The Beatles were initially thrown into the spotlight and became one of the biggest bands in the world through catchy choruses, a bit of charm, and simple but energetic guitar. As the band’s career developed, so did the way they made music. Each member branched out into their own specific sounds, and their writing was influenced by what they were most excited about.
Paul McCartney’s style continues to be one of the most varied from the group. In his solo career since being a part of the Fab Four, McCartney has worked with many artists and produced a mixed bag of music. He doesn’t pull such influences out of thin air and instead draws on a vast back catalogue to help him assemble exciting sounds.
In 2004, before McCartney was set to release Never Stop Doing What You Love, he held an interview with Uncut, a conversation in which he was asked to name 14 of his favourite songs of all time. An eclectic mix of songs on the list highlighted the bassist’s range, including jazz, rock and even a rare track from his former bandmate George Harrison.
There were some big names left off the list that surprised many, especially since McCartney had cited them as influences in the past. Bob Dylan didn’t make the cut, nor did Stevie Wonder, although McCartney had previously referred to him as a “genius”.
Some interesting choices were present, though, such as Chinmaya Dunster & Vidroha Jamie with the Celtic folk song ‘Chance Meeting’, not to mention Nitin Sawhney with ‘Sunset’. There was also a classical piece on the list, which is McCartney’s favourite classical music piece ever made.
Mario João Pires was a classical pianist born in Portugal and considered one of the leading interpreters of the repertoire of the 18th and 19th centuries. His song, ‘Nocturne No. 2 in E Flat Major’, is easily recognisable as a peaceful and serene piece of music and is what Paul McCartney called his favourite classical music piece of all time.
The Beatles were never too bothered about classical music when they first started making it. Their interest lay in developing chord progressions so that they could put together catchy choruses and win over crowds. However, as their sound evolved, so did their taste, and it’s arguably Paul McCartney’s openness to various genres, such as classical music, that has ensured his relevance and continued success over the years.
The simple melody and tranquil effect of Mario João Pires’s music is enough to move anybody, just as it did Paul McCartney all those years ago.
