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January 2004 to April 2004
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January 31, 2004 -- The Sun
Macca back with wingsPaul McCartney is learning to fly a plane. Sir Macca has had four lessons in a two-seater at Lydd airport in Kent. Pals say he has always wanted to fly - and loves his new hobby. The former Beatle is eager to get wife Heather up in the clouds, too. A friend said, "Paul is a natural. He can't wait to get his license and has his head in a flying book in his spare time. He wants to take Heather to his favorite Scottish places - Mull of Kintyre and the Isle of Bute.
"Paul's daughter Stella got married on Bute last year and Heather fell in love with the place as well." Macca's not the only airborne star - Nicole Kidman's been learning too.
January 30, 2004 -- Commericial Appeal.com
McCartney more than outlasted the rumor of his deathAround 1968, fans, disc jockeys and the media began spreading a rumor that a violent car crash had killed Beatles bassman Paul McCartney in 1966. Moreover, the band and its management supposedly covered it up by holding a secret contest to replace McCartney with one William Campbell, an amazing look-alike.
The Cute One was now known as the Dead One.
"Paul was so funny about it," says George Harrison's sister, Louise. "When they asked him, he said, 'If I was dead, I'd want to be the last one to know.' "
Detroit DJ Russell Gibbs fanned the flaming lie by reporting the wreck in the fall of 1969. Life magazine helped things along by making the real Paul and his fake demise the cover story of its Nov. 7, 1969, issue. The highlight of the article, actually, was a quote from drummer Ringo Starr :
"It's all a load of crap."
The "evidence" was left behind in "clues" on Beatles songs and album covers. The result combines admittedly eerie coincidences, painfully stretched imaginations and the gaping revelation that some people need loftier pursuits such as volunteer work or organizing one's work space.
The clue onslaught usually begins with the cover of the 1966 Beatles album, "Yesterday and Today." It shows a comatose-looking McCartney with his band mates, but he's seated inside a steamer trunk, as if he were in a coffin. One of the album's songs, "Yesterday," has the line, "I'm not half the man I used to be."
And on the back of "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band," for instance, McCartney's fate is signified by the fact that he's the only Beatle of the four with his back to the camera. In the TV film "Magical Mystery Tour" - which died its own death after debuting on the BBC - the Fab Four are dressed in white tie and tails. They wear red carnations, except for McCartney, whose lapel flower is - drum roll, Ringo - black as death.
The set of clues that pushed the rumor appeared on the 1969 "Abbey Road" cover. The grim-looking boys are famously crossing the legendary street. But Paul is out of step with the other three. He's the only one barefoot (the dead are often buried this way) and is holding a cigarette (hmm, what does that signify?) in his right hand (oh, and Paul is left-handed!). A car is heading toward him and his eyes are closed. (Well, walking around like that might lead to injury.)
The most elaborate interpretation of this scenario is the designated roles: The jeans-clad George Harrison is the gravedigger; Ringo Starr is the black-suited undertaker; Yoko Ono's husband John Lennon is the white-clad preacher, and Paul is, of course, the corpse.
"Any individual 'clue' would be a stretch to consider evidence, but when many of them are presented with a specific theme, they sound like actual proof," write Ralph L. Rosnow and Gary Alan Fine in their 1976 book, "Rumor and Gossip: The Social Psychology of Hearsay."
The funny thing is, the Beatles broke up shortly after "Abbey Road" came out: Paul could have been dead, but they all wanted to kill each other.
In fact, Lennon, in the fall of 1968, recorded "Glass Onion" for the Beatles' "White Album," which contained this line: "And here's another clue for you all/The walrus was Paul."
Sadly, Lennon and Harrison are dead. Ironically, McCartney is one of the last Beatles standing, and certainly the more successful one. Sorry, Ringo. Not only is McCartney a bona fide British knight, but he also remarried two years ago. And at 61, McCartney in October became a father again. Not bad for a dead man, eh?
"It proves he can still do it," says Beatles scholar Martin Lewis happily. "He's had his share of bereavement. It was so unusual that for a showbiz couple he and (first wife) Linda had a textbook marriage for 30 years, so why not have a go at happiness again?"
Here are a few Web sites for you all to explore this never-dying phenomenon in exhausting detail:
http://www.geocities.com/SunsetStrip/3674/pid.html
http://catless.ncl.ac.uk/Obituary/paul.html
http://www.rareexception.com/Garden/Beatles/Paul.php
http://www.paul-is-dead.com/beatles.htm
January 29, 2004Is there a tour on the horizon for Paul McCartney and his band?
A PR organization is meeting with McCartney's tour manager next week to discuss his upcoming tour.
January 29, 2004
Reports from observers, say Macca has been taking flying lessons for the last six weeks at an airport near his home in East Sussex.
January 29, 2004
"Paul McCartney: Music and Animation Collection" (DVD North America and Canada)
To be released on April 13, 2004
This collection features, "Tuesday," "Tropic Island Hum" and "Rupert and the Frog Song."
McCartney worked with long-time collaborator Geoff Dunbar to create additional special effects in order to enhance the animation. In addition, newly recorded live-action footage -- featuring McCartney himself -- will be included.
January 28, 2004 -- HeatherMillsMcCartney.com
Dear Well-wishers,I feel overwhelmed with your concern regarding my recent medical problems. As most of you know, I crushed my pelvis in my accident in 1993 and had to have two metal plates put across the front of my pelvis, making natural childbirth an impossibility. Recent x-rays showed that one of the metal plates had snapped in half and my mobility really suffered.
I opted out of surgery as I didn't want to spoil Christmas and New Year's and I'm feeling a lot better now. I'm able to walk unaided and am hoping that with regular swimming, pilates and yoga, I can delay the operation for as long as possible.
Once again your well wishing has meant a lot to me.
Be happy,
Take care,
And stay Healthy.
Kindest regards,
Heather Mills McCartney
January 26, 2004 -- UK NewsMcCARTNEYS BREAK FILM CERTIFICATE RULES
Rock legend Sir Paul McCartney and his wife Heather Mills flouted the film certification laws last weekend by taking baby daughter Beatrice to see "Love Actually."
The former Beatle and his campaigning spouse saw the Hugh Grant-starring romantic comedy alongside at London's Odeon Swiss Cottage.
But fellow cinema-goers were astonished when baby Bea - who was born last October - was admitted to watch the film alongside her famous parents as the movie carries a 15 certificate.
However, Beatrice remained well behaved throughout the flick.
One onlooker says, "The baby didn't cry. She was quiet throughout the movie."
January 24, 2004 -- AP
Paul McCartney's wife, Heather, must undergo major pelvic surgery nearly two months after the birth of her baby, her spokeswoman said Friday (January 23).Metal plates inserted in her pelvis following a road accident 11 years ago need to be replaced as a result of the pregnancy, spokeswoman Anya Noakes said.
Heather Mills McCartney, 36, had her first child, Beatrice, on Oct. 28. She gave birth by Caesarean section.
"The weight of the baby has caused the plates to come apart," Noakes said. "She is feeling very uncomfortable."
Mills McCartney's pelvis was shattered and her left leg was severed below the knee when she was hit by a police vehicle in August 1993. The plates were inserted to hold her pelvis together.
Noakes said doctors wanted to operate on the former Beatle's wife as soon as possible and were discussing various options.
January 23, 2004 -- Beatlefan Extra
Guitarist Rusty Anderson of Paul McCartney's touring band tells Beatlefan/EXTRA! in an exclusive interview that about 10 songs have been worked on so far for McCartney's next album during sessions in September and October, and the band is due to join Macca and producer David Kahne in the studio again in February when Sir Paul's "paternity leave" comes to an end.
Details are available in Beatlefan/EXTRA! #197.
January 23, 2004 -- Ananova
Heather Mills McCartney is to undergo major surgery to her pelvis as a result of having her baby daughter.Doctors must replace the metal plates which have held her pelvis together for the past 10 years. They were inserted after the road accident in which she lost a leg.
Mills McCartney, 36, gave birth to a longed-for baby, Beatrice, in October. The pregnancy put strain on her pelvis and the plates now need to be replaced.
A spokeswoman for the anti-landmines campaigner said, "The weight of carrying the baby has put strain on these plates and Heather now needs surgery. The plates were put in after her accident - it is impossible to under-estimate the seriousness of the injuries she suffered in that crash. This will be a big operation but Heather is keen to get it out of the way as soon as possible because she doesn't want to take too much time off work."
Currently on maternity leave, Mills McCartney expects to undergo the operation in the next few weeks.
