McCartney Challenged By New Album's Producer

Sir Paul McCartney battled with maverick producer Nigel Godrich over his new solo album, because the former Radiohead mogul refused to refrain from criticising him.

McCartney appeared at the London Live 8 gig on Saturday (02JUL05) fresh from the studio where he and Godrich have been working on CHAOS AND CREATION IN THE BACKYARD - the former BEATLE's first studio release in four years.

Godrich was recommended by former Beatles producer SIR GEORGE MARTIN - and the singer has found his no-nonsense attitude refreshing.

The pop legend says, "People get a little sycophantic around me, but Nigel was the opposite.

"He'd dismiss my rough demos out of hand if he didn't like them. He was quite cheeky. He took me out of my comfort zone and really tested me. There were awkward moments but we never came to blows."