McCartney Praises Beyonce's Version of Blackbird
Paul McCartney's "Blackbird" is a poignant song from The Beatles' rich catalog, embodying a message of hope and resistance within the Civil Rights Movement. Decades later, this message resonates, as McCartney himself recently expressed pride in Beyoncé’s cover of the song, acknowledging its power in continuing the conversation on racial equality.
In a blend of appreciation for past activism and recognition of its ongoing necessity, the song's narrative weaves through the struggle and aspirations of those who fought for civil rights. McCartney's personal connection to this struggle and his commendation of Beyoncé's version link the ’60s to today, suggesting that the need for such anthems persists.
As McCartney relishes in the cover's ability to ease racial tensions, it's a reminder of music's enduring role in social change. His pride in Beyoncé's contribution is not just in her musical talent, but in the shared journey towards a more equitable society — a testament to the enduring power of "Blackbird" and its capacity to inspire across generations.
"I am so happy with @beyonce's version of my song 'Blackbird'. I think she does a magnificent version of it and it reinforces the civil rights message that inspired me to write the song in the first place. I think Beyoncé has done a fab version and would urge anyone who has not heard it yet to check it out. You are going to love it! I spoke to her on FaceTime and she thanked me for writing it and letting her do it. I told her the pleasure was all mine and I thought she had done a killer version of the song. When I saw the footage on the television in the early 60s of the black girls being turned away from school, I found it shocking and I can't believe that still in these days there are places where this kind of thing is happening right now. Anything my song and Beyoncé's fabulous version can do to ease racial tension would be a great thing and makes me very proud." - Paul McCartney
What's most amazing about this is that it crosses generational gaps as well as race barriers. It transcends time - from 1960s to the present and has multitude of meanings to anyone who listens to the song. On top of that, the song itself is an artful, timeless classic. The beauty of bridging people together encompassed and shared.
Beyonce's version can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FSfFwLwRQwY