Her life was altered forever when she was hit by a police motorcycle while crossing a road in 1993. Because of the injuries she suffered in the accident, a natural birth was impossible and Beatrice was born by Caesarean section.
The couple married in June 2002 and feared they would never have a child because Mills McCartney had previously suffered two ectopic pregnancies.
MORE
January 23, 2004 -- The SunLady Macca faces op
Sir Paul McCartney's brave wife Heather is facing major surgery - as a result of having the baby she always longed for. The model, 36 - who lost a leg in a crash ten years ago - is to undergo an op to replace metal plates in her pelvis.
Last night an aide said her pregnancy was to blame. The spokeswoman said, "Strain was put on her pelvis by carrying the baby."
Jubilant Heather gave birth to daughter Beatrice Milly in October - after being told she could never conceive following cancer of the uterus. She had previously had two dangerous ectopic pregnancies, in which the fetus grows outside the womb. The problem with the steel joints was only revealed after the new mum fell from a horse while riding with ex-Beatle Macca, 61, on his 160-acre Sussex estate last month. A source said, "X-rays showed the damage." Heather's spokeswoman stressed it was NOT caused by the tumble from the saddle.Proud dad ... Sir Paul She said, "There are various complications which have nothing to do with falling off a horse. It is all to do with the original injuries she got in the accident all those years ago."
Heather uses an artificial leg after being hit by a police motorbike while crossing a road in London in 1993. The plates in her hips made a natural birth impossible for baby Bea, who was delivered in a caesarean op.
Orthopaedic surgeon Andrew Waterfield said Heather's surgery could last up to four hours. He said, "To replace metal plates in the pelvis is a much bigger deal than originally putting them in."
Jan 23, 2004 -- Daily PostMcCartney plan is culture for masses
Photographer Mike McCartney has been appointed cultural ambassador for Wirral. The younger brother of Sir Paul will spearhead a campaign to boost the borough's profile as well as bringing music and arts events to the area.
As figurehead, McCartney, whose work is currently being exhibited in the Smithsonian Institute in Washington DC, will play a pivotal promotional role and help to steer the strategy.
He says it's an opportunity that he relishes. He added, "It's a big honor but one that can be used to do a lot of good. Culture should be for the masses. It should be amenable, not tied up in bows. The most important part of this job is to get someone who is not interested in theatre, ballet or exhibitions because they don't feel it's for them, and help them find something they can identify with, whatever it is. I'm just a lad from a working class family in Speke but I was interested in photography so I went to the library and learnt all about it. Now I have an exhibition in the Smithsonian Institute. Anyone can do it, it's already been done. That's what we need to get across."
The role has been created by the Local Strategic Partnership, which is made up of public sector, the police and voluntary bodies and implements Wirral's Community Strategy.
The cultural aspect covers art, sport, museums, libraries, theatres, history and heritage. The group will meet next month to put together a detailed plan of action.
McCartney, who recently turned 60, was chosen because of his long-standing career in the arts. He hit the spotlight in the 1960s as a member of The Scaffold when he was known as Mike McGear.
The band had a number one single with "Lily the Pink" and he wrote, among others, their hit song "Thank-U-Very-Much." His passion for photography started when he was a child after he was given a a ten shilling box camera as a Christmas present.
But he is also known for his work as writer and poet, and has published a number of books.
McCartney's appointment was partly at the request of the Bishop of Birkenhead, Rt Rev David Urquhart, chairman of the partnership.
He said, "Mike was approached by the partnership because of his commitment to music and the arts and to Merseyside. He has a lot of contacts and is very enthusiastic about the work. The LSP is a government initiative. It has a broad remit but the aim is to bring in community leaders to champion different themes."
January 19, 2004 -- The Sun
STELLA McCARTNEY IN FURIOUS BUST-UP WITH SISTER MARY
Stella and Mary McCartney are at war after having a blazing row at Kate Moss' 30th birthday bash.The sisters "tore strips" off each other during a 15-minute slanging match at London's ultra-posh Claridges hotel, leaving guests stunned.
As the Krug and Cristal champagne flowed Mary, 34, hit the roof when her 32-year-old sibling got more and more into the, ahem, party spirit.
Stella, fought back by branding her sister "too old."
The flare-up happened at around 3am on Saturday (January 17) when married mum-of-two Mary pulled Stella into the toilets, ordered her to curb her partying and called her "a mess."
But the ultimatum didn't go down well with fashion designer Stella, who yelled that her sister was "boring." Mary was overheard screaming, "What do you think you are doing? You are a mess. Slow down and pull yourself together."
But Stella - who looked the worse for wear - screamed back, "It's a party and I'm having a good time. Leave me alone. You're boring and old."
She then confided in a pal, "I wish she would f***ing go home and leave me alone."
An onlooker at Friday's party added, "Stella was really enjoying herself, albeit a bit too much in her older sister's eyes. She was knocking back the champers as if it was going out of fashion and looked well-plastered. Mary suddenly got hold of her arm and dragged her into the toilet.
"The door slammed then all of a sudden you could hear them both screaming at each other. They were having a right ding-dong and it went on for nearly a quarter of an hour.
"Mary then stormed out of the loo and they didn't talk to each other for the rest of the night."
The row - which took place in the seventh floor suite hired for the supermodel's celebrations - is the latest the Macca sisters have had about Stella's wild nights out.
Mary is worried Stella is heading for burn-out. Stella insists she is just enjoying herself. Photographer Mary is seen as the most sensible daughter of Beatles legend Sir Paul McCartney.
As well as settling down with her husband Alistair Donald and their two sons Arthur and Elliot, she is also friends with Tony Blair.
She took the first official pictures of the Blairs' baby son Leo after being asked by the Prime Minister.
Stella is the opposite to her big sis. She enjoys the spotlight and is often seen out partying with the likes of supermodel Kate, Naomi Campbell and actress Sadie Frost.
Kate's birthday celebrations on Friday went on for nearly 24 hours.
They included lunch with ten of her closest pals at Claridges, a party at artist Sam Taylor-Wood's house then the do back to Claridges.
The party was so wild that environmental health noise officers were called after complaints from fellow guests. Maybe they heard Stella and Mary shouting.
January 18, 2004 -- Independent on SundayThe last-minute deal in a Beverly Hills hotel that saved Michael Jackson's empire
Michael Jackson's music empire has been saved by a last- minute $70m loan deal brokered by two businessmen - one of whom has previously been linked to the Mafia - The Independent on Sunday can reveal.
As the pop star was preparing for his courthouse debut in Santa Maria, California, last week on charges of child molestation, another drama in the Jackson's surreal life was being played out in a plush conference room 130 miles away. At stake was not only the future of the troubled finances of the "King of Pop", but the ownership of one of the largest, most valuable collections of popular song publishing rights ever amassed.
The IoS has learnt of a last-minute $70m bail-out by Jackson's close business associates that has allowed the star to retain ownership of the best investment he ever made - his 50 per cent stake in a massive portfolio of up to 400,000 pop and rock songs written or performed by some of the most famous groups and solo artists of the past 50 years, including the Beatles.
The bail-out followed an extraordinary all-day crisis conference - held last Monday in a room at the plush Beverly Hills Hotel, Los Angeles - that was attended by 27 of Jackson's closest business and legal advisors. Jackson did not attend, but is believed to have participated via a phone link. Four days later, he was playing to the crowd massed outside the Santa Maria courthouse as his trial opened, leaping on to the roof of his van, dancing and giving a V-for-victory sign.
Away from the cavorting, some serious business had been seen to. According to one report, two of Jackson's most important aides, Al Malnik - a 70-year-old multimillionaire lawyer, businessman, property developer and money-lending magnate with alleged long-standing connections to the Mafia - and Charles Koppelman, a senior record industry figure, have now steered the singer away from potential disaster by arranging for a crucial $70m loan repayment on Jackson's behalf.
Malnik, who is based in Miami, was at one time personal lawyer to notorious mobster Meyer Lansky, who died in 1983. The character of Hyman Roth, played by Lee Strasberg in The Godfather, Part II, is a thinly disguised version of Lansky. Malnik originally raised bail for Jackson when he was arrested on the current charges last year.
Also reported to be at the Beverly Hills meeting, called to discuss the star's financial situation, were representatives of the Nation of Islam, the fundamentalist black rights group that has recently become closely associated with the embattled singer.
Without the 11th-hour payment, one source told Fox News, "Michael would have been flushed down the toilet". Jackson's part-ownership of the song rights collection, whose total value has been estimated at between $700m and $1billion, has long underpinned the big-spending star's credit-worthiness. His loss of the highly lucrative publishing rights to songs by hundreds of artists including the Beatles, Bob Dylan, Elvis Presley, Madonna, Little Richard, Oasis, the Pretenders and most of the big names in country and rock'n'roll - which could have happened in the middle of next month - would have knocked away the last pillar supporting the singer's lavish lifestyle.
