sizes in certain shirts. It's not true they only had the denim jackets in XL because one member of my party was able to buy one Saturday night in medium. They had M, LG and XL available. In the arena rotunda lobbies they did have places where they sold merchandise, but it wasn't the full range of items. Yes, it's a good idea to get your "stuff" before you go into the show, and make sure you ask for a bag, as they pack stuff in black and white Driving USA bags.

Lots of bigwigs in the audience at MSG, both nights. Lots of "suits" as Paul has called them in the past, but little pockets of regular fans amongst them. There were also NYPD, FDNY, and PAPD members in the audience too.

First night:

Stella attended the first night, Friday night's show. She was dressed in a revealing blouse and black stilletto patent leather boots. One person I spoke to talked to her and she said she was only coming to the show on Friday and not Saturday. Paul also mentioned there were a lot of friends and family in the audience.

He added a little more to the massage story. When telling the New Orleans story he said when the guy was finished and Paul was sitting up again Paul said the man said to him, " 'Try to burn a hole into my eyes with your eyes....' " and Paul said, "Hey, I'm looking for a massage, not a relationship!" which got a good laugh.

During the story for the George tribute Paul added how George was a member of the George Formby fan club, and how he went to the meetings, "all 20 of them" (I assume he meant all 20 members... the GF FC actually has quite a few members Macca!)

I was wondering if they were filming for video release on both nights. I don't recall the lights being turned on to illuminate the front sections after songs in the acoustic sets at past shows as they did on the second night, but maybe it's just a bit of brain fade on my part. I did see a lot of handheld video of the audience being taken both nights that wasn't a part of the usual scenes put up on the video screens, and one in particular on Saturday night when the camera operator ran down the center aisle toward Paul (whose mike was right in front of the center aisle) for a camera shot. Ran by us the first night with a hand held too when my friend Rick held up an FDNY sign during Freedom and stopped to take a shot of his sign...

I was surprised "Freedom" didn't get a better response during the song considering where we were...New York City, Madison Square Garden.

First night he didn't tell the Sam the Sham part of the L7 story after C Moon.

During Wix's introduction (he was "delicious" tonight), he said his first time playing Madison Square Garden was in 1989. "The department of creative accounting said it was my 200th show, so if you don't mind..." he took out a bottle of champagne and poured himself a glass) "this calls for some champagne." They went on to joke about his 4-5 chords he learned to play on the guitar, and Paul said, "are you going to remember them all?" Wix came back with, "Well, I've had a drink now..."

When the painted piano was carried out the first night, someone else was wearing the strongman costume (someone told me it was Abe, but it wasn't), it was ill fitting, and Paul started laughing hysterically, not a part of the usual routine, it took him by surprise and got a laugh out of him. My friend told me what had Paul cracking up, believe it or not, was that the same guy brought it out, BUT he was in his bare skin without the padding part of the outfit...! "I did a double take but sure enuff! Paul said something, almost mumbling as tho he was talking to himself about how there was a dare going on about that and he couldn't believe they actually decided to pull the stunt off...it was only having been up close that you could actually see the padding part of the costume was not on him..."

Someone threw a Yankees Beanie bear on stage at the end. It had a clip on it and he tried to clip it to his belt loop, but couldn't so he held it up on his shoulder instead.

At the Garden both nights they used only Red White and Blue confetti for the confetti bombs, and the way they ceiling is configured, they could only do the confetti at the very front and very back, so very little floated over the center part of the arena.

Second night:

Paul dedicated "Loving Flame" to Heather by name. He hadn't mentioned her name during any of the introductions at any of the other shows I went to.

When he was telling the massage story he added in the bit about the "burn my eyes with yours" in the New Orleans bit.

Lorne Michaels was there, and we saw Michael Douglas (without his wife) being escorted to a seat near the front of the center floor section (he left with bodyguards before the last encore). In fact the front center 4-5 rows were being "guarded" by burly security guys in suits that had "lists" of guest in their pockets that they kept pulling out. Abe's auntie was in the front too, and there was this whole contingent Paul kept calling the "Abe fan club" who were all wearing "I love Abe" shirts. Heather was also sitting in the front on the piano side.

His intro of the John tribute got a better response this night than the previous night. He had tears welling up in his eyes as he started the song, but pulled himself together by the middle of the song.

During the massage story, when he said, "I was in Tokyo on tour" and a roar when up from the crowd; he came back with, "no, not THAT time!"

During the show, one lone piece of confetti came fluttering down in front of Paul and he kept watching it come down, making this face, trying to figure out what it was or where it came from. It fluttered really close to his head.

This show Wix was introduced as "the delectible".

Paul's voice was rough in spots tonight. He did something like 5 shows this week (1 in Long Island, 2 in DC, 2 in NYC) so I'm not surprised. I do remember seeing him coughing in between a verse on one of the faster songs, but I can't remember which one it was.

