Paul McCartney and Will Ferrell Jam with Cowbell on ‘SNL’ Post-Credits ‘Help!’ and ‘Drive My Car’

Relive the magic as Paul McCartney teams up with Will Ferrell on cowbell for special post-credits performances of Beatles classics on Saturday Night Live.

There’s something truly special about catching legendary artists in spontaneous moments of joy and musical camaraderie. Paul McCartney’s recent post-credits jam sessions on Saturday Night Live (SNL) perfectly capture that magic, bringing together classic Beatles hits, a rock-star drummer, and none other than Will Ferrell’s unforgettable cowbell flair. If you’ve ever wondered what happens after the cameras stop rolling, this is it.

Paul McCartney’s SNL Finale: A Night to Remember

Last week, Paul McCartney graced the final episode of SNL’s 51st season with a performance that’s already etched in music history. The former Beatles icon showcased his upcoming album The Boys Of Dungeon Lane with the heartfelt track “Days We Left Behind,” alongside a fresh take on his 1980 hit “Coming Up.” The evening was not just a trip down memory lane but a vibrant reminder of McCartney’s enduring artistry.

What followed the live broadcast, however, was a delightful surprise. McCartney stuck around for some exclusive post-show performances for the cast and crew — and these moments have now been shared with the public, revealing a more intimate, playful side of the music legend.

The Ultimate Jam: Beatles Classics with a Twist

Joining McCartney were Chad Smith from the Red Hot Chili Peppers on drums and comedy legend Will Ferrell wielding his signature cowbell. Together, they breathed new life into two classic Beatles hits from 1965: “Help!” and “Drive My Car.” Ferrell’s cowbell antics added a dose of humor and nostalgia, perfectly complementing McCartney’s unmistakable energy.

Watching these post-credits gems is a treat—a raw, fun-filled celebration where musical mastery meets comedic charm. The videos showcase McCartney’s effortless connection to his past hits while having fun with fellow performers in a relaxed, joyful atmosphere.

Watch Paul McCartney Perform ‘Help!’ with Will Ferrell on Cowbell

Watch Paul McCartney Perform ‘Drive My Car’ with Will Ferrell on Cowbell

Will Ferrell’s Cowbell Legacy Lives On

Will Ferrell’s cowbell performance isn’t just any cameo; it’s a nod to one of SNL’s most iconic sketches. Back in 2000, Ferrell starred in a now-legendary bit alongside Christopher Walken, who played a Blue Oyster Cult producer demanding “more cowbell” on the track “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper.” That sketch vaulted Ferrell’s cowbell to comedic superstardom, becoming a timeless pop-culture reference.

Walken has even joked that the sketch “ruined his life,” reflecting how deeply it resonated with fans. Since then, Ferrell’s cowbell has appeared in various fun moments—like his memorable duet with Coldplay on “Viva La Vida” and even at his son Magnus’ first live show. Now, alongside one of music’s greatest icons, Ferrell’s cowbell gets a new chapter.

Paul McCartney: A Maestro of Nostalgia and New Beginnings

The SNL gig isn’t McCartney’s only recent headline. Just this week, he took part in the final episode of The Late Show, where he shared a touching duet of “Hello, Goodbye” with host Stephen Colbert, closing the curtain on that beloved program. In a fitting farewell, McCartney also switched off the lights at the Ed Sullivan Theatre for the last time.

On the same show, McCartney charmed fans by describing his portrayal in the upcoming Beatles biopic by Sam Mendes, starring Paul Mescal, as “very cute.” This ambitious four-film saga is slated for an April 2028 release, promising a fresh lens on Beatles history.

The Boys Of Dungeon Lane: McCartney’s New Album

Anticipation is rising for McCartney’s new album The Boys Of Dungeon Lane, due May 29. The album features an especially poignant duet with his former Beatles bandmate Ringo Starr on the track “Home To Us.” This song reflects on their Liverpool roots and marks the first time the two have shared vocal duties—a nostalgic nod to their shared past and enduring friendship.

The album also showcases McCartney’s ongoing creative vitality, weaving fresh stories and sounds while honoring the legacy that made him a household name.

Paul McCartney’s Recent Reflections

Beyond music, McCartney has been candid in interviews about his perspectives on modern life and artistry. He recently shared how he struggled to identify Bob Dylan’s songs during a live show, illustrating his candid, relatable side. He also opened up about why he avoids taking selfies—preferring to “just be me” instead of feeling like a “monkey” for the camera—and his bemusement with the whole influencer culture.

A Beatles Fan Experience at 3 Savile Row

For Beatles fans craving more, the legendary 3 Savile Row in London’s Mayfair will open its doors next year for the first-ever official Beatles fan experience. This historic location, the site of the Beatles’ iconic 1969 rooftop concert, will welcome visitors to explore seven floors of archives and exhibits, including a recreation of the ‘Let It Be’ studio. It’s a dream come true for anyone devoted to the Fab Four’s enduring legacy.

“The Beatles were brothers arguing, that’s what families do.”
— Paul McCartney

Final Notes

Paul McCartney’s blend of timeless music, heartfelt reflections, and playful moments like his SNL jam with Will Ferrell remind us why he remains a beloved figure across generations. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a newcomer, these moments spark joy and keep the Beatles’ spirit alive.

FAQ

• What songs did Paul McCartney perform post-credits on SNL?
  He performed Beatles classics “Help!” and “Drive My Car,” joined by Will Ferrell on cowbell and Chad Smith on drums.
• Who played drums alongside Paul McCartney in the post-credits performance?
  Chad Smith, the drummer from the Red Hot Chili Peppers.
• What is the significance of Will Ferrell’s cowbell in this performance?
  Ferrell’s cowbell references his famous SNL sketch from 2000, where he humorously demanded “more cowbell,” making it a pop-culture highlight.
• When is Paul McCartney’s new album releasing, and what is it called?
  The Boys Of Dungeon Lane is set for release on May 29.
• What special collaboration is featured on McCartney’s new album?
  A duet with Ringo Starr on the track “Home To Us,” marking their first vocal collaboration.

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