Jackson started investing in music in 1985, when he paid $47.5m for the rights to 251 Beatles songs and thousands of others held in the catalogue created by the media company ATV, outbidding his then friend Paul McCartney.
An owner of publishing rights usually receives half the royalties every time a song is played on radio, television, a jukebox or a Karaoke machine, or when its lyrics or music are printed. The rights-holder can also charge for the right to record a cover version, or for its use in a film or advertisement, or as piped music. The rest goes to the songwriter or writers.
This can be an extraordinarily profitable investment. In the early 1990s, Jackson's ATV song rights alone earned him around $30m a year.
McCartney, defeated in the bid to buy the Beatles' song rights, went on to amass his own vast catalogue of more than 3,000 songs, currently thought to be worth more than £400m ($724m).
In 1995, Jackson merged his ATV company with the giant music multinational Sony to create a joint venture, Sony/ATV Music Publishing. By 1999, the new firm was valued at more than $900m - most of this down to the "golden core" of Beatles songs. As part of the deal, Sony paid Jackson around £65m ($117m).
According to figures obtained recently by Rolling Stone magazine, revenue generated by the Sony/ATV catalogue has been increasing dramatically, pointing to a likely income for Jackson and Sony of $80m last year.
In one year, 1998, rights revenue from Oasis songs alone raked in around £1m ($1.8m). But at the heart of the Sony/ATV holdings is a small group of Lennon-McCartney songs, led by "Yesterday", "Eleanor Rigby" and "Penny Lane".
The future of the Beatles' song rights held by Jackson are believed to have been a focus of discussion at last Monday's Beverly Hills conference.
By the end of the 1990s, Jackson's extraordinary lifestyle, including monthly "running costs" of more than $1m, had led him to seek a series of huge loans totalling more than $200m from the Bank of America. The cost of producing his 2001 album Invincible was spectacular. Sony lent Jackson $40m to make it - the most expensive album ever - and forked out a further $25m promoting it. But sales were relatively modest: two million copies sold in the US, compared with 26 million copies of Thriller 20 years earlier. Loans were granted to Jackson, using his share of the song rights as security and with Sony acting, in effect, as guarantor.
Since then, disappointing album sales and a series of settlements, as well as large legal bills, have added to financial woes that are thought to include debts of more than $240m. Last year the star failed to sell his fantastical Neverland ranch home for around £30m ($54m).
Sony would automatically have assumed ownership of the entire catalogue, thanks to a deal with the singer whereby Sony has a "first right to buy" should the singer ever sell, had Jackson defaulted on the repayment of his Bank of America loans.
"It was paid," a spokesman for Sony said. "It's not like he defaulted or anything. That's not the case."
Contacted last week, the Bank of America refused to confirm the Jackson repayment, saying that since he was a client of theirs, they would not discuss his financial affairs with a third party. Also not able to speak to the Independent on Sunday last week was Al Malnik.
By making the 15 February loan repayment deadline, Jackson has saved his music empire until the end of 2005. But the $70m bail-out won't help him with his next big battle - in California's criminal courts.
January 16, 2004 -- AP
McCartney's Spokesman Nixes Probe Report
A spokesman for Sir Paul McCartney on Friday dismissed a newspaper report claiming police wanted to interview the singer about an alleged assault.London's Evening Standard said police planned to speak to McCartney about a dispute that occurred when one of the newspaper's photographers tried to take the former Beatle's picture in September.
The incident occurred near the spot by the River Thames where illusionist David Blaine was living suspended from a crane in a plastic box for 44 days. McCartney had gone to see Blaine after dining with friends in London's Soho district.
London's Metropolitan Police said in September that they were investigating two counter-allegations of common assault following a dispute near Blaine's site between a photographer and a group of friends. The police didn't name any of those involved in the incident.
A spokeswoman for the Metropolitan Police said Friday that the investigation was ongoing but said no arrests had been made. She refused to name any of the people involved.
McCartney spokesman Geoff Baker said he had not spoken to the singer about the Evening Standard report. But he added that police had not tried to contact McCartney's office about the allegations of assault, and said he didn't believe the newspaper's claim.
Baker, who was at the scene of the dispute, denied that any assault took place, adding that insulting a photographer did not constitute an assault.
Shortly after the incident on Sept. 19, Baker said there had been "pushing and shoving, but there were certainly no punches thrown." He later described reports of a "fracas" as exaggerated.
The Evening Standard said McCartney stormed off after photographer Kevin Wheal tried to take his picture. It reported that one of the singer's friends then grabbed Wheal by the arm while another friend punched him in the face several times.
January 16, 2004 -- Ananova/icLiverpool/SkyNews
McCartney faces Blaine scuffle quizDetectives are to speak to Sir Paul McCartney. It follows a fracas which took place when he went to see David Blaine's glass box stunt in September.
Officers will speak to Sir Paul as a matter of routine before deciding whether to pursue the matter further. Their inquiries concern an alleged scuffle with a photographer. The former Beatle was upset after the photographer tried to take a picture of him.
Kevin Wheal, who was working for London's Evening Standard newspaper, claimed Sir Paul pushed him in the chest. When it emerged long-standing publicist Geoff Baker had tipped off the photographer Sir Paul fired him but later dismissed the sacking as a joke.
Sir Paul has denied any wrongdoing, describing his involvement as being part of "a group of friends on a night out".
January 15, 2004 -- Northern Star OnlineWhen Tom Ford, the creative director for Gucci, announced he was leaving Gucci Group, trendsetters around the world set their eyes on the hottest gig in the world of looking good. And now, a new name is being whispered by fashionistas about the high-profile job British designer Stella McCartney.
England's Hello magazine reports rumors of McCartney taking over are gathering momentum in industry circles.
In 1997, McCartney was credited with turning around the fashion fortunes of the French fashion house, Chloe.
In 2000, there were rumors she was going to move to Gucci, but it was believed that her attitude on animal rights made her turn it down, as the Italian luxury label would have required her to work with leather, but she squashed such speculation by resigning with Chloe. A year later, however, McCartney started her own label backed by Gucci Group.
A jump to head Gucci would come as a refreshing change for the designer who received a barrage of negative press late last year that even prompted gossip of an organised campaign against her.
The 32-year-old designer's namesake label reportedly lost $8 million in the last two years.
Though Gucci has remained silent about who will be hired as the new boss Narciso Rodriguez and Marc Jacobs are said to be possible candidates at least one insider says the former Chloe designer, and good friend to Ford is a sure-fire bet for the post.
"The position will not become free until April," a source told England's Daily Mail, "but it has been decided that Stella is going to take over."
Ford also designs for the fashion house of Yves Saint Laurent. Avant-garde designer Alexander McQueen is said to be sharpening his scissors as Ford's possible replacement for that job.
January 12, 2004
Were you a Beatlemaniac?Help! We need somebody, not just anybody.
The U Music Section of the LA Daily News wants your memories of the historic first U.S. TV appearance of the Beatles, which took place on "The Ed Sullivan Show' 40 years ago Feb. 9. And while you're at it, did you ever meet or see John, Paul, George or Ringo during their first American tour?
Please write a Fab paragraph or two about seeing the Beatles with Ed or live for a story about the upcoming anniversary. You can e-mail us atdnlalife@dailynews.com or reach us by fax, (818) 713- 3545. Please be sure to include your full name, city and daytime phone number.
January 12, 2004 -- GottaHaveIt.comA Beatle and His Bear - An Auction of Paul McCartney Artifacts - January 15 to January 22
This very unique sale features an incredible collection of Beatles-related memorabilia, consigned by Shelagh Johnston, who was a secretary for The Beatles Official Fan Club and who personally dealt with Jim McCartney, Paul's father, at the McCartney residence from 1961 to 1964. The highlight of this auction is Paul McCartney's personal 1948 edition of "The Rupert Bear," signed and addressed by McCartney as a 6-year-old child with hand-drawn artwork throughout (est. $6,000 - $8,000). This pop culture artifact features the earliest known Paul McCartney signature extant. It was given to a teenage Ms. Johnston by Jim McCartney as a memento and thank you for all the help she had given him. Happy 80th Birthday Rupert!
The auction will also feature many one-of-a-kind, vintage McCartney memorabilia.
January 10, 2004
This month's Mojo Magazine (UK) lists the ten best solo Beatles albums.
