McCartney says Lennon conflict was over

LONDON, Nov. 23 (UPI) -- Singer Paul McCartney says his conflict with fellow Beatles star John Lennon was well over before the British singer was fatally shot.

McCartney said while he and Lennon were at odds beginning in the late 1960s regarding who would handle the Beatles' finances, the two band leaders made peace with one another before Lennon's death in 1980, The Sunday Times of London magazine reported.

"Before John died I got back a good relationship with him. That was very special," McCartney told the magazine. "The arguments we had didn't matter."

McCartney remained unapologetic for his attempts to have his in-laws manage the Beatles following the death of manager Brian Epstein, saying it was the best thing for the band.

"I was placed in the most awkward position I've ever been placed in," he said. "I had to fight three mates to save their legacy, their money, as well as mine, and I did so knowing it would put me in a very dodgy position."