Paul McCartney, one of the greatest songwriters in music history, didn’t just create timeless music with The Beatles — he also found inspiration in the work of others. Over the years, Sir Paul has opened up about the artists and bands that influenced his creativity, his songwriting, and his personal playlist. From rock pioneers to modern legends, these are the top bands Paul McCartney loved the most — and some may surprise you.
1. The Everly Brothers
Before Lennon and McCartney, there were The Everly Brothers. Paul has repeatedly cited Don and Phil Everly as a crucial vocal influence on The Beatles. Their perfect harmonies shaped how Paul and John blended their own voices, giving birth to the unmistakable sound of early Beatles hits.
In interviews, McCartney often recalled how he and John would sit with acoustic guitars and try to emulate the Everlys’ vocal phrasing. Their 1957 hit “Bye Bye Love” left an indelible mark on young Paul’s musical heart.
2. The Beach Boys
One of Paul’s most famous musical obsessions is The Beach Boys, especially their groundbreaking 1966 album Pet Sounds. He once called it “the best album ever made,” and admitted that it directly influenced Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band.
Paul was especially blown away by “God Only Knows,” calling it “the greatest song ever written.” The mutual respect between McCartney and Brian Wilson led to decades of admiration between the two legends.
3. Nirvana
In a surprising twist, Paul McCartney found a later-in-life connection with grunge pioneers Nirvana. In 2012, he famously performed with surviving members Dave Grohl, Krist Novoselic, and Pat Smear during a benefit concert. The collaboration birthed the track “Cut Me Some Slack.”
McCartney admired the raw energy of Nirvana and praised Grohl’s passion and musicianship. It proved that even as a musical elder, Paul continued to embrace the spirit of rebellion and reinvention.
4. The Rolling Stones
Though often labeled as rivals, Paul McCartney has frequently expressed admiration for The Rolling Stones. He credited them for having a strong image and playing an important role in the British Invasion alongside The Beatles.
Despite the friendly competition, Paul has praised Mick Jagger’s energy, Keith Richards’ guitar work, and the band’s ability to remain relevant for decades. “They’re a great live act,” McCartney once said. “You can’t deny their staying power.”
5. Radiohead
Among modern bands, Radiohead stands out as one that captured Paul McCartney’s respect. He called their work “innovative” and “beautifully arranged,” particularly admiring their refusal to follow commercial trends.
Albums like OK Computer and Kid A showed McCartney that rock music could still be artistic, experimental, and deeply emotional — qualities that resonate with his own musical legacy.
6. The Byrds
Last but certainly not least, The Byrds were a band that caught McCartney’s ear with their jangly guitars and intricate harmonies. Their fusion of folk and rock inspired many British musicians during the 1960s, including The Beatles.
Paul admired how The Byrds managed to stay true to their American roots while pushing musical boundaries. Songs like “Mr. Tambourine Man” and “Turn! Turn! Turn!” left a lasting impression on him.
A Man Who Listened as Much as He Played
What makes Paul McCartney extraordinary isn’t just the music he made — it’s the music he loved. His appreciation for vocal harmonies, sonic innovation, and emotional songwriting can be traced back to the bands he admired most. These six bands weren’t just part of his record collection — they were part of his journey.
By understanding the bands Paul McCartney loved the most, we get a deeper look at the man behind the melodies. His taste reflects a true artist’s heart — open, curious, and forever inspired.