Paul McCartney and Wings, often simply referred to as Wings, emerged in 1971 as Paul McCartney’s post-Beatles endeavor, signaling his transition from being part of a global phenomenon to creating a new musical identity. Formed alongside his wife, Linda McCartney, guitarist Denny Laine, and drummer Denny Seiwell, the band initially took shape as a vehicle for McCartney’s creative ambitions. Wings made their debut with Wild Life, a raw and largely live-in-studio album. Despite its lukewarm reception, the album set the stage for McCartney’s determination to explore collaborative musicianship in a way distinct from his time with The Beatles.
The band’s evolution was marked by several lineup changes, reflecting McCartney’s quest for the perfect synergy. Key additions included guitarist Jimmy McCulloch and drummer Geoff Britton, who contributed to Wings’ 1973 masterpiece, Band on the Run. This album became a landmark in McCartney’s solo career, featuring timeless tracks such as the title song, “Jet,” and “Let Me Roll It.” Recorded under challenging conditions in Lagos, Nigeria, it showcased McCartney’s resilience and ability to craft chart-topping material under pressure. The album not only solidified Wings’ place in the music world but also earned critical acclaim and multiple Grammy Awards.
Wings’ versatility became a hallmark of their success. From the rock-driven Venus and Mars (1975) to the pop sensibilities of Wings at the Speed of Sound (1976), the band demonstrated an ability to adapt while staying true to McCartney’s signature melodic craftsmanship. The mid-1970s saw Wings embarking on ambitious world tours, including the legendary Wings Over the World tour, which was immortalized in the live album Wings Over America. These performances highlighted the band’s ability to connect with audiences globally and cemented their reputation as a live powerhouse.
However, the late 1970s brought both triumphs and challenges. London Town (1978) and Back to the Egg (1979) showcased McCartney’s experimentation with softer tones and harder-edged rock, respectively. While these albums achieved commercial success, they also signaled the end of an era. Internal tensions, coupled with McCartney’s arrest in Japan for marijuana possession in 1980, led to the eventual dissolution of Wings. The band’s final performances and recordings remain a testament to their dynamic chemistry and enduring influence.
Wings left a significant legacy in the annals of rock history. They scored twelve top-10 singles in the United States and amassed a loyal fanbase that appreciated their evolution from a fledgling group to a global sensation. McCartney’s ability to reinvent himself while honoring his Beatles heritage ensured that Wings became more than a post-Beatles project; they were a band that stood on their own merits, carving out a unique space in the music world during a pivotal era.
PAUL MCCARTNEY & WINGS STUDIO ALBUMS
Wild Life (1971)
Released December 3, 1971
Wild Life, the debut album by Wings, marked Paul McCartney’s first major effort with his new band after the breakup of The Beatles. Released on December 3, 1971, in the UK and three days later in the US, the album was an experiment in raw, live-in-studio recording. With Linda McCartney on keyboards and vocals, Denny Laine on guitars, and Denny Seiwell on drums, McCartney sought to capture a spontaneous and unpolished sound. The sessions, conducted at EMI Studios (now Abbey Road Studios) in London between July 24 and August 2, 1971, reflected this ethos. Additional overdubs were recorded in October 1971. McCartney produced the album himself, with engineering support from Alan Parsons and Tony Clark.
The album’s musical approach was inspired by McCartney’s admiration for Bob Dylan’s quick, instinctive recording techniques. Tracks like “Mumbo” and “Wild Life” exemplified this raw style, while the reggae-inflected “Love Is Strange,” a Mickey & Sylvia cover, demonstrated the band’s genre-bending creativity. The emotionally charged “Dear Friend,” written during the Ram sessions, was McCartney’s response to John Lennon’s scathing “How Do You Sleep?” The McCartneys’ home rehearsals at Rude Studio in Scotland lent an intimate feel to the songwriting process, which translated directly to the studio recordings.
Although Wild Life reached number 11 in the UK and number 10 in the US, it received mixed reviews upon release. The 2018 reissue as part of the Paul McCartney Archive Collection brought the album renewed attention, adding bonus tracks, outtakes, and home recordings to expand its legacy.
