In the 2000s, James played backup percussion and guitar for some of his dad’s solo releases, like “Flaming Pie” and “Driving Rain.” He also played lead guitar for his mom on the track “The Light Comes from Within,” on the posthumously released album “Wide Prairie.”
When his mom died in 1998, James admits that his ‘perfect world’ was destroyed.
“When I was 17 I wrote my first song and then Mum was diagnosed with cancer. She died when I was 20 and that’s when I went into a very dark period,” he said. He continued, “I was studying art, photography and English at college. I had spent a lot of time at home with Mum and Dad. I got a bit of flak from the college because I wasn’t really present, but I never regretted spending that time with her.”
James found solace in drugs and alcohol, and distanced himself from the family. Adding to his struggles was his relationship his dad’s new wife, Heather Mills, whom Paul was married to from 2002 to 2008.
“My relationship with Heather was not very good. I didn’t like her. But I wouldn’t want to say anything negative about her because she’s a good mother to Beatrice and that’s the most important thing,” James said, speaking of his baby sister that Paul shares with Mills. “Beatrice is adorable. She’s great, a real joy for the whole family.”
In 2007, when his award-winning dad was hospitalized and had angioplasty surgery, James reconnected with his family. “Dad’s great now but that episode made me realize how important he is to me. He was suffering in his own way [because of his high-profile split from Mills]. He was under stress. In hindsight I wish I’d been more supportive,” James said.
In 2011, Paul married Nancy Shevell, to which James says, “Nancy’s my new mother. I feel that. Definitely. She’s very genuine.”
“I removed myself from my family for a while. Now I want to immerse myself in them,” James shared. “I love Dad so much. I’m in a happy place. I’m not high, which is a good thing. I just want to be the best person I can be.”
Slowly gaining traction as a reputable musician, James released his debut single “Available Light” (2010) and then, collaborated with his dad, who worked as co-producer, James delivered his first album, “Me” in 2013, followed by “The Blackberry Train” in 2016.
Though he lived a mostly private life, he told the BBC in 2012 that as a child, he aimed to be “better than the Beatles.”
“When I got to a certain age, I realized that I was somewhat better than other kids at school at guitar and took pride and enjoyment in that,” James said (as per the Daily Mail).
“I then dreamt of being better than The Beatles. I’m not sure if I can do that. If anything, I would love to be equal to The Beatles–but even that’s quite tough.”
He even revealed he was wanting to reanimate the Beatles with the progeny of the Fab Four, including John Lennon’s son, Sean, son of George, Dhani Harrison, and Ringo Starr’s two boys Zach and Jason Starkey.
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But quickly shutting down the media explosion over a Beatles incarnation, NBC reports that James clarified that it was just a thought. “Well, looks like quite some attention being given to my BBC interview! Honestly, I was just thinking out loud about playing with Beatles family friends, nothing more. My band’s going to be on tour in the UK and US for most of this year, and the shows are going great! I’m so grateful…. Lots of love to you all…!”
Recently, James appeared with his dad and big sisters at the private viewing of the “Paul McCartney 1963-64: Eyes of the Storm” exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery in London.
The exhibition features extraordinary photographs taken by Sir Paul of The Beatles’ early days.
James, looking similar to his famous dad, was dapper in a black suit paired with a white shirt at the star-studded event.
Tossed into the spotlight where he’s vulnerable to criticism, fans shared their harsh opinions of James, who is a recovering addict.
“They look very much alike! I think this is what Paul would’ve looked like (in his heyday) if he was overweight and didn’t look after himself. His son needs to start looking after himself. It seems as though he over eats, probably an alcoholic. And doesn’t look like his hygiene is up to par.”
Many, reacted to the Daily Mail writing on Facebook that James is Handsome: “They have a different standard of what ‘handsome’ is….Yikes!” writes one user, while another said, “I don’t think I would say he was handsome got his dad’s eyes but that’s all.”
Some suggested that James aged poorly: “Sorry to say this but his son looks like his father and his father looks like his son.”
Falling into the minority of cyber citizens defending James, one follower writes, “Wow look at all the women body shaming the poor guy for his looks, if it was a woman they would be all up in arms if there was any negative comments, leave him alone ffs nothing wrong with him….probably gets more women than most men in here too lol.”
Have you heard any music released by James McCartney? Are you more likely to listen to his recordings because he is the son of a musical legend or are you the type of person who prefers independent artists?
The Amazing Journey of Agnetha Faltskog: A Legendary ABBA Star, Now Aged 72
The distinctive song of the legendary Swedish band ABBA has enchanted people all over the world. They are still regarded as worldwide celebrities today. Even though they might not be in the spotlight as much these days, Agnetha Faltskog, the lead vocalist for ABBA, is nevertheless leading a remarkable life.
Agnetha Faltskog is 72 years old, and she still looks amazing and makes heartfelt songs.
An Eternal Heritage
When Agnetha Faltskog and Bjorn Ulvaeus crossed paths, the magic of ABBA started. Upon hearing Agnetha’s first song, “Jag var s kär [I Was So In Love],” on the radio, Bjorn became enthralled with her remarkable voice and knack for crafting exquisite melodies. As their relationship developed, it resulted in a TV show duet where they were able to fully enjoy their love affair. They soon teamed up with Anni-Frid Lyngstad and Benny Andersson, and the quartet created music history.
From the Battle of Waterloo to Global Fame
It took some time for ABBA to become well-known worldwide. They began by taking part in Melodifestivalen, Sweden’s entry into the Eurovision Song Contest, performing the song “Ring, Ring.” Even though they finished third, the song launched their ascent in Sweden by becoming a huge hit. They returned the next year, this time with the song “Waterloo,” which went on to win the Eurovision Song Contest and give rise to ABBA.
The hits of ABBA never ceased to enthrall audiences around. Songs like “Dancing Queen,” “Mamma Mia,” “SOS,” and “Fernando” catapulted them to previously unheard-of levels of success. Through the power of music, their songs spoke to listeners of all ages as well as the younger generation.
Obstacles in Life and ABBA’s Domination
Agnetha had to balance her motherhood and personal struggles as ABBA’s reputation grew. It was obviously challenging to balance having a great job with raising children, but Agnetha and Bjorn were able to make it work. Despite the challenges of their international success, they made sure their children were safe and led balanced lives.
But Agnetha suffered from being away from her kids and touring all the time. She thought about leaving the group, but they managed to reconcile their personal lives with their musical aspirations by being upfront with each other and reaching compromises.
Goodbye and Legacy
With singles like “The Winner Takes It All,” which highlighted Agnetha’s extraordinary talent and emotional depth, ABBA continued to create amazing music. But in 1982, the band chose to take a break as personal connections changed, which ultimately resulted in their unofficial dissolution.
In an attempt to live a more private life, Agnetha started a prosperous solo career before removing herself from the spotlight. Her family, who lived on an island off the coast of Stockholm, Sweden, provided her with comfort. Even at 72 years old, Agnetha is still gorgeous and periodically puts out new music.
Getting Back Together and Starting Over
Years have passed since the original ABBA reunion was rumored to be happening, and new music appears to be forthcoming. The band members—including Agnetha—have stated that they would love to work together once more, and fans are excited for the magic that only ABBA can produce.
Agnetha has made a lasting impression on the music industry with her amazing voice and extraordinary talent. Her path, replete with both personal and professional triumphs, epitomizes tenacity and pursuing one’s passion.
As we excitedly await ABBA’s much-anticipated comeback, let’s honor their incredible heritage. Let the music continue by leaving a comment with your fave ABBA song!
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