Last-minute surprise audition: "Receive a call asking to board a plane tomorrow, destined for New Orleans, to perform a single song live with Paul McCartney at the Super Bowl," was Brian Ray's unexpected chance to join Paul McCartney's band on stage.
Slimin' Down with Brian Ray: From Paul McCartney's Audition to Sold-Out Shows
Brian Ray has spent two decades as Paul McCartney's right-hand man, strumming and plucking his way through countless performances. But it wasn't always roses and the limelight. Landing the gig involved performing under pressure, in front of millions of viewers, at the 2002 Super Bowl halftime show.
U2 was the headlining act that year, with McCartney relegated to the pre-game festivities. With time running tight, Ray found himself in a bit of a pickle when his travel and salary demands led his potential employer, Shakira, to choose someone else.
But fate had other plans. At his birthday party, friend and future bandmate, Abe Laboriel Jr., offered Ray an unexpected opportunity. Abe was playing with McCartney, who was considering performing a song before the National Anthem at the Super Bowl. Seeing an opening, Ray tossed his hat in the ring.
With Abe's endorsement, Ray met with producer David Kahne, who had worked on a fair portion of McCartney's tunes. Ray impressed him with his chops on guitar and bass, and landed a spot in the running. However, with four other hopefuls in the mix, the final decision was far from guaranteed.
The next day, Ray received a call that would change his life: "Can you be on a plane tomorrow to go to New Orleans to play one song with Paul McCartney?" Ray recalls the nervy excitement as he prepared for the audition of a lifetime.
The song was Freedom, and performing it live before the Super Bowl was indeed a trial by fire. The pressure was intense, but the adrenaline fueled Ray's performance. Paul McCartney, presumably impressed, offered him a warm welcome aboard following the show.
Later that night, after a raucous celebration, McCartney approached Ray and offered some fatherly advice: "Stick with Rusty [Anderson, guitarist] - he'll show you the ropes." Ray spent the next five weeks preparing to join McCartney's band, and he's been an integral part of its success ever since.
Now, nearly two decades later, Ray's role in McCartney's band is unquestioned. But the journey began with a high-stakes audition at the Super Bowl, showcasing Ray's talent and versatility as a musician.
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This issue features Angus Young gracing the cover and a retrospective on the monumental 45th anniversary of Back In Black, as well as a deep dive into Brian Ray's career with Paul McCartney. Head to Magazines Direct to snag your copy!
Brian Ray's career with Paul McCartney is highlighted in our latest issue, including a deep dive into the high-stakes audition where he played a Les Paul guitar, facing the challenge of performing at the Super Bowl with an amp, impressing McCartney, and becoming an integral part of the band ever since. With music, entertainment, and even the insights of celebrities like Angus Young, our weekly newsletter keeps you updated on the latest guitar news, lessons, reviews, deals, and more. Don't miss out - sign up today!
