“I am doing a big gig in Quebec City,” McCartney said in a video message taped in London to announce the event. “That is to help Quebec celebrate their 400th anniversary – that’s a long time!”

The show marks Macca’s only North American performance this year, his first concert in Canada since 2005, and his first ever gig in Quebec.

McCartney’s presence brings the type of headliner the organizers of the festivities were hoping for.

“Music is a good way to celebrate an anniversary like this. It’s a universal language which unites everyone,” McCartney went on in his video message. “Our two countries have historic links which remain important today. We’re eager to celebrate this 400th anniversary with Quebec.”