**Alice Cooper Reflects on Introducing Paul McCartney to the Hollywood Vampires**
In a recent interview, rock legend Alice Cooper shared a heartwarming and humorous story about his friendship with music icon Paul McCartney. Cooper, known for his theatrical stage performances and eccentric personality, revealed how McCartney became a member of the Hollywood Vampires, a supergroup formed by Cooper himself. The group, initially composed of rock stars like Cooper, Johnny Depp, and Joe Perry, was named after a circle of friends in Hollywood who famously partied hard during the 1970s, including late rock stars like John Lennon, Keith Moon, and Jimi Hendrix.
Cooper fondly recalled the first time he initiated McCartney into the Hollywood Vampires. While their friendship had been brewing for some time, it was clear that McCartney was unfamiliar with the chaotic, rock-and-roll lifestyle that Cooper and his bandmates had adopted. In an amusing revelation, Cooper said that every time he encounters McCartney, the legendary Beatle asks him, “Am I still a Vampire?” This playful remark reflects McCartney’s lighthearted approach to joining the group, as well as his genuine affection for Cooper and his unique brand of rock ‘n’ roll camaraderie.
The Hollywood Vampires were formed not only to celebrate the music of their fallen friends but also to create new material. Cooper explained how McCartney’s involvement brought a fresh dynamic to the group, combining McCartney’s signature style with the rowdy energy of the Vampires. The collaboration resulted in the release of their debut album, which features an eclectic mix of original songs and cover tracks. Cooper credits McCartney’s easygoing personality and musical genius for helping to shape the album, while also adding a touch of class and grace to the band’s notorious wild reputation.
Despite their differing backgrounds, Cooper and McCartney found common ground in their love of music. Cooper, with his darker, more theatrical persona, and McCartney, with his melodic, pop-inspired roots, formed an unexpected yet harmonious partnership. The collaboration was not only about playing music together but also about honoring the memories of their late friends. McCartney’s deep connection to John Lennon, in particular, made him a fitting addition to the Vampires’ mission of celebrating the legacies of rock legends who had passed away far too soon.
Cooper expressed his admiration for McCartney’s humility and sense of humor. He emphasized that, despite being one of the most successful and influential musicians in history, McCartney was never one to take himself too seriously. In fact, Cooper mentioned that McCartney’s playful inquiries about being a “Vampire” showed that he never lost his ability to be down-to-earth, even in the midst of joining a rock supergroup with some of the wildest personalities in the business.
The formation of the Hollywood Vampires marked a unique moment in rock history, where different generations of musicians came together to honor their shared love for music and friendship. For McCartney, being part of this group allowed him to bond with a new generation of musicians and rekindle his own rock ‘n’ roll roots. His easy transition into the group is a testament to his versatility as an artist and his willingness to explore new creative avenues, regardless of his vast experience in the music industry.
Looking back on their collaboration, Cooper admitted that working with McCartney was an incredible experience. Not only was it an opportunity to share the stage with a true musical icon, but it also strengthened the bond between two musicians from very different eras. Cooper believes that McCartney’s participation in the Hollywood Vampires was a defining moment in the group’s evolution and will be remembered as a milestone in rock history for years to come.
As the Hollywood Vampires continue to evolve and collaborate, Cooper remains excited about what the future holds for the group. With McCartney as a permanent member, the band has the potential to break new ground while honoring the traditions of rock ‘n’ roll. For now, fans can enjoy the unique synergy between these legendary artists, knowing that every time McCartney asks, “Am I still a Vampire?”, it’s a reminder of the deep camaraderie and timeless magic that continues to fuel the rock-and-roll spirit.