The Best Paul McCartney Albums, Ranked
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Only studio albums.
- Photo: Apple / Amazon1
A slice of the proverbial pie from the ex-Beatle Paul McCartney and his wife, Linda McCartney, this studio masterpiece was met with acerbic reviews upon its unveiling in 1971. Countering critics, it held its ground on the charts, landing No. 1 spots in the UK, the Netherlands and Canada. Brimming with indie pop precursors and underpinned by the unique husband-wife duo dynamic, the record wove a rich, textured musical narrative that distinguished it from the mainline post-Beatles work. Commercial success wasn't far behind, with singles like "Uncle Albert/Admiral Halsey" grabbing the No.1 spot in America, nabbing McCartney his first post-Beatles chart-topper. An early indie-pop progenitor, the album has left an enduring impression on the musical timeline, featuring in Rolling Stone's list of the greatest albums of all time. Today, it functions as a time capsule artifact, harking back to a transformative era and a reflector of McCartney's inventive, exploratory spirit.
Tracklist:
1. "Too Many People"
2. "3 Legs"
3. "Ram On"
4. "Dear Boy"
5. "Uncle Albert/Admiral Halsey"
6. "Smile Away"
7. "Heart of the Country"
8. "Monkberry Moon Delight"
9. "Eat at Home"
10. "Long Haired Lady"
11. "Ram On (Reprise)"
12. "The Back Seat of My Car" - Photo: Capitol / Amazon
A triumphant return after years of hiatus, this tenth solo studio album from Paul McCartney soared high upon its unveiling in 1997. Whisked to life after the musical genius reveled in the Beatles Anthology project, this album reunited McCartney with his Beatles collaborator George Martin and saw contributions from his son, James McCartney. A commercial darling, it snatched the number two spot on both the UK and US charts, with critics lauding McCartney's exceptional command over his art. This collection of songs effortlessly permeated pop culture, with tracks like "Young Boy" and "The World Tonight" finding a home in Ivan Reitman's comedy Fathers' Day. Grammy recognition followed, with a nomination for Album of the Year, further cementing McCartney's place in contemporary music's upper echelons. The album's 2020 reissue added a fresh layer of intrigue, packaging unreleased tracks, outtakes, and demos for both ardent fans and new listeners to unearth.
Tracklist:
1. "The Song We Were Singing"
2. "The World Tonight"
3. "If You Wanna"
4. "Somedays"
5. "Young Boy"
6. "Calico Skies"
7. "Flaming Pie"
8. "Heaven on a Sunday"
9. "Used to Be Bad" (Duet with Steve Miller)
10. "Souvenir"
11. "Little Willow"
12. "Really Love You"
13. "Beautiful Night"
14. "Great Day" - Photo: Parlophone, Capitol / Amazon
Released in 2005, the thirteenth solo album from Paul McCartney distinguished from his prior solo efforts as McCartney played nearly all the instruments, a feat he hadn't accomplished since 1984. This opus, which was suggested by George Martin and orchestrated by Nigel Godrich, renowned collaborator with Radiohead and Beck, bristles with introspective lyricism and a unique intimacy. McCartney's departure from his traditional sound surprised and delighted critics, generating a surge of positive reviews and four Grammy nominations, including Album of the Year. It was not just a commercial success, debuting at high chart positions, but also a testament to McCartney's enduring creative spark nearly five decades into his career.
Tracklist:
1. "Fine Line"
2. "How Kind of You"
3. "Jenny Wren"
4. "At the Mercy"
5. "Friends to Go"
6. "English Tea"
7. "Too Much Rain"
8. "A Certain Softness"
9. "Riding to Vanity Fair"
10. "Follow Me"
11. "Promise to You"
12. "This Never Happened Before"
13. "Anyway"
14. "I've Only Got Two Hands" (Unlisted instrumental) - Photo: Parlophone, Capitol / Amazon
Not just a chart-dominator, his third solo album was heralded as a return to form; its commercial pulse echoed worldwide, enthralling global audiences. Meanwhile, acknowledgment in the 1983 Grammy nominations for Album of the Year and Song of the Year underscored its prestige. Pop culture absorption was inevitable, with the McCartney-Stevie Wonder duet "Ebony and Ivory" becoming an anthem for racial harmony. The 2015 remastering, a nominee for Best Boxed or Special Limited Edition Package at the 59th Annual Grammy's, revived its charm for a new generation.
