Paul McCartney - Now and Then

by Tony Barrow and Robin Bextor

Book Overview

In this book, Paul McCartney - the most prolific member of the Beatles, founder of Wings and enduring solo artist - speaks in his own words of his private life, his life as a singer, musician, composer, and businessman, of how the greatest band in the world came to be, and how and why they broke up. Paul McCartney Now and Then is the inside story from the man himself. Includes commentary from Sir George Martin, Steve Miller, Pete Best, Brian Wilson,...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0634069195
• ISBN13: 9780634069192
• Release Date: August 2004
• Publisher: Hal Leonard Publishing Corporation
• Length: 144 Pages
• Weight: 1.85 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 11.2" x 11.4"

Customer Reviews

Loved the Book

My son used this to gather unknown facts about Paul McCartney for a book report. He loved adding this to his collection of rock star books.

More Now Than Then

There are some worthwhile things about this book, although it might have worked better as less a coffee-table volume as it isn't quite that speed. What you get is more a portrait of Sir Paul today as he is perceived this last half-decade. The interviews with others (middle section) provide some good anecdotes. Good choice of people too. Barrow was there (with the lads) forever and has a perspective that is different, if not new. Not that many were "there" all through the Beatlemania years. Still, mostly we get stories and praises of Paul today. Think of this as an attempt to honor and praise Paul while he's alive, rather than after he's gone - much of it does seem like a eulogy at times. What's missing is more of an appreciation of his non-rock career (classical, experimental, animation soundtracks, painting, etc.) which seems to be a lot of what he is about since 1990.

Some great photos and revealing words

This is a welcome book for Macca fans everywhere. Though there is absolutely nothing new for people who have long followed Paul's career, for newbies this would be a veritable treasure trove. Paul speaks candidly about John, the Beatles break-up, his marriage with Linda, the infighting among various members of Wings (especially Denny Laine), and his musical legacy. There's nothing about Linda's struggle with breast cancer, her death, or the appearence of Heather Mills. So don't expect any information on Macca's life post-1998.All of this has been discussed ad nauseum by Paul in previous interviews dating back many years. But there are snippets that are marvelous. I especially like his description of he and John slagging off school and assembling in Paul's upstairs bedroom at 20 Forthlin Road to write songs. What wouldn't you give to have been on a fly on the wall in that room? The photos are nicely done with some rare and intriguing shots. Not many color shots and the photos from the Beatles years are a little weak. Still, if you love Paul, this is a "must have" for your collection.