Some fans managed to get by the body guards near the end and down in front. Paul received a couple of bouquets, and signed some autographs for things thrown up to him. He made sure they got back to the right people before he walked off too. One friend of mine got a slick of Driving Rain signed, which thrilled her to pieces, even though it was only his first name that he signed.

From Debbie Sarnik-Foley (Lady Madonna):

I've been to all 3 NY shows. In my opinion, the Nassau Coliseum show was the all around best, but the MSG shows had some high-points!

Good news, bad news! For MSG/NYC, after what happened on 9/11, I think security was lax. I got my camera into all 3 venues, but MSG was the easiest. I saw the band (not Paul) show up on Friday and Abe was searched and wanded more than I was! My brother had a little knife on his key chain last night that he was sure they would take. However, they took my bottle of Poland Spring away. What's up with that? Good for me since I made it outta there alive......... but think about it.

On to better things:

I was expecting HIGH energy during Freedom at MSG, but found more at the Nassau Coliseum show. After the song at the Coliseum, people were stamping their feet and shouting USA! USA! USA!

The Saturday MSG show had a special high note. During the tribute to John somebody held up a sign for Paul to see - and he did. It said JOHN LOVES YOU. And it was clearly meant for Paul, and Paul clearly understood that - as did we. It brought a huge applause and standing ovation and a clearly emotional Paul - much more than the other 2 shows.

At Saturday's show, he specifically mentioned Heather's name prior to Your Loving Flame. And after the show, he encouraged fans to throw their flowers to the stage as well as things for him to autograph. I saw him autograph at least 3. Then the confetti started falling and I don't think he could see a thing.

All in all, an expensive week for me, but well worth it. I had the opportunity to see the show with my 3.5 year old daughter, husband and brother. And, so I sprained my ankle coming home from the Friday show and had a medical bill to pay (I told the doctor I MUST see Paul and she gave me an aircast) on top of the cost of tickets.

But - hey - it's Paul!

From Beetulz:

attended three of the four New York area shows - the 17th in Jersey, 21st on Long Island and the 27th at Madison Square Garden. All the shows were great but I'd have to rank them as the Long Island show number one and the MSG show number three. The MSG show was the one I was most looking forward to. I thought he may do something different at that show like Mull of Kintyre or have a "guest" or something so maybe my hopes were just to high. Of the three shows my best seats were the ones at MSG. The first thing I noticed was the volume was certainly cranked up for this show. I talked to three other people at the show about this (one who had seen the show before) and they thought it was loud as well.

I personally feel the loudness affected the quality of the music and for the first time I detected a bit of a strain in some of Paul's vocals - maybe trying to sing above the music or maybe due to the back to back shows at MSG. There were also a few hiccups - a misplaced line in "We Can Work It Out", which he acknowledged with a smirk and a false start on "C-Moon", which Wix later commented on by saying something about it being hard to re-start the tapes (?). During the first explosions in "Live And Let Die" only one side of the stage went off - both worked the second time around.

The big thing I noticed was, although the crowd was in to it, they weren't as loud or as excitable as the other two shows. On Long Island they were loud from start to finish. At the Garden there seemed to be pockets and lulls. Perhaps this has to do with the high ticket prices keeping some of the "real" fans out and the "suits" grabbing the "hot ticket in town" being there for the "event". During "Here Today" some fans up front held up a large sign for Paul that said "John Loves You". This made me think last night after the show that something fun for anyone going to one of the remaining shows and who may be sitting on the floor up close might want to do, is make up a sign with the lyrics line from "You Never Give Me Your Money" that Paul can't remember..."any jobber got the sack..." and see if he sings it or sticks to his "this is the part I can't remember" bit.

Also during this show, Rusty pulled out his camera again to take a shot of the audience and again Paul came in with the line about no cameras being allowed, so this is just shtick not a serious warning from Paul as someone previously thought. And Heather actually got mentioned by name this time in the intro to "Your Loving Flame". All in all it was a great couple of weeks - getting to see him three times and I'd do it even more if I could. Hopefully he comes back again!

From janetsdaug:

I don't usually do this. In fact, I never do this. I'm one of those people who keep my thoughts about Paul McCartney to myself. Enjoying his music was simply a pleasure for me. I've enjoyed his music since 70's AM radio played over and over again; remember instant replay, George Harrison's "Give Me Love". My older sister told me that George was a member of the Beatles. If I wanted a couple of Beatles albums that she had thrown on the side I could have them. Bread was her favorite band now and the Beatles albums were just taking up space. This is when it all started and because Paul McCartney was the most active ex-Beatle ("Band On The Run" days) he quickly became my favorite.

