Review of Paul McCartney’s Oral History of Wings: Captivating Early Insights Mirror Band’s Prime

Paul McCartney continues to be a prominent figure in music, even as he approaches his 80s. His life and career, particularly with the band Wings, are explored in a new comprehensive oral history, “Wings: The Story of a Band on the Run,” edited by Ted Widmer. This book offers profound insights into McCartney’s journey after the Beatles, revealing the band’s dynamics and the evolution of his music.

The Genesis of Wings

Post-Beatles, McCartney faced significant uncertainty about his artistic direction. Following the breakup in 1970, he retreated to a 183-acre sheep farm in Kintyre, Scotland, with his wife Linda and their children. This period marked a struggle to create music that would stand alongside his Beatles legacy.

First Steps and Challenges

• His first solo album, “McCartney,” included tentative tracks and hit songs like “Maybe I’m Amazed.”
• McCartney’s transition to forming Wings began when he hired Denny Laine as a full-time member.
• The band’s debut album, “Wild Life,” was recorded at McCartney’s farm but initially received poor reviews.

Despite a low-key start, McCartney focused on reclaiming his stature in the music industry. He opted for a more spontaneous recording style, drawing inspiration from Bob Dylan’s pithy production timelines. This new approach reflected McCartney’s desire to return to live performances and build a band that was more collaborative.

Rise to Prominence

The release of 1973’s “Band on the Run” marked a pivotal moment for Wings. This album became an international success and signaled McCartney’s resurgence in the music world.

Creative Diversity

The album was recorded partly in Lagos, Nigeria, and despite challenges, including being mugged and having their tapes stolen, the creative process led to some of McCartney’s best work. His collaboration with local musicians, like the renowned Fela Kuti, left a lasting impression on him.

Challenges and Transformation

The narrative of Wings shifted to a more structured “album-tour-album” format after “Band on the Run.” However, McCartney faced personal hurdles, including a drug bust in Japan in early 1980. This incident resulted in a brief imprisonment, affecting the band’s future.

• McCartney spent nine days in jail after customs officials discovered marijuana in his suitcase.
• Following this incident, the band began to dissolve, leading McCartney to return to solo projects.

The Later Years of Wings

Opinions about Wings’ albums from the late ‘70s, including “London Town” and “At the Speed of Sound,” vary greatly. While some fans cherish these works, they often do not match the enthusiasm seen in earlier releases. Still, McCartney’s journey through these years showcases his resilience and commitment to music.

Conclusion

Through “Wings: The Story of a Band on the Run,” readers glimpse the tenacity and creativity of Paul McCartney. This oral history not only highlights MCcarney’s extraordinary career but also reflects the challenges and transformations that defined Wings during a dynamic decade.