On This Day 1977: Wings Begin Nine-Week UK No. 1 with the First Single to Sell Over Two Million Copies
Photo by Jim Summaria, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
A Major Hit at Christmas
On December 3, 1977, Wings hit the top of the UK charts with their single Mull of Kintyre / Girls’ School. The song entered the charts in November 1977 and climbed quickly to Number 1. Once at the top, it stayed there for a full nine weeks, becoming the big hit of the holiday season.
Not only did it top the charts, but Mull of Kintyre also became the first single in UK history to sell over two million copies. This achievement made it one of the highest-selling singles ever released in the United Kingdom.
Song Origins and Release
The track was officially released in the UK on November 11, 1977, as a double A-side with Girls’ School. The version with bagpipes and a folk feel was written by Paul McCartney and Denny Laine, inspired by the Scottish peninsula of Kintyre — a place tied to McCartney’s home and softer roots.
Despite being released during a time when punk music was very popular, the song struck a chord with many listeners. It offered a contrast to the edgy sounds of the era, delivering a warm, melodic ballad that resonated with people across age groups.
Chart Impact and Legacy
Mull of Kintyre didn’t just dominate 1977 — it left a lasting mark on British pop culture. It was the best-selling single of the year in the UK and held a spot among the top-selling non-charity singles of all time. After its nine-week run at Number 1, the single remained in the UK Top 10 for many more weeks, showing its lasting popularity.
The commercial success also marked a high point for Wings, representing the band’s highest achievement on the UK singles chart. It became a benchmark many artists would later envy.
A Double A-Side With Contrast
The release paired the gentle ballad Mull of Kintyre with the rockier Girls’ School. That pairing helped the record reach a wider audience. Listeners who preferred a more upbeat, rock sound had Girls’ School, while those drawn to melody and nostalgia leaned into Mull of Kintyre.
Despite what critics at the time might have said, the public embraced the single in a big way. The fact it sold over two million copies confirmed its widespread appeal. That success showed that, even in a changing music landscape, a well-crafted song could still stand above trends.