I followed him year after year. Simply enjoying his music. From Experimental to Classical. Actually, through him I started to appreciate Classical Music and New Age Music and suddenly that is what I started to listen to. At home, at work and in the car. Paul McCartney CDs where no longer purchased, instead I saved my money for what was the featured CD at Wonders of Science and like stores.

So it shouldn't have surprised anyone that when my sister asked me if I was going to any shows on the Driving Rain tour, I told her no. My family was in shock. I, after all, was a person who got 14th row tickets from his Fun Club in 1989. Now in 2002 the answer was simply no. On a daily basis people would ask me over and over again. I told them I had no desire to go. Then, when I found out what concert tickets go for these days I actually was glad that I had no desire to go. After all, I was saving for a much needed new car.

Well, for some reason that only she knows, my sister went ahead and bought me a ticket to the Saturday night show at the Garden. When she told me I was annoyed and felt sorry for her, especially after hearing what the ticket cost along with the extra fees and services charges. Before I could say anything she informed me that this was to be my 42nd birthday gift from her. I told her thank you but she knew me too well and asked why I sounded funny. After several moments of silence she got the truth out of me. I did not want to go and thought she had wasted her money. She told me she couldn't get a refund so I HAD to go.

As the date approached I kept reading wonderful things about the 2002 Paul McCartney. Friends sent me emails of the reviews he was receiving. I thought that perhaps since both John and George were gone people were only being kind because they knew he was really all they had left. I felt maybe they thought Paul had suffered enough since the loss of Linda. I didn't think he would be any good and that these were false reviews.

Once I arrived at the Garden and the pre-concert entertainment started I feared that this might be the worst show I would ever see. The "performance art" beginning worried me that this would be how the whole show was. After the brief prep Paul appeared, bass held high. He looked fantastic. Somehow he had gotten younger. There was something different about him, NO, that wasn't it, there was something quiet comfortably familiar about him. There was a boyish grin and a twinkle that we had come to know. And suddenly I was taken back to when he first became my favorite.

NOW I REMEMBERED WHY HE WAS/IS MY FAVORITE ENTERTAINER AND ALWAYS WILL BE. This man gave everything he had to us that night. He was funny. He was singing in or close to the original key that he recorded the songs in. He is an incredible musician. He has the greatest voice in rock. He was having a better time then we all were. He had big mucho man screaming "PAUL PAUL PAUL".

The set list was even perfect. Putting songs in an order that would have made a heck of a Greatest Hit album. He placed his new stuff together. He did an incredible unplugged section. He didn't let us down with "Live and Let Die" fireworks we have come to love. He somehow said, "Hey guys this is ALL of me. Past, Present and Future. How do you like me this way because I feel comfortable with me."

He did tributes to John, George, Linda and NY. He even briefly honored his new lady who he said was in the audience. His knew we would all want to SEE him, so he had many video screens large and small. I sat in the nosebleeds way in the back but felt as if I was, somehow, much closer than that. He rewarded our enthusiasm with a couple of encores.

Paul McCartney reminded us all why he is one of the most beloved musicians in the world. And just when I had rejuvenated my feeling for him he did something that also reminded me of how humble he is. After the last encore and final bows someone threw a paper to Paul. He caught it and started walking away with it when he realized that the person didn¹t want him to have the paper but wanted him to autograph it. As the rest of the band left the stage Paul hovered graciously honoring the request. It was almost as if he didn¹t want the evening to end as much as we didn¹t want it to end.

Thanks Paul!!!! You¹re worth any price!!!

From Rick Holly:

An amazing night in all respects! My brother and I drove in from our little town of Endicott, NY, a journey of about 3 hours. Perfect day for "Driving". We were able to park in a parking garage right across the street from the Garden and spent the afternoon wandering around Times Square. A pretty wild place for a couple of small town lads. I saw Paul here back in December of '89, but my brother had never had the privilege.

We had tickets for the Syracuse show in '93 that got cancelled so he was nervous that something would come along to mess this one up, too. We both purchased great looking shirts (I went with the khaki number) and waited in line to head up to the seats.

The opening part was a little strange, but had some entertaining bits like the girl who emerged from the box. All of sudden the silouhette of Paul with the Hofner appeared on the screen and the joint went nuts! Being that I'm a fan since the now legendary Sullivan show, it amazes me to realize that I'm really watching Paul McCartney on stage.

We sat in Section 335 (God bless Ebay!) and had a pretty good view with the screens making close-ups possible.

It would be hard to narrow down which songs I liked the best. I loved the way "Lonely Road" sounded live (it kicked butt!), "Every Night" and "C Moon" were real treats. While he was singing "My Love" and occurred to me how strange it was not to have Linda there. The acoustic set was fabulous, but that is not a slight ot his band. I agree with a review I read that said they add an edgier sound to much of the material. It was a wonderful night and if you can get tickets, by all means get them! We were amazed at the rush for soveniers after the show. Couldn't figure out why these people didn't get stuff before hand when it was nice and calm. It looked like something frm the Stock Exchange!.

