Top 10 Paul McCartney & Wings Songs

Photo: By Jim Summaria [CC BY-SA 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

The Top 10 Paul McCartney & Wings Songs list looks at the Paul McCartney material only released on the seven albums Paul issued during his Wings tenure. After the breakup of The Beatles., Paul McCartney released two solo albums before deciding he wanted to put together a new band. Everyone, including Paul himself, was aware of the futility of forming a new band under the shadow of The Beatles. Nonetheless, Paul McCartney formed his new band. The question many people have asked is whether it was really a band or simply Paul McCartney giving too much credit to his backup musicians. Although we should probably not call Denny Laine of the Moody Blues a backup musician.

The first three Paul McCartney & Wings albums Wild Life, Red Rose Speedway, and Band On The Run featured only songs written and sung by Paul McCartney. However, Denny Laine was given co-writing credit for the song “No Words” on the Band on the Run LP. On the band’s fourth LP, Venus and Mars, Denny Laine sang lead vocals on “Spirits of Ancient Egypt,” and Jimmy McCulloch sang lead vocals on his own song “Medicine Jar.”

With the release of Speed of Sound in 1976, the band dropped the name Paul McCartney & Wings altogether in favor of just being called Wings. The Speed of Sound Album featured five tracks sung by band members instead of Paul McCartney. Denny Laine would sing two lead vocals on the follow-up album London Town in 1979. Laine would also share songwriting credit for five of the album’s fourteen tracks. On the final Wings album, Back To The Egg, Denny Laine was only listed for songwriting credit on the song “Again and Again and Again.”

While there may be a debate on just how much of a band Wings was, there is no debate that Paul McCartney released some of his greatest solo material during the Wings years, especially between 1973 and 1976.

Special Mention- Mull of Kintyre

“Mull of Kintyre” is a song that we separated from the top 10 on this list of the Top 10 Paul McCartney & Wings Songs. We did that because of how incredibly successful this song was on the Eastern side of the Atlantic barely getting recognized on the Western side. Of course, any big-time Paul McCartney fans are very well aware of this song but that’s the average fan in the United States to sing this and they will give you one of those looks like “what?” Ultimately, it stands out as one of the most beloved and commercially successful tracks of the band’s career. Written by Paul McCartney and Denny Laine, the song is a heartfelt tribute to the picturesque Kintyre Peninsula in Scotland, where McCartney has owned a farm since 1966. Recorded in 1977 during a break from the sessions for London Town, the song was released as a double A-side single with “Girls’ School.” It became a massive hit, reaching number one in the UK Singles Chart and holding the Christmas number one spot in 1977. Not only did it top the charts, but it also became the first single to sell over two million copies in the United Kingdom, cementing its place as one of the best-selling singles in British history.

Musically, “Mull of Kintyre” is a departure from the typical rock sound of Wings, embracing a more folk-driven, acoustic style. The song features McCartney on acoustic guitar and vocals, with additional backing vocals from Linda McCartney and Denny Laine. One of the most distinctive elements of the track is the use of bagpipes, played by the Campbeltown Pipe Band, which gives the song a strong connection to Scottish heritage and adds to its emotional resonance. Recorded at McCartney’s farm in Scotland, the sound captures the rural atmosphere of the region, enhancing the song’s ode to the beauty and tranquility of Kintyre. The outdoor recording of McCartney’s vocals and guitar further enhances the authenticity of the piece, giving it a natural, intimate feel that draws listeners into McCartney’s world.

Lyrically, “Mull of Kintyre” is a love letter to the landscape and serenity of Scotland, where McCartney found solace and inspiration. The repeating chorus, “Mull of Kintyre, oh mist rolling in from the sea, my desire is always to be here,” reflects McCartney’s deep connection to the land and the sense of peace it brings him. The lyrics capture the longing for a place that feels like home, and the simple beauty of nature, which is a theme that runs throughout the song. The emotional weight of the track lies in its ability to evoke feelings of nostalgia and belonging, making it one of the most personal songs McCartney has written. As the first song on this list, “Mull of Kintyre” sets the stage for exploring the range of emotions and musical styles that define Paul McCartney & Wings’ legacy.

