Paul McCartney's current band

I saw a video of a recent Paul McCartney concert. Can’t tell you the last song. It was a good one. Is there a bad McCartney song?

McCartney started some big bands. The Beatles and Wings. He now tours as a solo artist, but I recognize some of those band members from older videos. According to Wikipedia, this group has been together since 2002. This backup group has been the longest with McCartney and they don’t have a name.

Paul Wickens is the keyboard player. He played with Styx, Edie Brickell and The Damned.

Rusty Anderson played on Paul McCartney’s album “Driving Rain.” He has toured with McCartney since. He has a solo career in addition to touring with McCartney. Not only that, he has played with Jewell, Neil Young, Santana, Matthew Sweet, Perry Ferrel and Lana Del Rey.

The drummer, Abe Laboriel is the guy that stands out. He is a big burly guy and his arms are in constant motion. He doesn’t get big show -off solos but he has his moments and he is always in time. He has played with Shakira, Eric Clapton, Lady Gaga, Steve Winwood and BB King. The drummer in a lot of bands doesn’t get the proper recognition. They really keep the songs together. Watch Abe. He does the job perfectly. We should know his name.

Brian Ray began touring with McCartney and played on some albums. He played with Rita Coolidge, Etta James and Shakira.

All these players have deep discographies. They are really experienced and can play a multitude of genres. You would think they would be too busy to be part of a touring band for over 20 years, but they stay with McCartney.

People have asked how McCartney stayed with this band so long as they outlasted the Beatles and Wings in longevity combined. If you get the chance to see this band, you have to. They deserve recognition for their talent.