Track Listing:
Original Album:
- “Mumbo” – 3:54
- “Bip Bop” – 4:14
- “Love Is Strange” – 4:50
- “Wild Life” – 6:48
- “Some People Never Know” – 6:35
- “I Am Your Singer” – 2:15
- “Bip Bop (Link)” – 0:52
- “Tomorrow” – 3:28
- “Dear Friend” – 5:53
- “Mumbo (Link)” – 0:46
1993 Paul McCartney Collection CD Bonus Tracks:
- “Give Ireland Back to the Irish” – 3:44
- “Mary Had a Little Lamb” – 3:32
- “Little Woman Love” – 2:07
- “Mama’s Little Girl” – 3:45
2018 Archive Collection Expanded Edition:
Disc 1 – Remastered Album:
- “Mumbo” – 3:58
- “Bip Bop” – 4:10
- “Love Is Strange” – 4:52
- “Wild Life” – 6:41
- “Some People Never Know” – 6:37
- “I Am Your Singer” – 2:19
- “Bip Bop (Link)” – 0:52
- “Tomorrow” – 3:28
- “Dear Friend” – 6:00
- “Mumbo (Link)” – 0:46
Disc 2 – Rough Mixes:
- “Mumbo” – 3:58
- “Bip Bop” – 4:22 (first stereo release)
- “Love Is Strange” – 4:27
- “Wild Life” – 6:41
- “Some People Never Know” – 6:44
- “I Am Your Singer” – 2:18
- “Tomorrow” – 3:36
- “Dear Friend” – 5:53
Disc 3 – Bonus Tracks:
- “Good Rockin’ Tonight” (Home Recording) – 0:58
- “Bip Bop” (Home Recording) – 3:17
- “Hey Diddle” (Home Recording) – 2:33
- “She Got It Good” (Home Recording) – 0:44
- “I Am Your Singer” (Home Recording) – 2:53
- “Outtake I” – 0:29
- “Dear Friend” (Home Recording I) – 4:49
- “Dear Friend” (Home Recording II) – 2:02
- “Outtake II” – 0:13
- “Indeed I Do” – 1:14
- “When the Wind Is Blowing” – 3:51
- “The Great Cock and Seagull Race” (Rough Mix) – 4:02
- “Outtake III” – 0:10
- “Give Ireland Back to the Irish” – 3:44
- “Give Ireland Back to the Irish (Version)” – 3:46
- “Love Is Strange” (Single Edit) – 4:14
- “African Yeah Yeah” – 2:44
Red Rose Speedway (1973)
Released April 30, 1973
Red Rose Speedway, the second studio album by Paul McCartney & Wings, marked a significant step in McCartney’s post-Beatles career. Released on April 30, 1973, the album captured a blend of melodic charm and experimental creativity that defined the band’s evolving sound. Recording sessions took place between March and October 1972 at various studios, including Olympic Sound Studios and Abbey Road Studios in London, as well as Island Studios and Morgan Studios. The production was helmed by Paul McCartney, with the assistance of engineers Alan Parsons and Glyn Johns.
The album features McCartney on vocals, bass, keyboards, and acoustic guitar, with Linda McCartney contributing harmonies and keyboards. Denny Laine played guitar and provided backing vocals, while Henry McCullough handled lead guitar duties and Denny Seiwell anchored the sound on drums. Together, they crafted a record that oscillated between radio-friendly pop-rock and introspective ballads.
Critically, Red Rose Speedway received mixed reviews upon release, with some noting its lightweight approach compared to McCartney’s earlier works. Nevertheless, it achieved significant commercial success, reaching number 1 on the US Billboard 200 and number 5 on the UK Albums Chart. The album’s lead single, “My Love,” became a standout hit, topping the Billboard Hot 100 and showcasing McCartney’s knack for crafting enduring love songs.
