Classic Tracks You Might Be Surprised to Learn Feature Paul McCartney

Paul McCartney is celebrating his 83rd birthday on June 18, a milestone for one of the most famous rock stars in history. Decades after writing about turning 64, he continues to perform and record, showing no signs of slowing down.

In his twenties, McCartney conquered the music world as a member of The Beatles. His success continued with Wings in the 1970s and through his solo work. Even in 2025, he performed a series of intimate concerts at the Bowery Ballroom in New York City and revealed plans for a new studio album in a December 2024 Q&A. Beyond his own projects, McCartney has contributed to songs by other well-known artists, sometimes in surprising ways.

“Carolina in My Mind” – James Taylor (1968)

James Taylor became one of the first artists signed to The Beatles’ Apple record label, releasing his self-titled debut album in the U.K. in December 1968 and in the U.S. in March 1969.

On this album, Taylor’s original “Carolina in My Mind” features McCartney on bass and George Harrison on backing vocals. The single saw modest success, initially peaking at No. 118 on the Billboard singles chart, then climbing to No. 67 upon re-release in 1970. McCartney does not appear on Taylor’s 1976 Greatest Hits version.

“My Dark Hour” – Steve Miller Band (1969)

Steve Miller Band’s “My Dark Hour” appeared on their 1969 album Brave New World. McCartney contributed backing vocals, drums, bass, and guitar, while Miller handled lead vocals and other instruments.

The collaboration happened at Olympic Studios in London in May 1969, when McCartney had argued with the other Beatles over Apple’s management. With the studio available, Miller and McCartney worked together late into the night, producing the track. McCartney was credited under the pseudonym Paul Ramon. The single peaked at No. 126 in the U.S.

“Night Owl” – Carly Simon (1972)

James Taylor originally wrote “Night Owl,” which Carly Simon covered for her 1972 album No Secrets. The recording featured backing vocals by Paul and his first wife, Linda McCartney.

No Secrets also included Simon’s hit “You’re So Vain,” which featured uncredited backing vocals from Mick Jagger. The album spent five weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 in early 1973, solidifying Simon’s success.

“On the Wings of a Nightingale” – The Everly Brothers (1984)

The Everly Brothers, who influenced The Beatles and other artists, reunited in 1984 to record EB84, their first studio album in over a decade.

The opening track, “On the Wings of a Nightingale,” was written by McCartney, who also played guitar. The song became the duo’s most successful single since 1970, peaking at No. 50 on the U.S. Hot 100 and No. 41 on the U.K. singles chart.