After the Beatles disbanded, many wondered what would come next for Paul McCartney. The answer came in the form of a new chapter: Wings—a band that allowed McCartney to redefine himself as an artist while continuing to top the charts.
Formed with his wife Linda McCartney and guitarist Denny Laine, Wings blended rock, pop, and McCartney’s signature melodies into a sound that stood on its own. From massive hits like “Band on the Run” to global tours, Wings became one of the most successful acts of the 1970s.
This article explores how McCartney and Wings forged a new musical path, building on the past while creating something entirely their own.
Top Hits
View this post on Instagram
Paul McCartney and Wings enjoyed significant success throughout the 1970s. Some of their top hits include:
- “Band on the Run” (1973): The title track from the album of the same name, “Band on the Run” is one of Wings’ most celebrated songs, known for its multi-part structure and catchy melodies.
- “Live and Let Die” (1973): Written for the James Bond film of the same name, “Live and Let Die” is one of Wings’ most popular and enduring songs, notable for its dynamic orchestration and rock elements.
- “Mull of Kintyre” (1977): This song became a massive hit in the UK, known for its Scottish folk influence and bagpipe accompaniment. It was one of the best-selling singles of all time in the UK.
- “Silly Love Songs” (1976): A response to critics who said McCartney only wrote love songs, this track from “Wings at the Speed of Sound” became a major hit, showcasing McCartney’s knack for catchy, well-crafted pop music.
- “Jet” (1974): From the “Band on the Run” album, “Jet” is a high-energy rock song with a memorable chorus, and it became one of the band’s most popular songs.
- “My Love” (1973): A romantic ballad from the album “Red Rose Speedway,” “My Love” showcased McCartney’s sentimental songwriting and was a significant hit.
- “Let ‘Em In” (1976): Another hit from “Wings at the Speed of Sound,” this song is known for its distinctive brass section and catchy melody.
- “Maybe I’m Amazed” (1977): Though originally released by McCartney as a solo artist on his debut album “McCartney,” the live version by Wings on “Wings Over America” became a huge hit.
- “With a Little Luck” (1978): This song from the album “London Town” features a synthesized backdrop and was a hit on both sides of the Atlantic.
- “Goodnight Tonight” (1979): Known for its disco-style rhythm, this song was a departure from Wings’ usual rock sound and was a hit in several countries.
These hits showcased McCartney’s talent for writing standout pop and rock songs after the Beatles, helping Wings gain success on their own. As one of music’s most iconic performers, he’s led major world tours and appeared in countless concerts and TV specials. McCartney has earned multiple Grammys, two inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and was honored as a member of the Order of the British Empire.
Early Life and Years as Member of the Beatles
Paul McCartney was born on June 18, 1942, in Liverpool, England, into a music-loving family. He met George Harrison in school and John Lennon in 1957, eventually joining Lennon’s band, The Quarrymen, which later became The Beatles in 1960. After several lineup changes, Ringo Starr joined in 1962, completing the classic quartet.
As part of the legendary Lennon-McCartney songwriting team, McCartney co-wrote many of The Beatles’ biggest hits. Some of his most iconic contributions include “Yesterday,” “Hey Jude,” “Let It Be,” “Eleanor Rigby,” and “Blackbird.” Known for his melodic style and musical versatility, McCartney played a key role in shaping the band’s evolving sound.
The Beatles broke up in 1970. That same year, McCartney launched his solo career with the album McCartney, followed by Ram (with wife Linda) in 1971. Later that year, he formed the band Wings, marking a new chapter in his musical journey.
Marriage to Linda McCartney
View this post on Instagram
Linda McCartney married Paul McCartney in 1969. Together, they had three children: Mary, Stella, and James. Linda also had a daughter, Heather, from a previous marriage, whom Paul adopted as his own. Their marriage was known for its deep bond and stability. Paul often credited Linda with helping him through the emotional aftermath of The Beatles’ breakup.
Before marrying Paul, Linda was already an accomplished photographer, best known for her portraits of musicians. In 1968, she made history as the first woman to have a photo featured on the cover of Rolling Stone—a portrait of Eric Clapton. Her photography was admired for its relaxed, natural style and ability to capture intimate moments.
Linda became a member of Wings, the band Paul formed after The Beatles. Though initially criticized for her lack of formal music training, she played keyboards, sang backing vocals, and co-wrote songs. She remained a consistent part of the band throughout its run and contributed to its success.
Linda passed away from breast cancer on April 17, 1998, at the age of 56. Her legacy lives on through her work in photography, her musical contributions, and her passionate advocacy for animal rights and vegetarianism. In her honor, Paul helped establish the Linda McCartney Centre in Liverpool, dedicated to breast cancer care and research. Her influence continues to be felt through the causes she championed and the enduring love she and Paul shared.
Paul McCartney and His own Band, Wings
View this post on Instagram
After The Beatles, Paul McCartney formed Wings in 1971. In the same year, they releaed their debut album, Wild Life. However, it was poorly received by critics and considered a commercial flop. But the band rebounded with their 1973 follow-up, Red Rose Speedway, which performed significantly better and featured their first #1 hit, “My Love.”
