Sir Paul McCartney has opened up about the stories behind some of his most iconic songs in a new BBC Radio 4 series, 'Paul McCartney: Inside the Songs'. The former Beatle shares intimate details about the creation of classics like 'Yesterday', 'Eleanor Rigby', and 'Got to Get You into My Life'.
McCartney reveals that 'Yesterday' came to him in a dream when he was 22. He was so convinced the tune already existed that he asked John Lennon, George Martin, and singer Alma Cogan to identify it. The lyrics were later written during a taxi ride through the Portuguese countryside while on holiday with Jane Asher. The recording marked the first time only one Beatle appeared on a track.
For 'Eleanor Rigby', McCartney drew inspiration from an elderly woman he met as a Scout. The name 'Rigby' came from a shop sign in Bristol, while 'Eleanor' was inspired by actress Eleanor Bron. George Martin added dramatic strings reminiscent of Bernard Herrmann's score for 'Psycho'.
The Beatles' introduction to marijuana came from Bob Dylan in 1964, which inspired 'Got to Get You into My Life'. McCartney recalls Dylan disappearing into a back room, after which Ringo Starr emerged looking 'strange' and said the ceiling was moving.
McCartney also reflects on the band's acrimonious split, noting that John Lennon's solo songs felt like 'firing missiles' at him. The series offers a rare glimpse into the creative process behind some of the 20th century's most beloved music.