# 10 – Bluebird

Following the energetic start of Band on the Run with the title track and “Jet,” Paul McCartney brings a sense of calm and beauty with the third track, “Bluebird.” This gentle ballad, which features a prominent saxophone solo by Howard Casey, showcases McCartney’s ability to shift seamlessly from driving rock to delicate, melodic compositions. Recorded in Lagos, Nigeria, and released in 1973, Band on the Run is often regarded as McCartney’s solo masterpiece, and “Bluebird” plays a key role in balancing the album’s musical dynamics. The song’s serene melody and smooth vocals highlight McCartney’s versatility as a songwriter, making it a fan favorite even though it was never released as a single.

Musically, “Bluebird” combines acoustic guitar with soft percussion, allowing McCartney’s voice to take center stage. The inclusion of Casey’s saxophone adds a jazzy, soulful dimension to the track, distinguishing it from other Wings ballads. The song is driven by its laid-back rhythm and harmonious backing vocals from Linda McCartney and Denny Laine, giving it a breezy, uplifting quality. Although not released as a single, “Bluebird” has earned its place as a standout track from Band on the Run, particularly during live performances where its gentle nature resonates with audiences. McCartney’s ability to craft such a delicate and emotive piece further solidified the album’s success.

Lyrically, “Bluebird” touches on themes of freedom, love, and escape, with the repeated metaphor of the bluebird symbolizing the liberating power of love. The lines “Touch your lips with a magic kiss, and you’ll be a bluebird too” convey a sense of transformation, with love as the force that enables the couple to transcend their surroundings. This imagery aligns with the overall spirit of Band on the Run, an album that explores themes of freedom and adventure.

# 9 – Nineteen Hundred and Eighty-Five

“Nineteen Hundred and Eighty-Five,” the thrilling closing track from Band on the Run, remains one of Paul McCartney’s most exciting and dynamic songs. Released in 1973, the track has taken on a life of its own, becoming a highlight in McCartney’s recent tours, including his performances in 2016 and 2022. With its driving piano riff and McCartney’s powerful vocals, the song brings the album to a climactic finish, showcasing both his rock sensibility and innovative songwriting. The soaring melody and the build-up of instrumental layers give the track a sense of urgency, making it a fan favorite not only on the record but also during live performances, where McCartney’s band revels in the energy and excitement of playing it.

Musically, “Nineteen Hundred and Eighty-Five” is propelled by McCartney’s commanding piano playing, with a rhythm that grows more intense as the song progresses. The track is filled with dynamic shifts, culminating in a grand orchestral flourish that brings the album full circle. McCartney’s vocals are raw and full of emotion, giving the song an alternative rock edge that sets it apart from the rest of Band on the Run. The production, recorded in Lagos, Nigeria, along with subsequent work in London, is tight and polished, making the song one of the standout moments on an already exceptional album.

Lyrically, “Nineteen Hundred and Eighty-Five” is enigmatic, with McCartney singing about an unnamed woman and the sense of longing he feels in her absence. The repeated line, “No one ever left alive in nineteen hundred and eighty-five,” adds a mysterious, almost apocalyptic element to the song, leaving listeners to interpret its meaning. As the third song from Band on the Run to make this list, “Nineteen Hundred and Eighty-Five” stands out for its exhilarating energy and innovative composition, further proving why Band on the Run is considered one of McCartney’s greatest albums.

# 8 – Beware My Love

“Beware My Love,” a powerful track from the 1976 Wings at the Speed of Sound album, stands out as one of the album’s hidden gems. While the record is best known for its two hit singles—”Silly Love Songs,” which topped the Billboard Hot 100, and “Let ‘Em In,” which reached number three—”Beware My Love” offers something more intense and dynamic, showing a different side of McCartney’s songwriting. The song builds from an acoustic, mellow introduction into a high-energy rocker, filled with dramatic shifts in tempo and mood, which highlights McCartney’s versatility as both a composer and performer.

