Professional photographer, Jorie Gracen, has had the rare opportunity to photograph McCartney over the course of twenty-three years. Her collection of more than 1,000 photographs showcases concerts, record signings, private parties, press conferences, backstage candids, sound checks, award ceremonies, and personal encounters. In short, she has captured the many faces of Paul McCartney-the musician, devoted husband, proud father, environmentalist, animal rights activist, and idol. Gracen's photo graces the inside booklet of McCartney's "Tripping the Live Fantastic" album. The rare uncropped photo is displayed in the book revealing a band member who was removed from the album photo. Accompanying the photographs are personal stories written by fans who create an intimate portrait of the rock star through interesting close encounters. Through these interactions we find a man who is compassionate, witty, humorous, engaging and down-to-earth. Fans openly admit their unabashed passion for McCartney, describing poignant moments when they finally meet their idol. The book's charm centers on its stories which are real, not creations of an over-imaginative publicist. We learn something about McCartney fans-they have a strong desire to meet their idol, whatever it takes. These stories are entertaining and humorous. How many of us would leave a brand new car in the middle of a Manhattan street to see Paul or yell, "NO!" when their idol kisses them on the cheek?
McCartney is also featured in his own words talking about his home life, hobbies, the environment, music, touring, the Beatles and fans. These photographs, along with revealing stories by the author, and by fans and through statements by the artist himself, chronicle McCartney's remarkable musical maturation over nearly a quarter of a century.
Both unique and revealing, this book is a must for McCartney fans. If you have ever seen Paul in concert or have just wondered what he is like offstage this book offers an insider's glimpse into the private persona of one of the world's greatest musician-singer-songwriters of our time.