1. McCartney
2. All Things Must Pass (Harrison)
3. Plastic Ono Band (Lennon)
4. Ram
5. Beaucoups of Blues (Ringo)
6. Imagine (Lennon)
7. Blast From Your Past (Ringo)
8. Band on the Run
9. Somewhere in England (Harrison)
10. Walls and Bridges (Lennon)
January 9, 2004 -- The Sun
Mrs. Macca to buy girl legs
Sir Paul McCartney's wife Heather Mills is providing false legs for a tragic two-year-old girl.
Heather - who lost her lower leg in a crash - was touched by the plight of Lydia Cross. The youngster had to have her legs amputated below the knee after she developed a bacterial infection and septicaemia. Lydia spent 12 days on life support last month.
New mum Heather, 35, saw Lydia on TV and will meet her soon. The tot will try out limbs at a Dorset firm which has links with ex-model Heather.
Lydia's mum Jodie, 33, of Chippenham, Wilts, said, "This is the best news. "Lydia thinks Santa is making a special return trip, just for her."
Dad Tony, 34, said, "We are so grateful to Heather."
January 9, 2004 -- Rolling Stone
Joe Cocker is at work on a new album at Capitol Studios in Los Angeles. The singer hopes to be finished by the end of February."It's tricky territory when you get into some of what I'm working on," Cocker says. "I'm doing a version of 'What's Goin' On' by Marvin Gaye and having a crack at 'Maybe I'm Amazed' by Paul McCartney, in a slightly lower key -- you understand why -- and 'Jealous Guy' by John Lennon. I'm deliberately doing an album of me rethinking other people's work."
Cocker recently received the ultimate compliment from Paul McCartney, with respect to his treatment of the Beatles' "With a Little Help From My Friends." "We did a thing for the Queen a while back and Paul said, 'Well, I guess your version is the consummate version,'" says Cocker. "So coming from him, that's pretty good."
January 8, 2004 -- The Scotsman
The Scottish Executive will announce shortly it is to scrap a 50 per cent discount in council tax for second or holiday homeowners.
It was recently revealed that the cost of holiday homes to the taxpayer is more than £33 million ($56 million), with 66,000 households claiming the 50 per cent discount. Only 57 per cent of Scotland's 2.2 million houses pay full council tax. Celebrities including Sir Paul McCartney, JK Rowling and Sir Cameron Mackintosh are among those who benefit from the discount.
Supporters of a 100 per cent tax say it would discourage the purchase of holiday homes and increase the amount of affordable housing available for local people. However, opponents say the homes encourage tourism in rural areas and that paying the full amount would still not allow owners to vote in council elections.Euan Martin, a partner in the property agents Stewart & Watson, said, "If people have the money to spend on a second home, I don't think council tax on its own would be enough to phase them out.
January 8, 2004
Is the Apple press release (below) for "The Beatles First US Visit" truth or fiction? Read what one writer has revealed about Apple publicist Geoff Baker's claims about the new DVD.
January 7, 2004 -- APPLE CORPS PRESS OFFICE -- Official Press ReleaseNEW DVD REVEALS THE INSIDE STORY OF THE BEATLES FIRST U.S. VISIT
The only film revealing the inside story of The Beatles conquest of America is to be released next month (February) on a new DVD to mark the anniversary of the birth of Beatlemania in the USA.
"The Beatles First US Visit "DVD, which includes never-seen-before footage, chronicles the remarkable two weeks in February 1964 that began America's still-enduring love affair with the group.
The film of the frantic fortnight records the hysterical reaction to The Beatles US debut in a documentary that was the real-life inspiration for the Beatles movie "A Hard Day's Night." Closely shot at the shoulders of John, Paul, George and Ringo by the pioneering Maysles Brothers, "The First US Visit "innovated intimate film-making that set a benchmark for rock and roll cinematography.
Albert and David Maysles were granted all-areas access the like of which is now unknown, filming The Beatles in the eye of their own hurricane as the band besotted America and lifted the nation from its gloom in the wake of President John Kennedy's assassination.
"The First US Visit" will be released by Apple Corps/Capitol Records on February 3rd in the USA and by Apple Corps/EMI Records on February 9th in the UK and rest of the world. The DVD release will follow exclusive theatrical premieres in New York, Los Angeles and London.
The Maysles film captures the manic moments from when thousands of fans greeted The Beatles as Pan Am Flight 101 touched down in New York on February 7th and sparked a two-week frenzy.
BEATLES FIRST US VISIT 2
As The Beatles became the first British act to conquer America - with "I Want To Hold Your Hand" at No.1 in the US charts - the Maysles Brothers shadowed the band off-guard and off-duty in dressing rooms, hotels and night clubs, at photo-sessions and press conferences, travelling together in limos and on trains as the then-wide-eyed lads from Liverpool sped from New York to Washington and Miami revelling in the wild reception to their first US trip.
Besides the revealing footage of The Beatles offstage, the DVD also features their first concert at The Washington Coliseum and their three historic performances on The Ed Sullivan Show - including the seminal night of February 9th when the band first exploded into the homes of a then-world record 73 million TV viewers.
Beatles performances on the DVD include "All My Loving," "Till There Was You," "She Loves You," "From Me To You," "This Boy," "Twist And Shout," "Please Please Me," "I Saw Her Standing There," "I Wanna Be Your Man" and the hit that began it all for America, "I Want To Hold Your Hand. "
The original black and white film - which was first shown on US and UK TV in 1964 as a 40-minute program - has been re-graded and the sound re-mastered for the new 80-minute version. The DVD also includes a 50-minute "Making Of The Beatles First US Visit," featuring footage that has never been seen before. The DVD also includes a new and revealing interview with cameraman Albert Maysles.
Subtitled in nine languages, "The Beatles First US Visit" DVD chronicles one of the greatest cultural events of the 20th Century and is a permanent record for generations who still remember where they were when the legend began.
January 6, 2004 -- Daily Post
Celebrity line-up for a new WirralA Who's who of Wirral celebrities is to be asked to champion the borough in a new global marketing campaign.
Famous faces including former Tranmere Rovers manager John Aldridge and Sir Paul and Mike McCartney are to be asked to take part.
It will see Wirral given a new brand name following the council's announcment that it was ditching the EuroWirral tag which it was felt had run its course. EuroWirral had been in use for 10 years and has been the major driving force of the council's marketing strategy. Council chiefs are now working on a replacement for the name, with suggestions so far including "The Wirral Way."
A list of the peninsula's rich and famous is being drawn up to tie in with the brand relaunch. Lib-Dem councillor Bob Moon, chairman of the economic regeneration committee, said, "We are looking for people who can champion the borough. We want to raise our profile and need people who are instantly well known round here and can be a face to the area's name when we promote it internationally. There have been a number of names bandied around. If you ask 10 people you get 10 different answers, but one name that does keep coming up is John Aldridge."
Aldridge, a former player and manager with Tranmere Rovers, was widely regarded as the man who did more than any other to keep the club's profile high. He said, "It's great to still have the respect of the people of Wirral and I will do anything I can to help. I have a strong love for Wirral, I have great memories of my time at Tranmere. They were some of the greatest days of my life."
The McCartney brothers' names have both been mentioned, with Mike a potential leading name on the list. His involvement with the local community and celebrity credentials make him a prime candidate.
The new tag and the list of celebrities will be finalized later in the year. It is hoped the re-branding will help Wirral cash in on Liverpool's Capital of Culture success as well as making the most of the 2006 Open Championship.
January 5, 2004 -- Jornal de Noticias (translation)
A newspaper in Portugal is claiming that Paul McCartney has been asked to perform at the Super Festival Bock Rock in the Park of the Nations, in Lisbon, this June. The concert precedes the European Championship of Soccer which begins on June 12.This will be the first time McCartney has played Portugal. A concert planned for September 18 at Jose Alvalade Stadium in Lisbon was canceled for his 1993 tour.
Back in the '60s McCartney vacationed in Portugal finding it to be one of the few places he could walk down the streets unrecognized when the Beatles were at their height. The song "Penina" was written by Paul at the Hotel Penina and later recorded by Carlos Mendes. Paul improvised the song on the spot while at the hotel's bar one night and said, " I never thought about recording it... "
January 2, 2004 -- La Nueva Espana
A Spanish newspaper is reporting that there are negotiations by Xacobeo 2004 to bring Paul McCartney and other artists to a mega pop-rock festival this July to celebrate Camino Del Santiago in Santiago De Compostela, Spain. The multi-artist event will take place in an open field called Monte Do Gozo.
January 1, 2004 -- Washington Post
A British invasion should bring music fans into the National Museum of American History for two photography shows, "The Beatles! Backstage and Behind the Scenes" and "Liverpool Life" from Mike McCartney, brother of Sir Paul.
