The Hidden Style of Paul McCartney’s Beatles Guitar Solos

*This video was originally uploaded to my Spanish channel, but here it is with English translation. I hope you enjoy it! I had to cut a few sections due to copyright restrictions.

In it, I dive into the guitar solos that Paul McCartney recorded with The Beatles between 1965 and 1969, a lesser-known facet of his career, yet just as fascinating as his work as a bassist or songwriter.

During that period, McCartney took on lead guitar duties on several iconic tracks, and he did so with a very distinctive style. In this video, I try to trace the evolution of that style over the years—from the melodic, precise phrasing of the mid-60s to the raw, almost improvised feel of the decade’s end.

I pay special attention to a phase that has always deeply intrigued me: his playing in 1966 and 1967. During that time, Paul began incorporating influences that were uncommon in British rock, such as Eastern scales, modal phrasing, and the melancholic textures of Indian music. This was in tune with the growing interest several Beatles (especially George Harrison) had in that sound. I think many people only associate the Indian influence with George, but here we can see that Paul was also genuinely drawn to that kind of music—and we can hear it reflected in both his guitar solos and vocal embellishments.

*Beyond the technical analysis, this video is a kind of tribute to McCartney’s quiet versatility as a guitarist—something often overshadowed by the immense talent present in the studio. I hope you enjoy this journey as much as I enjoyed putting it together :) *

These are just a few details I’ve noticed and gathered over a lifetime as a Beatles fan, so everything I share here is simply my own interpretation and perception of Paul’s style.

Referenced Videos:

Explanation of “Murki” – (4:47)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iV7YUx2i3r8

Explained: The Solo on “Being for the Benefit of Mr. Kite!” – (7:48)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uk3rpc901Wg

Covers Used:

"And Your Bird Can Sing" (2:13)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e_wFpM0KxZU

"Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" (Solo) (6:37)
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/KttORYrQ6Zs

"Good Morning Good Morning" (6:58)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pWvQ13WTozE

"Being For The Benefit Of Mr. Kite!" (7:27)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e5atorqnWQQ

"Maxwell's Silver Hammer" (8:15)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LxdPeWjYmg8


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