Tracklist:
1. "Tug of War"
2. "Take It Away"
3. "Somebody Who Cares"
4. "What's That You're Doing?" (with Stevie Wonder)
5. "Here Today"
6. "Ballroom Dancing"
7. "The Pound Is Sinking"
8. "Wanderlust"
9. "Get It" (with Carl Perkins)
10. "Be What You See (Link)"
11. "Dress Me Up as a Robber"
12. "Ebony and Ivory" (with Stevie Wonder) - Photo: Capitol / Amazon
As the fourth studio album by Wings, this 1975 record marked a pivotal moment in the group's career. The combination of McCartney's sophisticated songwriting, the fresh lineup of accomplished musicians, and multiple recording locations generated a diverse sound that captivated fans globally. This set of songs, with hits like "Listen to What the Man Said," not only soared to number 1 in the US and the UK, but also affirmed commercial appeal. The album received positive reviews and significant airplay, which served as a launchpad for a successful worldwide tour. Its influence on pop culture continued, from the album's individual tracks routinely permeating playlists to having a song serve as an alternative ending theme for a popular British soap opera.
Tracklist:
1. "Venus and Mars"
2. "Rock Show"
3. "Love in Song"
4. "You Gave Me the Answer"
5. "Magneto and Titanium Man"
6. "Letting Go"
7. "Venus and Mars (Reprise)"
8. "Spirits of Ancient Egypt"
9. "Medicine Jar"
10. "Call Me Back Again"
11. "Listen to What the Man Said"
12. "Treat Her Gently – Lonely Old People"
13. "Crossroads" - Photo: Apple / Amazon
A watershed moment in Paul McCartney's musical journey occurred in 1970 with the release of his debut solo album. Marking a departure from the Beatles' full-bodied sonic texture, this album embraces a stripped-back, Lo-Fi charm, largely recorded at his home in St. John's Wood. Also notable is that McCartney, with minor contributions from his wife Linda, performed the entire album alone - a highly unorthodox approach. Regarded as the impetus for the Beatles' breakup, this lo-fi offering enjoyed commercial success despite contemporary criticism for its under-produced nature and received even greater acclaim in retrospective assessments. The standout track, "Maybe I'm Amazed," remains an enduring testament to McCartney's songwriting prowess.
Tracklist:
1. "The Lovely Linda"
2. "That Would Be Something"
3. "Valentine Day"
4. "Every Night"
5. "Hot as Sun/Glasses"
6. "Junk"
7. “Man We Was Lonely”
8. "Oo You"
9. "Momma Miss America"
10. "Teddy Boy"
11. "Singalong Junk"
12. "Maybe I'm Amazed"
13. "Kreen-Akrore" - Photo: Apple / Amazon7
Red Rose Speedway
Striking the collective conscience in 1973, this second studio album by Wings elicited an eclectic mix of responses. Astoundingly, it skyrocketed to the apex of the Billboard Top LPs, while carving a firm fifth spot on UK Albums charts. The lead single, "My Love", echoed its success, reigning supreme in the Billboard Hot 100. Critics, however, tended to straddle the fence, tagging some tunes as mediocre, yet begrudgingly conceding to McCartney’s undeniably catchy melodies. This tender offering of McCartney's, steeped in lovesick ballads and playful frivolities, trotted a fine line between commercial success and music purist acceptance.
