1999 News Archive

After the attack last week, George also feared he would never be able to play the guitar
again after his thumb and fingers were injured. But doctors were able to assure Harrison
he would make a full recovery.

George was further concerned to find out about the incident in his home in Maui. George
had been planning to recuperate at his Hawaii house but canceled these plans after being
told that another stalker had broken into his home there.

To guard against copycat stalkers, security has been intensified in all of George's homes.

January 2, 2000 - George Harrison Discharged From Hospital: George Harrison was cleared to leave his private room in Harefield Hospital on Saturday night after being examined by a chest specialist. Hospital officials had said on Friday that George would unlikely be fit to leave hospital until Sunday. But the spokesman said George was judged to be well enough after a series of tests.

A hospital spokesman said: “Harefield Hospital can confirm that George Harrison has been discharged from hospital after being assessed as medically fit by a consultant thoracic surgeon.”

He is expected to make a full recovery within weeks.

"Both Mr. Harrison and his wife would like to thank hospital staff and the many people who have sent them kind thoughts and wishes over the past few days."

George left the hospital on Saturday evening, but asked hospital staff not to release the news until Sunday.

George Harrison Stalked Second Time:As if last week's incident wasn't bad enough, George's home in Maui was also broken into recently. Fortunately, he wasn't there at the time.

January 1, 2000 - As previously reported, "All You Need Is Love" was played as the last song before midnight at Britain's Millennium Dome. However, The Electronic Telegraph had some critical words about this: "After George Harrison's injuries, the choice of  “All You Need is Love” as the last pop song before midnight seemed unfortunate."(I don’t agree - I’d like to think that George may have appreciated this choice)

In a heartfelt gesture during U2's performance on the Mall in Washington, D.C., Bono,
sang a little of "My Sweet Lord" in a semi-tribute to George.

Meanwhile, George and his wife Olivia spent a quiet New Year's Eve at his bedside at
Harefield Hospital, in northwest London. The couple celebrated with home-made food and
fruit brought by their housekeeper - but there was no booze to toast the new century
because of the hospital’s strict no alcohol policy.

George was in high spirits despite still having a drain in his collapsed lung. Harefield
general manager Robert Craig added: "He asked us to wish all the staff and patients a very happy New Year. George is in amazingly good form despite some discomfort - and the painkillers are making him drowsy. He kept joking even when we told him he will be here for a little while yet."

For ongoing, extensive coverage: Yahoo! Full Coverage: Ex-Beatle George Harrison Stabbed .

Harefield Hospital consulting surgeon William Fountain said the  knife blade just missed
George’s superior vena cava, a vein that drains blood from the head, upper body and arms.
George is due to have an X-ray on Saturday morning. Doctors will then decide whether he
is fit to return home.

Meanwhile George’s attacker has been detained at a psychiatric unit for assessment. A
hearing will be held Feb. 11.

December 30, 1999 - George Harrison Attacked in His Home by Intruder - Presently Recovering and in Stable Condition: In shocking news, at about 3:30 a.m., London time, a man broke into George Harrison's Oxfordshire mansion stabbing George in the chest. The officer leading the investigation for Thames Valley Police, Detective Chief Inspector Euan Read said that said the Harrisons had been woken by the sound of broken glass. How the intruder had evaded tight security is currently a matter of their ongoing investigation. George first encountered the intruder on the stairs of the mansion and attempted to fend off the attack. One report said George Harrison's wife Olivia had subdued the attacker by hitting him on the head with a lamp. According to authorities, George sustained an inch deep wound to the chest that penetrated the chest wall, leading to a collapsed lung. Fortunately, the knife blade had missed any major organs and surgery was not required. However, George was fitted with a chest drain. In the most recent report,George has been transferred to another hospital and is being attended to by a specialist in chest injuries.

The attacker's mother informed the media that he has a history of mental illness and had recently become obsessed with The Beatles. He is being questioned for attempted murder. It is now believed that robbery was not the motive.

Friends and fans alike are distressed that a quiet, peaceful man wanting only to lead a private life could be the victim of such a violent attack. The incident bears a chilling similarity to the murder of John Lennon which took place 19 years ago this month. Thankfully, today's incident had a different outcome but in it's own way is still very disturbing.

Today, Paul McCartney issued a statement about Harrison's stabbing, saying "Thank God that both George and Olivia are all right. I send them all my love." Ringo Starr and his wife, Barbara, also issued a statement, which read "[We are] deeply shocked that this incident has occurred. We send George and Olivia all our love and wish George a speedy recovery."

December 26, 1999 -Season Greetings from Yoko: This site includes a detailed interview with Yoko Ono by Jody Denburg of KGSR radio in Texas. Parts of this interview was used to prepare a promotional CD for the "John Lennon Anthology".

(12/16/99) "Paul McCartney: Back to Where He Once Belonged" By ALLAN KOZINN: Knowledgeable Beatles fans are well aware of NY Times' critic Allan Kozinn's excellent reporting skills. While many other articles are "cut and paste" exercises draw from press releases and other sources, Kozinn digs much deeper and delivers a thorough, well executed piece, rich in detail. IMO, *the* definitive article on the Cavern appearance.

(12/15/99) "Paul McCartney Live At The Cavern Club": The response to this performance has been amazing. The combination of Paul McCartney's first major live event since Linda's death, nostalgia, Beatlemania and Millennium fever produced a potent brew. You'd have to be made out of steel to not get swept up by the hype. The fact that it turned out to be a damn good performance certainly didn't hurt. That aspect still came through in spite of the infamous "internet congestion" that frustrated many fans. Today, Microsoft's email programs must be crashing as badly as last evening's webcast. You just don't get Beatles fans pissed off, Bill!

This record breaking web cast reportedly attracted 3.5 million people who (at least, attempted) to log in. At least, we still have the television broadcast to look forward to. In the case of Canada's "MuchMoreMusic" the sound of the concert is being remixed for the telecast. It airs on Thursday, Dec. 16th and Saturday, Dec.18th. Check your area's listings for exact times.

Web Links:  McCartney webcast sets world record ;  McCartney remixing Cavern club show ;  Sir Paul rules cyberworld ;  Rockin' on the Net ;  Macca rocks the Cavern as millions log on the Net ;  Paul live at the Cavern: All the news ... . (Added 12/16/99) McCartney-Mania Gives Liverpool Something To Shout About .

