Paul McCartney's Co-Composer Carl Davis Dead at 86; The Beatles Member Pens Emotional Tribute

Paul McCartney penned a heartfelt message to his late co-composer, Carl Davis, following his death.

Davis' family confirmed in a social media statement that the BAFTA-winning composer died Thursday at the age of 86. They proudly spoke about his "astonishing impact" on music that plays a huge part in his legacy.

"A consummate all-round musician, he was the driving force behind the reinvention of the silent movie for this generation, and he wrote scores for some of the most loved and remembered British television dramas," the statement continued.

Paul McCartney Broken After Carl Davis' Death

Following Davis' death, The Beatles legend penned a lengthy message to the conductor and expressed his sadness upon hearing the news about his "friend."

McCartney looked back at the time they worked on his first full-length classical project, "Liverpool Oratorio," and how he enjoyed having the compose to make it happen. He reminisced about showing up at Davis' house and started writing with him as they continued working together.

The duo also got the chance to perform the track together at Liverpool Cathedral after failing an audition to join the choir in the past.

"He was a very skilful and fun man to be with," McCartney continued. "His enthusiasm was extremely infectious and we had a great time during the period that we worked together."

Remembering Carl Davis

Davis started his conducting experience with different organizations, including Robert Shaw Chorale and the New York City Opera. He soon co-authored the 1959 "Diversions," which won an off-Broadway award and appeared at the Edinburgh Festival three years later.

He started composing more music for shows and TV series when he moved to the UK in 1961. Among his early works were music for "That Was the Week That Was," "The Wednesday Play," and "Play for Today."

Following his early success, Davis expanded his career and composed more scores for British TV shows like "Oppenheimer," "The Hound of the Baskervilles," "The Naked: Civil Servant," "Hotel du Lac," "Coming Home," and "Upstairs Downstairs," to name a few.

Meanwhile, his movie credits for film scores included the ones in "Ethel & Ernest," "The Great Gatsby," "Man Friday," "Up Pompeii," and "King David."

Nearly two decades before his death, Davis received the CBE (Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire).

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Paul McCartney, The Beatles