Rusty Anderson has been Paul McCartney’s lead guitarist for over two decades. Alongside fellow guitarist Brian Ray, Anderson not only tours with McCartney but has also contributed to nearly every McCartney album since 2001.
Before joining McCartney, Anderson was a member of Eulogy, a band with a cult following in LA, and Ednaswap, which wrote and recorded the song that became Natalie Imbruglia’s hit “Torn.” So how did he secure one of the most sought-after roles in rock music?
In an interview, Anderson shares, “I was talking to my producer friend David Kahne, with whom I’ve worked on many recordings over the years. We’re very good friends. He mentioned, ‘It looks like I will be producing the new Paul McCartney record.'”
“I was thrilled for him,” Anderson continues. “David is a talented producer, arranger, and musician. Then he said, ‘I may need some guitar playing.’ I was beyond excited. A couple of months later, I found myself at Henson Studios with Paul.”
“After meeting Paul and chatting a bit, we started recording his new songs. I was still in shock for the first few days. I never thought I’d meet a Beatle, let alone play with one! But playing music together is a powerful bonding experience.”
Regarding his musical relationship with McCartney and the band, Anderson states, “We all have a good pocket, individually and collectively.”
“When we lock in, it feels spiritual. That’s what playing music together is about, right? And the live show becomes a celebration of those incredible, classic songs everyone knows.”
“The whole band, including Paul, appreciates the magical chemistry and energy that emanates from the stage. We feel incredibly fortunate to be part of every opportunity to play together and connect with each other.”