Paul's Set List:
                 Honey Hush
                 Blue Jean Pop
                 Brown-eyed Handsome Man
                 Fabulous
                 What Is It
                 Lonesome Town
                 Twenty Flight Rock
                 No Other Baby
                 Try Not To Cry
                 Shake A Hand
                 All Shook Up
                 I Saw Her Standing There
                 Party

(12/05/99) CNN Transcript - Larry King Live Weekend: Yoko Ono Discusses Her Latest Art Exhibit, the Beatles and Her Life With John Lennon - December 4, 1999

(12/04/99) On December 14th, Paul McCartney returns to the Cavern in Liverpool to perform songs from "Run Devil Run". For details:  BBC News | ENTERTAINMENT | Beatle gets back to his roots ;  Independent | Enjoyment ;  Liverpool.com ; (12/07/99) McCartney ticket raffle sparks new Beatlemania . Andrew Brooks' website features photos and sound clips from Paul's recent television appearance on Michael Parkinson's BBC1 talk show . For more detail on this program .

(12/01/99) Misc. News: The Dec. 7th limited edition single of John Lennon’s “Imagine” will be available for only 3 weeks, then withdrawn from the market. Get your copy while you can! Update (12/07/99) According to Jam Music, the release date is now Dec. 14th.

Dec. 13th is the release date of "Vo!ce" (Voice) by Heather Mills featuring Paul McCartney on vocals. You can get background information, news and listen to excerpts of 2 versions at coda records.

In other McCartney news, “A Garland for Linda” has been postponed until the spring of 2000. The video for “Working Classical” is now set for television broadcast after which it will be released on home video. Broadcast dates and other news will be forthcoming as it becomes available.

According to both the BeatleBrunch website and November’s “Record Collector” magazine, “The Paul McCartney Anthology” is officially underway. The film footage is being compiled by Paul’s son in law. Paul informed Patrick Humphries that he will wait and see how much Wings and solo footage is collected before deciding on how to proceed with the project. It’s too soon to speculate on a release date but it’s good to get a confirmation about this much anticipated release. The November issue of “Record Collector” also includes a 10 page spread on McCartney with an interview and details about the recording of “Run Devil Run”.

(11/14/99) The Long and Winding Road: It's been a long seven weeks since I've updated this page (the details of this might make interesting reading in another forum!) In the meantime, Paul McCartney released "Run Devil Run" and "Working Classical" (now #1 on Billboard's Classical Album chart); Ringo released his Christmas album.  When I resumed my online activity this past week, I was pleasantly surprised to discover some news from the Lennon camp: A documentary about the making of the "Imagine" album entitled "Gimme Some Truth" has been completed and will be released next year. The film is reported to include previously unreleased session footage. Andrew Solt who worked on the acclaimed 1987 biofilm "Imagine: John Lennon" is involved, therefore a high quality treatment can be anticipated. The film has already been screened and sold to 13 television broadcasters worldwide. A reissue of the "Imagine" album (with possible bonus tracks) will accompany the release of the film on DVD next fall. It was strange to get this news about a month late, but as a longtime Lennon fan, I was very pleased. In related news, the song, "Imagine" is being reissued as a single in the U.K. on December 13th (in response to it's popularity in a recent millennium poll). The new single will also include "Give Peace A Chance", "Happy Xmas (War Is Over)", and a video clip of "Imagine" (in addition to the audio track). Further details on the television release of the "Gimme Some Truth" film will be forthcoming over the next few months.
Update: (11/19/ 99) From  Jam Music :"EMI Music Canada is releasing a limited-edition CD that features "Imagine", "Happy Xmas (War Is Over)" and "Give Peace a Chance". The enhanced CD also includes an "Imagine" video clip that shows a montage of images from Lennon's life. Only 2,000 copies of the CD will be available in Canada. It goes on sale Dec. 7."

According to "Billboard", the Beatles have been deemed the most successful recording act of the 20th century by the "Recording Industry Association of America" with U.S. sales of over 106 million albums. Congratulations!

(09/20/99) "Run Devil Run," Indeed!: Speaking of devils on the run, *this* devil will be running to the neighboring province of Nova Scotia (Halifax, to be exact) where I'll hang my hat for the foreseeable future. During this transition, my web page will remain online but will not be updated for a few weeks. For the latest news on Paul's new album, Macca Central has set up a few pages for "Run Devil Run" which should satisfy your fix: PETA Millennium Gala Report ;  Run Devil Run ;  Run Devil Run Listening Party .

(08/30/99) PETA's MILLENNIUM GALA Details on the PETA Animal Rights gala to be held on Sept. 18 in which Paul will be performing.
(also see August 9th entry below for more info)

RECENT NEWS: (09/19/99) Paul is scheduled to appear on both "Entertainment Tonight" and "Access Hollywood" on Monday, September 20th. These appearances follow the PETA Animal Rights gala that was held on September 18th and will no doubt be part of the promotional campaign for Paul's upcoming "Run Devil Run" album. Should be very interesting. The following piece from NY Daily News involves the "Access Hollywood" interview(s):

'Access' to a Beatle

Paul McCartney is finally ready to talk about life after Linda.

The former Beatle has agreed to sit down tomorrow night in Los Angeles
for a lengthy interview with Pat O'Brien of "Access Hollywood."

The chat will be a no-holds barred look at everything from how
McCartney has been coping since his wife's death to what it was like
being married to the love of his life.

O'Brien, a Beatles fan from way back, has been pursuing McCartney for
years, but gets his chance tomorrow when the singer-songwriter presents
an award to Pamela Anderson on behalf of People for the Ethical
Treatment of Animals.

Look for "Access" to air three McCartney pieces starting Monday.

