Paul McCartney Opens Up About the Song That Meant the Most to Him and Linda
via Hubert Jones / YouTube
From The Beatles to Wings
Paul McCartney’s musical history is one of the most celebrated in the world. Alongside John Lennon, he helped create much of The Beatles’ catalog, leading to 15 UK number one albums and 20 chart-topping singles in the United States.
After the group separated in 1970, following disagreements over their music and business, each member moved on to solo projects. Paul released McCartney in 1970 and Ram in 1971, the latter with his wife Linda McCartney.
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The Birth of Wings
Later in 1971, McCartney formed the band Wings. Part of the reason was his desire to play live music again, since The Beatles had stopped touring in 1966 to focus on recording.
Wings debuted with Wild Life in December 1971 and reached commercial success throughout the 1970s. Memorable highlights included the James Bond theme Live and Let Die and the acclaimed album Band on the Run, both released in 1973.
Success and Legacy
The band eventually ended in 1981, with McCartney returning to his solo career. Wings, however, still left a strong mark, with their only UK number one hit being Mull of Kintyre. Despite their split, many fans continue to admire their music.
Recent years have brought new material for those fans. In 2023, McCartney released the long-awaited live-in-studio album One Hand Clapping, recorded 50 years earlier. Later this year, his new book Wings: The Story of a Band on the Run will also be released.
Fan Questions and Favorite Tracks
McCartney often engages with fans through his website feature You Gave Me The Answer. In the latest edition, published on August 31, he was asked about Wings and his personal favorites from their catalog.
The 83-year-old musician was questioned by a fan named Aiden: “My favourite song of yours is ‘Daytime Nightime Suffering’, and Linda said it was one of her favourites! Do you have a favourite ‘deep cut’ Wings song of your own?”
McCartney’s Personal Connection
Paul responded warmly: “I agree! ‘Daytime Nightime Suffering’ is one of my favourites, as it was Linda’s. But another song I like a lot is ‘Arrow Through Me’.”
He went on to add, “It is lovely to see these songs reappear from time to time, mainly when they are used in a film or TV show. I think a lot of young people discover my songs this way. Thanks for listening!”
Wings Songs in Film
Several Wings tracks have been featured in major movies. Paul Thomas Anderson’s 2021 film Licorice Pizza included Let Me Roll It from Band on the Run.
Baz Luhrmann’s 2001 musical Moulin Rouge also showcased Silly Love Songs from Wings at the Speed of Sound, alongside The Beatles’ All You Need Is Love.