Track Listing
- “Big Barn Bed” – 3:48
- “My Love” – 4:08
- “Get on the Right Thing” – 4:17
- “One More Kiss” – 2:29
- “Little Lamb Dragonfly” – 6:20
- “Single Pigeon” – 1:52
- “When the Night” – 3:38
- “Loup (1st Indian on the Moon)” – 4:23
- “Medley: Hold Me Tight/Lazy Dynamite/Hands of Love/Power Cut” – 11:16
Band on the Run (1973)
Band on the Run
Released December 5, 1973
Band on the Run, the third studio album by Paul McCartney & Wings, is widely regarded as one of McCartney’s greatest post-Beatles achievements. Released on December 5, 1973, the album emerged from an arduous recording process in Lagos, Nigeria. With band members Denny Seiwell and Henry McCullough departing shortly before recording began, McCartney, his wife Linda, and guitarist Denny Laine pressed forward as a trio. The recording sessions took place at EMI Studios in Lagos and were later completed at AIR Studios in London. McCartney also produced the album, working with engineer Geoff Emerick, a key collaborator from his Beatles days.
The album’s themes of escape and freedom resonate strongly throughout its tracks, a reflection of the chaotic circumstances under which it was created. Songs like the title track, “Band on the Run,” and “Jet” became instant classics, showcasing McCartney’s gift for melody and narrative songwriting. “Band on the Run” is particularly noteworthy, evolving from a gentle acoustic opening into an epic rock anthem.
Critics hailed Band on the Run as a creative triumph. It reached number 1 on both the US Billboard 200 and the UK Albums Chart, earning McCartney his first solo-era Grammy Award for Best Pop Vocal Performance. The album has since been certified triple platinum in the United States and remains a cornerstone of his post-Beatles legacy.
Track Listing
- “Band on the Run” – 5:12
- “Jet” – 4:08
- “Bluebird” – 3:23
- “Mrs. Vandebilt” – 4:38
- “Let Me Roll It” – 4:47
- “Mamunia” – 4:51
- “No Words” – 2:33
- “Picasso’s Last Words (Drink to Me)” – 5:50
- “Nineteen Hundred and Eighty-Five” – 5:29
Venus and Mars (1975)
Released May 27, 1975
Venus and Mars, the fourth studio album by Wings, found Paul McCartney and his band reaching new creative heights. Released on May 27, 1975, the album is a blend of rock, pop, and experimental styles, reflecting the band’s evolution and ambition. Recorded primarily at Sea-Saint Studio in New Orleans and Abbey Road Studios in London, the album features McCartney’s knack for crafting memorable melodies alongside a cohesive band effort. The album was co-produced by Paul McCartney and engineer Geoff Emerick, continuing their successful collaboration.
The album opens with the atmospheric title track, “Venus and Mars,” seamlessly transitioning into the raucous rocker “Rock Show,” setting the tone for an eclectic journey. Tracks like “Listen to What the Man Said,” a global hit, and “Letting Go” showcase the band’s ability to balance catchy hooks with deeper musicality. McCartney’s lyrics often explore themes of love and connection, while the arrangements incorporate brass, woodwinds, and lush harmonies.
Critically and commercially, Venus and Mars was a triumph. It topped the charts in the United States and the United Kingdom, earning platinum certification in both countries. Critics praised the album’s production and the band’s chemistry, solidifying Wings’ reputation as one of the decade’s leading rock acts.
Track Listing
- “Venus and Mars” – 1:19
- “Rock Show” – 5:31
- “Love in Song” – 3:04
- “You Gave Me the Answer” – 2:15
- “Magneto and Titanium Man” – 3:16
- “Letting Go” – 4:33
- “Venus and Mars (Reprise)” – 2:05
- “Spirits of Ancient Egypt” – 3:04
- “Medicine Jar” – 3:37
- “Call Me Back Again” – 4:59
- “Listen to What the Man Said” – 4:01
- “Treat Her Gently / Lonely Old People” – 4:21
- “Crossroads Theme” – 1:00
Wings at the Speed of Sound (1976)
Released March 25, 1976
Wings at the Speed of Sound showcases Paul McCartney’s intent to highlight Wings as a true band rather than a supporting act for his solo ventures. Released on March 25, 1976, the album is a dynamic collection of songs that underline the talents of each member, making it a collaborative effort within the group. Recorded at Abbey Road Studios in London between January and February 1976, the album was produced by McCartney himself, capturing the band’s versatility and creative synergy.