Tracklist:
1. "Big Barn Bed"
2. "My Love"
3. "Get on the Right"
4. "One More Kiss"
5. "Little Lamb Dragonfly"
6. "Single Pigeon"
7. "When the Night"
8. "Loup (1st Indian the Moon)"
9. “Medley” ("Hold Me Tight"/"Lazy Dynamite"/"Hands of Love"/"Power Cut")Release Date: 1973
- Photo: Parlophone, Capitol / Amazon
This eighth solo album from Paul McCartney saw him in high artistic form, resulting in peak chart positions in the UK and Norway. Garnering some of McCartney's best reviews since 1982, the album was known for its hit singles like "My Brave Face". The lance of critical success was further sharpened by Grammy nominations, solidifying its cultural currency. McCartney's intriguing collaboration with Elvis Costello added an additional layer of allure and depth to the album's conception. Its remarkable cover, a tantalizing body of work by artist Brian Clarke and Linda McCartney, boldly framed this rightly beloved record.
Tracklist:
1. "My Brave Face"
2. "Rough Ride"
3. "You Want Her Too" (with Elvis Costello)
4. "Distractions"
5. "We Got Married"
6. "Put It There"
7. "Figure of Eight"
8. "This One"
9. "Don't Be Careless Love"
10. "That Day Is Done"
11. "How Many People"
12. "Motor of Love" - Photo: Parlophone, Capitol / Amazon9
Twin Freaks
In the landscape of Paul McCartney's discography, a peculiar emergence in 2005 marked his collaboration with Freelance Hellraiser (Roy Kerr). This album offered an unexpected concoction of strongly revised and reinvented McCartney tracks, an outgrowth of pre-gig remixes by Kerr. McCartney's artistry graced the double vinyl cover and the resulting sound offered a fascinating exploration brimming with the unexpected. Notwithstanding the unconventional textures, its influence simmered in the genre of electronic and mashup, subtly seeping into pop culture consciousness, cementing McCartney’s ability for audacious experimentation.
Tracklist:
1. "Really Love You"
2. “Long Haired Lady (Reprise)”
3. "Rinse the Raindrops"
4. "Darkroom"
5. "Live and Let Die"
6. "Temporary Secretary"
7. "What's That You're Doing"
8. "Oh Woman, Oh Why"
9. "Mumbo"
10. "Lalula"
11. "Coming Up"
12. "Maybe I'm Amazed"Release Date: 2005
- Photo: Parlophone, Capitol / Amazon
Revolutionizing the Brit-American rock genre, the sixth studio album by the trio Wings in 1978 stirred the music scene. Despite landing top five spots on the UK and US charts, it never repeated the triumphs of its predecessors. The lead single did however strike gold, soaring straight to number one in the US. Critics' reviews were less than stellar, often painting the album as a commercial underachiever. Undeterred, the crested wave of “Mull of Kintyre”, a non-album single from the same session, became the UK's best-selling non-charity single, still holding supremacy. Notably, tunes like “Girlfriend” caught wind, later being covered by pop sensation Michael Jackson adding to the collective's enviable pop culture contribution.
Tracklist:
1. “London Town”
2. "Cafe on the Left Bank"
3. "I'm Carrying"
4. "Back Traveller"
5. "Cuff Link"
6. "Children"
7. "Girlfriend"
8. "I've Had Enough"
9. "With a Little Luck"
10. "Famous Groupies"
11. "Deliver Your Children"
12. "Name and Address"
13. "Don't Let It Bring You Down"
14. “Morse Moose and the Grey Goose” - Photo: Apple / Amazon
In November 1973, the third studio album by Paul McCartney and Wings took flight, skyrocketing McCartney back to fame post his Beatles era. Despite initial lukewarm sales, the album famously climbed the charts, thanks to two hit singles which led it to become the top-selling studio album of 1974 in the UK and Australia. Its recording in Lagos, Nigeria laid the groundwork for an exotic charm that was hard to ignore. The album also notched a critical victory, reviving McCartney's reputation as a formidable solo artist. Despite the diverse responses, the album's influence bled into pop culture, standing today as one of McCartney's most cherished works.