(09/15/99) Epstein family issues statement over A&E error: The Epstein family has issued a statement on an error made by the A&E cable network in press releases for the upcoming "Biography" of Brian Epstein that airs on Friday, Sept. 17. The error is contained in the following statement: “He was found dead in his locked bedroom, vials of barbiturates beside his bed. The coroner said it was suicide.” The British coroner’s official verdict was “accidental death caused by an incautious self-overdose.” In a statement issued by Henry Brian Epstein, the late manager's nephew, he said, “This is very painful for our family. Brian was a great man whose contribution to the world was his discovery of the Beatles and his transformation of them from complete unknowns to becoming the most successful music act of all time. With the passage of time, many people have forgotten his great achievements. The worst thing is when the only things that anyone can recall are that he managed the Beatles, coupled with the erroneous notion that he killed himself. We understand that the distribution of this wholly erroneous information was a human error. What makes us angry is that there has been no attempt to issue a correction. And the realization that that totally wrong information about his death is now filtering into the public consciousness as though it were fact. A&E owes the Epstein family an apology -- and should make a major effort to alert the media and the public of its error. The official verdict was that Brian Epstein’s death was a tragic accident - not a suicide. Let the American people know that.”

Tuesday September 14, 1999

VH1'S ORIGINAL MOVIE, "TWO OF US," TO STAR AIDAN QUINN AS PAUL
McCARTNEY AND JARED HARRIS AS JOHN LENNON

Aidan Quinn will portray Paul McCartney and Jared Harris will play John Lennon in VH1's original TV movie “Two of Us.” The film is set in 1976, six years after the breakup of the Beatles, when, according to rock lore, McCartney paid Lennon an uninvited visit at his home in the Dakota apartment building in New York City. Though the meeting never occurred, the fictional film explores the question of what might have happened had the encounter really come to pass. “Two of Us” is intended as an intimate tribute to two of the most influential figures in rock history. The film will be directed by Michael Lindsay-Hogg, whose credits include the Beatles' final film together, “Let It Be.” Shooting is scheduled to begin in October.

(09/09/99) Paul's new single "Try Not To Cry" and "I Got Stung" (from his upcoming "Run Devil Run" album) can be downloaded from the WRIF Radio Detroit website. New album Info: Check these new briefs for updates on Ringo's Christmas album and Paul's "Working Classical" album (with final track listing). From "Abbeyrd's Beatle Page".

(08/31/99) EMI RELEASE - AUGUST 1999:

How would you follow up with a platinum selling album that received a
Grammy nomination for Album of the Year?
WELL, IF YOU'RE PAUL McCARTNEY YOU'D HAVE SOME FUN.
You might invite some friends, including David Gilmore (Pink Floyd), Ian
Paice (Deep Purple) and Chris Thomas (The Pretenders), to the Abbey Road
Studios. Maybe you would cover a dozen of your favorite songs from the
50's and 60's, then you would write and record three new songs in the
musical style of that period. Of course you wouldn't want to over think
it, so you would do it all in five days. When you finished you would
have one hell of a great album, full of energy, excitement and featuring
the greatest voice in rock 'n roll.

Of course this only works if you ARE Paul McCartney!

The good news is Paul did just that.
The album is called Run Devil Run and features songs made famous by
Elvis Presley, Carl Perkins, Gene Vincent, and Chad and Jeremy, among
others. The album will hit record stores on October 5th, 1999.

As we race toward the next millennium, Paul takes one last look in the
rear view mirror, and you're going to like what he hears!
**********************************************
Radio:
*Sept. 13th - add date for "Try Not to Cry" at AC, Rock and Adult Top 40
*Oct. 1st - "Win It Before You Can Buy It" on-air contests
*Nov. 8th - add date for "No Other Baby" at AC, Rock and Adult Top 40
*Paul will do on-air interviews around the street date of October 5th

Video: Video for "Try Not to Cry" to be delivered to VH1 and MTV for
rotation to coincide with our radio add date of September 13. Capitol
and VH1 are currently planning a special Paul McCartney program to air
around album street date.

Press: Paul will be extremely visible in the media. An EPK will be ready
with exclusive interview footage of Paul discussing why he chose each
track on the record. Rolling Stone magazine has already committed to a
large feature to run in September, possibly including Paul on the cover.
Paul will do an extensive list of interviews during the month of
September in LA and NY. Expect reviews in dailies, weeklies and
monthlies, as well as on TV.

Retail: In store play and visibility will be key factor in our campaign.
An aggressive price and position campaign will place this record in the
front of stores, making it easy for consumers to find this hot release.

P.O.P:
*Pre-release posters  *1x1's  *Posters

Advertising: A large advertising buy has been finalized. We will place
advertising on TV, radio, and print. Billboards in major markets will be
part of our campaign.

Marketing: Paul will do his first live performance in years at a special
invitation only benefit for PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of
Animals), a cause that Paul and Linda have been big supporters of for
years. While this is a private event, you can be sure media coverage
will be huge!
The album will be part of United Airlines in-flight listening program
for the months of November and December. United Airlines will also play
some of Paul's interviews off of the EPK, as well as play the video
during the flight.

Track Listing
1.Blue Jean Bop (Gene Vincent and His Blue Caps)
2.She Said Yeah (The Animals/Rolling Stones)
3.All Shook Up (Elvis Presley)
4.Run Devil Run (McCartney original)
5.No Other Baby (Chad & Jeremy)
6.Lonesome Town (Ricky Nelson)
7.Try Not to Cry (McCartney original)
8. Movie Mag (Carl Perkins)
9. Brown Eyed Handsome Man (Chuck Berry)
10. What It Is (McCartney original)
11.Coquette (Fats Domino/Guy Lombardo)
12. I Got Stung (Elvis Presley)
13. Honey Hush (Joe Turner)
14. Shake A Hand (Faye Adams/LaVern Baker/Jackie Wilson)
15. Let's Have a Party (Wanda Jackson/Elvis Presley)

(08/31/99) Paul McCartney To Perform At PETA Benefit

McCartney to honor Pamela Anderson Lee for animal rights efforts in
event to be aired later on VH-1.
By Rob Evans for Livedaily.com