I was able to purchase a poster of Paul leaping over the car that wasn't actually for sale for only $5. Never be afraid to ask!

Thanks Paul, Rusty, Brian, Abe and Wix and all of your crew!

P.S. We drove home in a "Driving Rain" (no joke!)

From Susan Cohen:

Am still recuperating from seeing Paul 2 nights in a row at Madison Square Garden. I had not seen him since 1990 as I was living in San Francisco when he toured in 1993 and he completely bypassed the Bay Area.

I don't think I can add anything new to what everyone else is saying except that this man is truly amazing and has given me such happiness and joy over this past weekend. On Friday night I went to the concert on my own through an ETS package. I Saturday night I attended with my cousin from Boston, also a Maccamaniac and Beatles fan from 1964. The show was perfectly paced, the visuals were incredible and the man himself defies his age. His energy level was beyond belief. He looked like he was 25 and I was really impressed with his new band, especially Abe the drummer. Abe just had such joy on his face all night - probably thinks he is one of the luckiest people alive to be playing with Paul McCartney.

All in all a beautiful, amazing, magical night. Thank you Sir Paul for almost 40 years of incredible music and memories. I will cherish these concerts forever.

Update II (4/28/02) From Kathleen M. Calvert:

I am so glad to have found this site and somewhere to get my emotions out...........I have just been flying high for 24 hours and beginning to crash now. Last night was a night I have been waiting a lifetime for!!!!!!

I am 50 years young ( ouch). I last saw Paul and the Beatles at Shea Stadium when I was 14. That was of course great, but the best was seeing them on their first North American Tour August 1964 in Atlantic City Convention Hall. I was just 13 and took a bus all by myself to Atlantic City, where friends of my parents met me ( they had the tickets). I remember my suitcase with poster board on it saying "Beatles or Bust". During a lull in the roar of screams, I screamed as loud as I could and Paul waved to me--no one believes me when I tell them about that, but I have carried that moment with me for all these years.

Life, family, illnesses, etc have prevented me from seeing Paul again--until last night. And what a night!!!!! My seat was in section 4 on the floor and from the moment we arrived I could feel the tears welling. When Paul's silouhette appeared along with his famous guitar--that was it, the tears just fell, and here it was only the beginning of the show ! Happy, happy tears they were.

I won't go into all the details of the songs, as they are already listed. I loved it all, including Driving Rain, although was hoping for "From a Lover to A Friend"--but that's ok. All My Lovin', I Saw Her Standing There, Can't Buy Me Love, Hey Jude...guess I could say these were my favorites...showing my age here. But actually there wasn't one song that didn't have my heart pounding. Paul was amazing--I can tell you honestly, he is the same Paul, the same voice, the same gestures....it was all the same... I was back in time and lovin it. It was sentimental, it was happy, sad, and at the same time a celebration of being lucky enough to have had the Beatles in my life.

About half way through I couldn't stand it anymore--up on my chair, hanging on dearly to my husband so as not to fall since of course I had to keep dancing and singing my heart out. Today every bone and muscle in my body hurts--what a difference 37 years makes!

Thank you Paul--you are still the best...........love you forever and forever, love you with all my heart !!!!!!!!!!!!!

From Sharon Lynch:

I saw the show last night and there was not "maybe" - I was amazed!

Not one was he wonderful, - as expected, but his stamina was impressive - to say the least. He did nto even have an intermission. and, unlike when you see other groups where different members sing different songs. Paul sang every song. wonderfully!!!!!

LOVED HEARING THE OLD BEATLES TUNES. LOVED - THE TRIBUTES TO JOHN AND GEORGE - which literally had me crying like a baby.

The concert was much much better than i ever hoped it would be and i hoped it would be stupendous!!!!!!

peace
sharon :-)

From John and Monica O. in New Jersey:

We just got back from the MSGarden show - as with all the other reviews - it was excellent!! Paul looked and sounded great!!

John & Monica in NJ

From Phillis F.:

Last night at the Garden was the ultimate! He was fantastic. Didn't stop for almost 3 hrs. I could almost believe I was back in the '60s. The band was outrageous and superfine. The best night ever. The man gets better with age.

Peace always.
Phillis F.

From Eloise Costello:

Hi Steve,

Here is my review of the Driving USA Tour, Madison Square Garden, Friday, April 26, 2002

Maybe I’m not amazed that Paul McCartney can perform the ideal concert. After all, he is an amazing human being. If Paul were here right now I would thank him for choosing to play so many Beatle songs. It was extremely gratifying for this Baby-Boomer fan to hear rockers like All My Loving, Can’t Buy Me Love, Back in the USSR, and I Saw Her Standing There. The sound system and the band were extraordinary. They all connected and worked so well together. Of course I loved the acoustic set, especially Blackbird, Mother Nature’s Son, and Here There and Everywhere.

