As millions across the United States protested against what they termed “kings” this weekend, a different kind of gathering took place in Hollywood: an intimate concert by Paul McCartney attended by a host of celebrities.
A Star-Studded Audience
Stevie Nicks, Taylor Swift, Margot Robbie, Billie Eilish, and Ringo Starr were among those present at the Fonda Theatre on Saturday night for McCartney’s second of two shows at the historic venue. The theater has a capacity of 1,200 people.
McCartney’s setlist drew heavily from his work with The Beatles and Wings. He briefly addressed politics by poking fun at President Donald Trump’s dance moves, a comment met with boos from the audience.
For attendees like Annika Ahmed, a 44-year-old employee of the Los Angeles Unified School District, the concert offered a different form of engagement than the protests taking place elsewhere in the country. Ahmed had previously attended several rallies protesting Trump, but chose to attend McCartney’s show instead.
Music and Meaning
Ahmed expressed that supporting McCartney felt like supporting “someone who we hope has good values and good ideas about how things should be.” She specifically looked forward to hearing “Blackbird,” a song McCartney wrote during the 1960s civil rights movement, inspired by the Little Rock Nine.
The concert included a range of classic songs, including “Help!”, “Something,” “I’ve Just Seen a Face,” “Band on the Run,” and “Let Me Roll It.” However, some of The Beatles’ more overtly political songs, such as “Revolution” and McCartney’s “Pipes of Peace,” were not performed.
Many in the audience, which also included actors Steve Carrell, Laura Dern, and Dakota Johnson, were visibly moved during performances of “Hey Jude” and “Let It Be.”
McCartney recently announced his 19th studio album, “The Boys of Dungeon Lane,” which is scheduled for release in May.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the capacity of the Fonda Theatre during Paul McCartney’s concert?
The Fonda Theatre has a capacity of 1,200 people.
Who were some of the celebrities in attendance?
Stevie Nicks, Taylor Swift, Margot Robbie, Billie Eilish, and Ringo Starr were among the celebrities who attended the concert.
Did Paul McCartney address political issues during the show?
McCartney largely avoided politics, but he did poke fun at President Donald Trump’s dance moves, which prompted boos from the crowd.
As McCartney prepares to release a new album, will his intimate performances continue to offer a space for connection and reflection amidst broader societal challenges?
Worth a look