Introduction
This Friday, April 25, the Gagosian gallery in Beverly Hills will unveil a deeply personal photography exhibit titled “Paul McCartney: Rearview Mirror: Photographs, December 1963–February 1964.” The show features 36 photographs taken by Paul McCartney himself during the months leading up to—and including—The Beatles’ first trip to the United States, a pivotal chapter in music history.
Captured through McCartney’s lens, these photos offer an intimate glimpse into the whirlwind of Beatlemania. The images, many of which were shot in cities such as Liverpool, London, Paris, New York, Washington D.C., and Miami, document moments both public and personal—from candid shots of screaming fans to quiet self-portraits and behind-the-scenes snapshots of his fellow Beatles.
A Personal Look Back With Paul
A companion video on the Gagosian YouTube channel features McCartney reflecting on the photos while signing prints and chatting with Joshua Chuang, the gallery’s director of photography. The video was filmed at Griffin Editions in Brooklyn, a hub for fine-art photography.
One particularly heartfelt moment shows McCartney looking at an old photo of John Lennon. His voice softens as he shares his thoughts:
“He was a great guy,” Paul says. “And I’m so proud and happy to have known him, to have worked with him, and to have done all that stuff with him, you know? So it’s a huge thing in my life.”
Reflecting on those times, McCartney adds:
“For me, the main feeling is just remembering the joy. In life, people come and go. And when I look at these pictures, I remember the great times we had together.”
Exhibit Details and Special Collaborations
An opening reception for the exhibit will take place on April 25 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Pacific Time. McCartney partnered with both the Gagosian gallery and Griffin Editions to produce a limited number of signed prints. Proceeds from the sale of these prints will support rebuilding efforts in Southern California areas recently impacted by wildfires.
The exhibit includes a mix of black-and-white and color photographs, ranging from portraits of his bandmates to striking images of the fervent fans who trailed The Beatles during their rise. Also featured is a special installation of memorabilia from that era, alongside rare video excerpts filmed by acclaimed documentarians Albert and David Maysles. These brothers were granted exclusive access to the band during their U.S. debut in February 1964, capturing footage that would later become iconic.
Memories of George and the Ed Sullivan Show
In a lighter moment from the video, McCartney laughs as he recalls a color photo he took of George Harrison lounging by a pool in Miami, drink in hand and blemishes visible.
“These days, you’d retouch out his pimples,” Paul jokes. “Here, we’re bringing them up. Sorry, George. You’re still gorgeous.”
He continues with a warm memory:
“[George was] my little mate. We met on the school bus—can you imagine that?”
The video also shows McCartney reflecting on The Beatles’ legendary first appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show, a turning point in American pop culture. At the time, they had no idea how momentous the occasion was.
“We thought, ‘It’s just another TV show,’” Paul recalls. “Then a guy pulling the curtain back asked if I was nervous. I said, ‘Not really.’ He goes, ‘You should be. 73 million people are watching.’ And then he pulls the curtain.”
Even though it was a nerve-wracking moment, Paul notes with pride:
“When I watch the footage now, we don’t look nervous.”
Exhibit Duration
The exhibition “Paul McCartney: Rearview Mirror: Photographs, December 1963–February 1964” will be on display at the Gagosian gallery in Beverly Hills until June 21.