# [EP 388] Press to Play: Paul McCartney's Most Misunderstood Album? - With Luca Perasi

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Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/booked-on-rock-3881248/ep-388-press-to-play-paul-mccartney-s-most-misunderstood-album-with-luca-perasi.md
Podcast: [Booked On Rock](https://stenobird.com/podcast/booked-on-rock-3881248)
Published: 2026-06-10T19:13:41+00:00
Episode link: https://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-388-press-to-play-paul-mccartney-s-most-misunderstood-album-with-luca-perasi--72445219
Audio file: https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/72445219/episode_388_luca_perasi.mp3
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Duration seconds: 3553

## Resource

Was 'Press to Play' really a failure—or is it one of Paul McCartney's most misunderstood albums? In this episode of Booked On Rock, I sit down with author Luca Perasi to explore the fascinating story behind McCartney's 1986 album Press to Play. Drawing from extensive research and interviews with key figures involved in the project, Luca examines the album's ambitious blend of cutting-edge 1980s production, experimental songwriting, and classic McCartney melodies. We discuss the album's troubled reputation, McCartney's creative partnership with Eric Stewart, the influence of producer Hugh Padgham, the impact of Live Aid and the Michael Jackson catalog controversy, and why Press to Play may deserve a major reappraisal. If you're a Paul McCartney fan—or simply curious about one of the most debated albums of his solo career—this is an episode you won't want to miss. Purchase a copy of Paul McCartney: Press to Play. That Unmistakable 80s Sound (Milestones) Follow Luca Perasi Bluesky Facebook Instagram X Visit the L.I.L.Y. Publishing website Visit Luca Perasi's YouTube channel PaulMcCartneyMusicIsIdeas ---------- 🎧 Listen Ad-Free on Patreon Support Booked On Rock and get every new episode completely commercial-free with the Backstage Pass. Join here: https://www.patreon.com/cw/BookedOnRock 🛒 Old Glory - Iconic music and sports fan merch 💰 Get 15% OFF | Promo Code: BOOKEDONROCK https://oldglory.com/discount/BOOKEDONROCK Booked On Rock is part of The Boneless Podcasting Network BookedOnRock.com The Booked On Rock Store The Booked On Rock YouTube Channel Follow The Booked On Rock with Eric Senich: BLUESKY FACEBOOK INSTAGRAM TIKTOK X Find Your Nearest Independent Bookstore Contact The Booked On Rock Podcast: thebookedonrockpodcast@gmail.com The Booked On Rock Music: “Whoosh” by…

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