Everything Music. Everything News. Everything live.

Paul McCartney’s Brutal Review of Adam Levine’s Beatles Cover

LEFT PHOTO: Paul McCartney in concert, Paris, France - 04 Dec 2024 British singer and songwriter Sir Paul McCartney performs on stage at Paris U Arena La Defense during the Got Back Tour RIGHT PHOTO: 2023 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony - Show, New York, USA - 03 Nov 2023 Adam Levine
LEFT PHOTO CREDIT: SADAKA EDMOND/SIPA/Shutterstock RIGHT PHOTO CREDIT: Michael Zorn/Shutterstock

Adam Levine, frontman of Maroon 5, has shared an amusing anecdote from a memorable encounter with Paul McCartney that occurred after Maroon 5 performed Beatles classics at a special televised event in 2014. The event, “The Night That Changed America: A Grammy Salute to the Beatles,” was a celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Beatles' iconic debut on “The Ed Sullivan Show.” The special was held in February 2014 and featured a plethora of artists, including McCartney and Ringo Starr, as well as performances from Ed Sheeran, Katy Perry, Stevie Wonder, and others, all performing Beatles songs. Maroon 5 opened the show with their renditions of “All My Loving” and “Ticket to Ride,” setting high expectations given the presence of Beatles members in the audience.

Levine's reflection on the event, shared during an appearance on “The Howard Stern Show,” humorously highlighted the anxiety and pressure he felt performing in front of such legendary musicians. “I was scared shitless,” he admitted as he recalled the performance, underscoring the daunting nature of covering songs by the greatest rock band of all time in the presence of its members. The tension reached its peak when Paul McCartney approached Levine afterward, delivering a playful quip: “You know, we did it better.” While the remark could have been taken harshly, Levine laughed it off, aware of the obvious truth in McCartney's words and considering it a humorous moment rather than a critique.

The story didn't end there. Months later, Levine attended a party where McCartney sought him out, intending to apologize for any misunderstanding or offense caused by his previous comment. The unexpected gesture by McCartney surprised Levine, who didn’t hold any negative feelings about the exchange. Instead, Levine felt that this interaction humanized McCartney, breaking the often impenetrable pedestal on which fans place their idols. This move showed McCartney's empathy and thoughtfulness, revealing that beneath his legendary status, he is still a compassionate individual considerate of others' feelings.

This interaction offered Levine a profound realization about the humanity of his idols. Reflecting on the moment, he remarked how it shattered the myth of infallible heroes, revealing McCartney as a thoughtful human being with a genuine, caring nature. The entire experience, Levine noted, highlighted the importance of seeing music idols as real people who can connect and empathize deeply.

In related news, Levine confirmed on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” that Maroon 5 is gearing up for a musical return in 2025 with new music and a tour. Levine expressed his excitement for the band's upcoming releases, teasing that a single will be released by month’s end, with an album expected over the summer, and a subsequent tour planned for the fall. These announcements have stirred anticipation among fans eager for their return following the group’s last studio album, “Jordi,” released in 2021.

The story of Levine and McCartney is a poignant reminder of the impact that mutual respect and humor can have in the music industry. It exemplifies how legendary artists remain approachable and human, even as their legacy continues to influence generations. The interaction not only provided Levine with a humorous anecdote but also a valuable lesson in humility and the power of kindness from one of music's greats. This narrative continues to uphold McCartney's reputation as not just a music legend but also a genuinely warm-hearted individual in the eyes of his peers and fans alike.

Key Takeaways

Related Stories

Rush 2026 Tour Dates: 11 New Dates Added Due To Demand

Rush is bolstering its highly anticipated Fifty Something reunion tour by adding 11 new shows. The expansion responds to intense…

Dolly Parton’s Health: What We Know So Far Following Her Sister’s Alarming Statement

Country music legend Dolly Parton is facing renewed public concern following announcements that she is postponing major performances due to…

ChatGPT and Spotify Team Up for Music Recommendations, But Should We Be Excited or Worried?

Introduction ChatGPT and Spotify have announced a new partnership that lets users request personalized music and podcast recommendations directly through…

Foo Fighters Surprise Fans with Live EP “Are Playing Where??? Vol. 1”

The Foo Fighters have dropped a surprise new live EP titled Are Playing Where??? Vol. 1, capturing the raw energy…

The Who, John Fogerty, Def Leppard, Cheap Trick & more rock backyard benefit for Teen Cancer America

Rock legends The Who returned to the stage for an unforgettable night in Los Angeles, hosting their 10th annual Backyard…

Neil Peart and Geddy Lee of Rush Rush in concert, Austin, Texas - 16 May 2015

Rush Announces Long-Awaited Return to the Road with 2026 “Fifty Something” Tour

Legendary Canadian progressive rock band Rush is officially hitting the road again. After more than a decade since their last…

The Who’s Final North American Performance: Setlist, Moments, and an Emotional Farewell

  Quick takeaways The Who closed their North American Farewell Tour—“The Song Is Over”—on October 1, 2025, at Acrisure Arena…

MAX WEINBERG ( Drums) and BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN and the E Street Band perform onstage during the opening night of The Land of Hope and Dreams Tour at Co-op Live Arena on May 14, 2025, in Manchester, England. The 2025 tour is SPRINGSTEEN's first major European run since 2023 and features classic hits alongside material from his recent albums. The show took place at the UK's newest and largest indoor arena. Bruce Springsteen Opens The Land Of Hope And Dreams Tour In Manchester, United Kingdom - 14 May 2025

Bruce Springsteen Stuns NYFF With Acoustic “Land of Hope and Dreams”

Bruce Springsteen made a surprise appearance at the 63rd New York Film Festival in New York City on September 28,…

REO Speedwagon Reunites: Rock Legends Come Together Once More

In late September 2025, fans got a shock — and a thrill — when REO Speedwagon reunited onstage for the…