Tracklist:
1. "Band on the Run"
2. "Jet"
3. "Bluebird"
4. "Mrs. Vandebilt"
5. "Let Me Roll It"
6. "Mamunia"
7. "No Words"
8. "Picasso's Last Words (Drink to Me)"
9. "Nineteen Hundred and Eighty-Five" - Photo: Hear Music / Amazon
Paul McCartney returned to the limelight in 2007 with an album that divided its time between buoyant, youth-infused rock and thoughtful, resonant introspection. The legendary artist's 14th solo venture, it waved the flag for Starbucks' novel Hear Music label. Charting in the top 5 in several countries including the UK and Denmark, the album was greeted warmly by critics despite its divergence from previous works. Grammy nominations added further acclaim to commercial success, with worldwide sales exceeding 2 million. The beloved track, "Dance Tonight", featuring Natalie Portman in the music video, cemented the album's permeation into pop culture.
Tracklist:
1. "Dance Tonight"
2. "Ever Present Past"
3. "See Your Sunshine"
4. "Only Mama Knows"
5. "You Tell Me"
6. "Mr. Bellamy"
7. "Gratitude"
8. "Vintage Clothes"
9. "That Was Me"
10. "Feet in the Clouds"
11. "House of Wax"
12. "The End of the End"
13. "Nod Your Head" - Photo: Parlophone, Capitol / Amazon
As the seventh and final studio album from Wings, the album served as an intriguing exploration of contemporary trends like punk and new wave. Despite reaching platinum status in the United States and charting in the top ten worldwide, it was eclipsed by Wings' preceding success stories, a fact not lost on critics. Whilst Rolling Stone was notably brutal in its criticism, the album's ambitious, if not entirely successful, attempt at an album-wide concept, distinguished it from its peers. Although the singles failed to capture the public's imagination, this did not prevent its musical ideas from enduring in the cultural zeitgeist. In fact, the album's later inclusion in The Paul McCartney Collection attests to its enduring appeal.
Tracklist:
1. "Reception"
2. "Getting Closer"
3. "We're Open Tonight"
4. "Spin It On"
5. "Again and Again and Again" (Denny Laine)
6. "Old Siam, Sir"
7. "Arrow Through Me"
8. "Rockestra Theme"
9. "To You"
10. "After the Ball/Million Miles"
11. "Winter Rose/Love Awake"
12. "The Broadcast"
13. "So Glad to See You Here"
14. "Baby's Request" - Photo: Capitol / Amazon14
Egypt Station
Paul McCartney's 17th solo studio album, co-produced with Greg Kurstin, demonstrated a return to form for the storied songsmith. Gaining traction on the Billboard 200, the album brought McCartney his first top spot since 1982, suggesting a renaissance in his long, illustrious career. The project also notably mined McCartney's visual artistry, with the cover art adapted from one of his own 1988 pieces. Critics painted a generally favorable picture; many commended the inventive array of 16 tracks that spanned genres and moods.
Tracklist:
1. "Opening Station"
2. "I Don't Know"
3. "Come On to Me"
4. “Happy with You”
5. "Who Cares"
6. "Fuh You" (McCartney, Ryan Tedder)
7. "Confidante"
8. "People Want Peace"
9. "Hand in Hand"
10. "Dominoes"
11. "Back in Brazil"
12. "Do It Now"
13. "Caesar Rock"
14. "Despite Repeated Warnings"
15. "Station II"
16. "Hunt You Down/Naked/C-Link" - Photo: Capitol / Amazon
Released in 1976, the fifth album by Wings was a commercial triumph, reaching the top spot on the US album chart and peaking at number 2 in the UK. Its two singles also scaled the charts, with one even reaching number 1 in the US. The ensemble was conceived during Wings' highly successful world tour, and the band adopted a novel approach by allowing each member to take lead vocals on at least one song. Despite lukewarm critical reviews, the album secured its place in pop culture history and demonstrated the band's significant influence during the 1970s.