The instrumentation on “Beware My Love” is equally impressive, featuring powerful drumming by Joe English and energetic guitar work by Jimmy McCulloch. McCartney’s soaring vocals take center stage, blending emotion and urgency as he warns of the dangers of blind love. The song’s structure, alternating between quiet, reflective moments and explosive choruses, keeps listeners engaged, making it one of the most compelling tracks on the album. Despite not being released as a single, “Beware My Love” became a favorite among fans and has earned its place as a standout song in McCartney’s post-Beatles career.

Lyrically, “Beware My Love” carries a cautionary message, as McCartney sings about the potential perils of love. The recurring plea, “Beware, my love, beware,” echoes the themes of vulnerability and heartbreak, contrasting with the lighter, more carefree songs on the album like “Silly Love Songs.” This darker, more introspective tone adds depth to Wings at the Speed of Sound, showcasing McCartney’s ability to navigate a range of emotions in his music.

# 7 – Rock Show

“Rock Show” opens the Venus and Mars album with Paul McCartney’s signature blend of rocking energy and melodic finesse, making it an unforgettable track in Wings’ catalog. Released in 1975, Venus and Mars followed the massive success of Band on the Run, and while it had big shoes to fill, McCartney rose to the occasion with this electrifying anthem. “Rock Show” captures the thrill and excitement of live rock performances, making it a perfect tribute to the rock concert experience. The song’s infectious energy, dynamic guitar riffs, and McCartney’s powerful vocals set the tone for the rest of the album, showcasing his talent for crafting high-energy rock tracks that resonate with fans.

Musically, “Rock Show” is driven by hard-hitting drums, soaring guitar lines, and a catchy, anthemic chorus. The song features some standout performances from the Wings lineup, including Jimmy McCulloch on lead guitar and Joe English on drums, whose contributions add to the song’s vibrant, live-concert feel. The track also features one of McCartney’s finest codas, as the song transitions into a slower, more reflective section, creating a sense of closure that leaves a lasting impression. This shift in tempo and tone adds depth to the song, making it not only a rock anthem but also a showcase of McCartney’s ability to blend genres and styles seamlessly.

Lyrically, “Rock Show” is a celebration of the rock and roll lifestyle, with references to iconic concert venues like the Hollywood Bowl and Madison Square Garden. McCartney’s playful, exuberant lyrics capture the excitement of performing in front of massive crowds, singing, “What’s that man holding in his hand? / He looks a lot like a guy I knew way back when.” The song paints a vivid picture of the rock star experience, making listeners feel like they are part of the spectacle. As the second track from Venus and Mars on this list, “Rock Show” highlights McCartney’s knack for combining rock energy with his melodic instincts, making it a standout in his post-Beatles career and a fan favorite in Wings’ live performances.

# 6 – Jet

“Jet” is the explosive follow-up to “Band on the Run” on the Band on the Run album, delivering a one-two punch that firmly establishes the record’s dynamic energy right from the start. Released in 1973, “Jet” was the first single from the album, a choice that might surprise some given the iconic status of the title track. However, “Jet” quickly proved its strength, soaring to number seven on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming one of Paul McCartney & Wings’ most enduring hits. The song’s infectious energy, driven by its powerful guitar riffs, brass section, and McCartney’s energetic vocals, makes it one of the most exciting tracks in McCartney’s post-Beatles catalog.

Musically, “Jet” is a high-octane rocker that showcases McCartney’s mastery of crafting both melodic hooks and hard-hitting rock songs. The track’s driving rhythm, punchy horns, and catchy chorus make it an immediate standout. McCartney’s vocal performance, filled with exuberance and flair, perfectly complements the track’s vibrant instrumentation. Jimmy McCulloch’s guitar work and Denny Laine’s rhythm guitar provide a solid foundation, while the brass adds an extra layer of excitement. The upbeat tempo and irresistible chorus of “Jet” make it a quintessential arena-rock anthem, and its placement right after “Band on the Run” creates one of the greatest opening sequences in rock history.

