Paul McCartney to play at New York Mets stadium in July – 29 May 2009
Friday 29 May 2009 | Live
On Friday 29 May 2009, unconfirmed industry reports emerged that Paul McCartney was to be the first artist to perform at Citi Field — the New York Mets’ new stadium in Flushing, New York, which had replaced the legendary Shea Stadium earlier in 2009.
The Reported Concerts
The concerts were said to be taking place on 17 and 18 July 2009, with a possible third date on 21 July. The promoters were reported to be AEG Live. The dates fell during the Mets’ extended All-Star break — their last game before the break was on 12 July, with their next scheduled game on 27 July.
The Shea Stadium Connection
The announcement carried enormous historical resonance. The Beatles had famously performed at Shea Stadium — the former home of the New York Mets — on 15 August 1965 and 23 August 1966. The 1965 concert, attended by 55,600 fans, is widely regarded as the birth of stadium rock.
McCartney had also made a surprise appearance at Billy Joel’s ‘Last Play At Shea’ concert in 2008, which marked the end of the Shea Stadium era. Performing at Citi Field would therefore complete a remarkable circle — from The Beatles’ historic Shea shows to the first concert at its successor venue.
McCartney’s Confirmed Schedule
At the time of the reports, McCartney’s only confirmed upcoming concert was on 15 July 2009 at the Halifax Commons in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
Key Facts: 29 May 2009
- Reported venue: Citi Field, Flushing, New York
- Reported dates: 17, 18 (and possibly 21) July 2009
- Promoter: AEG Live (reported)
- Status: Unconfirmed industry reports at time of announcement
- Beatles at Shea Stadium: 15 August 1965 and 23 August 1966
- McCartney at Last Play At Shea: 2008 (surprise appearance with Billy Joel)
- Citi Field replaced Shea Stadium: 2009
Frequently Asked Questions
Was Paul McCartney the first artist to play Citi Field?
Reports on 29 May 2009 indicated he would be, with concerts planned for 17 and 18 July 2009. Citi Field had opened earlier in 2009 as the replacement for Shea Stadium.
Did The Beatles play at Shea Stadium?
Yes — on 15 August 1965 and 23 August 1966. The 1965 concert, attended by 55,600 fans, is widely considered the birth of stadium rock and one of the most significant concerts in music history.
What was the Last Play At Shea?
A farewell concert by Billy Joel at Shea Stadium in 2008, marking the end of the venue before its demolition. Paul McCartney made a surprise appearance, performing with Joel as a tribute to The Beatles’ historic shows there.
Why was Citi Field significant for McCartney?
Citi Field was built on the site of Shea Stadium, where The Beatles had performed two of their most famous concerts in 1965 and 1966. Being the first artist to perform at its successor venue connected McCartney directly to that history.
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