Tracklist:
1. "Let 'Em In"
2. “The Note You Never Wrote”
3. "She's My Baby"
4. "Beware My Love"
5. "Wino Junko"
6. "Silly Love Songs"
7. "Cook of the House"
8. “Time to Hide”
9. "Must Do Something About It"
10. “San Ferry Anne”
11. "Warm and Beautiful" - Photo: MPL, Hear Music, Universal / Amazon16
In 2013, Paul McCartney released his sixteenth solo album, a collection of purely new compositions. Working with hotshot producers Mark Ronson, Ethan Johns, Paul Epworth and Giles Martin, McCartney crafted a blend of songs that were guided by his storied past, yet injected with contemporary flair. Garnering upbeat reviews, the album rose to position three on both UK and US charts, making it a commercial success. "New," the leading single, was met with rave reviews and set the tone for the album, giving listeners a fresh yet nostalgic McCartney sound.
Tracklist:
1. "Save Us"
2. "Alligator"
3. "On My Way to Work"
4. "Queenie Eye"
5. "Early Days"
6. "New"
7. "Appreciate"
8. "Everybody Out There"
9. "Hos"
10. "I Can Bet"
11. "Looking at Her"
12. "Road"
13. "Scared" (hidden track) - Photo: Parlophone, Capitol / Amazon
Fresh off the dissolution of Wings, Paul McCartney's second solo album saw the artist boldly embracing new wave and electronica, moving away from the more traditional rock for which he was known. The album, widely recognized for McCartney's innovative use of synthesizers and heavy studio experimentation, was at first met with middling critical reviews, but has since gained a cult following. Despite singles such as "Coming Up", "Waterfalls", and "Temporary Secretary", the album's reception was lukewarm. However, the passage of time has seen a shift in its critical appraisal, with commentators often noting the influence of its pioneering sound on the evolution of pop music.
Tracklist:
1. "Coming Up"
2. "Temporary Secretary"
3. "On the Way"
4. "Waterfalls"
5. "Nobody Knows"
6. "Front Parlour"
7. "Summer's Day Song"
8. "Frozenap"
9. "Bogey Music"
10. "Darkroom"
11. "One of These Days" - Photo: Parlophone, Columbia / Amazon
In a surprising twist to his musical journey, Paul McCartney's fourth solo studio album embraced an electro-tinged sound. This marked a departure from predecessors. The commercial response was less robust compared to the previous record, Tug of War, despite housing global hit singles including an acclaimed duet with Michael Jackson, "Say Say Say". Critics were also less effusive but the album has since garnered a significant cult following due to McCartney's innovative use of synthesizers and studio trickery. It reveals an artist unafraid to venture into unfamiliar genres, which further underscores McCartney's chameleonic tendencies in music.
Tracklist:
1. "Pipes of Peace"
2. "Say Say Say"
3. "The Other Me"
4. "Keep Under Cover"
5. "So Bad"
6. "The Man"
7. "Sweetest Little Show"
8. "Average Person"
9. "Hey Hey"
10. "Tug of Peace"
11. "Through Our Love" - Photo: Parlophone, Capitol / Amazon
Paul McCartney's ninth solo album, released on 1 February 1993, demonstrated an increased interest in social issues. It diverged from the traditional studio recording process, opting for a raw “live in the studio” approach. Despite mixed reviews and modest performance on the US and UK charts, it found success in other territories, hitting the top five in numerous European countries, and becoming McCartney's best-selling record in Germany. The feet gracing the cover ascribed a unique touch, belonging to McCartney and crew. His wife, Linda McCartney, imparted her vocals and aid, marking her penultimate participation prior to her untimely passing in 1998.