Here was Paul and his guitar in front of thousands of people totally poised and relaxed as if he were in own living room. When he played his tributes to John, George, and Linda, they were delivered with expressive sensitivity that reached throughout the entire audience. He showed us McCartney, the friend, the lover, the family man, as human as the rest of us. I enjoyed the Driving Rain selections better live than on the album.

Freedom was a big crowd pleaser, especially since it was originally performed for the first time at Madison Square Garden at the Concert for New York. His Wings songs, Jet and Band on the Run were exciting and energetic. Throughout the night he charmed us with his funny stories told in all the right places.

I had read many of the reviews so I knew what to expect, but the real thing, the concert, was beyond my expectations. Paul’s energy level is so high. He looked great, really young, probably because he thinks young.

This was a most memorable night, one I will never forget. Let’s hope that the “last concert” rumors are false. I don’t want to put pressure on this living legend, but how about another tour in 2006, the year Paul turns 64? It could be the “When I’m 64 Tour.” What an amazing thought!
Eloise Costello
Fanwood, NJ

(4/28/02) From Thomas Brennan:

Steve, Paul sounded better on this concert than I've ever heard him before. Here's my review/notes from last night's concert. Let's hope a home video is released after the tour is over!

Paul McCartney left everyone completely satisfied after an amazing 2 1/2 hour performance on opening night at a jam-packed Madison Square Garden in New York City on April 26, 2002.

The show started when dancers in white with masks on sticks came out at 8:20 PM by walking through the crowd to the stage. There was a lady walking on top of a ball, a strongman in a loin cloth lifting fake weights, and a man on stilts dancing and spinning around with female acrobats. All this was going on with 3-D scenery on the video screens in the background. The back of the stage was covered with various sizes of video screens from top to bottom. Then at 8:38 PM, you could see Paul's silhouette holding his trademark Hofner bass guitar, and that image brought the crowd to their feet immediately. Paul appeared wearing matching black pants and jacket, with a red t-shirt that said on the front: "NO MORE LAND MINES" and surprised everyone by performing...

1. Hello, Goodbye
2. Jet
Paul: "We've come to Rock you tonight"
3. All My Loving [1964 NY footage on video screens]
Paul on electric guitar:
"This is one of those songs that got recorded and put on a shelf"
4. Getting Better [Paul played the ending piano part on guitar]
Paul on bass:
"Many of you have your families in town...we're going to party"
5. Coming Up
For the first five songs I was in such awe from being at such a historic
place like Madison Square Garden where the "Concert For Bangladesh" took
place and the "One To One" concerts, and the "Wings Over America" tour.
When the next song began, I snapped out of it and started to enjoy the
concert and started to sing along.
Paul on electric guitar:
6. Let Me Roll It
Paul took off his jacket: "It's getting hot in here"
Paul on bass:
7. Lonely Road
"Driving Rain" story
8. Driving Rain [video screens: numbers counting and raindrops]
Abe's introduction
Paul on piano (song dedicated to Heather indirectly)
9. Your Loving Flame
Paul on acoustic guitar
"Blackbird" story
10. Blackbird
11. Every Night
fakeout: "As I was walking down the road"
12. We Can Work It Out
time is 9:25 PM
Wix on accordian
13. Mother Nature's Son [with nature videos: mountains, rivers, flowers,
etc]
Paul on smaller acoustic guitar [with Rusty]
"Vanilla Sky" story. Paul mentions singing it at the Oscars.
14. Vanilla Sky
circus strongman and others carry out psychedelic piano
Paul: "they're using too many of those steroids"
Paul on psychedelic piano
15a. You Never Give Me Your Money
Paul forgets most of the second section: "Any jobber got the sack..."
and makes one up something like ["and I forgot the words and I'll just
keep on going 'til I get to the part I remember..."]
15b. Carry That Weight
15c. You Never Give Me Your Money
sings on piano: "it's time for your massage", etc
story of massage in New Orleans: "...giraffe with a hollow bronze
leg..."
story of massage in Tokyo: "she told me to lay on the floor on towel..."
The Japanese lady sang "Yesterday" while massaging Paul.
16. Fool On The Hill
circus strongman and others take away piano
Paul on acoustic guitar
Paul: "let's hear it for John" [MSG crowd gives long standing ovation
for John Lennon]
Paul talks about regretting not telling people you love them enough when
they're alive. "I wrote this as a conversation I imagined having with
John."
17. Here Today
Paul on ukelele
ukelele story: George gave Paul a Gibson ukelele; George was a member of
the George Formby fan club and went to the meetings playing the ukelele
18. Something
Everyone in the audience sang along on the "I don't know, I don't know"
section.
Paul: "George played it like this..." [Plays a little bit of Something
really fast.]
Paul on acoustic guitar
19. Eleanor Rigby
Paul: "the NY police made me an honorary detective before the show, so
whoever's smoking that stuff, stop it or I'm gonna bust you!" [pot smoke
was rising from the front-right section of the floor area]
20. Here, There And Everywhere
time is 10:00 PM
Paul on bass
21. Band On The Run [sound was deafening-crowd (standing) went NUTS!;
video clips of Wings on tour]
22. Back In The USSR [video of Russian things]
Rusty's introduction
Paul on piano
23. Maybe I'm Amazed
24. C Moon
story of hearing the L line in the song "Wooly Bully", C Moon makes a
circle-opposite of L7
this song is for Linda (and all Lindas here tonight)...
25. My Love
Wix intro: "the last time I was here was 9 years ago/1993; the
accounting people here have informed me that this is my 200th show with
Paul"; Wix drinks a toast with champagne]
Wix on acoustic guitar
Paul: "Wix only knows 5 chords; let's see if he can play all 5 right"
Paul on bass
26. Can't Buy Me Love [videos from the Field scene of "A Hard Day's
Night"]
Paul: "that last song wasn't new; this one is...everybody clap like this
[demonstrates]..."
[Statue of Liberty banner comes down in front of stage; Statue of
Liberty artwork on video screens]
27. Freedom
Brian's intro (guitar and bass)
Paul on piano
28. Live And Let Die
Explosion at the end knocks down Rusty. Unexpected small explosion at
the end of the song scares Paul and he leans against the piano holding
his heart.
29. Let It Be
psychedelic piano comes back out
Paul: "There's a bit at the end that you might want to sing along with"
30. Hey Jude
[audience singalong with everyone, men only, women only, then eveyone
again; Paul's scream before the singalong section is unbelievable!]
band takes its bows at 10:47 PM