Around this time, guitarist Henry McCullough joined the group, contributing to both vocals and guitar. That same year, Wings recorded the title track for the James Bond film Live and Let Die. The song became a huge hit, reaching #2 on the charts and becoming one of McCartney’s most iconic singles. Following a brief UK tour, both McCullough and drummer Denny Seiwell left the band.
Major Success with Band on the Run
In 1973, Wings released Band on the Run, which became their biggest commercial and critical success. The album included several hit singles: “Helen Wheels” reached #10, “Jet” climbed to #7, and the title track, “Band on the Run,” hit #1. Following the album’s success, Jimmy McCulloch joined on guitar and Geoff Britton came in as the new drummer, helping to shape the next phase of Wings’ career.
Continued Success
Wings followed up with Venus and Mars in 1975, which featured another #1 single, “Listen to What the Man Said.” In 1976, they released Wings at the Speed of Sound, notable for being the first album where all band members contributed to the songwriting.
The album produced several major hits, including “Silly Love Songs” (#1), “Let ‘Em In” (#3), and a live version of “Maybe I’m Amazed” (#10), one of Paul’s most beloved ballads. To support the album, Wings launched their first international tour, which broke box office records and cemented their status as one of the top live acts of the decade.
Later Years and Final Hits
After the success of the tour, the band went on a brief hiatus, during which members pursued side projects. In late 1977, Wings returned with the single “Mull of Kintyre,” a heartfelt tribute to McCartney’s home in Scotland. Released just in time for Christmas, the song became a #1 hit in the UK.
Not long after the single’s success, Jimmy McCulloch left the band to pursue a solo career, marking another shift in the group’s evolving lineup.
Wings Band Members
Wings underwent several lineup changes throughout its existence. Here’s an overview of the key members who were part of Wings at various points:
- Paul McCartney (Vocals, Bass, Keyboards, Guitars): After the breakup of The Beatles, McCartney formed Wings as his primary musical pursuit. He was the leader, primary songwriter, and vocalist, and played multiple instruments.
- Linda McCartney (Keyboards, Vocals): Linda, Paul’s wife, was a constant member of the band from its inception until its dissolution. Despite initial criticism for her limited musical experience, she became an integral part of the band’s identity and contributed to vocals and keyboards.
- Denny Laine (Guitar, Vocals): A former member of the Moody Blues, Laine was with Wings for its entire duration. He played guitar and contributed significantly to vocals, and occasionally other instruments. Laine co-wrote some of the band’s songs and was a key member.
- Denny Seiwell (Drums): An American drummer, Seiwell was part of the original lineup of Wings, playing on the albums “Wild Life” and “Red Rose Speedway.” He left the band in 1973.
- Henry McCullough (Guitar): An Irish guitarist, McCullough joined Wings in 1971 and played on “Red Rose Speedway.” His tenure with the band was brief, and he left in 1973.
- Jimmy McCulloch (Guitar): McCulloch joined Wings in 1974 and played on albums such as “Band on the Run” and “Venus and Mars.” A talented guitarist, he contributed significantly until his departure in 1977.
- Joe English (Drums): An American drummer, English joined Wings in 1975 and played on albums like “Venus and Mars” and “Wings at the Speed of Sound.” He left the band in 1977 to return to the United States.
- Laurence Juber (Guitar): Juber joined Wings in 1978 and was part of the final lineup of the band, playing on the album “Back to the Egg.”
- Steve Holley (Drums): Holley was also part of the final lineup, joining in 1978 and contributing to “Back to the Egg.”
McCartney’s Arrest and the Disbandment of Wings
In 1978, the band released the albums, London Town (1978) and Back To The Egg (1979), both of which went to platinum, although it failed to spawn big hits. Later members included Laurence Juber (lead guitar), and Steve Holley (drums).
In January 1980, the McCartneys and Wings flew to Tokyo to do a tour there, but it was halted when customs officials found the couple with cannabis on their luggage. Paul was arrested and jailed for days and was later deported from the country without charges.
McCartney went out on his own again, releasing his album McCartney II (1980) which produced the hit “Coming Up.” After John Lennon had been murdered, McCartney refused to tour and that prompted Laine – the other band member to have stayed the longest since their inception, aside from the McCartneys – to leave the band for good. And, in 1981, Wings was no more.
McCartney as a Pop Music Legend
After Wings, Paul McCartney enjoyed a highly successful solo career with hit albums, sold-out tours, and collaborations with stars like Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, and David Gilmour. His film Give My Regards to Broad Street flopped, but its soundtrack was a hit.
In the ’90s, he reunited with Harrison, Starr, and George Martin for The Beatles Anthology project. He was knighted in 1997, and tragically lost his wife Linda the following year.
McCartney has earned countless honors, including two Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductions and a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. He’s released acclaimed albums like Kisses on the Bottom, New, and McCartney III, and remains a dynamic live performer.
Even in his 70s, McCartney continues to tour, collaborate with artists like Kanye West and Rihanna, and explore writing. His passion for music shows no signs of fading.