Richard Ogden, who managed Sir Paul McCartney from 1987 to 1993, has spoken candidly about their professional relationship and eventual falling out. The 76-year-old former manager shared his experiences in an exclusive interview with the ECHO, promoting his new book 'Bigger Than The Beatles'.
From Polydor to Managing a Beatle
Ogden's journey to managing McCartney began after a successful stint at Polydor Records, where he spearheaded the release of 'The Phantom of the Opera' album. This success caught the attention of Brian Brolly, who had previously managed McCartney in the 1970s. Brolly approached Ogden about taking over his role at the Really Useful Company, but Ogden sought a more rock and roll venture.
Three weeks later, John Eastman, Linda McCartney's brother and Sir Paul's lawyer, called Ogden to ask if he would be interested in meeting McCartney. Despite being a Rolling Stones fan, Ogden saw the opportunity as a huge compliment and accepted.
Rebuilding McCartney's Career
When Ogden started as manager, he devised a plan to revitalize McCartney's career. The first step was encouraging McCartney to collaborate with Elvis Costello, resulting in the album 'Flowers In the Dirt'. The second step involved assembling a new band for Friday rehearsals in South London.
Ogden was amazed by McCartney's musical talent. "I couldn't believe how good he was. Just another level than anyone I'd ever seen," Ogden recalled.
Record-Breaking Tours and Personal Milestones
During Ogden's tenure, McCartney embarked on a world tour that included a historic performance at King's Dock in Liverpool for 50,000 fans and a record-breaking show at the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro for 184,000 people. It was at the Rio concert that Ogden met his future wife, and McCartney shouted, "Bigger than The Beatles!"—a phrase that became the inspiration for Ogden's memoir.
The Fallout
Despite the successes, Ogden and McCartney fell out after three years. "It wasn't all roses and champagne. We fell out, and I don't know why," Ogden said. Their relationship ended on bad terms, and Ogden's book initially had the working title 'No Yes Man' after a heated exchange where McCartney told him, "I don't want a no man like you."
Legacy and Pride
Ogden remains proud of their work together, particularly their role in establishing the Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts (LIPA). McCartney was inspired to create the school after filming a video at the dilapidated Liverpool Institute building. Ogden was dispatched to Liverpool to help set the plans in motion, and LIPA continues to thrive today.
"The conversations Paul and I had were about his legacy. It was about giving something that was really important back to Liverpool. I'm proud of that," Ogden said.
After parting ways with McCartney, Ogden returned to the record industry with Sony Music Europe. He now divides his time between England and Brazil. His memoir, 'Bigger Than The Beatles: 60 Years in Showbusiness', is available on TheGreatBritishBookshop.co.uk.