Tracklist:
1. "Off the Ground"
2. "Looking for Changes"
3. "Hope of Deliverance"
4. “Mist and Maid”
5. "I Owe It All to You"
6. "Biker Like an Icon"
7. "Peace in the Neighbourhood"
8. "Golden Earth Girl"
9. "The Lovers That Never Were"
10. "Get Out of My Way"
11. "Winedark Open Sea"
12. “C'Mon People” - Photo: Apple / Amazon
Wings' debut studio album left an imprint of raw vitality in the realm of rock music. The synergistic dynamics of Paul McCartney and his spouse Linda sparked creativity, while Denny Seiwell’s drumming and Denny Laine’s guitar work sealed the ensemble. The record received lukewarm reviews, and peaked at number 10 on the US charts, securing a gold certification. Despite the not-so-glowing commercial reception, the album’s indirect dialogue with John Lennon via the track "Dear Friend" contributed to shaping pop culture narratives of the time. McCartney's fascinating embrace of an alter ego, Clint Harrigan, for liner notes also added a twist.
Tracklist:
1. "Mumbo"
2. "Bip Bop"
3. "Love Is Strange"
4. "Wild Life"
5. "Some People Never Know"
6. "I Am Your Singer"
7. "Bip Bop (Link)"
8. "Tomorrow"
9. "Dear Friend"
10. "Mumbo (Link)" - Photo: Parlophone, Capitol / Amazon
Driving Rain, the twelfth studio album from Paul McCartney, arrived on the scene as a double LP, a lone cassette, and a single CD on November 12, 2001. The album, released mostly to rave reviews, took listeners and critics alike by surprise with its underwhelming commercial performance; despite its critically acclaimed content, the album attained a peak of a mere 46 on the UK charts. Stateside reception proved a tad more favorable; the album reached a high of 26 and achieved Gold status from the RIAA. McCartney's dedicated track to Heather Mills, a tribute for her aid during his mourning of his first wife, Linda, painted a particularly poignant touch to the record.
Tracklist:
1. "Lonely Road"
2. "From a Lover to a Friend"
3. "She's Given Up Talking"
4. "Driving Rain"
5. "I Do"
6. "Tiny Bubble"
7. "Magic"
8. "Your Way"
9. "Spinning on an Axis"
10. "About You"
11. "Heather"
12. "Back in the Sunshine Again"
13. "Your Loving Flame"
14. "Riding into Jaipur"
15. "Rinse the Raindrops"
16. "Freedom" (studio mix) - Photo: Parlophone, Capitol / Amazon
Paul McCartney's sixth solo album, released on August 25, 1986, marked his first entirely new music since Pipes of Peace in 1983, eagerly anticipated by fans. The English musician paired with Hugh Padgham to bring about a contemporary sound, following a six-year alliance with Columbia Records. The reception of this enterprise was mixed, struggling commercially to gain its footing, peaking at number 8 on the UK Albums Chart, and gold status. The four singles issued from the album included "Press", a minor success which peaked at number 21 in the US. McCartney’s collaboration with 10cc guitarist Eric Stewart and the guest appearance from The Who's Pete Townshend, Genesis' Phil Collins among others, added a vibrant dimension.
Tracklist:
1. "Stranglehold"
2. "Good Times Coming/Feel the Sun"
3. "Talk More Talk"
4. "Footprints"
5. "Only Love Remains"
6. "Press"
7. "Pretty Little Head"
8. "Move Over Busker"
9. "Angry"
10. "However Absurd"
11. "Write Away"
12. "It's Not True"
13. "Tough on a Tightrope" - Photo: One Little Indian, ATO / Amazon
The third album from Fireman - a collaboration between Paul McCartney and electronic musician Youth - marked an arresting deviation from their previous records. Featuring prominent vocals and concerted in a mere 13 non-consecutive days, critics heralded it for a refreshing novelty. Debuting on UK album charts at 79 and at 67 on Billboard 200 was its modest commercial entry - however, critical acclaim was hearty. Leaning heavily into experimental pop, the album borrows its title from an Allen Ginsberg poem, dispelling an alluring aura of poetic abstraction and artistic freedom. Its spontaneous writing and recording process encapsulated an animated electricity that echoed its namesake.
Tracklist:
1. "Nothing Too Much Just Out of Sight"
2. "Two Magpies"
3. "Sing the Changes"
4. "Travelling Light"
5. "Highway"
6. "Light from Your Lighthouse"
7. "Sun Is Shining"
8. "Dance 'Til We're High"
9. "Lifelong Passion"
10. "Is This Love?"