encore 1 at 10:50 PM
band comes out with flags, Paul with American flag
Paul on piano
31. The Long And Winding Road
32. Lady Madonna [videos of women]
Paul on bass
Paul: "do you have any more energy to keep Rocking?"; audience: "Yes!"
33. I Saw Her Standing There

encore 2 at 11:00 PM
Paul on acoustic guitar
34. Yesterday
Paul thanks everyone: "...you gotta go home sometime." audience: "No!"
35. Sgt. Pepper's reprise/The End [great drum solo by Abe]
concert ends at 11:10 PM
red, white & blue confetti falls from the ceiling

From Kevin Langan:

Saw Paul last night at Madison Square Garden, and it was a FAB evening! How does Macca do it? His voice just stays as fresh at the end as it was at the beginning of the 2 and 1/2 hour concert. And he is halfway thru his USA tour now, so one would think he would have to be getting fatigued at some point with nary an evening off here and there as he races from town to town! But he nailed every song almost spot on, like he was only 22 again and on The Beatles first American Tour! His Beatles hits were the audience's favorites last night and every time he started one, the whole Garden lept to its feet and the place just rocked right along with him! His Wings hits had almost (not quite!) the same effect (I think there were more Beatles fans from the 60's, than Wings fans from the 70's, in the house), and whenever he did a new tune off Driving Rain, most of the audience sat down ! and he got polite applause at the end of those numbers. He should have done more Flaming Pie numbers instead if you ask me (I am not a big fan of Driving Rain Album).

He announced the NYPD had made him an honorary NYPD Detective before the show and then proceeded to warn people in the first few rows that whoever was smoking "that stuff" he was going to bust them!!

Everyone around me was asking who's idea the silly warm-up "circus" act was, and we all decided it was probably something Yoko would have loved if she decided to come to the concert last night, and maybe she was behind its creation!! Don't miss this concert fellow Beatlefans, a splendid time IS guaranteed for all! Kevin Langan

From Craig Pospisil:

Okay, here's the thing we all have to agree on. No one tell Paul McCartney that he's almost 60, because he obviously has no idea. If he knew that he was about to reach that age there is no way that he would be touring, and doing 2 1/2 hour shows each night, and SINGING THE WAY HE DOES!! Paul's voice is a marvel. I saw him at Madison Square Garden in December 1989 on the "Flowers in the Dirt" tour, and I was amazed at how good he sounded. Well, over twelve years later and I'm still amazed.

So anyway, the show... my girlfriend and I went to see Paul last night at the Garden and he put on a terrific show. Some of the reviewers have't cared for the "Cirque de Soleil-ish" pre-show, but Brooke and I thought it was fun. It was a nice theatrical build-up to the show itself. It was also nice that there were vendors walking through the aisles of the Garden with trays of champagne (yes, champagne) for sale. With strawberries floating in the glasses no less. Rock concerts have changed.

The crowd went crazy when the lights went down and the silhouette of McCartney and his Hofner bass appeared on the screen. The opening numbers were great and high energy. The audience loved hearing "Hello, Goodbye," and the crowd reaction got stronger with each song, with an extra loud cheer for "Getting Better," which the band did a terrific version of.