Despite rampant rumors that Paul McCartney might appear at events
ranging from Neil Young's Bridge School Benefit to the NetAid crusade
against world hunger, PETA appears to have secured the sole upcoming
performance by the ex-Beatle for now. According to a press release
issued by the animal rights organization, McCartney will be the
headliner at PETA's Party of the Century and Humanitarian Awards on
Sept. 18, and it will be his only performance in conjunction with his
forthcoming album.  McCartney's band will include Pink Floyd guitarist
David Gilmour, who also plays on McCartney's soon-to-be-released ''Run
Devil Run.'' On the album, McCartney reportedly performs songs that
inspired the Beatles, including classics by Elvis Presley and Chuck
Berry. The B-52's, Sarah McLachlan, Chrissie Hynde and others to be
announced will also perform during the show. Co-hosting the program
with McCartney will be Alec Baldwin, Jamie Lee Curtis, Ellen DeGeneres
and Woody Harrelson.  As a tribute to his late wife, who was an active
supporter of animal rights, McCartney will present the first Linda
McCartney Memorial Award. The award will go to Pamela Anderson Lee, who
posed for PETA's first-ever Times Square billboard, asked fashion
designers to abandon fur, urged South African President Thabo Mbeki to
end his country's exports of elephants, and met with Monaco's Prince
Albert to promote a ban on exotic animals at the Monte Carlo Circus
Festival.  The event will air in the fall on VH-1. A live webcast of
the event will be available at www.peta-online.org beginning at 6 p.m.
on Sept. 18.

Monday August 30, 2:37 pm Eastern Time

Company Press Release

SOURCE: People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals

Paul McCartney's World Exclusive
Performance at PETA's Party Of The
Century and Humanitarian Awards

September 18, 1999 VH-1 to Air Special

LOS ANGELES, Aug. 30 /PRNewswire/ --Paul McCartney will headline PETA's Party of the Century and Humanitarian Awards on Saturday, September 18, 1999, at Paramount Studios in Hollywood. This will be McCartney's only performance in conjunction with the release of the new album, ``Run Devil Run,'' on which McCartney performs songs that inspired the Beatles, including classics by Elvis Presley and Chuck Berry. McCartney's band for the event will include Pink Floyd legend David Gilmour and Deep Purple's Ian Paice.

The evening will also include additional musical performances by the B-52's, Sarah McLachlan, Chrissie Hynde, and others. Joining McCartney as cohosts for the evening are Alec Baldwin, Jamie Lee Curtis, Ellen DeGeneres, and Woody Harrelson.

DeGeneres and Margaret Cho will provide comedy bits about animals.

PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) will honor individuals who have made the fight for animal rights one of the biggest social movements of the millennium. Richard Pryor, Alicia Silverstone, Bill Maher, Kathy Najimy, James Cromwell, Sheryl Lee, Todd Oldham, Steven Seagal, Magali Amadei, the B-52's, and Stella McCartney are among those who will be on hand to accept Humanitarian Awards.

Paul McCartney will present the first Linda McCartney Memorial award to Pamela Anderson Lee as a special tribute to his late wife, whose courageous efforts to save animals from abuse and suffering inspired so many. Lee's efforts include posing for PETA's first-ever Times Square billboard, entitled "Give Fur the Cold Shoulder,'' asking fashion designers to abandon fur, urging South African President Thabo Mbeki to end his country's export of elephants, and meeting with Monaco's Prince Albert to promote a ban on exotic animals at the Monte Carlo Circus Festival.

The event, PETA's first television special, will air in the fall on VH-1. Behind the scenes will be producer Joel Gallen, whose credits include "The VH-1 Fashion Awards'' and "The MTV Movie Awards.''

At Paramount, guests will enjoy a vegan dinner, a musical block party, and an animal-friendly street fair on the studio's New York Street. Storefronts will boast the latest cruelty-free consumer products, from synthetic-leather shoes to humane mousetraps.

The party's primary sponsor, Paul Mitchell Professional Salon Products, is celebrating 20 years as a pioneer among companies that do not test products on animals. Other major corporate sponsors include Plantrageous Worldwide, Continental Airlines, Culinary Revolution, Creative Internet Group Ltd., the Hotel Inter-Continental Los Angeles, and St. Maarten Spirits, Ltd. Additional corporate support comes from Communications Corporation of America, Future Lighting, Gardenburger, Inc., LaserMedia, Inc., Message!Products, Names in the News, Pyro Spectaculars, Inc., and Triples Corporation.

A live Web cast of the entire event will be available at www.peta-online.org beginning at 6 p.m. on September 18.

For more information or to request media credentials to cover this event, call Andy Gelb at Bragman Nyman Cafarelli at (310) 274-7800.

SOURCE: People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals

(08/23/99) Sept. 17; 9 p.m. and 1 a.m. ET/6 and 10 p.m. PT; "Biography," A&E. Featured: Brian Epstein.

       "Biography: Brian Epstein" traces the life and career of the Beatles'
       onetime manager, from his childhood in Liverpool and his career as a
       rock music manager, through his move to London in the earlys 1960s, to
       his tragic death in August, 1967, only five years after the Beatles' last
       hit. He was found dead in his locked bedroom, vials of barbiturates
       beside his bed. The coroner said it was suicide. But why would a
       32-year-old multimillionaire take his own life? "Biography: Brian
       Epstein" tries to resolve the mystery by piecing together his final 36
       hours and casting a new light on the beginning of pop and the liberal
       attitudes of the '60s. The program features an interview with Paul
       McCartney, plus unprecedented access to the Apple archive and
       Epstein's own correspondence. "Biography: Brian Epstein" recounts how
       Epstein, a gay man from a Jewish family brought up in predominantly
       Catholic Liverpool, encountered many forms of prejudice on his rise to
       success. When he was passed over as each of the Beatles were
       presented with an MBE, he was conviced it was a snub against his
       religion. And since homosexuality was still deemed a criminal offense in
       Britain, Epstein would not divulge his sexuality even to members of the
       band. When the Beatles and Epstein hit America, they held all top five
       places on the U.S. charts. Interviews include Paul McCartney, Marianne
       Faithfull, Billy J. Kramer, Sir George Martin, Gerry Marsden, Nat
       Weiss, Sid Bernstein, Robert Stigwood, Simon Napier-Bell, Lionel Bart,
       Peter Brown, Epstein's aunt Stella and others. (1 hour) (Note: The
       British version was two hours.)

(08/22/99) The London premiere of a "Garland for Linda" will be held at St James' Church, Piccadilly, on October 21st, 1999 at 7.30pm.

(08/22/99) The new U.K. single for “Run Devil Run” will be “No Other Baby". This is going to be available as a 2 CD set, CD #1 is limited to 15,000 copies and contains Mono versions of “No Other Baby”, “Brown Eyed Handsome Man” and “Fabulous”.  CD #2 contains Stereo versions of the three tracks from the first CD. The release date is 10/24.  There is also a Limited 7" single.

