By Craig Michaels
Sir Paul McCartney’s recent performance at Acrisure Arena felt nothing less than a musical event of a legend. At 83 years old, McCartney strode onto the stage and reminded everyone why he remains one of rock’s most iconic performers. The show served as the official kickoff for the North American leg of his Got Back tour — but those who’d followed his surprise show in Santa Barbara days earlier knew that McCartney still has surprises up his sleeve.
Just a few nights before, on September 26, McCartney delivered an intimate, phone-free show at the Santa Barbara Bowl — and shocked longtime fans by opening with “Help!,” a song he had not performed in full since 1990. He called it spontaneous. “It felt right tonight,” he told the audience. That night also featured a virtual duet with John Lennon on “I’ve Got a Feeling,” using archival footage, and a deeply emotional version of “Let It Be,” which drew one of the biggest ovations.
When the lights dimmed at Acrisure Arena, the applause roared. The stage visuals teased psychedelic imagery, Beatles photos, and McCartney’s iconic Hofner bass before the first note struck. McCartney and his longtime band materialized in greeting waves, peace signs, and fist pumps — and launched directly into “Help!” McCartney delivered — channeling Lennon’s original high parts with surprising poise. From there, the show coursed through an emotionally resonant setlist. He touched solo pieces and deep Beatles and Wings catalog favorites alike: “Coming Up,” “Got to Get You Into My Life,” “Let Me Roll It,” “Band on the Run,” and “Getting Better.” One of the most affecting moments came when McCartney paused mid-concert to remind the audience that the date would have been his mother’s 116th birthday, dedicating “Maybe I’m Amazed” to her memory. At another point he dedicated “My Valentine” to his wife Nancy, who was present in the arena. He also gave a shout-out to Olivia Harrison, George Harrison’s widow, in attendance — acknowledging the enduring resonance of The Beatles’ legacy.
Throughout the evening, McCartney maintained a surprising level of energy. He recognized each band member, shared stories (including one about seeing Jimi Hendrix long ago), and paused now and then to soak in the crowd’s affection. The audience responded with standing ovations and applause that seemed to roll like waves across the arena.
McCartney played multiple instruments — bass, guitar, piano, organ, ukulele — all live and without resorting to playback or mimicry. He never shifted keys to accommodate vocal decline — a testament to his integrity and faith in the music. The production impressed with pyro and multimedia visuals. “Live and Let Die” erupted in flames and fireworks, eliciting gasps from the audience.
When the encore break concluded, McCartney returned waving flags — American, British, California, and Pride. He then gave us a starring moment in a duet with John Lennon — projecting Lennon’s parts in “I’ve Got a Feeling” on screen while McCartney turned to watch his old friend sing. The show then barreled through “Sgt. Pepper (Reprise),” “Helter Skelter,” and closed with a soaring, multi-part finale: “Golden Slumbers,” “Carry That Weight,” and “The End.” For fans, it wasn’t just another concert — it was a statement: McCartney still cares deeply about his art, his legacy, and his connection to the audience.
