Sir Paul McCartney prefers being in a band.

The Beatles legend - who has also launched a successful solo career - says he likes being part of a group as it helps him feel "at home".

He said: "I've got a good band who've been together for nine years.

"I suppose that's the real reason I'm enjoying myself right now. Because I'm very much at home with my band. You know, I quite like a band."

The Liverpool-born singer also revealed that people tried to put him off performing on UK TV talent show 'The X Factor' last year.

He told Live: "Lots of my friends told me not to do it. It's a pop show. But what turned me around - apart from the huge audience - was the fact that it's a family show, and so many kids I know are obsessed by it.

"Also, Beyonce was on it, and if it's good enough for her then it should be good enough for me. Plus, it threw up Leona Lewis and she's no slouch."