The record features memorable tracks such as “Silly Love Songs,” a chart-topping hit that playfully responded to critics of McCartney’s penchant for writing love songs. Another standout, “Let ‘Em In,” features a catchy piano riff and an infectious groove. Other tracks, like “The Note You Never Wrote” and “Time to Hide,” spotlight contributions from Denny Laine and Jimmy McCulloch, emphasizing the ensemble nature of the album.
Upon release, Wings at the Speed of Sound was both a commercial success and a fan favorite, reaching number one on the Billboard 200 in the United States and number two on the UK Albums Chart. Critics noted the album’s polished production and diversity, though opinions varied on its artistic depth.
Track Listing
- “Let ‘Em In” – 5:10
- “The Note You Never Wrote” – 4:19
- “She’s My Baby” – 3:06
- “Beware My Love” – 6:28
- “Wino Junko” – 5:21
- “Silly Love Songs” – 5:54
- “Cook of the House” – 2:37
- “Time to Hide” – 4:32
- “Must Do Something About It” – 3:42
- “San Ferry Anne” – 2:07
- “Warm and Beautiful” – 3:12
London Town (1978)
Released March 31, 1978
London Town, released on March 31, 1978, finds Wings navigating a period of transition while delivering a reflective and eclectic album. Recorded over a year and a half in various locations, including Abbey Road Studios and aboard a yacht in the Virgin Islands, the album captures a blend of urban melancholy and breezy escapism. Paul McCartney, Linda McCartney, and Denny Laine emerged as the core trio after the departure of guitarist Jimmy McCulloch and drummer Joe English during the recording process.
The album was produced by Paul McCartney and Wings, showcasing the band’s creative adaptability despite the personnel changes. Tracks like the title song, “London Town,” offer a wistful and poetic take on city life, while “With a Little Luck,” a shimmering soft rock anthem, became one of Wings’ biggest hits, topping the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States. Other highlights include “I’m Carrying,” a tender acoustic ballad, and “Girlfriend,” a playful falsetto-driven tune later covered by Michael Jackson.
London Town received a mixed critical reception upon release, with some critics praising its laid-back charm and melodic richness, while others criticized its lack of urgency. Commercially, the album performed well, reaching number two on the UK Albums Chart and number two on the Billboard 200 in the United States.
Track Listing
- “London Town” – 4:10
- “Cafe on the Left Bank” – 3:25
- “I’m Carrying” – 2:44
- “Backwards Traveller” – 1:09
- “Cuff Link” – 1:59
- “Children Children” – 2:22
- “Girlfriend” – 4:39
- “I’ve Had Enough” – 3:03
- “With a Little Luck” – 5:45
- “Famous Groupies” – 3:37
- “Deliver Your Children” – 4:17
- “Name and Address” – 3:07
- “Don’t Let It Bring You Down” – 4:34
- “Morse Moose and the Grey Goose” – 6:27
Back to the Egg (1979)
Released June 8, 1979
Back to the Egg, released on June 8, 1979, marked a bold and ambitious chapter for Wings as Paul McCartney sought to reinvent the band’s sound. The album embraced a more rock-oriented approach while dabbling in elements of punk and new wave, capturing the spirit of the late 1970s. It was the final studio album by Wings, recorded with a revitalized lineup that included guitarist Laurence Juber and drummer Steve Holley, alongside longtime members Denny Laine and Linda McCartney.
The sessions took place across several prestigious locations, including Abbey Road Studios, Lympne Castle in Kent, and EMI’s Super Bear Studios in the south of France. McCartney himself took the reins as producer, collaborating with Chris Thomas, who had previously worked with The Beatles on The White Album and with bands like The Pretenders.
The album’s standout moments include the high-energy rocker “Getting Closer” and the eclectic “Rockestra Theme,” which featured an all-star ensemble of musicians, including Pete Townshend, John Bonham, and David Gilmour. “Old Siam, Sir” earned acclaim for its robust guitar riff and became a minor hit in the UK, while “Arrow Through Me” showcased McCartney’s knack for soulful, jazzy pop.
Lyrically, the album explored themes of connection, renewal, and reflection, with tracks like “We’re Open Tonight” and “Winter Rose/Love Awake” offering a softer, introspective counterbalance to the harder-edged rock tracks.