The band was really tight. I didn't sense the same connection between them that I felt with Paul's 1989 band with Hammish Stuart and Robbie McIntosh, but they were really solid on all the songs. Wix announced at one point that this was his 200th show with Paul, and celebrated by pouring himself some champagne on stage! But most of all, I've got to say, I loved Paul's drummer, Abe. He seemed so unlikely as someone who might be touring with McCartney. He's this really big, hefty guy, young and with a funny beard, but he was so totally into his playing that he was great to watch. He was obviously having fun, and his playing was terrific. The three song selection from Paul's new CD did lower the energy, I felt. Most of the audience just didn't know the songs, and frankly they just paled next to the rest of his material. And that was just a "new songs" thing for me, at least. I loved the songs from "Flowers in the Dirt" on that tour, and they fit in well with the older works. Maybe if Paul had spread them out rather than doing three at once.

When that section was done, Paul started into his solo, acoustic part of the show. And he was marvelous. Twelve songs, a third of the whole concert, just him and a guitar - with occasional from one or two of the band members, like Wix on the acordian, etc. Paul had the thousands and thousands of people there in the palm of his hand. It was a real treat to hear him do "Every Night," "We Can Work It Out," and especially "Mother Nature's Son." The tributes to John and George were beautiful, and I loved Paul's singing on "Something."

The band returned with "Band on the Run" and from there to the end the show rocked. It was high energy and didn't let up. The combination of "Band on the Run" and "Back in the USSR" got people on their feet and dancing. When Paul introduced "My Love" as having been written for Linda you could see that he was choking up a bit, but the song was lovely and upbeat. "Can't Buy Me Love" and "Freedom" brought peopel to their feet again, and my girlfriend was amazed at the way McCartney had everyone singing "Hey Jude" at the top of their lungs.

When the band came back on for the encores, Paul came in waving an American flag and the guitarist waved the New York State flag. Paul had changed into a t-shirt, reading "no more land mines." The encores were great. "I Saw Her Standing There" always knocks me out, and I loved the way Paul sequed from the "Sgt. Pepper's...(reprise)" into "The End." A spectacular end to the concert.

From Carole Ostrander:

Hi Steve,

Just a few comments on the MSG concert, Friday night. First I want to say that I think I spoiled a lot of the concert for myself by reading these reviews everyday! There were just no surprises left, but what I did take away from the concert was just how fit Paul is, I had a pretty good view of him, (Section 5, in front) but the binoculars were all telling. (We, and everyone at the Garden, stood throughout the entire concert) He is quite thin, much thinner than he looks on his "Lonely Road" video, but looks like he works out his arms a bit. And so youthful. I realized that there was no camera trickery, that he really does look more like in his 40's than 60. (Webmaster's note: Carole, we noticed that, too. We're not as old as Paul, but since we're a first-generation fan, we're not that young. A lot of his good looks are probably makeup, but heck, he still looks good.) Also, his voice is superb, again, especially for a 60 year-old. Unlike many pop stars from from this generation, who have been using back up singers for years to hit the high notes, it's all Paul.

His band is awesome, and his drummer, Abe, who has gained quite a bit of notoriety with this tour, got a very respectable response from the crowd, as did his young guitarist.

But, I have to say that his rendition of "Something", alone, was worth the price of my ticket. I can't really put it into words, but the ukelele, and the way he kept the tempo with just the step of his foot, combined with the images of George, were just chilling. Lovely.

The crowd absolutely loved him, I even saw many security guards singing along to "Let Me Roll It", "Hey Jude" "Band on the Run" and others. It's all still sinking in, but it, truly, was a rockin' night.

Carole and Brian Ostrander

Update II (4/27/02) From Jeff Jacomowitz:

Hey Steve -

The night was just perfect -- though I was hoping somewhere in the back of my mind that Paul may do "Venus & Mars" because of the "Madison Square" reference in that song -- but that didn't matter. I believe that the costume gig before the show may be in relation to his company, MPL. It's all that 18th Century England magical repertoire -- masks, jugglers, wide dresses (who knows-- just my thought). It was a Beatles show more so than Paul or Wings solo. My wife was loving it (the big Barry Manilow fan she is) and she smiled when I asked her during the show...so how do you like The Beatles??

Anyway, when Paul came out with "Hello Goodbye" that couldn't be anymore perfect, with the video lights of different colors (just magical. He went right into "Jet" which Paul's voice which was so powerful. Chills running up and down my spine as I was clapping and dancing. The same chills I got in '89 and '93!! If you remember the photos of Paul's short hair circa 1980, he looked just like that. Tonight, he wore a red T-shirt with his black sport jacket over it, until he took that off saying it was getting hot on stage.

