UPDATE: Stella McCartney has candidly discussed her father, Paul McCartney’s notorious marijuana bust in Japan back in 1980, revealing her shockingly humorous take on the incident in his new oral history, “Wings: The Story of a Band on the Run.” The book, released today, dives into Paul’s chaotic life post-Beatles, exposing the challenges and antics of his journey with the band Wings.
In a revealing moment, Stella recalls, “I remember [the guard] opening up that suitcase and picking up a pillowcase worth of skunk weed.” She adds, “Even a nine-year-old could have hidden skunk weed better than my parents.” This lighthearted commentary underscores the absurdity of the situation her father faced.
Paul McCartney’s arrest occurred just before what was intended to be a tour across Japan. Instead, he spent nine days in a Tokyo prison, facing the grim reality of incarceration. “It was the maddest thing in my life,” he wrote, detailing his cold cell and the challenges of sharing a bath with a convicted murderer. The severity of the situation was compounded by the risk of a potential seven-year sentence for his charges.
Stella’s remarks provide a glimpse into the chaotic life of a rock star and the family dynamics that accompanied it. The book offers a unique perspective on Paul’s struggle to redefine himself beyond his Beatles legacy. In one notable anecdote, Paul humorously recalls being denied a college gig in Leeds due to a lack of contractual proof of identity.
The book also reveals the unconventional lifestyle of Wings, with Paul often showing up unannounced to perform at various venues. “They wanted longer, so we repeated things,” he writes about their early shows, reflecting on the challenges of performing with limited material.
Speaking on the criticisms faced by Wings, Stella’s father ignored the negative reviews of the band’s albums, asserting, “I’ve learned not to care what they say.” However, he couldn’t resist a cheeky response to one particularly nasty review, involving a clever prank that showcased his family’s humor.
Paul’s infamous arrest was a significant turning point, bringing to light the struggles he faced during a tumultuous decade. He candidly shared his experience inside the prison, providing insight into the stark reality of fame and its consequences.
As the book continues to generate buzz, fans and music enthusiasts are eager to dive into the untold stories of Paul McCartney’s life after the Beatles. The revelation of his heartfelt connection with fellow musician John Lennon, marked by a reunion in 1971, adds emotional depth to the narrative.
With the release of “Wings: The Story of a Band on the Run,” readers are invited to explore the human side of one of music’s greatest icons, highlighting both the challenges and triumphs of his post-Beatles era. The book is now available, offering fans a unique glimpse into the life of Paul McCartney as he navigated fame, family, and the complexities of his new band.
For more updates on this story and the latest developments in music history, stay tuned.