Sir Paul McCartney performed The Beatles' classic 'I Want to Hold Your Hand' at Taylor Swift's wedding to Joe Alwyn, according to a report in The Sun. The intimate ceremony took place at Swift's UK estate in July 2026.
McCartney's Surprise Performance
The 84-year-old music legend played the 1963 hit on piano as Swift and Alwyn shared their first dance. Sources said McCartney, a close friend of the couple, was a guest at the ceremony and performed the song as a wedding gift.
Swift, 36, and Alwyn, 35, reportedly exchanged vows in a private garden ceremony at her £20 million property in the English countryside. The guest list was limited to about 50 close friends and family.
Friendship and Musical Connections
McCartney and Swift have a long-standing friendship, with Swift previously citing McCartney as a major influence. In 2020, McCartney praised Swift's songwriting during an interview, calling her 'terrific'.
The Beatles star also performed at Swift's 2019 concert at the London O2 Arena, where they duetted on 'I Want to Hold Your Hand' and 'Shake It Off'.
Wedding Details
Swift wore a custom Vera Wang gown, while Alwyn wore a classic Tom Ford tuxedo. The ceremony was officiated by a close friend, and the reception featured a menu of plant-based dishes.
Other celebrity guests included Ed Sheeran, who performed 'Perfect' for the couple, and actress Emma Stone. The wedding cake was a three-tier vanilla sponge with elderflower buttercream.
Swift and Alwyn, who began dating in 2016, have kept their relationship largely private. This is Swift's first marriage and Alwyn's first marriage as well.
Beatles Legacy
'I Want to Hold Your Hand' was The Beatles' first US number one hit in 1964, sparking Beatlemania. McCartney continues to perform the song during his solo tours, most recently during his 2025 'Got Back' tour.
The wedding performance marks one of the few times McCartney has played the song at a private event. He previously performed 'Hey Jude' at Prince William and Kate Middleton's wedding reception in 2011.
