In the 2000s, James played backup percussion and guitar for some of his dad’s solo releases, like “Flaming Pie” and “Driving Rain.” He also played lead guitar for his mom on the track “The Light Comes from Within,” on the posthumously released album “Wide Prairie.”
When his mom died in 1998, James admits that his ‘perfect world’ was destroyed.
“When I was 17 I wrote my first song and then Mum was diagnosed with cancer. She died when I was 20 and that’s when I went into a very dark period,” he said. He continued, “I was studying art, photography and English at college. I had spent a lot of time at home with Mum and Dad. I got a bit of flak from the college because I wasn’t really present, but I never regretted spending that time with her.”
James found solace in drugs and alcohol, and distanced himself from the family. Adding to his struggles was his relationship his dad’s new wife, Heather Mills, whom Paul was married to from 2002 to 2008.
“My relationship with Heather was not very good. I didn’t like her. But I wouldn’t want to say anything negative about her because she’s a good mother to Beatrice and that’s the most important thing,” James said, speaking of his baby sister that Paul shares with Mills. “Beatrice is adorable. She’s great, a real joy for the whole family.”
In 2007, when his award-winning dad was hospitalized and had angioplasty surgery, James reconnected with his family. “Dad’s great now but that episode made me realize how important he is to me. He was suffering in his own way [because of his high-profile split from Mills]. He was under stress. In hindsight I wish I’d been more supportive,” James said.
In 2011, Paul married Nancy Shevell, to which James says, “Nancy’s my new mother. I feel that. Definitely. She’s very genuine.”
“I removed myself from my family for a while. Now I want to immerse myself in them,” James shared. “I love Dad so much. I’m in a happy place. I’m not high, which is a good thing. I just want to be the best person I can be.”
Slowly gaining traction as a reputable musician, James released his debut single “Available Light” (2010) and then, collaborated with his dad, who worked as co-producer, James delivered his first album, “Me” in 2013, followed by “The Blackberry Train” in 2016.
Though he lived a mostly private life, he told the BBC in 2012 that as a child, he aimed to be “better than the Beatles.”
“When I got to a certain age, I realized that I was somewhat better than other kids at school at guitar and took pride and enjoyment in that,” James said (as per the Daily Mail).
“I then dreamt of being better than The Beatles. I’m not sure if I can do that. If anything, I would love to be equal to The Beatles–but even that’s quite tough.”
He even revealed he was wanting to reanimate the Beatles with the progeny of the Fab Four, including John Lennon’s son, Sean, son of George, Dhani Harrison, and Ringo Starr’s two boys Zach and Jason Starkey.
But quickly shutting down the media explosion over a Beatles incarnation, NBC reports that James clarified that it was just a thought. “Well, looks like quite some attention being given to my BBC interview! Honestly, I was just thinking out loud about playing with Beatles family friends, nothing more. My band’s going to be on tour in the UK and US for most of this year, and the shows are going great! I’m so grateful…. Lots of love to you all…!”
Recently, James appeared with his dad and big sisters at the private viewing of the “Paul McCartney 1963-64: Eyes of the Storm” exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery in London.
The exhibition features extraordinary photographs taken by Sir Paul of The Beatles’ early days.
James, looking similar to his famous dad, was dapper in a black suit paired with a white shirt at the star-studded event.
Tossed into the spotlight where he’s vulnerable to criticism, fans shared their harsh opinions of James, who is a recovering addict.
“They look very much alike! I think this is what Paul would’ve looked like (in his heyday) if he was overweight and didn’t look after himself. His son needs to start looking after himself. It seems as though he over eats, probably an alcoholic. And doesn’t look like his hygiene is up to par.”
Many, reacted to the Daily Mail writing on Facebook that James is Handsome: “They have a different standard of what ‘handsome’ is….Yikes!” writes one user, while another said, “I don’t think I would say he was handsome got his dad’s eyes but that’s all.”
Some suggested that James aged poorly: “Sorry to say this but his son looks like his father and his father looks like his son.”
Falling into the minority of cyber citizens defending James, one follower writes, “Wow look at all the women body shaming the poor guy for his looks, if it was a woman they would be all up in arms if there was any negative comments, leave him alone ffs nothing wrong with him….probably gets more women than most men in here too lol.”
Have you heard any music released by James McCartney? Are you more likely to listen to his recordings because he is the son of a musical legend or are you the type of person who prefers independent artists?
Is Having Bright Pink Hair in Church Disrespectful? I’m Having Trouble Comprehending It
This past Sunday was supposed to be just like any other day at church—quiet, reflective, and full of reverence. However, something caught my eye during the service that I simply couldn’t ignore: a woman sitting near the front pew with bright pink hair. I was stunned. I know we live in a time where self-expression is celebrated, but I can’t help feeling like this was completely out of place in a sacred space like church. To me, church has always been about modesty and respect, not making bold fashion statements.
I tried to focus on the sermon, but the vibrant color of her hair kept pulling my attention. It wasn’t just a subtle pastel pink—it was bold, neon, the kind that makes you do a double-take. I grew up in a time where people dressed modestly for church, where muted tones and simplicity were signs of respect. Is it wrong that I feel like pink hair, especially that loud, is disrespectful in a place of worship?
After the service ended, I saw the woman standing outside, chatting with some people. I hesitated for a moment, wondering if I should say something, but my curiosity—and concern—got the better of me. I approached her with every intention of being polite.
“Excuse me,” I started cautiously, “I couldn’t help but notice your hair. I just wanted to share that I feel like such bright colors might not be appropriate for church.”
Her eyes widened, and for a brief moment, I thought she would apologize or at least explain. Instead, her response shocked me.
“Well, I don’t think it’s any of your business,” she replied sharply, with a slight smile that didn’t seem friendly. “I come to church to pray, not to be judged for how I look.”
I was completely taken aback. I hadn’t expected such a curt reaction. My intention wasn’t to offend her, but simply to express my feelings on what I thought was an important matter of respect for the church. However, her words left me feeling conflicted. Had I overstepped?
Now, I’m really struggling with this situation. I’ve always believed that there should be certain standards when it comes to how we present ourselves in church. It’s not about suppressing individuality, but about showing respect for a space that many of us hold sacred.
Was I wrong for speaking up? Maybe I’m just being old-fashioned, but it feels like we’re losing a sense of reverence for tradition and sacred spaces. Am I the only one who feels this way? Has anyone else experienced something similar in their church?
I’d really love to hear your thoughts on this. Do you think I was out of line, or is there still room for certain standards when it comes to respect in church?
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