Both shows kick off Jan. 16 -- the 40th anniversary of the first Beatles' single, "I Wanna Hold Your Hand," reaching No. 1 on the U.S. charts.
January 1, 2004 -- The Sun
Paul McCartney celebrated stepdaughter Heather's 40th birthday during a New Year party at a family home in Heswall, Merseyside. Macca and his missus Heather were there but his frock designer daughter Stella wasn't.
February 2004
February 29, 2004 -- APMcCartney to Kick Off Rock in Rio Fest
Former Beatle and pop legend Paul McCartney will open this year's Rock in Rio festival, joining more than 70 performers for the six-day event starting May 28 in Lisbon, organizers said Saturday.
Sting, Britney Spears and Guns N' Roses also will perform during the festival, scheduled for the last weekend of May and the first of June.
McCartney's appearance will kick off his 13-city "04 Summer Tour."
February 29, 2004 -- ANI
McCartney steals the limelight from pal Wilson!
Rock legend Sir Paul sidelined rocker pal Brian Wilson during a gig when the crowd gave him a standing ovation.The former Beatle was attending a rare concert February 24th by Beach Boys frontman Wilson at London's Royal Festival Hall when the crowd spotted him among the assembled celebrities.
And the sight of the "Let It Be" hitmaker created such a furore amongst the crowd, that they cheered and clapped him.
"McCartney was having a great time and was dancing, clapping and punching the air. During the interval everyone started staring at him. At one point, he stood up to have his picture taken with a female fan which ended up in a standing ovation," said an onlooker.
Other big names in the audience included George Martin, Roger Daltrey, Paul Weller and Natalie Imbruglia.
February 29, 2004
A Day in the Life of Linda McCartney circa 1979
We live in a two-bedroom house so as soon as James (2) starts calling 'Mummy, Mummy', around seven every morning, he wakes everyone up. Being his mother I like to be the first to greet him, so up I get.I take him downstairs and start getting breakfast ready. Before long the other kids - Heather (almost 17), Mary (10) and Stella (8) - are also down. If Paul is recording or we are touring I try to make sure he's not disturbed. But if he isn't working he gets up at the same time and joins the kids at breakfast. He's an excellent father, very involved and protective towards them.
It seems mad to have moved from a large house in London to a small place on the South Coast, but it's so much cosier. Paul and I are in the kind of business where we can be totally detached from our kids and hardly see them grow up. If you have enough money to live in a big house, one kid could be up in the attic and another could be in the west wing and you'd hardly see them.
The kids travel everywhere with us. When touring abroad we usually rent a house and make it our base so we can return to the kids each night.
We're all vegetarian, so breakfast is eggs laid by our own hens, home-grown tomatoes fried, vegetarian sausages, cereals and wholewheat bread. During the bread strike Paul baked the most beautiful bread!
Quite often Paul comes with me when I drive the girls to school. Mary and Stella go to a local primary school and Heather attends a nearby art school. I drive a Mini because being American I'm used to wide roads, so with a small car I've no fear about scraping it.
I buy most of the kids' clothes at Mothercare. I look at their catalogue or go into the shop and pick out things that are made from natural fibres. I myself feel most comfortable in jeans and T-shirt. I don't really spend that much - even though Paul pays all the bills! Because we live locally I'm regarded as just another mother who takes her children to school and has a house to keep. I try to keep my life close to what it was before we married.
Because we have a big breakfast and a big dinner about six we don't have lunch. So about that time I'm doing jobs around the house. Paul never helps me. He likes tidiness but is not too tidy himself! If I'm working or going out I have a woman in to do the cleaning. But I always do the cooking because I enjoy it. I cook for six every day.
For dinner I make things like quiche Lorraine - without bacon - aubergines, spaghetti, salads and Paul's favorites which are pea soup or cream of tomato soup made from home-grown tomatoes and onions. I also make coffee milkshakes which I love. I'm a real baby that way!
If I'm lucky during the day I go for a ride on my stallion called Lucky Spot. He's got a lovely temperament. Horse riding is a marvellous form of exercise, both physically and spiritually.
One interest we share closely is football. We rarely get to see matches but we always watch it on television. Paul is a great Liverpool fan, so we support Liverpool.
Because we live in the country we don't socialize that much. We think that's also partly because we're too lazy. There's so much I'd like to do, especially in the photographic field, but I hate to leave the life I lead in the country unless I absolutely have to.
I get various offers to take photographs, and sometimes might find one particulary attractive. But when it come down to it I just can't bring myself to leave the kids and go to take pictures. So I stay at home and take pictures of them instead.
Most of our evenings are spent in front of the television watching Dallas, Top of the Pops, Old Grey Whistle Test and some quiz shows.
Before I turn in for the night I always go to the kid's bedroom and give them each a kiss. Trouble is, James often wakes up and doesn't want to go back to sleep.
February 28, 2004 -- Ananova
McCartney reveals Euro tour detailsPaul McCartney has confirmed he'll headline Glastonbury on the finale of his new European tour.
The "04 Summer Tour" will be the first time the 61-year-old has been on the road since becoming a father again.
McCartney will kick off the month-long tour in May, playing at 12 cities across Europe.
For the first time the rocker will play in Lisbon, Leipzig, Prague, St Petersburg, Horsens in Denmark and Gijon in northern Spain.
He will also take in Madrid, Paris, Zurich, Gothenburg, Oslo and Helsinki before a finale at Glastonbury on June 26.
Macca is set to perform in front of 700,000 fans during the tour, which will feature music from The Beatles, his band Wings and the star's solo career.
Announcing the details, he said, "Touring really has been a lot of fun for us and the audiences have been great. So why stop now? I'm looking forward to playing and to visiting some new places."
February 27, 2004 -- www.paulmccartney.com
Hi there,
Well here we are already in February 2004 and the year is flying past. How has it been for you so far? Hope you are all having a good time out there in Cyberspace. Heather and I have been busy with our lovely baby Beatrice but we still had time to think up lots of surprises, watch this space.
The first bit of news is that Harvery Weinsteing, Miramax and I are releasing a selection of my Animated Films called Paul McCartney: The Music and Animation Collection, which will be a special DVD package for all you animation fans young and old alike, so look out for that in the shops soon.
I know there has been lots of talk about more concerts.....Keep that chat coming and we will see what happens!
We are also working on a book about our experiences on tour, which talks about all the madness and happiness of being on the road over the past two years - definitely not to be missed - will let you know when and where to get that soon.
For now it's back into the studio to do what I love best!
All the best for a peaceful and happy 2004,
Paul, Heather and family.
February 27, 2004 -- Contact Music
McCARTNEY ORDERED OFF THE WEEDPop legend Sir Paul McCartney has reportedly been ordered to stop smoking cannabis - by wife Heather Mills.
The former model, 36, was heard saying she has told the former Beatle, 61, he is banned from puffing on marijuana, at the Pride of Britain Awards, held at Sir Richard Branson's London mansion, earlier this month (February 4).
She told fellow guests - including soccer player Gary Lineker and British TV host Carol Vorderman - Macca's next album will be his best, because he's drug free.
An insider tells The Daily Mail, "Heather was very firm and said that cannabis was a gateway drug that can lead to schizophrenia. Heather added that Paul is banned from smoking it again. She joked that if he smokes it, he's out. She thought that having given up, his next album would be one of his best."
A spokeswoman for Mills says, "She does recall having a serious conversation in private regarding drugs. The context of the conversation was regarding whether a young person with a drugs conviction should receive an award. I am not going to ask her whether she has stopped Sir Paul smoking cannabis. She's too busy for questions like that."
February 26, 2004 -- The ChannelShow.com
McCartney reveals the secret of his business success
Running a business can often be a solitary experience and it's all too easy to think that only you are going through it. But the practical realities of running a company are universal and it's the same whether you're a small three-man operation, a 250-strong sme or legendary rockstar, writes editor Nick Gibson in this exclusive interview.Sir Paul McCartney is one of the world's most famous musicians and also one of Britain's most successful businessmen. Learning from his experience with both The Beatles and later Apple Corporation, McCartney's MPL company has generated over £1 billion ($1.7 billion) in the past two decades with the star's organisation overseeing a global empire of recorded music, publishing, copyright, product merchandising, multimedia and concert revenues. As ceo, McCartney pockets a cool £10 million ($17 million) a year salary after tax.
Talking exclusively to Nick Gibson, Sir Paul reveals some of the secrets of his business success. The key to running a company is self-sufficiency and a light touch, believes McCartney who learned his first lesson in business from Beatles manager Brian Epstein.