Lyrically, “Jet” is characteristically playful and somewhat cryptic, with McCartney offering a mix of personal references and abstract imagery. While the song’s title was inspired by McCartney’s black Labrador puppy, the lyrics touch on themes of freedom and youthful rebellion, with lines like “Jet, I can almost remember their funny faces” and “I thought the major was a lady.” The song’s ambiguous storytelling adds to its charm, inviting listeners to interpret its meaning while being swept away by its irresistible sound. As the second song on this list from Band on the Run, “Jet” reinforces the album’s brilliance and McCartney’s ability to balance rock intensity with melodic craftsmanship.

# 5 – Juniors Farm

“Junior’s Farm,” released in 1974 as a standalone single, captures Paul McCartney & Wings at their rock ‘n’ roll best. This high-energy track was the first major release after Band on the Run and marked a continuation of McCartney’s creative momentum. With its driving rhythm, catchy hooks, and sharp guitar riffs, “Junior’s Farm” became a fan favorite and earned its place as one of the standout tracks in Wings’ discography. Although the song did not appear on any studio albums at the time of its release, it was later included on Wings Greatest in 1978, solidifying its status as one of McCartney’s key hits from the 1970s.

Recorded in Nashville, Tennessee, “Junior’s Farm” features some of the best musicianship from Wings. Guitarist Jimmy McCulloch delivers a blistering lead guitar performance, and the band as a whole embraces a more aggressive rock sound. McCartney’s vocals are lively and charismatic, infusing the song with an infectious energy that perfectly matches its upbeat tempo. Lyrically, the song is somewhat whimsical, with McCartney weaving together playful, surreal imagery. Lines like “I took my bag into a grocery store, the price is higher than the time before” reflect McCartney’s knack for crafting lyrics that blend humor and commentary.

“Junior’s Farm” stands out for its straightforward rock approach, driven by strong guitar work and a relentless beat. Unlike the more polished pop sound of some of McCartney’s other hits, this track is raw and unapologetically fun. As a stand-alone single, it demonstrated McCartney’s ability to release hit songs outside the context of full albums, a practice reminiscent of his time with The Beatles.

# 4 – My Love

“My Love,” released in 1973 on the Red Rose Speedway album, stands as one of Paul McCartney’s most cherished ballads and the oldest track on this Top 10 Paul McCartney & Wings Songs list. The song’s tender melody, heartfelt lyrics, and orchestral arrangement made it an instant classic, soaring to number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in the same year. Written as a tribute to McCartney’s wife, Linda, the song showcases his gift for crafting love songs that resonate deeply with listeners. The lush string arrangement, composed by McCartney and conducted by Richard Hewson, adds a soaring emotional depth, giving “My Love” a timeless quality.

Musically, the song features a gentle yet expressive vocal performance by McCartney, accompanied by a delicate piano and orchestral strings that heighten its emotional impact. Guitarist Henry McCullough’s improvised solo is another standout moment, adding a soulful touch that perfectly complements the song’s romantic tone. The smooth, flowing arrangement allows the song to build slowly, culminating in McCartney’s declaration of unwavering devotion, making it one of his most moving love songs.

Lyrically, “My Love” is simple yet profound, expressing McCartney’s deep affection for Linda in lines like, “My love does it good,” and “And when the cupboards bare / I’ll still find something there.” The song’s universal theme of unconditional love, combined with its beautiful arrangement, has cemented its place as one of McCartney’s most enduring and beloved works.

# 3 – Listen To What The Man Said

“Listen to What the Man Said” stands as one of Paul McCartney’s most original and captivating melodic creations. Released in 1975 as the lead single from the Venus and Mars album, the song showcases McCartney’s genius for writing infectious melodies paired with an upbeat, soulful groove. Featuring contributions from the legendary Dave Mason on guitar and jazz great Tom Scott on soprano saxophone, the track combines rock and jazz elements with ease, creating a feel-good anthem that dominated both AM and FM radio during the mid-seventies. Its joyful, uplifting energy made it irresistible to listeners, propelling the song to the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1975.

Musically, the song is built around McCartney’s smooth vocals and intricate melody line, which carries the listener effortlessly through the track. The jazzy saxophone solo by Tom Scott adds an extra layer of sophistication to the song, blending seamlessly with Mason’s guitar work. The production, full of warmth and clarity, captures the essence of McCartney’s ability to craft radio-friendly hits that still hold artistic depth. The rhythm and groove give the track a soulful, laid-back vibe, ensuring its appeal across a wide range of listeners and securing its place as a timeless hit.

