Why Paul Mccartney Originally Hated The “Let It Be” Album

March 20, 2025

In the spring of 1970, Paul McCartney found himself standing at a crossroads in his life and career. The Beatles, once the world’s most famous band, were no more. As he listened to the rough mixes of what would become the “Let It Be” album, a wave of disappointment washed over him. What should have been a triumphant farewell felt more like a sad goodbye. Paul had poured his heart into the songs, but the chaotic recording sessions and the tension within the band had left him feeling frustrated and disillusioned. The music sounded different than he had envisioned, and he often felt it didn’t capture the magic they had once shared.

Worse still, the infamous documentary that accompanied the album, also titled “Let It Be,” portrayed a band on the brink of collapse. Paul had hoped the film would show their creativity and joy, but instead, it depicted arguments and disagreements. Friends and fans noticed the pain in his eyes, and he began to wonder if listeners would remember The Beatles for their incredible music or for the turmoil that had consumed them during their last days. Each time he heard the rough mixes, he felt the weight of the world on his shoulders; the songs were beautiful, but the emotions surrounding them were anything but.

At the peak of his despair, Paul decided to write a letter to his bandmates, expressing his concerns and his wish to move forward in a positive way. To his surprise, it didn’t change much. John Lennon, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr had all started to embrace their independence, and Paul found himself feeling increasingly isolated. Here he was, surrounded by music that once brought him joy, now tainted with memories of arguments and a fractured friendship. This sense of loss made him feel as though he was saying goodbye not just to the band, but to a part of himself.

However, just when it seemed that that dark cloud would never lift, something beautiful happened. As he played through the songs again, he began to see them in a new light. “Let It Be,” the title track, spoke of comfort during times of trouble, a message that resonated with him deeply. Inspired by the words of his late mother—who had always told him to let things be—Paul realized that the album was not just a reflection of their struggles; it was also a testament to their journey, filled with wisdom and hope. The music became a source of healing, not only for him, but for countless fans who felt uplifted by the words and melodies.

Over time, “Let It Be” transformed from an album he once hated into one he cherished. It reached audiences around the world, offering solace to the troubled and joy to the confused. Paul learned that no matter how difficult things may seem, there is always a way to find hope and inspiration. He took these lessons with him as he embarked on his solo career, knowing that the most profound songs often come from the depths of our struggles. Paul McCartney, the iconic musician, emerged stronger and more resilient than ever. As he continued to write and perform, he poured that renewed passion into his music, leaving behind the heartbreak of the past and embracing the future with open arms.