Paul McCartney delighted fans in Manchester with a heartwarming holiday performance of his classic festive song, “Wonderful Christmastime,” bringing joy and nostalgia to the audience over the weekend. This rare live rendition of the beloved holiday track was a special treat for concertgoers, showcasing McCartney’s enduring talent and connection to the festive spirit.

Attendees at the Co-Op Live arena on Saturday (Dec. 14) were overjoyed by the unexpected festive surprise during McCartney’s ongoing Got Back tour. This unique moment marked the first live performance of “Wonderful Christmastime” in six years, creating an atmosphere filled with joy and nostalgia for everyone present. The excitement in the arena was palpable as fans reveled in the holiday spirit.

At 82 years old, the legendary musician Paul McCartney brought even more magic to the stage by inviting children from the You Should Be Dancing Theatre Academy to join him. This collaboration transformed the arena into a vibrant winter wonderland, enhancing the festive atmosphere. This particular performance was especially significant, as McCartney has only graced audiences with “Wonderful Christmastime” live about a dozen times throughout his illustrious solo career, making it a cherished moment for those lucky enough to witness it.

The last live rendition of this beloved holiday classic occurred in 2018 during a series of December shows in England, before that, it was featured during a memorable December 2016 performance on The Tonight Show. These performances are rare gems in McCartney’s extensive setlist, and they hold a special place in the hearts of fans who eagerly await his seasonal surprises.

Originally released in 1979 as a standalone single, “Wonderful Christmastime” has since evolved into a quintessential addition to holiday playlists around the globe. The song’s timeless charm resonates with listeners of all ages and has become synonymous with festive celebrations. It was later included as a bonus track on select editions of McCartney’s iconic album, McCartney II, further cementing its status as a holiday classic.

This Manchester concert was a highlight of McCartney’s ongoing tour, which showcases his extensive catalog that spans his legendary career with The Beatles, Wings, and his successful solo endeavors. Concertgoers were treated to a thrilling mix of deep cuts and chart-topping hits like “Hey Jude” and “Band on the Run,” all within an exhilarating three-hour performance that left fans yearning for more.

The early Beatles classics that characterized the initial hour of the set included a revitalized version of “Drive My Car” and the soulful, Motown-inspired “Got to Get You into My Life.” These timeless tracks delighted long-time fans while also captivating newer audiences, showcasing McCartney’s ability to bridge generations through his music.

Last week, “Wonderful Christmastime” made a notable comeback on the Rock Streaming Songs chart, debuting at No. 15. Over its impressive 47-week run, the song has previously soared to the No. 2 position, proving its enduring popularity among listeners. Recently, it reached a new peak position of No. 26 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart for the week ending January 6, 2024. Fans are eagerly watching to see if McCartney can surpass his previous records with this holiday classic.

Don’t miss out on experiencing the music legend’s live performance of “Wonderful Christmastime.” You can check it out here and relish the festive vibes that McCartney brings to the stage, celebrating the holiday season in style.