Paul McCartney

Biography: Sir James Paul McCartney, was born June 18, 1942. He was a founding member of both The Beatles and Wings - and, according to the Guinness Book of World Records, the most successful musician and composer in the history of popular music. Paul is a multiple Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter with millions of fans all over the world. He is also a poet, a master of many instruments, an entrepreneur, a record and film producer and a painter - as well as an activist for animal rights, vegetarianism and peace.

Alongside John Lennon, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr, Paul gained worldwide fame as a member of The Beatles. Lennon and McCartney formed one of the most influential and successful songwriting partnerships of all time, composing some of the most beloved songs in the history of popular music. After The Beatles broke up, McCartney - along with his wife Linda and fellow singer-songwriter Denny Laine - formed the band Wings. Although the only actual "permanent" group that any of the former Beatles ever formed, Wings itself was far from permanent. In fact, it was noted for its perennial personnel changes almost as much as its impressive and consistent string of hit records.

When Wings disbanded in 1981, Paul launched a successful solo career - touring the world with a new band, working on film scores, cal music and avant-garde electronic soundscapes - all while continuing to produce album after album of soulful, well-crafted, gorgeous-sounding pop music. Through it all, he and Linda raised their kids and encouraged all who would listen to lead healthier, more hopeful lives - taking part in many projects, both public and private, to help people the world over.

On March 11, 1997, Paul knelt on the investiture stool as Queen Elizabeth II tapped him lightly on each shoulder with a ceremonial sword - knighting him for his "services to music". Thus, the impish lad from Liverpool, one of the most successful songwriters in history, became Sir Paul McCartney, joining George Martin, who was knighted the year before. "Proud to be British", Paul reported, "wonderful day … and it's a long way from a little terrace in Liverpool."… Expand