(08/16/99) Paul's "Working Classical" to be Premiered in Liverpool: Paul McCartney's "Working Classical," is to be the centrepiece of a musical extravaganza at the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Hall. The London Symphony Orchestra will perform the piece, on October 16, and Sir Paul is planning to attend:

McCartney brings his new work back home

August 16, 1999    The Liverpool Echo

SIR Paul McCartney is planning a classical music extravaganza in his home city of Liverpool.

Sir Paul's production company, McCartney Productions Limited, hired the city's    recently-refurbished Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Hall for an evening in October.

The London Symphony Orchestra will be playing at the concert and the orchestra's     members are already booked into the Adelphi Hotel.

In addition to the LSO, New York's world-famous Lomamar Quartet are booked to appear at the concert.

Debut

Sir Paul will be premiering his new suite of music, Working Classical, during the event. He will appear at the concert which has been scheduled for October 16.

Working Classical is the former Beatle's third classical music composition. In 1991 he made his classical music debut with The Liverpool Oratorio.

Last year saw his second piece, Standing Stone, premiered at London's Albert Hall. He was commissioned to write the piece to mark the 100th anniversary of the EMI record company.

The CD of the 76-minute musical poem was a top-selling hit. It spent 11 weeks at number
one in the Billboard classical charts and sold more than 260,000 copies world wide.

That piece won Sir Paul the New Horizon Award, a US honour given to the artist, ensemble or composer whose work has done most to take classical music to a younger or broader audience.

Standing Stone, Sir Paul explained, took its name from the prehistoric stone circles and
monoliths which are an integral part of Northern Europe's ancient history and heritage. He said at that time that, among other things, he was exploring his own Celtic roots.

His latest piece, Working Classical is a play on "working class" and was inspired by
McCartney's Liverpool background before he became a member of the Beatles. His
subsequent fame and wealth has pulled him away from the city but he is never happier than when he visits Liverpool.

He is a frequent visitor to LIPA, the "fame school" he helped fund with substantial personal donations and which he invariably attends for its graduation ceremony.

LIPA - Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts - has been instrumental in bringing the study of music to many young performers who would otherwise have struggled to succeed.

One source close to Sir Paul said: "I think Paul would love to see people from his home city of Liverpool enjoying classical music at the event."

A CD recording of his latest piece is expected to be in record shops across the UK from the autumn.

A spokeswoman for the London Symphony last night confirmed that the orchestra would be  in Liverpool for the event.

       I just got back from the Hollywood recording studio
       where Ringo's new album, "Ringo Starr - I Wanna Be
       Santa Claus" is being mixed. Producer Mark Hudson
       and engineer Scott Gordon were working on the
       opening track for the disc, titled "Come On
       Christmas." It is definitely the most rocking Christmas
       track you'll have ever heard! It has an "Instant Karma"
       beat and catchy rhythm that, no doubt, I will be singing
       in my sleep (and probably tomorrow morning, as well.
       . . ). [Mark says to tell you, "2nd engineers Dave Reed
       and Alex Gibson were dancing in go-go cages!" (Well,
       they were at least rocking their heads to the beat, even
       after the 126th playback!)] It's full of dirty guitars and a
       rocking fuzz bass, as well as an all-star chorus that
       includes Jeff Lynne and all three Hudson Brothers!
       The magical ending is guaranteed to keep us fans in
       Beatle heaven.

       More to come. . .

       Matt Hurwitz

       Publisher

       Good Day Sunshine Magazine

     (08/13/99) MJI Radio Stations to Visit Abbey Road:

     MJI Broadcasting, a major US radio syndicator, will be broadcasting direct
     from Studio One at Abbey Road to celebrate the 30th Anniversary of the
     release of the Abbey Road Album. At least 20 radio stations from all over the
     US will be broadcasting live from Studio One between October 20th and the
     23rd.

     It is expected that several Beatles personalities will be interviewed during
     that time.

     For a full list of radio stations and details of broadcasts keep on coming back
     to The London Beatles Fanclub website .
 

(08/12/99) "Run Devil Run” update: There will be no commercial single. The first promo single, "Try Not To Cry," will be shipped starting Aug. 26 and can be added to station playlists beginning Sept. 13. The second single, coming Nov. 8, will be "No Other Baby."
(from Matt Hurwitz, Publisher, Good Day Sunshine Magazine) (08/25/99) Update: A video for "Try Not To Cry" will also be released to MTV and VH1 on Sept. 13.

(08/09/99) EMI Canada’s press release for “Run Devil Run”:

     The Devil Runs As Mac Rocks Back

     Paul McCartney is ready to rock again. Two and a half years since his last
     album, Paul is back - with a loud new collection of the devil's music.

     Returning to the rawness of his roots, Paul McCartney is reprising the
     energized spirit and attitude of his earliest days in the music business with a
     15-track album of thrash rock & roll.

     The new album - Run Devil Run - marks the first time in more than 10 years
     that Paul has recorded so raucously. Not since his famed 'Russian Album' of
     1988 has Mac got back to sing like this.

     Run Devil Run is Paul McCartney's anthology of some of his favourite rock
     & roll, primarily covered by Paul and a hand-picked band at Mach III speed.
     Alongside classic rockers are three new McCartney originals - including the
     sweat-making title track.

     Mirroring the hectic rate of the songs, "Run Devil Run" was recorded at
     Abbey Road Studio Two in only one week, just like The Beatles did.

     'At the early recording sessions of The Beatles, we worked in a very specific
     way - recording two songs in the morning and two more after lunch. I have a
     professional nostalgia for that way of recording and I wanted to see if we
     could do that with this album' said Paul.

     'And we did - there was no time for thinking; thinking was outlawed for the
     week. With rock & roll you just do it and by the end of five days we'd
     recorded all these songs. What you hear on this album is what happened in
     that week'.

     With Paul predominantly sticking to lead vocal and his Hofner bass, he's
     backed on the album by a core band of Dave Gilmour and Mick Green on
     guitars, Ian Paice on drums and Pete Wingfield on piano. Together they
     revive the rebel yells of Chuck Berry, Gene Vincent, Carl Perkins and early
     Elvis to rock out the century.

