How “I’Ll Follow The Sun” Was Written By Paul Mccartney When He Was Just 16

March 20, 2025

When Paul McCartney was just 16 years old, he sat on the edge of his bed in Liverpool, England, strumming his guitar and dreaming of a brighter future. The year was 1958, and the world around him was changing fast, but Paul felt like he was stuck in a small, ordinary life. He loved music more than anything else, finding comfort in the notes he played and the songs he wrote. One day, an idea flickered in his mind like a candle flame, and he knew he had to bring it to life.

With the sun setting outside his window, casting warm golden light across his room, Paul began to hum a melody. It was soft and gentle, just like the feeling of hope he held deep inside. He thought about the people he loved and the dreams they shared. He wanted to capture that feeling in a song, a song that would inspire others to chase after their own dreams. As he played, the words “I’ll follow the sun” came to him, as if they were whispering from the heart of the universe. This was the beginning of something special, something that would shape his future in ways he couldn’t yet imagine.

Excited and a little nervous, Paul poured his heart into writing the rest of the song. He scribbled down lyrics in his notebook, feeling every word resonate with the struggles and hopes of a young teenager looking for his place in the world. The song became a reflection of his own journey, a reminder that there would always be brighter days ahead, no matter how cloudy things might feel. This spirit of resilience infused every chord, and he knew deep down that he was creating something meaningful.

As the weeks went by, Paul shared “I’ll Follow the Sun” with his friends and family. Their eyes lit up with enthusiasm, encouraging him to keep writing. Little did he know, this simple song would become a part of a much larger journey—one that would lead him to form The Beatles, one of the most celebrated bands in history. Paul’s passion for music blossomed into a career that would inspire millions around the globe. The song, though written in his teenage years, would later be celebrated for its beauty and depth, serving as a reminder that dreams are worth pursuing.

The experience of creating “I’ll Follow the Sun” taught young Paul an invaluable lesson: that art has the power to heal and connect people. He realized that music wasn’t just about fame or fortune; it was about sharing feelings and experiences with others. Each time he played the song, he felt that same flame of hope reigniting within him. It encouraged him to always seek the light, to follow the sun, even during the darkest of nights.

Paul McCartney went on to become a musical legend, but it all started with a simple song written at the age of 16. “I’ll Follow the Sun” was more than just music; it was a testament to his resilience and passion, proof that even the smallest of dreams can blossom into something that changes the world. As he navigated his career, Paul always carried that lesson with him, reminding himself and others to keep chasing the sun, wherever it may lead them.