11. "Lovers in a Dream"
12. "Universal Here, Everlasting Now"
13. "Don't Stop Running" (Includes a hidden track titled "Road Trip") - Photo: Parlophone, Capitol / Amazon
Paul McCartney's eleventh solo album explored rock and roll's formidable past, featuring covers of 1950s hits, balanced with three stirring McCartney originals. The album presented McCartney’s contemplative journey back to his musical roots, conceived primarily in response to the passing of his wife, Linda, in 1998. Even as it stood at number 27 on the US Billboard 200 and 12 in the UK charts, favourable reviews showered, with some critics hailing it as one of McCartney's most personal albums. Its choice of songs cast light onto the lesser-known corners of the rock and roll lexicon, while its entrepreneurial release strategy, including limited editions and bonus discs, made for an intriguing marketing gambit.
Tracklist:
1. "Blue Jean Bop"
2. "She Said Yeah"
3. "All Shook Up"
4. "Run Devil Run"
5. "No Other Baby"
6. "Lonesome Town"
7. "Try Not to Cry"
8. "Movie Magg"
9. "Brown Eyed Handsome Man"
10. "What It Is"
11. "Coquette"
12. "I Got Stung"
13. "Honey Hush"
14. "Shake a Hand"
15. "Party"
16. "Fabulous" (7" box set) - Photo: Melodiya (Μелодия) / Amazon25
CHOBA B CCCP
Paul McCartney's seventh solo album, exclusively released in the Soviet Union, was a poignant homage to rock and roll oldies, recorded live in the studio. Despite, its initial geographic limitation, the record was greeted with enthusiasm, selling over 400,000 copies in its first year of release. Although it didn't make waves on notable music charts, its unique distribution strategy and fascinating conceptual underpinnings piqued critical interest. The album, adorned with Michael Ross' design and Russian translated liner notes by Roy Carr, served as a vibrant, nostalgic interplay between two vastly distinct cultural and musical landscapes, marking a notable moment in McCartney's explorative discography.
Tracklist:
1. "Kansas City"
2. "Twenty Flight Rock"
3. "Lawdy, Miss Clawdy"
4. "Bring It On Home to Me"
5. "Lucille"
6. "Don't Get Around Much Anymore"
7. "I'm Gonna Be a Wheel Someday"
8. "That's All Right Mama"
9. "Summertime"
10. "Ain't That a Shame"
11. "Crackin' Up"
12. "Just Because"
13. "Midnight Special" - Photo: Parlophone, Columbia / Amazon26
Give My Regards to Broad Street
Paul McCartney's fifth solo album is simultaneously a fresh tapestry of creativity and a retrospective of his illustrious career. The album, functioning as the seminal soundtrack to the 1984 musical drama film, soared to number one on the UK charts, a testament to McCartney's enduring relevance. Its lead single reaped nominations at the esteemed BAFTA and Golden Globes, further underscoring its undeniable cultural imprint. Notably, this was McCartney's final offering in his partnership with Columbia Records. The album is interspersed with reinterpretations of McCartney's classics, interspersed newly composed tracks evoking a nostalgic and introspective echo of his musical odyssey.
Tracklist:
1. "No More Lonely Nights (ballad)"
2. "Good Day Sunshine"/"Corridor Music"
3. "Yesterday"
4. "Here, There and Everywhere"
5. "Wanderlust"
6. "Ballroom Dancing"
7. "Silly Love Songs"/"Silly Love Songs (reprise)"
8. "Not Such a Bad Boy"
9. “So Bad”
10. "No Values"/"No More Lonely Nights"
11. "For No One"
12. "Eleanor Rigby"/"Eleanor's Dream"
13. "The Long and Winding Road"
14. "No More Lonely Nights (Play Out Version)"
15. “Goodnight Princess” - Photo: Capitol / Amazon27
McCartney III
Occupying a distinctive space in the triad of Paul McCartney's eponymous albums, this was the third installment, unveiled on December 2020. Abounding with mellifluous charm, it burst onto UK charts earning McCartney his first solo number-one position since 1989. Across the ocean, it debuted at number two on the Billboard 200. Critics swooned over its eclectic mix of playful gems, espousing its universal acclaim with an average score of 81 on Metacritic. Snagging a nomination for Best Rock Album and Best Rock Song at the 64th Annual Grammy Awards, its resonance with rock highlighted McCartney's unerring ability to reinvent and enthral.
