Paul McCartney Fonda Theatre Concert: Setlist & Review of Intimate Show

The energy at the Fonda Theatre in Hollywood Friday night wasn’t just about a concert; it was a cultural moment. Paul McCartney, a name synonymous with musical history, chose this intimate 1,200-capacity venue for the first of two shows, a stark contrast to the arenas and stadiums he typically commands. This wasn’t just a performance; it was a deliberate choice to connect with fans on a profoundly personal level, a sentiment echoed by McCartney himself as he surveyed the room, remarking on its “cool little place.” And for Los Angeles music fans, it was a reminder of the city’s enduring role as a hub for iconic performances.

A Different Venue, A Familiar Celebration

The timing of these underplay shows is particularly noteworthy. Coming on the heels of the release of his new single and the announcement of his first album in five years, “The Boys of Dungeon Lane,” the Fonda Theatre gigs felt like an immediate celebration of a continuing legacy. It’s a pattern McCartney has been embracing, opting for smaller venues like Brooklyn’s Bowery Ballroom in February 2025 and the Pinnacle in Nashville last November. This approach allows for a unique intimacy, a direct exchange of energy between performer and audience that’s often lost in larger spaces. For those lucky enough to snag a ticket – and many were earnestly trying to do so even at the last minute – it was a rare opportunity to witness a legend in a remarkably accessible setting.

A Setlist Spanning Decades

The concert itself was structured much like McCartney’s recent “Got Back Tour,” a high-energy journey through his extensive catalog. He seamlessly transitioned between bass, guitar, and piano, delivering vocals that remain remarkably pristine despite decades of performing. The setlist was a carefully curated mix of Wings classics and Beatles staples, opening with a Wings-heavy selection including “Let Me Roll It,” “Jet,” “Let ‘Em In,” and “Nineteen Hundred and Eighty Five.” The latter half of the show leaned heavily into Beatles favorites, featuring renditions of “Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da,” “Get Back,” and “I’ve Just Seen a Face.”

A particularly poignant moment arrived with “Blackbird,” performed solo with just McCartney’s guitar and a single spotlight. The crowd responded with quiet reverence, singing along softly before erupting in applause. The inclusion of “Now and Then,” a song completed using AI technology to isolate John Lennon’s vocals, was also a highlight, demonstrating McCartney’s willingness to embrace innovation while honoring the band’s history. He also took time to share anecdotes, recalling a story about Tony Bennett and his habit of praising a venue’s acoustics, even while singing off-mic, a tale that drew laughter from the audience.

Los Angeles Memories and a Nod to Local Talent

McCartney’s banter was warm and engaging, filled with personal stories and interactions with fans. He reminisced about the early Beatles days, recalling how audiences would intently study their guitars, attempting to decipher the chords. He playfully acknowledged the different reactions from male and female fans, prompting enthusiastic screams from the women in the crowd. He also took a moment to acknowledge Morgan Neville, the director of his recent documentary, Man on the Run, who was in attendance, jokingly suggesting Neville would have to perform a song himself.

While the setlist was comprehensive, some fan favorites were notably absent, including “Yesterday,” “Band on the Run,” “Live and Let Die,” and “Maybe I’m Amazed.” Perhaps these tracks will craft an appearance in Saturday’s performance. The performance of “Let It Be” was particularly moving, with McCartney sharing the story of his late mother visiting him in a dream, adding a deeply personal layer to the song’s already powerful message. The show culminated in the traditional Abbey Road medley, a fitting finale to a night celebrating a remarkable career.

The Setlist in Full

Here’s the complete setlist from Friday night’s performance:

“Help”
“Coming Up”
“Going To Get You Into My Life”
“Let Me Roll It”
“Getting Better”
“Let ‘Em In”
“Valentine”
“Nineteen Hundred and Eighty-Five”
“I’ve Just Seen a Face”
“Every Night”
“Love Me Do”
“Blackbird”
“Now and Then”
“Lady Madonna”
“Flaming Pie”
“Jet”
“Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da”
“Get Back”
“Let It Be”
“Hey Jude”
“Golden Slumbers”
“Carry That Weight”
“The End”

Navigating the Afterglow: Local Resources for Music Lovers in Los Angeles

As a long-time observer of the music industry and its impact on communities, I’ve seen firsthand how events like this ripple outwards. The excitement generated by McCartney’s performance isn’t just about one night; it’s about reigniting a passion for live music and supporting the local ecosystem that makes it possible. If you’re inspired by this concert and want to deepen your engagement with the Los Angeles music scene, here are three types of local professionals you might identify invaluable.

Local Music Industry Professionals

Independent Music Publicists:

For emerging artists, getting the word out is crucial. Look for publicists with a proven track record of securing coverage in local publications like the Los Angeles Times and online blogs. They should have strong relationships with music journalists and a clear understanding of the LA music landscape.

Live Sound Engineers Specializing in Intimate Venues:

The Fonda Theatre’s acoustics were clearly a factor in McCartney’s enjoyment of the space. If you’re a musician or venue owner, a skilled sound engineer who understands the nuances of smaller rooms is essential. Prioritize engineers with experience at venues like The Troubadour or The Hotel Cafe.

Music Law Attorneys Focused on Artist Rights:

Navigating the legal complexities of the music industry can be daunting. Seek out an attorney specializing in artist rights, copyright law, and contract negotiation. They should be familiar with California’s specific regulations and have a strong advocate for independent musicians.

Ready to find trusted professionals? Browse our complete directory of top-rated music industry experts in the Los Angeles area today.