Paul McCartney delivered a historic headline performance at Glastonbury Festival, joined onstage by rock legends Dave Grohl and Bruce Springsteen. The electrifying show marked Grohl’s first public appearance since the tragic passing of Foo Fighters drummer Taylor Hawkins in March, making the moment all the more powerful.
Introducing Grohl as “my friend, your hero,” McCartney welcomed him to roaring cheers from the crowd. Grohl, visibly moved, responded with a warm, “Hi Paul, how are you?” He later told the crowd, “I swear, I would never miss being right here with you, right now,” revealing that he’d made the journey to England despite facing two canceled flights.
Their chemistry was undeniable as they kicked off their mini-set with a raucous version of The Beatles’ “I Saw Her Standing There,” trading vocals and guitar riffs. They followed with Wings’ classic “Band on the Run,” a song Grohl had previously covered with Foo Fighters in 2007.
Then came another major surprise—Bruce Springsteen. The Boss took the stage to perform “Glory Days” with McCartney and Grohl, while McCartney held down bass duties and backing vocals. The trio then tore through The Beatles’ “I Wanna Be Your Man” and closed their segment with a fiery guitar duel during “The End.”
McCartney’s 38-song set also featured a virtual duet with John Lennon on “I’ve Got a Feeling,” using isolated vocals and video footage—a moving tribute that’s become a staple on his tour. As Glastonbury sang “Happy Birthday” to celebrate McCartney’s recent 80th, he became the oldest solo act ever to headline the festival.
Earlier in May, Grohl had made an emotional appearance at Jazz Fest in New Orleans to support a tribute to Hawkins by the Red Hot Chili Peppers. He was joined by Hawkins’ widow, Alison, and other Foo Fighters members in a heartfelt moment of remembrance.
This unforgettable Glastonbury performance was more than just a setlist—it was a celebration of resilience, legacy, and the timeless power of rock and roll.