     Said Paul: 'This album is something I've wanted to do for years. Some people
     may think I've gone all classical now, maybe this will tell them that's not the
     case. I still love my rock & roll'.

     Run Devil Run is scheduled for an October 5th release.

     Tracklisting (with running times):

     Blue Jean Bop (Vincent-Levy) 1.57
     She Said Yeah (Bono-Jackson) 2.05
     All Shook Up (Blackwell-Presley) 2.04
     Run Devil Run (McCartney) 2.35
     No Other Baby (Bishop-Watson) 4.17
     Lonesome Town (Knight) 3.29
     Try Not To Cry (McCartney) 2.40
     Movie Mag (Perkins) 2.11
     Brown Eyed Handsome Man (Berry) 2.27
     What It Is (McCartney) 2.23
     Coquette (Green-Kahn-Lombardo) 2.41
     I Got Stung (Schroeder-Hill) 2.39
     Honey Hush (Turner) 3.07
     Shake A Hand (Morris 3.50
     Party (Robinson) 2.37 (The ICE listing had "Let's Have a Party")

(08/09/99) In related news, "Run Devil Run" sideman Pete Wingfield tells BEATLEFAN
/EXTRA! he's been asked to be in a band backing Macca in a performance at the PETA Animal Rights gala to be held on Sept. 18. For more information about this event, go to http://www.peta-online.org and click on the Millenium Gala banner at the bottom of the page

(08/09/99) NEW ALBUM: "Ringo Starr . . . I Wanna Be Santa Claus": Here is the complete track listing for Ringo's Christmas album set for U.S. release on Oct. 19 by Island/Mercury. The album includes Ringo's new version of The Beatles' "Christmas Time Is Here Again" and guest appearances by Joe Perry of Aerosmith:

     COME ON CHRISTMAS, CHRISTMAS COME ON: (Written by Richard
     Starkey, Mark Hudson, Dean Grakal.)
     WINTER WONDERLAND
     I WANNA BE SANTA CLAUS: (Starkey, Hudson, Dick Monda.)
     THE LITTLE DRUMMER BOY
     RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER
     BLUE CHRISTMAS
     THE CHRISTMAS DANCE: (Starkey, Hudson, Jim Cox, Steve Dudas.)
     CHRISTMAS TIME IS HERE AGAIN: (George Harrison, John Lennon,
     Paul McCartney, Richard Starkey.)
     CHRISTMAS EVE: (Starkey, Hudson.)
     DEAR SANTA: (Starkey, Hudson, Dudas.)
     WHITE CHRISTMAS
     PAX UM BISCUM (PEACE BE WITH YOU): (Starkey, Hudson, Grakal.)

     Anyone who would like a free sample copy of the issue with this info should
     send an SASE to BEATLEFAN/EXTRA! SAMPLE, P.O. Box 33515, Decatur
     GA 30033.

(08/09/99) Exclusive Paul McCartney, MPL Communications, MediaX Corporation Campaign Garners More Than 6 Million Hits and Over 30 Million Impressions in Just 4 Weeks; Contest Winners Announced on amuZnet.com

(08/05/99) Paul's New EMI Contract: According to Billboard, Paul McCartney is in the final stages of signing a new deal with EMI that involves the delivery of at least three albums. The deal may be worth as much as $30 million. Two McCartney albums,  "Run Devil Run," is due Oct. 4 on Capitol; another set, "Working Classical," is due Oct. 18 on Angel, EMI's classical label. These albums are included as part of McCartney's existing deal with EMI.

(08/05/99) "Paul McCartney's Routes of Rock": Sir Paul McCartney will DJ his own BBC radio series about the rock and roll records that inspired him. The program will also be looking at the making of his new album, "Run Devil Run". The shows are to be recorded at McCartney's home at Peasmarsh in East Sussex and  will be broadcast on the BBC World Service from October 20. Four half hour shows will be aired.

A spokeswoman for the World Service said: "It's going to be called Paul McCartney's Routes of Rock. He's going to have the new album coming out in October and it ties in with that. He'll be playing songs from the album and some of the songs that inspired him, looking at  the lyrics and melodies."

Commenting on his new album, Paul said: "This album is something I've wanted to do for years. Some people may think I've gone all classical now - maybe this will tell them that's not the case. I still love my rock and roll."

The radio series can be heard on World Service radio as well as on the Internet.

McCartney's only other experience of fronting a radio show was a 14-part series "Oobu Joobu" heard only in the US. Last year he also did a worldwide webcast on the Internet.

In other McCartney news: A world premiere of paintings by Paul McCartney has drawn 37,500 people since it opened on April 30 in Siegen, West Germany. Exhibition director Wolfgang Suttner said only 20,000 visitors had been initially expected. Thirty per cent came from abroad. McCartney had received offers from cities in Europe and Asia to host the exhibition after the Siegen show, Mr Suttner said. Looks like Sir Paul has another "hit".

(7/23/99) The following is the track listing for McCartney’s oldies album including the song’s original performer (as reported by ICE magazine) :

                       "Bluejean Bop" (Gene Vincent)
             ;           "She Said Yeah" (the Animals and the Rolling Stones)
             ;           "All Shook Up" (Elvis Presley)
             ;           "Run Devil Run" (original)
             ;          "No Other Baby" (Chad and Jeremy)
             ;           "Lonesome Town" (Ricky Nelson)
             ;           "Try Not To Cry" (original)
             ;           "Movie Magg" (Carl Perkins)
             ;           "Brown-Eyed Handsome Man" (Chuck Berry, also done by Buddy
             ;           Holly)
             ;           "What It Is" (original)
             ;           "Coquette" (Fats Domino)
             ;           "I Got Stung" (Elvis Presley)
             ;           "Honey Hush" (Joe Turner)
             ;          "Shake A Hand" (Faye Adams)
             ;           "Let's Have a Party" (Wanda Jackson)

Both Reuters and Billboard named the album's title as “Run Devil Run” which has now been confirmed by "Capitol Records". The album is scheduled for an U.S. release date of October 5th. In related news, “I Got Stung” which was recently broadcast on "BBC Radio 2" and widely circulated on the Internet, was picked up and played by radio stations in Detroit and Cleveland. In response, "Capitol Records" requested that the song be dropped from their playlist - which it has been. The good news is that it received a positive listener reaction from the on air exposure. (For more detail, refer to the articles linked within this paragraph).

