Los Angeles, CA – In a surprise announcement that has thrilled fans, Paul McCartney will perform two intimate shows at the Fonda Theatre in Hollywood on March 27th and 28th, 2026. The concerts, dubbed “Paul McCartney Rocks The Fonda,” mark the legendary musician’s first Los Angeles appearance in over three years and a significant departure from the stadium-sized venues he typically plays. Tickets will be distributed through a lottery system managed by AXS, aiming to prioritize genuine fans over scalpers and bots.
The announcement, made on Tuesday, March 17th, 2026, comes after the conclusion of McCartney’s massively successful “Got Back Tour” in 2025. These upcoming performances represent an unusually intimate setting for the artist, whose recent tour saw him captivating audiences at venues like SoFi Stadium in 2022. The Fonda Theatre, with a capacity of approximately 1,200 people, will offer a uniquely close-up experience for those fortunate enough to secure tickets. This return to a smaller venue harkens back to McCartney’s early performing days and promises a special connection with the audience.
Ticket Registration and Availability
The demand for tickets is expected to be exceptionally high. Registration for the opportunity to purchase tickets opened at 9:00 AM Pacific Time on Tuesday, March 17th, and will close at 10:00 PM Pacific Time on Wednesday, March 18th. Potential attendees must register through the AXS website (https://www.axs.com/paulmccartney). It’s crucial to understand that registration does *not* guarantee a ticket; selected fans will receive an invitation via email between March 24th and 25th, granting them access to a specific ticket purchasing window. AXS emphasizes that only two tickets will be allocated per customer, and availability is extremely limited.
To combat ticket scalping, AXS is employing its “Fair AXS” lottery process. This system is designed to prioritize fans who intend to attend the concert, rather than those looking to resell tickets for profit. Fans are strongly advised to avoid purchasing tickets from unauthorized third-party vendors, as these tickets will not be honored, and entry will be denied. The use of bots to circumvent the ticketing system is as well prohibited.
A Phone-Free Concert Experience
Attendees should be aware that “Paul McCartney Rocks The Fonda” will be a phone-free experience. In a growing trend aimed at enhancing the live concert experience, all mobile phones will be secured in Yondr pouches upon entry. Yondr pouches are lockable pouches that prevent phone use during the performance. Guests will retain possession of their phones throughout the event, but will be unable to make calls, send texts, or take photos or videos. This policy is intended to encourage full engagement with the music and the shared experience of the concert. The Yondr system allows for designated areas within the venue where phones can be used.
The Fonda Theatre: A Historic Venue
The Fonda Theatre, located on Hollywood Boulevard, has a rich history as a premier entertainment venue. Originally opened as the Carter Theatre in 1926, it has hosted a diverse range of performers over the decades, from vaudeville acts to contemporary musicians. The venue underwent a significant renovation in 2012, modernizing its facilities while preserving its historic charm. Its relatively intimate size, compared to larger arenas, makes it a particularly appealing choice for an artist like Paul McCartney seeking a more personal connection with his audience. The theatre’s capacity of 1,200 creates an atmosphere that is both energetic and engaging.
McCartney’s Recent Activity and Future Plans
The announcement of these Fonda Theatre shows follows the conclusion of McCartney’s “Got Back Tour” in 2025, a critically acclaimed and commercially successful tour that celebrated his extensive catalog of music. The tour featured performances of songs from across his career, including his work with The Beatles, Wings, and his solo albums. The “Got Back Tour” was notable for its innovative stage design and McCartney’s energetic performances, demonstrating his enduring appeal to audiences of all ages. Prior to the Fonda shows, McCartney performed at the Santa Barbara Bowl on September 15, 2025, and a sold-out performance at The Bowery in February 2025, demonstrating his willingness to play smaller, more intimate venues.
The Significance of Intimate Performances
While Paul McCartney is accustomed to performing for tens of thousands of fans at stadiums and arenas, these upcoming shows at the Fonda Theatre represent a deliberate choice to connect with his audience on a more personal level. Such intimate performances allow for a different kind of energy exchange between the artist and the crowd, fostering a sense of shared experience that is often lost in larger venues. This approach reflects McCartney’s ongoing commitment to innovation and his desire to continually challenge himself as a performer. The decision to play the Fonda Theatre also acknowledges the venue’s significance within the Los Angeles music scene.
How to Prepare for the Ticket Lottery
Given the anticipated high demand, potential ticket buyers should ensure they are fully prepared for the AXS registration process. This includes having a valid AXS account, verifying their contact information, and understanding the terms and conditions of the lottery. We see also advisable to register as soon as possible within the designated timeframe to maximize the chances of being selected. Fans should also familiarize themselves with the Yondr pouch policy and plan accordingly. The AXS website (https://www.axs.com/paulmccartney) provides detailed information about the registration process, ticket availability, and the phone-free policy.
The concerts are presented by MPL in association with Goldenvoice and Marshall Arts USA, underscoring the collaborative effort to bring this unique event to Los Angeles. Goldenvoice is a renowned concert promoter known for organizing major music festivals such as Coachella, while Marshall Arts USA is a leading artist management and production company. Their combined expertise ensures a high-quality production and a seamless experience for attendees.
The two-night engagement at the Fonda Theatre promises to be a memorable event for both Paul McCartney and his fans. The intimate setting, combined with McCartney’s legendary talent and the innovative phone-free policy, will create a unique and immersive concert experience. The event is a testament to McCartney’s enduring legacy and his continued relevance in the world of music.
The next key date for those hoping to attend is March 24th and 25th, when selected fans will receive email invitations to purchase tickets. Retain an eye on your inbox and be prepared to act quickly if you receive an invitation. For further updates and information, continue to check the AXS website and official Paul McCartney channels.