Magic: The David Paton Story

by David Paton

Discovering The Beatles at the age of fourteen, David Paton had no idea that one day he’d work with Paul McCartney in Studio Two at Abbey Road or that he’d write a number one worldwide hit, or that he’d spend three years touring the world and recording as bass player with Elton John, including playing in his band at Live Aid. These achievements were well beyond his imagination – yet he did them. For David, making music was a joy and a privilege, but his career as a musician made it possible for him to meet and work with some of the world-famous artists that he idolised. David Paton is the singer, songwriter and bass player with the group Pilot, writing the worldwide hits ‘Magic’, ‘January’ and ‘Just a Smile’. He was a member of The Alan Parsons Project for ten years and did session work with The Pretenders, Paul McCartney, Kate Bush, Chris De Burgh, Chris Rea and Jimmy Page, to name but a few. This book gives an insight into the life of a successful songwriter and session musician. He has a lot to say, but as well as telling his story, the book also offers valuable insight into what to do – and what not to do – for creative people interested in pursuing a career in music.

176 pages, Paperback

Published June 30, 2023

About the author

Librarian Note: There is more than one author by this name in the Goodreads database.

Reviews

[Hazel Bright · Rating 4 out of 5]

A charming book from a very talented musician, with numerous insights on celebrities and celebrity itself. The stand-out characteristic of the book highlights Paton's integrity, which has guided him throughout his long and dazzling career. This candid glimpse into the life of a modest man who happened to have a talent and passion that took him into the upper orbits of fame is a satisfying departure from what can be a seedy business. Paton steadfastly focuses on the optimistic and joyous elements of his life: his joy in playing in Elton John's band, his early and thrilling ride on the Bay City Rollers' juggernaut, working with Chrissy Hynde in the studio, and his success with own band Pilot, having two hit singles and traveling the world, then venturing out with Pilot band members becoming an ad-hoc session team for numerous stars including the Alan Parsons project and Camel. He also bravely discusses the not-so-wonderful parts of life, such as the near fatal heart attack he experienced, the fleecing he took from his early managers, and some less-than-perfect sessions he performed with well-known, if (in my opinion) rather sub-par musicians.

Enjoyable and entertaining, and also understated like the man himself, "Magic" is a delightful way to spend a few hours in a world where people really do good deeds, accomplish great things, and then live happily ever after.

[Aaron Badgley · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great memoir. Honest, funny and heartwarming. As a fan of his music, I am a fan of his writing. Great book.

[Charlotte Falkner · Rating 3 out of 5]

Humble, interesting, and well-written.

[Audrey Whitehead · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great insight into the life of a professional musician. From having hit records to life on the road as a session musician .Playing at Live Aid and on world tours.