Paul McCartney has honed an extensive list of instruments. From full albums played completely on his own to instrument switch-ups with his bandmates, McCartney has proven he is a jack of all trades. Find four (of many) instruments that McCartney has been known to play–and the song that highlights that instrument best–below.
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4 (of Many) Instruments Paul McCartney Can Play–And His Best Moment on Each
1. Bass
When thinking of McCartney’s signature instrument, many Beatles fans might be inclined to deem it the bass. That facet of the rhythm section was McCartney’s domain while with the foursome. He did a lot of PR for bass players–who, historically, haven’t been the starring members of their respective bands. McCartney’s bass rhythms were integral to their famed sound.
Though we have many songs to choose from for this entry on our list, we’ve chosen “Come Together.” His bass line is sat right at the front in this Beatles staple. In fact, it’s what people remember most about this off-kilter track.
2. Drums
McCartney was known to get behind a drum kit from time to time. Though no one can deny that Ringo Starr was the first option for a driving drum line in the Beatles, McCartney did step up to the plate as needed. “Back in the U.S.S.R.” is a shining example of McCartney’s potential as a drummer.
As the story goes, McCartney was back seat driving the drum part in this song so excessively that Starr decided to get out of the driver’s seat. McCartney took over and gave us the version of this track that we know and love.
3. Guitar
The beauty of “Blackbird” lies in its simplicity. This powerful ballad is one of the Beatles’ most beloved offerings and a testament to McCartney’s skill on guitar. The titular picking pattern has been the bane of many beginner guitarists’ existence, struggling to get it just right.
McCartney takes on this song completely alone. As it turns out, it foreshadowed his solo career, which has been rife with sole McCartney efforts.
4. Piano
There are many songs that would be obvious for this section of our list. Piano is second only to bass in the lineup of McCartney’s signature instruments. He has delivered countless stunning, era-defining piano melodies. Both “Hey Jude” and “Let It Be” would be worthy of inclusion on this list, but we’ve chosen to highlight “Maybe I’m Amazed.”
From key changes to intricate, fast-paced riffs, McCartney uses the breadth of his piano prowess on this solo track.
(Photo by Medios y Media/Getty Images)
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