Upon its release, Back to the Egg received mixed reviews from critics, some of whom found the album’s experimental nature disjointed, while others praised its adventurous spirit and standout tracks. Commercially, the album achieved moderate success, peaking at number six on the UK Albums Chart and number eight on the US Billboard 200.
Track Listing
- “Reception” – 1:08
- “Getting Closer” – 3:22
- “We’re Open Tonight” – 1:28
- “Spin It On” – 2:12
- “Again and Again and Again” – 3:34
- “Old Siam, Sir” – 4:11
- “Arrow Through Me” – 3:37
- “Rockestra Theme” – 2:35
- “To You” – 3:12
- “After the Ball/Million Miles” – 4:00
- “Winter Rose/Love Awake” – 4:58
- “The Broadcast” – 1:30
- “So Glad to See You Here” – 3:20
- “Baby’s Request” – 2:49
PAUL MCCARTNEY & WINGS LIVE ALBUMS
Wings Over America
Released December 10, 1976
Wings Over America is a landmark live album by Wings, capturing the energy and artistry of Paul McCartney’s post-Beatles ensemble at their peak. Released on December 10, 1976, the triple LP features highlights from the band’s extensive North American tour earlier that year. It stands as a testament to Wings’ evolution into one of the decade’s premier live acts and is widely regarded as one of the greatest live albums of all time.
The album was recorded at several stops on the tour, including shows in New York, Seattle, and Los Angeles, and mixed at Abbey Road Studios. McCartney and longtime collaborator Geoff Emerick helmed the production, ensuring the live experience translated seamlessly to vinyl.
The album showcases McCartney’s unparalleled ability to blend his Beatles legacy with Wings’ distinctive identity. Tracks like “Band on the Run,” “Live and Let Die,” and “Maybe I’m Amazed” demonstrate his continued dominance as a live performer, while Beatles-era classics such as “Yesterday” and “Blackbird” provide moments of nostalgia and intimacy. The inclusion of songs like “Medicine Jar” and “Time to Hide” highlights the contributions of bandmates Jimmy McCulloch and Denny Laine, making the record a true ensemble effort.
Wings Over America debuted at number eight on the UK Albums Chart and climbed to number one on the US Billboard 200. The album was certified triple platinum in the United States, affirming its commercial success. Critics lauded the album for its production quality and McCartney’s vocal performance, with many praising the ambitious setlist that spanned his career.
Track Listing
- “Venus and Mars/Rock Show/Jet” – 9:56
- “Let Me Roll It” – 3:51
- “Spirits of Ancient Egypt” – 4:04
- “Medicine Jar” – 4:07
- “Maybe I’m Amazed” – 5:11
- “Call Me Back Again” – 5:17
- “Lady Madonna” – 2:19
- “The Long and Winding Road” – 4:13
- “Live and Let Die” – 3:34
- “Picasso’s Last Words (Drink to Me)” – 1:55
- “Richard Cory” – 3:05
- “Bluebird” – 3:47
- “I’ve Just Seen a Face” – 2:11
- “Blackbird” – 2:23
- “Yesterday” – 1:55
- “You Gave Me the Answer” – 2:06
- “Magneto and Titanium Man” – 3:11
- “Go Now” – 3:27
- “My Love” – 4:08
- “Listen to What the Man Said” – 3:35
- “Let ’Em In” – 4:10
- “Time to Hide” – 4:56
- “Silly Love Songs” – 5:46
- “Beware My Love” – 4:59
- “Letting Go” – 4:34
- “Band on the Run” – 5:03
- “Hi, Hi, Hi” – 3:49
- “Soily” – 5:44
Wings Over Europe Tour
Tour Dates: July 9 – August 24, 1972
The Wings Over Europe Tour marked Wings’ first major outing as a live band and Paul McCartney’s return to performing on stage after the Beatles’ final concert in 1966. Spanning 25 dates across 11 countries, the tour provided McCartney and Wings an opportunity to introduce their music to a live audience and solidify their identity separate from the Beatles’ towering legacy.
Following the release of Wild Life in 1971, Paul McCartney, alongside Linda McCartney, Denny Laine, Denny Seiwell, and new guitarist Henry McCullough, sought to take Wings on the road. The tour was informal in tone, with the band performing in small venues and unannounced appearances. The aim was to connect with audiences on an intimate level and refine their stage presence before tackling larger arenas.
