Paul McCartney Reflects on Life After The Beatles

In the documentary “Paul McCartney: A Man on the Run,” the legendary musician discusses how he managed life following the Beatles’ dissolution. At 83, he shared insights into how a philosophy inspired by his late wife, Linda McCartney, helped him navigate those challenging times.

McCartney mentions a comforting mantra from Linda: when grappling with self-doubt, she would say, “That’s allowed.” This simple phrase, he recalls, lifted a significant burden off his shoulders, prompting him to realize that he could explore more possibilities than he previously thought.

Paul and Linda met in 1967 through her work as a photographer, marrying two years later. Together, they raised three children: Mary, Stella, and James.

He describes Linda as a “free influence” who, despite hailing from an affluent background in New York, sought a more liberated lifestyle, often sneaking out at night to explore the rock-and-roll scene. McCartney feels this rebellious spirit was beneficial for him, enriching his own creative freedom.

After the Beatles split, Paul formed the band Wings, which marked a new chapter for him and included Linda as a key member. Wings became hugely successful in the 1970s, producing hits like “Band on the Run” and “Live and Let Die,” earning two Grammy Awards in the process.

When Paul reflects on their musical journey, he often marvels at Linda’s natural talent, recalling her voice and harmonies. He notes how refreshing it was to hear her sing without any auto-tuning or formal training, which added a unique authenticity to their music.

Sadly, Linda passed away in 1998 after battling breast cancer, a loss that deeply affected Paul. He candidly shared in a BBC Radio Scotland interview that he spent a year in tears, grappling with the absence of someone he loved dearly.

He recalls, “You expect to see someone you love coming in because you’re used to them,” admitting that his emotional response felt unavoidable, albeit somewhat embarrassing at times.

Their eldest daughter, Mary, has embraced photography like her mother, while Stella has made a name for herself in fashion, referring to herself as one of the first “Nepobabies” in a recent interview. Their son James has pursued a musical career and is set to collaborate with John Lennon’s son, Sean, on a new song.

Additionally, Paul has a daughter, Beatrice, with his second wife, Heather Mills, and is also a stepdad to Linda’s daughter from a previous relationship.