UPDATE: Fashion designer Stella McCartney has opened up about her father, Paul McCartney, and his infamous 1980 marijuana arrest in Japan, revealing that even as a child, she recognized the poor hiding skills of her parents. In a recently released oral history titled “Wings: The Story of a Band on the Run,” Stella recalls the shocking moment when authorities found nearly half a pound of skunk weed in her father’s suitcase. “Even a nine-year-old could have hidden skunk weed better,” she stated, highlighting the chaotic life her family led.
The book, published on October 17, 2023, paints a vivid picture of Paul’s tumultuous years following the breakup of The Beatles. As he navigated his identity outside the legendary band, he often turned to substances, famously missing a meeting with Bob Marley due to being too inebriated. Stella’s insights reveal a family life that was far from the glamorous image of rock royalty; instead, it was filled with improvisation and unexpected challenges.
Paul formed the band Wings with his wife, Linda McCartney, taking their children along on the road and often neglecting formal tour plans. “We’d show up at colleges and ask if we could play,” Paul reminisces in the book. Their first gig in Nottingham in 1972 was marked by a lack of preparation, with only 11 original songs in their repertoire. “They wanted longer, so we repeated things,” he shared, emphasizing the band’s rough beginnings.
Despite the fame, not every venue welcomed them. Following a less-than-successful attempt to book a show in Leeds, Paul humorously recounted how their plans fell through due to a demand for contracts and proof of identity. “Sod it! We carried on to York,” he said, reflecting the tenacity of the early band days.
The narrative takes a sharp turn when discussing Paul’s arrest in Japan. Facing the possibility of a lengthy prison sentence, he spent nine days behind bars, experiencing life as a common prisoner. “It was the maddest thing in my life,” Paul described, detailing the harsh conditions he endured, including sharing a bath with a convicted murderer and cleaning his cell daily.
Thanks to the efforts of Linda’s brother, lawyer John Eastman, Paul was released just before facing the worst of his punishment. The experience not only impacted his personal life but also his relationships within the music industry. He struggled with the aftermath of The Beatles’ breakup, which included a lawsuit against his former bandmates to dissolve their partnership.
In a reflective moment, Paul recounted a touching reunion with John Lennon in 1971, where the two rekindled their friendship. “You get to talking and the vibe is right, and it’s great,” Paul writes, sharing how they reminisced about their early days together.
Stella’s revelations about her father’s past encapsulate the struggle between fame and family, providing a rare glimpse into the chaotic life of one of music’s greatest legends. As the book gains attention, fans are reminded of the human side of rock stars, making it a compelling read for both music lovers and those interested in personal stories of resilience.
NEXT: As “Wings: The Story of a Band on the Run” gains traction, fans are eager to hear more about Paul McCartney’s journey through the highs and lows of his career. This book promises to shed light on the complexities of a life lived in the spotlight, and Stella’s candid memories are sparking conversations worldwide.