Rehearsals took place at McCartney’s farm in Scotland, where the band developed their setlist, which mixed tracks from Wild Life and McCartney’s earlier solo work with previews of songs that would later appear on Red Rose Speedway.
The inclusion of unreleased songs like “1882” and “The Mess” showcased McCartney’s confidence in Wings’ evolving sound, while covers such as “Blue Moon of Kentucky” paid homage to McCartney’s influences.
The Wings Over Europe Tour received mixed reviews from critics, many of whom were still adjusting to McCartney’s new artistic direction. Some praised the intimate settings and the fresh, unpolished energy of the band, while others were skeptical about McCartney’s decision to tour with a fledgling lineup.
Though not a blockbuster tour, the Wings Over Europe Tour laid the groundwork for Wings’ later success. It helped McCartney shake off the Beatles’ shadow and build a foundation for Wings’ future endeavors, including their groundbreaking Wings Over America tour.
In 2018, highlights from the tour were included in the Wings 1971–73 box set, offering fans a chance to experience the raw beginnings of Wings’ live performances.
One Hand Clapping
Released June 14, 2024
Nearly five decades after its creation, One Hand Clapping by Paul McCartney and Wings finally emerged as a fully realized album on June 14, 2024. Initially conceived as both a “rockumentary” and a live-in-studio album, the project was recorded over four days in August 1974 at Abbey Road Studios in London. It showcases a pivotal period for Wings, as the band solidified its lineup following the success of Band on the Run. Directed by David Litchfield, the accompanying film featured performances of McCartney’s post-Beatles compositions, Wings tracks, and even some Beatles classics, along with candid interviews capturing the band’s dynamics.
The lineup for One Hand Clapping included Paul McCartney on lead vocals, bass, piano, and guitar; Linda McCartney on keyboards and backing vocals; Denny Laine on guitars and vocals; Jimmy McCulloch on lead guitar; and Geoff Britton on drums. Joining the group were saxophonist Howie Casey and orchestra conductor Del Newman, who added depth and texture to the recordings. McCartney’s production, alongside mixing by Giles Martin and Steve Orchard, ensured the album retained the raw energy of the sessions while benefiting from modern remastering techniques.
The album captures the essence of Wings as a band growing into its own. Tracks like “Jet,” “Maybe I’m Amazed,” and “Band on the Run” highlight McCartney’s timeless songwriting, while lesser-known gems like “Soily” and “Love My Baby” offer insights into the experimental side of the group. The inclusion of “Junior’s Farm” and “Hi, Hi, Hi” brings additional flair, showcasing the group’s ability to balance mainstream appeal with rock exuberance.
Track Listing
Disc 1
Side 1:
- “One Hand Clapping” – 2:15
- “Jet” – 3:59
- “Soily” – 3:55
- “C Moon” / “Little Woman Love” – 3:19
- “Maybe I’m Amazed” – 4:52
- “My Love” – 4:15
Side 2:
- “Bluebird” – 3:27
- “Let’s Love” – 1:09
- “All of You” – 2:04
- “I’ll Give You a Ring” – 2:03
- “Band on the Run” – 5:20
- “Live and Let Die” – 3:26
- “Nineteen Hundred and Eighty-Five” – 5:50
- “Baby Face” – 1:56
Disc 2
Side 1:
- “Let Me Roll It” – 4:28
- “Blue Moon of Kentucky” – 3:05
- “Power Cut” – 1:33
- “Love My Baby” – 1:13
- “Let It Be” – 1:02
- “The Long and Winding Road” / “Lady Madonna” – 2:10
Side 2:
- “Junior’s Farm” – 4:17
- “Sally G” – 2:28
- “Tomorrow” – 2:12
- “Go Now” – 3:35
- “Wild Life” – 4:30
- “Hi, Hi, Hi” – 3:57
The Backyard Bonus 7-Inch
Side A:
- “Blackpool” – 1:43
- “Blackbird” – 2:27
- “Country Dreamer” – 2:17
Side B:
- “Twenty Flight Rock” – 2:08
- “Peggy Sue” – 1:24
- “I’m Gonna Love You Too” – 1:10
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