Paul, bringing out a ukulele on stage, told a story on how George belonged to a ukulele club and how George used to get together with that club and jam with their ukuleles. In heartfelt tribute, Paul then played George's "Something", and the videos of George were incredible. Paul also did "Here Today" for John and "My Love" For Linda (everyone cheered!). It's unbelievable how much loss he's experienced and still tours -- amazing. Oh yes, "Your Loving Flame" for "that someone who's here tonight.

Paul also told of getting various massages (in New Orleans and in Tokyo) and said also he was named as an honoree detective by the NYPD. And the other thing I can remember was he told us what "C Moon" is -- sorry, I can't remember.

In Paul's 2nd encore in which he did "Yesterday" he did a remarkable job of putting together the "Sgt. Pepper reprise" and "The End medley". What can I say -- the man, the voice, the look -- nothing will ever stop Paul McCartney!!

Anyway, here are all of the songs (not in order, but more chronologically -- couldn't write them down):

Thanks Steve!! Jeff Jacomowitz

From Bill Coffran:

Advice to concert goers for sat. night - buy your souvenirs BEFORE the concert, items selling like hotcakes. Security was light, just quick scan, no patdown, bags were checked though. People were taking photos, those few who attempted to bring cameras.

I arrived at 6 P.M., purchased everything in sight, (shame on me), denim jackets come in XL only but look great!. Never saw so many different items for sale at a concert before, from mugs to drinking glasses to 20 different T-shirts, to a woman's night gown to shoulder bag $90.....all very expensive. They did accept credit cards. Concert doors opened 7 P.M. Excellent opportunity exists for taping this concert ( hint, hint). Set list as published, few surprises....( Paul announced that NYCPD made him an honorary detective and that he would bust anyone smoking that funny stuff).

Band terrific, they must have decided to mix down the drums a bit for a better sound balance. All seemed to be having a terrific time.

Beatle songs all received standing O's, emotion filled for nearly all old enough to remember when. There were a few tickets released for sale just before show time available at the box office and word has it that that will be the case sat. night as well. I just might go again , myself if I can sell something to pay for the tickets. The anti mine field group has a table set up where they are selling T-shirts at $20 a pop or a repro of a Paul painting at $50 a pop. Highlights of course were the John and George tributes, "MY Love" written for Linda as mentioned by Paul and, of course, ALL the BEATLES songs!

First encore had Paul running out on stage waving a huge American flag with the band waving a NYS flag. Wix poured a glass of champagne to commerate his 200th concert appearance with Paul.

GREAT SHOW- miss it and you're not really a Beatles fan, are you. P.S. Most important of all, as he left the stage after the final encore, Paul made it a point to say.."see you all next time".

Bill - BEATLES7

From ScottDJ:

I have seen one show from each of Paul's various tours over the years. No matter how you judge them, this is easily the best. We were all more drained at the end than Paul seemed to be. So emotional and warm. The tributes to John, George, and Linda left us all wishing we had brought our Beatle hankies with us. Even Paul was holding back tears after those songs. I'm sure we appreciate him more as we all grow old together and think about those who are no longer with us.

But the evening is really about joy, not sadness. To hear these songs live even though they have been etched in our brains for decades, is just a thrill. Paul is so relaxed and enjoying himself, it's almost as if he is entertaining at his home. The 'lad' still hits the high notes too. And what a band!!!!

Thanks Paul.

Scott M. Levittown, Pa

(4/27/02)

From Wayne Greenberg:

hi, Paul arrived at the Garden at apx 4.30 pm...a small crowd of apx 10 or more people were at the ramp to greet his limo which drove straight in..Paul however lowered the window and waved hello but did not stop. When the limo got under the gate, Paul stepped out to have the security run their metal detector over him (even paul has to go thru that). At that point, he waved again to us then the car drove the rest of the way in...the band had arrived in a van apx 3.30 and also went thru the same search.

The show started at 8.20 pm with paul taking the stage at apx 8.40pm. The set was the same..Paul had a few extra comments during the evening. He made a reference that the NYPD have made him a detective and he is going to bust whoever is causing that smell in the air (slight presence of pot was in the air)..Paul told his stories of his massages he has gotten in the past while sitting at the piano.

During "You Never Give Me Your Money," he note a sour note for a second and made a face then slapped his fingers after it. Paul's voice sounded fine. The band was tight. Considering this was New York, I sort of expected an even wilder crowd but they were fine. "Freedom," of course, went over big in NY. Paul made a comment, "We are all in this together," which drew a great response.

He acknowledged "My Love" for Linda and "Your Loving Flame" for "a special person in the audience" (we know who). Of course, Paul appeared a little choked up before doing "My Love." And the tributes to John and George went over big. Most of the chat between the songs was identical to other shows.

Two hours and 35 min later, it was all over...A magical night once again for all.


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