Text by Marcelo Gomes
In less than a year, Paul McCartney returned to São Paulo for two sold-out shows at Allianz Parque. Coincidence or not, the first date, October 15th, was Teachers' Day in Brazil; nothing could be more fitting than a history of rock for over 40,000 people with a former Beatle.
Paul McCartney's show in São Paulo was a spectacle that transcended generations, with a carefully chosen setlist celebrating both his solo career and the iconic hits of The Beatles . Opening with "A Hard Day's Night," the audience was immediately transported to the band's golden era. The energy remained high with tracks like "Junior's Farm" and "Letting Go," the latter featuring some of his musicians playing in the middle of the stands.
The charming Paul launched into a “Dad’s On” before playing “Come On To Me,” and needless to say, the stadium went wild. At the end, he even took off his suit jacket, generating complete hysteria. Next came “Let Me Roll It” by Wings, with a small tribute to Jimi Hendrix , playing “Foxy Lady.”
One of the most emotional moments was when Paul dedicated "My Valentine" in Portuguese to his beloved wife, Nancy Shevell , who was in the audience. The song brought a romantic atmosphere to the show, demonstrating McCartney's more personal and affectionate side. Following this, songs like "Maybe I'm Amazed" and "I've Just Seen a Face" showcased the musician's sensitivity on the piano and guitar, highlighting his unique ability to connect deeply with fans.
The inclusion of “In Spite of All the Danger,” one of the first releases from his initial band, The Quarrymen, was a pleasant surprise for the most dedicated fans. Meanwhile, “Something,” dedicated to George Harrison , brought a more emotional tone, with Paul playing the ukulele, honoring his friend and bandmate with a delicate and touching arrangement.
During “Dance Tonight,” drummer Abe Laboriel charmed the crowd with his hilarious dance moves, delighting the audience with every gesture. From atop a platform, with his guitar, Paul performed “Blackbird,” transforming the stadium into an intimate setting with everyone singing along.
The moving "Now And Then" was much celebrated by fans; rarely played live, the track gained an extra emotional charge with images of his former Beatles colleagues being projected on the screens. In "Lady Madonna," there was a tribute to women who excelled in their fields, including athletes and astronauts.
And speaking of class, the final segment was a true journey through rock history. Paul, like a true master, delivered classics ranging from "Something" and "Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da," which got the audience dancing, to "Band On the Run," "Get Back," and "Let It Be," which tested the students' singing skills, all illuminated by a sea of cell phones. The result: everyone passed with flying colors.
The show's peak was reserved for the most explosive songs: "Live and Let Die" featured a pyrotechnic production that elicited screams from the audience, while "Hey Jude" united the crowd in an unforgettable chorus. The encore was another highlight, with a special appearance by John Lennon in a virtual version of "I've Got a Feeling," creating a poignant moment of nostalgia and celebration of the Beatles.
To conclude, Paul delivered an impressive medley of “Golden Slumbers,” “Carry That Weight,” and “The End,” ending the performance with a touch of class and a farewell worthy of a music master. The show was a true celebration of decades of music, reaffirming Paul McCartney as one of the greatest artists of all time.