"When Brian first had his NEMS company, he ran it very efficiently because he was always in the office but when he started going on tour with The Beatles it all started to fall apart and I remember thinking, 'If ever I get involved with a company, first thing I'll tell them is, 'I might never be here, so you've got to run it without me'. When I set up MPL, I did so it could operate without the need for me to be there each day, telling people what to do and making all the decisions.
"Now, because I don't HAVE to be in the office all the time, I actually go in quite a lot and I enjoy it because I don't have to get involved in everything. I can simply focus on what I'm supposed to be doing."
McCartney admits it took him a long time to learn how to manage people and make decisions. "If the office needs a big decision from me, instead of prevaricating or putting it off, which I used to do in the past, I now know I have to make a decision something I've found easier to do as I've got older."
MPL operations include concerts, videos and tv projects as well as music publishing, rights licensing and revenue collection. With McCartney's current world tour the biggest grossing in recent rock history, logistics and organisational skills are paramount.
"People say that MPL is a pretty efficient company to deal with; we know what we're doing and we get things done on time. We've got a good bunch of people in the team."
Like any businessman, McCartney has his 'off' days when the pressure gets too much. "I do try to keep business and the office at arm's length because it's easy sometimes to get swamped by it all. There are days when I throw my hands up in despair and just feel, like, 'Ahh Jesus!' and I threaten to give it all up.
"I often think, 'I don't want a bloody company, I hate it - I'm a bloody musician! Then I realize that if I don't take an interest in and control my business, then someone else will have it!!"
The former Beatle has often been criticized in the past for not being seen to use his rockstar fortune to help revitalize his native Liverpool with job creation schemes, etc. Sir Paul, who apart from setting up the UK's first 'Fame' school in Liverpool, has secretly donated millions to good causes there, says, "One time, a pressure group said, 'McCartney should open a factory up here', and I thought, 'Oh, great! A factory. What on earth do I know about running a factory?' What happens if the company goes bust after two years? They're all going to love me then, aren't they! I'm not a natural-born businessman; I'm a musician who's had business forced upon them. I think of myself as a 'builder' and I do what I can, the way I know best."
McCartney has not only had to adapt to changing musical styles but also, as a businessman, to changing attitudes in the workplace. He admits it's been a vertical learning curve.
"When the Beatles broke up and we formed Apple, our own company, I was 26 years old. I didn't want to be a boss of a company, I hated the idea of being a boss, I thought people would hate me - which is true; they do the minute you're a boss. It's like lending money, you do it to be a friend then they hate you.
"When I was younger I was too embarrassed to be in charge. But I'm at the age now when I'm allowed to be a boss and I try to be a good one. It doesn't always work out but I try to create an environment at MPL where people actually like coming to work."
McCartney says attitudes in the workplace have changed much over the past four decades. "The attitude when I was growing up was encapsulated in a popular rhyme, 'the working class can kiss my arse 'cos I've got the gaffer's job at last'. It was about pulling up the ladder once you'd 'made it' in life. I hated such an attitude then and I hate it still. I believe everyone should have the chance to make it in life whatever their idea of success."
February 25, 2004 -- Macca Report ExclusiveIs Paul writing music for the summer Olympics?
Unconfirmed rumors circulating among network executives is that Paul McCartney has composed a series of compositions for the 2004 Olympics. The pieces include a title and closing song with vague titles: "Fanfare Opening," "Closing Credits" and a song called either "Winner" or "The Winning."
February 25, 2004 -- Billboard.com"American Idol," currently in its third season, is Fox's highest-rated series of the year so far, according to Nielsen Media Research. Producers are currently trying to persuade Paul McCartney and Stevie Wonder to be guest judges on the show.
February 25, 2004 -- BrianWilson.com
Brian Wilson fan lucks out with Paul McCartneyA lucky Brian Wilson fan was sitting two rows in front of Paul McCartney at the Brian Wilson concert Tuesday night and asked Paul if he'd mind saying hello to his mom who he just called on the cell phone. Paul took the phone and said, "Hello." The shocked mom said, "Is that Paul?" Paul answered,"Yes, I'll hand you back over to your son now." The son shook Sir Paul's hand and said, "Thanks, you've made my Mother's day!" Paul turned to George Martin who was sitting in front of him, shrugged his shoulders, and said, "What can you do, eh?"
February 24, 2004
Paul McCartney showed up tonight at Brian Wilson's "Smile" concert at London's Royal Festival Hall. Macca was spotted in the audience right before the "Smile" segment of the show. He appeared to be enjoying himself, clapping, dancing and singing along. During "Vegetables" band member, Scott Bennet pointed to Paul for the "toss me a carrot" line in the song. Paul is heard on the actual recording chomping on a celery stalk during that song. Also in the audience was George Martin.
February 23, 2004 -- The Sunday Mirror
THE LAND OF MAC BELIEVEby Carole Malone
I must own up to the fact that I was one of the columnists Paul McCartney rang last week to complain about what he called a "vendetta" against his wife.
The ex-Beatle, who managed to get hold of my mobile phone number and who is obviously on a quest to clean up Heather's atrocious public image, spent more than half an hour telling me about the wonderful, selfless things she does for others.
And I'm sure it's true. It's also very touching that a husband who's obviously potty about his wife will go to any lengths to protect her - although if ever we needed proof that love was blind Sir Paul's plea to journalists last week was it.
But however gallant his efforts in rushing like a white knight to his wife's aid you have to ask why it was necessary in the first place.
And the answer is, because the public's mistrust of Heather is ingrained and Macca is just going to have to accept the fact they don't like her. Moreover, since he married her, some of them don't much like him now either. Because what people see when they look at Heather isn't a selfless, loving creature who'll jump on a plane at a moment's notice to help an amputee in distress.
No, what they see is a cold, manipulative, ambitious woman who always has her eye on the main chance and who thinks there is nothing wrong in using men and their money to get what she wants.
They see a woman who has stolen from people who trusted her. They see someone who was a professional party girl who used to take presents from rich Arabs. They see a hard-nosed woman who, days after losing her leg and while she was still in hospital, told a posse of hacks who wanted her story: 'You can have it, but you'll have to pay'.
They see a woman who saw ageing millionaire Paul McCartney - and went for him. And in Sir Paul they see a 61-year-old pop star who dyes his hair and who has become a cliche by marrying a woman nearly 26 years his junior.
You can't blame people for making judgements. It goes with the celebrity territory.
And it's pointless for Macca or Heather to moan about publicity when both of them are perfectly happy to take advantage of it when they've got records, tours and charities to promote.
During our conversation Macca was at pains to stress that Heather and daughter Stella are now friends (although if they're such good friends I wonder why Stella's never come out publicly to defend her).
He also stressed that Heather didn't sign a pre nup because HE didn't want her to. And he was understandably touchy about references to the age gap between them, although he's too intelligent not to expect ridicule when he marries a woman just two years older than his eldest daughter.
Since our conversation I've been trying to work out why the public seems to have taken against the two of them and I think it goes back to when Linda died.
People felt "cheated" by his relationship with Heather and couldn't believe this devoted husband who had so publicly professed undying love for his wife Linda started seeing a woman nearly half his age just a year after her death. Just as his children felt let down, so did we.
On top of that both Macca (and Heather for that matter) have always tried to make out she was more than she is. There's no question she still does lots of charity work for free - but then the wives of multi-millionaires usually do.
But none of that can rub out her past. He insists she's changed and maybe she has - being married to a pillar of the Establishment who in the last two years has earned £160 million ($272 million)often DOES help to change people.
But while Paul may be attempting to rewrite the history of the Lennon/ McCartney partnership he can't rewrite his wife's life story mainly because much of what is in the public domain was put there by Heather herself.
In an effort to refute the "lies" he claims have been written I asked Macca if he'd do an interview to put the record straight. He refused. I also wanted to put on record how much he and Heather had given to charity last year so that people could know how much good work they do. He said that would be vulgar and boastful.
Heather Mills may well have changed but a saint she ain't. And the sooner her husband stops trying to bully us into believing she is the better it will be for her.
email Carole Malone about this article.
February 22, 2004 - - UK News of the World
Something in the way Bea moves...tells us she's happy to go here, there and everywhere with dad Macca.
After all, four-month-old Beatrice had a ticket to ride in a comfy sling carried by dad Paul McCartney.
The tot, who looks just like her daddy, gurgled happily during a stroll in Regent's Park with mum Heather Mills and Paul on Thursday (Feb. 19) afternoon.
Macca, 61, and Heather, 36, drove to the park from their house in north London and spent more than an hour taking in the fresh air.
