Paul McCartney Electrifies New York's 575-Capacity Bowery Ballroom With Career-Spanning Surprise Set: Concert Review

[Omaha Steve]

I'm a huge Beatles fan BTW,

https://variety.com/2025/music/concert-reviews/paul-mccartney-electrifies-new-york-bowery-ballroom-concert-review-1236304663/


(Photo by Jim Dyson/Getty Images)

“Hey, that was a Beatles scream!” Paul McCartney said, responding to a female audience member’s shriek midway through his exuberant surprise concert at New York’s Bowery Ballroom on Tuesday night. “Okay girls, let’s get it over with: Let’s hear your Beatles screams.”

A huge percentage of the audience complied, producing a credible impersonation of the shrieks that shook the world in 1964 while McCartney stood, nodded in mock appraisal, and then said, “OK that’s enough.” While some would have basked in the moment, Sir Paul has probably heard enough screaming in his 83 years to burst a thousand eardrums.

But for the lucky people in the room, it was a night worth screaming over: Seeing Paul McCartney and his ace band play a 575-capacity venue that later in the month is hosting shows by such artists as Bartees Strange, Willow Avalon and Jesse Welles. The show was announced suddenly at noon, with no advance warning:

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[D. Spaulding]

1. What a truly iconic and extraordinary talent

The energy and drive he has to keep doing shows like that, despite already having more money than he could ever possibly need, is amazing.

[maccafan]

2. I wish I could have been there!

Paul is such an extraordinary entertainer! I have seen him perform in person seven times and every time he thrilled the audience, especially me!

[ProfessorGAC]

3. That's Fantastic!

Big star like him playing an unannounced show in a small room is outstanding.