"Macca Central" now has a page devoted to “A Garland for Linda” that includes news and fan reports and the complete lyrics for “Nova”:

(7/19/99) “A Garland For Linda”: Along with eight leading classical musicians, Paul McCartney premiered a new piece titled “Nova” at a classical music tribute to Linda McCartney. The concert was held on Sunday, July 18th  at Charterhouse School in Surrey. Funds raised by the event will go towards cancer research and British music. At the opening performance, Paul said, "It's very beautiful. It is exciting to be in this kind of company. I think Linda would have been very proud that they wanted to do this in her memory, and slightly overwhelmed."

Originally Paul was not going to contribute musically but brought forth “Nova” which was noted for it’s deeply moving lyrics which initially question whether God is hiding, then exclaims, "I am here in every song you sing. I am here as first a new born babe opens eyes on the universe.” According to cancer survivor, Stephen Connock, who helped initiate the concert, the theme which Paul presented in the second half of “Nova” is “the equal of any of the melodies he has ever written."

The other composers, all of whom attended, were John Tavener, Michael Berkeley, Sir
Richard Rodney Bennett, Giles Swayne, John Rutter, Roxanna Panufnik, David Matthews and Judith Bingham. They all received a standing ovation at the end of the Gala performance.

Paul's family were also in attendance - his daughters Heather, Stella and Mary, with husband and young baby, and his son James.

Premieres of the work are also planned for London and New York. The Garland Appeal hopes to stage 200 performances during the next three years.

In addition to Paul McCartney's album of rock 'n' roll standards, Paul's album of short classical pieces, now titled "A Leaf" (formerly "Working Classical") is set for release in October on "EMI Classics".  A live recording of "A Garland for Linda"  is planned for next February.

(7/14/99) The latest phase of MediaX's "Band on the Run" promotional campaign:  Exclusive "Band on the Run" Radio Show Includes Both Audio and Full Screen Streaming Animated Multimedia .

(7/6/99) Paul premiers a special mix of his cover of Elvis Presley's classic “I Got Stung” on BBC Radio 2: The track is from his forthcoming rock 'n' roll standards album now set for a late 1999 release. It's available (as a .wav file) at these locations: 1 ;  2 ;  3 . Many thanks to Andrew Brooks for his valiant effort to keep this online. A downloadable "Real Audio" version can also be obtained through MACCA-Central . Update (7/7/99) During the same radio program, George talks about some of his favourite early rock 'n' roll performers: BBC 2: George Harrison and Joe Brown discuss Rock 'n' Roll  (Thanks again, Andrew!)

(6/11/99) George Harrison Resurfaces While Promoting "Yellow Submarine": While doing promotion for "Yellow Submarine", George Harrison revealed to "Billboard" that he is currently in the final stages of recording a new solo album. George is tendering a new recording contract from major labels and he is also compiling a box set of demos, outtakes and unreleased recordings. In related news, Harrison disclosed that he has ownership of his out of print "Warner Bros. / Dark Horse" catalogue from 1976-1992, including 2 albums which he recorded as part of the "Traveling Wilburys". Harrison is considering the reissue of these albums with possible bonus tracks. The "Billboard" article also indicates forthcoming announcements leading up to the release of "Yellow Submarine", including news of an official Beatles web site.

Update (6/17/99) Highlights of George Harrison's exclusive interview with Timothy White, editor-in-chief of "Billboard" magazine, can now be accessed at the "Billboard" web site. As indicated above, the interview mainly deals with the "Yellow Submarine" revival but George wisely takes the opportunity to plug his upcoming solo activities.

Update (7/3/99) George Harrison's full interview in the June 19th issue of "Billboard" has some interesting revelations about his upcoming solo album and "anthology" type multiple disc set. George played several tracks for Timothy White, who conducted the interview. As specified in the article, the “anthology” will include George's version of “Run So Far” - which he originally gave to Eric Clapton, plus his rendition of Bob Dylan's “Every Grain of Sand”. George also discussed a couple of his new songs and recited some of their lyrics. Song titles for the new album include, "Valentine", "Pisces Fish" and "Brainwashed." Harrison is currently shopping for a label. He didn't say when he expects to release his new album.

White spent a couple of days at Friar Park with George who appeared to be in great spirits and in good health. During the interview, Harrison showed White his drawing of a foot (ala “Monty Python”) along with the title he's considering for the new disc: “Portrait of a Leg End”. George also said he was thinking of drawing a boot on the foot and calling the "anthology" set: “Portrait of a Boot Leg”. Clever play on words. Apparently, George hasn't lost his sense of humor.

Harrison admits that, although it would be difficult to give up his privacy and quiet life, he wants to be musically in touch with the world and would like people to enjoy his work. However, he can't see himself participating in the type of self promotion that's currently perpetuated in the entertainment industry. Harrison decries the cynicism rampant today and says he still believes in the power of music "to inspire, give comfort or another outlook" on "all the terrible things" that "we're doing to ourselves and each other these days."

(6/17/99) CBS to air Linda McCartney miniseries: CBS is planning a 4 hour "mini series" on the life of Linda McCartney, based on Danny Field's upcoming biography. There is no air date or cast announcements at this time. Paul is not involved and is reportedly unhappy about this project. However, he has not released an official statement to that effect....yet.

(6/17/99) Miscellaneous New Briefs (From "Abbeyrd's Beatle Page"): Paul talks about his "oldies" album in an interview with Clint O'Connor of the "Cleveland Plain Dealer". As yet, there is no official release date for this album but it appears certain that it will be delayed until later this summer. Details are also beginning to leak out about the recording of Ringo's Christmas album  (from Matt Hurwitz, publisher, Good Day Sunshine Magazine).

(6/18/99) Recently, "Capitol Records" renovated it's Beatles web site . It now includes a discography of all available Beatles' albums.

"In order to prevent confusion over conflicting reports that a new Beatles single may be issued from the forthcoming "Yellow Submarine" release, media are advised of the following:

In researching the "Yellow Submarine" projects, Apple Corps has discovered previously-unknown footage of The Beatles recording at Abbey Road Studios. It is believed to be the last unseen footage of The Beatles recording.