An onlooker said, "They looked like any other family on a day out. they were just having fun. You could see how happy they were and what really fantastic parents they are. Both of them made a real fuss over the baby."
Macca became a dad for the fourth time on October 28 last year when 7lb Beatrice was born three weeks early by caesarean section. After her birth Paul said, "She's a little beauty and we couldn't be prouder."
The millionaire ex-Beatle has three children from his marriage to Linda, who died in 1998 - musician James, 26, photographer Mary, 34, and 32-year-old fashion designer Stella. He also has an (adopted) stepdaughter, Heather from Linda's first marriage. But he's clearly taking to fatherhood a second time around.
February 22, 2004 -- Hangbag.com
McCartney Mends Wedding WoesPop legend Sir Paul McCartney came to the rescue of pal Julie Wong's terrified bridegroom on Valentine's Day by keeping him occupied while he nervously waited for his bride.
Wong, a close friend of Sir Paul's wife Heather Mills, left John Hoole waiting for more than half an hour at the alter, so the former Beatle distracted him with pictures of newborn daughter Beatrice.
Our insider revealed, "The bride was half an hour late and the groom was getting nervous, Paul ran up to show him the pictures of Beatrice he carries around with him."
The kindness didn't stop there either, the McCartney's only stayed for one drink at the reception at Brighton's Grand Hotel in order to not eclipse the bride and groom's day.
February 20, 2004 -- Insider's News
Rumors are flying that the 2004 tour is set to start May 21 in Verona, Italy at the Arena di Verona which holds 15,000 pending the city council's clearance. A date for a second show there on the 22nd has been set aside.
February 20, 2004 -- Insider's News
The latest news circulating about Paul's yet untitled album is that it includes 10 new songs, some left over from the "Driving Rain" sessions with the following titles; "Oh If they Only Knew," (which has been called one of Paul's best songs) "Comfort of Love," "You Are Still Here," "If This Is Wrong," "Washington," "Always Be There" and a comedy number about someone named Alice.
The fan favorite called "India" played at sound checks and for a Webcast so far has not made the cut for the album, unfortunately.
February 20, 2004 -- The Sun
McCARTNEY'S YES TO DYE
Rock legend Sir Paul McCartney dashes out of a salon after having his hair dyed. The 61-year-old former Beatle emerged sporting darker grey-free locks. He splashed out £50 ($85) for the new look - a snip for someone with a £760million ($1.2 billion) fortune.
An insider at the Uppercuts salon in Brighton, East Sussex, said last night, "He was with us for an hour and a half. He had both a cut and some brown coloring added. It is not that unusual. Despite his age he still has a fine head of hair."
Wife Heather, 36, was so eager to see the transformation that she turned up in a car to pick him up. An onlooker said, "He was keen for Heather to have a look, so he ran over to show off his new bonce."
Macca's new look contrasts with the paler, grey-templed appearance he had previously.
February 19, 2004 -- XFM. UKMacca To Play Glastonbury Festival
At an appearance at the Oxford Union last night (February 18) Glastonbury organizer Michael Eavis has confirmed that Paul McCartney will be headlining the Saturday night (June 26) of the three day event taking place this June in Sommerset.
Eavis confirmed that Paul McCartney is booked for the Saturday night slot (June 26) and explained that the booking was made on the Tuesday straight after last year's festival.
As well as a set from the legendary ex-Beatle, Eavis also confirmed that (jail sentence permitting) soul legend James Brown was also booked to appear for the festival for the first time ever
Eavis also said he would happily book the Red Hot Chili Peppers for the event if they ever asked to play, but thought they were "more for 14 year olds".
Other bands strongly rumored to appear include Irish folk legend Christie Moore, copiously coiffured and potentially inbred rockers The Kings of Leon, The Strokes and Oasis, who, if booked, would be playing the festival for the first time since 1995.
Glastonbury will take place from Friday, June 25 till 27 at Worthy Farm, Pilton, Shepton Mallet in Somerset. Tickets for the festival will be going on sale at 8.00pm on Thursday April 1 and will cost £112 (+ booking fee and post and packaging).
February 18, 2004 -- The ScotsmanHeather's Message for Girl Who Lost Leg in Police Crash
Sir Paul McCartneys wife Heather Mills today pledged to support an 11-year-old girl whose leg was amputated after she was struck by a police car on an emergency call.
Sadie Stevens was admitted to Birmingham Childrens Hospital with serious head, leg and arm injuries following the collision on a busy city road outside a leisure center on February 7. She was struck by an unmarked West Midlands Police car driven by an officer responding to reports of an armed robbery in Smethwick on the busy A34 in Newtown, near the youngsters home. Surgeons took the decision to remove one of Sadies legs on Monday.
Former model Heather Mills McCartney, who had one of her own legs amputated following a collision with a police motorcycle in 1993, said she hoped to speak to the family when they felt ready.
In her message, the charity campaigner said, "I am so sorry to hear of Sadies accident. This will be a difficult time for her and her family, but with strength, courage, determination and support, she will overcome this and go on to be a great inspiration to others. I'm here if she needs to talk to me."
The Police Complaints Authority (PCA) confirmed it would be supervising an investigation into the collision.
PCA member Mehmuda Mian Pritchard said, "This is a tragic incident and my sympathies go to Sadies family. I will ensure that a thorough and impartial investigation is carried out. I would also like to make an appeal for witnesses and ask anyone who might have seen this incident to come forward and contact West Midlands Police on 0121 428 6233."
A spokesman for Birmingham Childrens Hospital said Sadie was due to undergo further surgery today and was currently in a stable condition.
MORE
February 18, 2004 -- The MirrorSadie's Tragedy -- She loses leg after cop car hit her
A girl of 11 mown down by a police car answering a 999 call has lost her right leg, it emerged yesterday.The heartbroken parents of Sadie Stevens told last night how they were yet to break the news to their sports-mad daughter.
She suffered horrific head, leg and pelvic injuries and lost her front teeth when she was hit by an unmarked Volvo estate on a pedestrian crossing 10 days ago.
Now surgeons have had to amputate her right leg below the knee in one of five operations since the smash.
Mother Karen, 45, said: "When we learned that she was going to have her leg amputated our minds went blank and we cried for 15 minutes.
"We are going to have to break the news to her very gently.
"I'm going to tell her that she's going to get a special leg fitted, one which is going to work better and make her run faster than before."
And dad Brian, 52, said: "At the moment Sadie doesn't know she has had the operation but obviously we have thought about how we are going to break the news.
"Before the accident Sadie was a very outgoing little girl, very active and was always involved in sport." She had recently been on a week's football course organised by West Bromwich Albion and is also a keen swimmer.
Former steel worker Brian added, "Knowing how brave Sadie is I'm sure that she will be determined not to let this stop her from doing those kind of things in the future."
But he admitted: "I have been through bereavements many times but what Sadie is going through is far worse than that. This just keeps on tugging at the heartstrings."
Sadie, being treated at Birmingham Children's Hospital, was hurt outside a swimming pool near her home.
The Police Complaints Authority is investigating the accident involving armed police on their way to a robbery in Smethwick, West Midlands.
Mehmuda Mian Pritchard, supervising the probe, said: "I will ensure that a thorough and impartial investigation is carried out."
Sir Paul McCartney's wife, Heather - herself an amputee after she was hit by a police motorbike - sent the family a message of support, telling them: "I'm here if Sadie needs to talk to me."
February 18, 2004 -- Denver PostLinda McCartney's photos intimate portraits of rockers
Sure, access is everything. But sensitivity and humanity can get a photographer further than press credentials or backstage passes. And these are characteristics that Linda McCartney possessed in spades.
The enigmatic work of a photographer who is perhaps better known for her marriage to Paul than for her professional achievements is on display through April 10 at the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center.
"Linda McCartney's Sixties: Portrait of an Era" is a traveling exhibit that includes 51 historic, unposed portraits, each revealing a photographic artist who used carte blanche access to such iconic rock 'n' rollers as Janis Joplin, the Doors, the Who, Jimi Hendrix and the Beatles to capture their souls on film.
"The most important thing about (the work) was the intimacy of her relationship to the people she was shooting," says Nancy Hall-Duncan, curator of art at the Bruce Museum in Connecticut, which launched the Linda McCartney exhibit five years ago as a millennium tribute to the 1960s.
"It's that personal, intimate, emotional basis in the photographs that really appeals on a broad level, and it appeals to all age levels," Hall-Duncan says. "Not only does (the exhibit) combine McCartney's excellent photographic skills, but it pairs them with a subject that is universally appealing."
Music fans know McCartney best for her ties to the Beatles. Social activists recognize the woman as a staunch supporter of animal rights.