Lyrically, “Listen to What the Man Said” conveys a simple but universal message of love and trust. The line “Love is fine for all we know, for all we know our love will grow” reflects McCartney’s optimistic outlook on life and relationships. The song’s upbeat, positive tone is reflected in both the music and the lyrics, making it a beacon of hope and joy in McCartney’s catalog. As one of the highlights from Venus and Mars, “Listen to What the Man Said” remains a defining moment of McCartney’s mid-70s output, continuing to resonate with fans and solidifying its place on this Top 10 list.

# 2 – Band On The Run

“Band on the Run” is one of Paul McCartney & Wings’ most iconic and ambitious songs, earning its place at the top of many lists, including this one. Released in 1973 as the title track of Band on the Run, the song captured the imagination of fans with its cinematic structure and narrative flair. Running over five minutes, it was a departure from the shorter, two-minute pop songs McCartney had mastered with The Beatles. Its production value was unmatched at the time, helping McCartney win a Grammy and reach number one on the Billboard Hot 100. With its intricate transitions between sections, including a soft acoustic opening, a powerful midsection, and an anthemic chorus, “Band on the Run” feels like a musical journey, telling the story of escape and freedom.

Recorded under challenging circumstances in Lagos, Nigeria, after much of the band’s lineup had quit, the song showcases McCartney’s resilience and creativity. McCartney, along with Linda McCartney and Denny Laine, crafted a rich, layered composition, with McCartney playing most of the instruments himself. The production is lush, with the gradual build of instruments and McCartney’s vocals, culminating in a triumphant climax. The song’s structure, shifting from an acoustic ballad to an upbeat, driving rock anthem, gives it an epic feel, making it a true masterpiece of McCartney’s solo career.

Lyrically, “Band on the Run” conveys themes of escape, liberation, and breaking free from confinement, making it both personal and universally relatable. The recurring chorus, “If I ever get out of here,” resonates with listeners as an anthem for those longing to break away from life’s constraints. The song’s journey from introspection to freedom mirrors McCartney’s own artistic liberation post-Beatles, and its innovative structure remains one of his crowning achievements. “Band on the Run” continues to be celebrated for its brilliance, making it a cornerstone of McCartney’s career and a standout on this list.

# 1 – Live and Let Die

“Live and Let Die,” composed by Paul McCartney for the 1973 James Bond film of the same name, became one of the most iconic songs of McCartney’s career. While many Bond film themes have achieved success, McCartney’s contribution stands out for its dramatic flair and rock intensity, earning it a special place in both film and music history. The song not only became a massive hit upon release, peaking at number two on the Billboard Hot 100, but its popularity has only grown over the decades. This can be attributed in part to McCartney’s electrifying live performances, where “Live and Let Die” serves as the show’s highlight, complete with a spectacular fireworks display that leaves audiences in awe.

Musically, “Live and Let Die” is a powerhouse, combining orchestral elements with rock, making it one of the most dynamic tracks McCartney ever recorded. The song begins with a soft, piano-driven introduction before exploding into a bombastic, high-energy chorus, capturing the tension and excitement of a Bond film. Produced by George Martin, the song’s lush orchestration and dramatic shifts in tempo perfectly complement McCartney’s vocal performance. The seamless blend of orchestral grandeur and rock intensity makes it one of the most innovative Bond themes ever composed and a standout in McCartney’s discography.

Lyrically, the song reflects the themes of the film, with the line “Live and let die” conveying the ruthlessness and determination that define the world of espionage. The song’s structure mirrors the unpredictability of the Bond universe, moving from moments of reflection to bursts of adrenaline-pumping action. Over the years, “Live and Let Die” has become not just a fan favorite but a centerpiece of McCartney’s live shows, where it continues to captivate audiences old and new. Its unique blend of cinematic flair and rock power cements its place as one of the greatest songs in McCartney’s post-Beatles career.