The footage captures The Beatles recording "Hey Bulldog," a lesser-known song from the "Yellow Submarine" sessions in 1968. The footage was discovered after the screening of "The Beatles Anthology" in 1995. If it had been discovered before, it would have been included in the "Anthology."

The Beatles' recording of "Hey Bulldog" will be issued as a video around the time of the launch of the new "Yellow Submarine" album, home video and DVD in the autumn. EMI Records recently considered issuing "Hey Bulldog" as a new single, but it has now been decided to release the historic footage as a video instead."

(thanks to Matt Hurwitz, Publisher, Good Day Sunshine Magazine)

For technical details on the DVD version of "Yellow Submarine" see the following article:  The DVD Resource Page: YELLOW SUBMARINE Reissued and RESTORED at Original Length. . For card collector's info: Comic Images - New and Upcoming Card Series (The Beatles - Yellow Submarine)

(6/7/99) New McCartney instrumental song appears on the "Linda McCartney Pro Cycling Team" web site: The track is called "Clean Machine" and it loads automatically when you visit the site. It requires "Real Player" to hear it.

(5/25/99) August 30th is declared "Yellow Submarine Day" by Liverpool City Council: Monday, August 30th has been chosen for the world premier of the restored "Yellow Submarine" movie. The film will be presented in Dolby 5.1 Surround Sound at the Philharmonic Hall in the Beatles' hometown of Liverpool. The restored version will also include footage that was cut from the 1968 U.S. release. During the same day, more than 100,000 fans from 35 countries are expected to attend a Beatles tribute concert performed by 180 bands. There will be over 40 sound stages built at various clubs, restaurants and pubs to accommodate the event. Five more locations are designated for open air performances including a "Yellow Submarine"stage in front of Town Hall.  (release dates updated 6/11/99) The Liverpool premiere will precede the worldwide release of "Yellow Submarine" on home video and DVD on Sept. 14th. The soundtrack CD will also be issued on Sept. 14th. For the "Yellow Submarine: A Songtrack" CD track listing see: What's New at rarebeatles.com .

(5/24/99) George Harrison approves the commercial release of a rare track from his private archives: The track, "In the First Place," was produced by George Harrison and was written by and credited to "The Remo Four," a Liverpudlian group.  This unreleased track was originally intended for the soundtrack of the 1968 "Wonderwall" film but was never used. "In the First Place" is very reminiscent of Harrison's "Blue Jay Way" which was recorded for the Beatles' "Magical Mystery Tour." Although Harrison is distinctively featured as the lead vocalist, one of his conditions for the song's release was that the performance must be (generously) credited to "The Remo Four".  Harrison retains the producer's credit. The track was recently discovered during the restoration process of the "Wonderwall" film and is included in the new version. The song and the restored film will be premiered at the "Mods and Rockers" film festival in Hollywood on June 26th. "In the First Place" is being issued as a limited edition single. The song can be heard and ordered through the Wonderwall - Products  website.

(5/19/99) More details on Paul's oldies album which is now reported to include two original songs: McCartney To Record Oldies Set .
A classical music charity concert in honor of Linda McCartney will be held on July 18th in Surrey, England. The concert will be performed by 8 British classical composers (including Paul). McCartney's composition is entitled "Nova". The concert will also include an arrangement by Stephen Jackson of five Beatles compositions (written mainly by Paul) performed under the title, "Let It Be".

(5/10/99) "New Beatles' Single" kicks off "Yellow Submarine" revival and Beatles' Millennium project: The newly remixed companion CD to the "Yellow Submarine" film is reported to include an unreleased Beatles track which will also be released as a single late this summer. The currently unnamed track from the Beatles' 1968 "Yellow Submarine" "sessions" will be released in it's original form (without additional work from the surviving Beatles). We await official release details from Apple.
Update: (5/12/99) "All You Need Is Hype": In a posting to the "rec.music.beatles" newsgroup, "New York Times" music critic and acclaimed Beatles authority, Allan Kozinn disclosed that the "new" Beatles' single will be a remix of "Hey Bulldog". Contrary to what what widely reported throughout the media on May 10th, "Hey Bulldog" is not an unreleased or "long lost" rarity. The film footage for "Hey Bulldog" was edited out of the original 1968 U.S. release of the "Yellow Submarine" movie. This missing footage will now be included in the restored 1999 version.  By this account, it is logical to issue "Hey Bulldog" as a CD single to promote the reissue of "Yellow Submarine".

In other news, the London Beatles Fan Club reports that EMI intends to release a Beatles "best of" CD and home video sometime before this Christmas. According to "The Liverpool ECHO", a Beatles tribute concert, a 6 hour radio special and a TV special is in the works as part of the Beatles' Millennium project. It appears that the long awaited "Beatles Anthology" book (now retitled "The Beatles") will not see the light of day until the fall of 2000.

A very concise article appeared on SonicNet's "Music News of the World" entitled,  McCartney Working on Rock Covers Album . The article described McCartney's recent activities including recording studio work, live appearances and future plans. A similar piece can be found on UK's  dotmusic web site.

For details on Paul McCartney's April 10th, 1999 performance at the "Here, There and Everywhere" concert at Albert Hall:  Macca Central: "Here There and Everywhere" - A Concert for Linda . For further updates: MACCA-Central: Paul McCartney News page and What's New (and Improved)!- Abbeyrd's page .

In recognition of the recent 25th anniversary edition of Paul McCartney and Wings' classic album, here are: Capitol Record's "Band on the Run" web page ;  MPL's "Band on the Run" site plus another well researched web page by Mark Tovey (of  MACCA-L fame): The Making of Band on the Run . A recent addition to Harald Gernhardt's site provides the best representation of the packaging for this set. If you haven't purchased this edition yet (shame on you!), you'll be convinced after viewing these scans:  Band On The Run - 25th Anniversary Edition

Still catching up on these late 1998 releases?: The Beatles: White Album Limited Edition Reissue ;  The Fireman "Rushes" (aka Paul McCartney) ;  Linda McCartney's " Wide Prairie " (Capitol's web site) and  George Martin's " In My Life ".

Now, finally released on this side of the pond:  Julian Lennon's " Photograph Smile ".