But Linda Eastman McCartney also commanded respect in the world of art and photography. In 1987, she was voted U.S. photographer of the year by the organization Women in Photography. Britain's Royal Photographic Society showcased McCartney's work three times before her death from cancer in 1998. And a photo she took of John Lennon and Paul McCartney hangs permanently in London's National Portrait Gallery.
Linda Eastman first documented the hyper-political, poignant music industry of the 1960s as house photographer for New York's Fillmore East concert hall, and then as a staff photographer for Rolling Stone magazine.
A 1966 portrait of Rolling Stones founding member Brian Jones got the attention of Beatles manager Brian Epstein. He invited Linda Eastman to photograph the Beatles during the press launch of "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band."
"I became like a band member whose instrument was the camera," she would say.
Two years later, the photographer married Paul McCartney.
"Linda McCartney documented a very joyous aspect of the '60s," says Gabriele Abbott, the exhibit's North American tour coordinator. "And there are an amazing number of musicians in this show who are still performing. Those who didn't wipe themselves out are still going strong."
The show includes several quintessential rock portraits, along with a few personal works that point to the depth of McCartney's skill.
In Janis Joplin, McCartney discovered a fun-loving, eclectic and charming entertainer who was also the most poignant female singer of her time. Look closer at McCartney's portraits of Joplin, however, and an uneasy, uncomfortable, sad character emerges.
McCartney first photographed the Doors in New York City in 1966 before the band released an album. In Jim Morrison, she befriended a man whose passion fueled his music but also ate away at his soul. Her pictures of Morrison provide a window into the personality of a performer whose talent and sexuality allured fans worldwide, but who also struggled against insatiable angst and a touch of insanity.
"Jim was a very thoughtful person and we became very deep friends. A lot of that was due to the photography connection," McCartney wrote in the book that accompanies her exhibit, "Sixties: Portrait of an Era" (Bulfinch Press, $60).
The photographer's humanity is equally visible in her black- and-whites of the young Rolling Stones. Yes, we see their cockiness, their playfulness and their unabashed cool. But, similar to McCartney's photographs of the Beatles, she also managed to capture four guys who were coy, goofy and immature during an era when young rock 'n' roll musicians were often blindsided by instant fame and fan adoration.
Most appealing about this traveling exhibit is that the entire collection is devoid of the gloss and glam of present-day music photography. Instead of contrived personas, McCartney managed to honestly portray young musicians at the crest of their careers.
Eye on the '60s
What: "Linda McCartney's Sixties: Portrait of an Era"
When: Today through April 10
Where:Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center, 30 W. Dale St., Colorado Springs
Admission: $5 for adults, $3 seniors, $2 for ages 6-16, children under 5 free; free admission Saturdays; for information call 719-634-5581
February 17, 2004 -- Daily ExpressHEATHER HITS BACK ON 'BUST UP'; 'PAUL'S LOOKING OUT FOR OUR DAUGHTER BEATRICE. WE FEAR SHE'LL BE BULLIED'
Heather McCartney yesterday spoke for the first time of her and Sir Paul's fears for their baby daughter over the constant sniping at the state of their marriage.Twenty four hours after the former Beatle pleaded with people to lay off his wife, ex- model Heather said they were both worried that attacks about their personal life in some sections of the media would eventually rebound on baby Beatrice.
Heather, 36, said, "Paul is not only looking out for me these days but also for our daughter Beatrice. If these untruths are perpetuated and not challenged there is every chance she could be pilloried and bullied when she grows up and goes to school. I am not having that and Paul is not having that and we are not the sort of people who simply sit back and let things go unchallenged. Paul is being protective of his family. He has had quite a few years when there has been no adverse publicity but then in more recent times there has been constant sniping about me from certain quarters. From my own point of view things have not been so bad since the birth of Beatrice but Paul from time to time decides that something has to be said."
Sir Paul, 61, yesterday also decried reports that Heather, whom he married in June 2002, does not get on with his fashion designer daughter Stella and asked for the gossip to stop.
He said he was not "some stupid old man who fell for someone who looks good, " adding: "My wife is a really good woman, but people don't like to accept that. Heather is a really decent person. All she does is good things."
Since Sir Paul and charity campaigner Heather first met they have been plagued by stories - which both have repeatedly denied - of rifts between Heather and Sir Paul's four adult children.
Heather dismissed the stories as "nonsense, " saying she had "absolutely no problem" with any of them. Sir Paul also made the point that few people get to hear of the extent and immediacy of his wife's charity work.
Heather has campaigned against landmines since losing a leg in a collision with a police motorcycle in 1993.
"A few months ago this 13 year-old girl was pushed in front of a train by some yobs and lost her leg," he said. As soon as Heather found out we went up to Liverpool and Heather took her for swimming lessons. She gave that young girl confidence to carry on. She's doing things like that every single day. The truth is, Heather never seeks publicity for all the work she does with her landmines charity. And yet all people do is knock her. They don't see all of the things that she does without asking for any thanks or recognition."
In a thinly-veiled attack on her critics, he added, "She actually bothers to get up off her backside and do things to help people. She can make young girls who have lost a leg get their confidence back. I can't do that, and there are very few people on this Earth who can."
In May last year Sir Paul said he was considering legal action over a TV documentary which tore into Heather's reputation.
"The Real Heather Mills" painted a less than flattering picture of Heather including interviews with her former sister-in-law and husband.
However, despite the pot-shots there has been great public goodwill towards the couple, who married at the picturesque Castle Leslie in Northern Ireland.
Since his marriage Sir Paul has been far more visible than before his relationship with Heather began and has played huge concerts across the world to massive acclaim.
He and Heather were guests of honor last summer at Stella's wedding on the Scottish island of Bute, an occasion which Sir Paul said yesterday brought the family even closer than before. "Stella was round at ours the other day seeing our baby girl - and Heather and I had a great time at Stella's wedding. We were dancing there until the early hours, although it was written that we left early to go to bed. We are just a normal family trying to go about as ordinary a life as possible," he said.
Heather also revealed that - unlike the parents of many new-born babies - she and Sir Paul were presently getting a good night's sleep. She said Beatrice was sleeping through the night for up to 12 hours.
February 16, 2004 -- San Francisco Examiner
McCartney says "get back"Paul McCartney phoned the offices of British tabloid The Sun the other day to ask them to stop writing such horrible things about his wife Heather Mills.
Most recently, the paper ran a story in which a source close to the couple claimed their marriage was on the rocks. He poo-pooed the piece and said, "Heather's a good person who does amazing things to help people. I'm not some stupid old man who fell for someone who looks good."
He also called reports that his daughter Stella doesn't get along with Heather "rubbish."
February 16, 2004 -- The Sun
Macca: Lay off my wife
Let Her Be ... Sir Paul leapt to the defence of second wife Heather
Sir Paul McCartney last night made an amazing phone call to The Sun to blast critics of his wife Heather.The fuming star insisted, "I'm not some stupid old man who fell for someone who looks good."
The ex-Beatle telephoned The Sun to hit back at critics who constantly attack second wife Heather - who, at 36, is 26 years his junior.
He said in an emotional call, "Heather's a good person who does amazing things to help people. We are a normal family, trying to do normal things. I'm not some stupid old man who fell for someone who looks good. That's rubbish. I'm not stupid. I wouldn't marry someone for their looks - they'd have to have a lot more than that."
Sir Paul, 61, added, "My wife is a really good woman, but people don't like to accept that. Heather is a really decent person. All she does is good things. I see the other side of her that people don't see because I'm married to her. She actually bothers to get up off her backside and do things to help people. She can make young girls who have lost a leg get their confidence back. I can't do that, and there are very few people on this Earth who can."
Heather, who gave birth to the star's daughter Beatrice in London last October, lost her own left leg in 1993 in an accident with a police motorcycle. She has done tireless work for amputees ever since.
Sir Paul told how she recently dropped everything to help a stricken teenage girl in Liverpool.
He said, "A few months ago this 13-year-old girl was pushed in front of a train by some yobs and lost her leg. As soon as Heather found out, we went up to Liverpool and Heather took her for swimming lessons. She gave that young girl the confidence to carry on. Once again, it's not something I could do. She's doing things like that every single day. She doesn't take one single penny, but she counsels these kids. She's a real good 'un."
Sir Paul, who has four children by his late wife Linda, also insisted Heather - formerly model Heather Mills - DOES get on with his fashion designer daughter Stella, 32. Rumors have spread that the pair are at war.
But Sir Paul, who met Heather in 1999 and married her in June, 2002, insisted, "I'm sick of people saying Heather and Stella don't get on - the truth is they do" He added, "Stella was round