Tracklist:
1. "Long Tailed Winter Bird"
2. "Find My Way"
3. "Pretty Boys"
4. "Women and Wives"
5. "Lavatory Lil"
6. "Deep Deep Feeling"
7. "Slidin'"
8. "The Kiss of Venus"
9. "Seize the Day"
10. "Deep Down"
11. "Winter Bird/When Winter Comes"Release Date: 2020
- Photo: Hear Music / Amazon
Paul McCartney's fifteenth solo studio album, released in 2012, serves a delightful dish of mainly jazz and traditional pop covers. It was highly anticipated following a five-year studio hiatus. The album, warmly received by critics, debuted at number three on Billboard 200 while securing number five on UK charts. Its lead single, "My Valentine", swept up a Grammy nod for Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album, underscoring McCartney's enduring appeal. The album features collaborations with eminent musicians like Eric Clapton and Stevie Wonder, intensifying its resonance in popular culture. Its nostalgic flavors, paired with McCartney's enduring talent make the album a unique jewel in his expansive discography.
Tracklist:
1. “I'm Gonna Sit Right Down and Write Myself a Letter”
2. "Home (When Shadows Fall)"
3. “It's Only a Paper Moon”
4. "More I Cannot Wish You"
5. "The Glory of Love"
6. "We Three (My Echo, My Shadow and Me)"
7. "Ac-Cent-Tchu-Ate the Positive"
8. "My Valentine"
9. “Always”
10. "My Very Good Friend the Milkman"
11. “Bye Bye Blackbird”
12. "Get Yourself Another Fool"
13. “The Inch Worm”
14. "Only Our Hearts" - Photo: EMI Classics / Amazon
Paul McCartney's third classical music album was met with considerable success. The orchestration of well-known McCartney tracks alongside newly composed pieces showcased the Beatles' legend's grandeur in musical adaptation and curation. Released as both double LP and a single CD, the project quickly gained traction amongst critics, although it did not make a significant mark on mainstream US album charts. Still, it represented a fascinating intersection of classical and pop music that further solidified McCartney's status as a genre-spanning maestro. The nostalgic play of compositions including the notable "Haymakers", "Midwife", "Spiral", and "Tuesday" added a distinctive layer to his discography.
Tracklist:
1. "Junk"
2. "A Leaf"
3. "Haymakers"
4. "Midwife"
5. "Spiral"
6. "Warm and Beautiful"
7. "My Love"
8. "Maybe I'm Amazed"
9. "Calico Skies"
10. "Golden Earth Girl"
11. "Somedays"
12. "Tuesday"
13. "She's My Baby"
14. "The Lovely Linda" - Photo: Hydra/EMI / Amazon30
Rushes
As the second album released by the Fireman in 1998, the record stands as a remarkable shift in Paul McCartney's musical approach. Better received than its predecessor, it stands apart by not relying on McCartney's earlier published tracks. In contrast, listeners were introduced to a vibrant collection of experimental sounds. Despite the absence from mainstream charts, the album found critical favor due to its unique texture. Interestingly, the album carries subtle McCartney references, such as the band name itself alluding to a lyric from the Beatles' “Penny Lane.” The Fireman's efforts have crafted a unique musical landscape that fans of McCartney's non-stop creativity ought to explore.
Tracklist:
1. "Watercolour Guitars"
2. "Palo Verde"
3. "Auraveda"
4. "Fluid"
5. "Appletree Cinnabar Amber"
6. "Bison"
7. "7 a.m."
8. "Watercolour Rush"
