A new book and accompanying music anthology are shedding fresh light on the influential band Wings, led by Paul McCartney. Titled “Wings: The Story of a Band on the Run,” the oral history offers an in-depth look at the group's journey, from its formation after The Beatles' breakup to its significant success throughout the 1970s. This release coincides with a new audio compilation, an "ultimate anthology" that makes Wings' extensive catalog available in Dolby Atmos for the first time in physical format.
Key Takeaways
- New book "Wings: The Story of a Band on the Run" details the band's history and impact.
- An accompanying anthology makes Wings' music available in Dolby Atmos.
- The book highlights Linda McCartney's crucial role in the band's success.
- Wings achieved significant commercial success with multiple chart-topping albums and singles.
- The releases aim to re-evaluate Wings' musical legacy and address past criticisms.
Revisiting Wings' Origin and Rise
Wings emerged from the aftermath of The Beatles' dissolution, a period of immense change for Paul McCartney. His initial solo efforts, including his eponymous debut and the album "Ram," laid the groundwork for the new group. The band's core, featuring Paul and Linda McCartney alongside their growing family, created a grounded and personal foundation for their sound.
Linda McCartney's contributions extended beyond her musical role. She played a central part in helping Paul navigate the emotional challenges following The Beatles' split. Her influence was crucial in not only establishing Wings but also in helping McCartney overcome a period of personal devastation.
Did You Know?
During the 1970s, Wings produced eight Top 10 US LPs, with five reaching number one. They also landed 14 Top 10 singles, with six hitting the top spot.
John Lennon's Respect for McCartney's Endeavor
Even John Lennon recognized McCartney's determination in forming a new band. In one of his final interviews, Lennon expressed admiration for McCartney's decision to start from scratch. He noted McCartney's desire to return to playing in smaller venues, a sentiment Lennon believed McCartney had for The Beatles as well.
"I kind of admire the way Paul started back from scratch, forming a new band and playing in small dance halls, because that’s what he wanted to do with the Beatles — he wanted us to go back to the dance halls and experience that again."
Lennon also highlighted McCartney's talent and unwavering work ethic, observing, "He’s got twenty-five kids and about twenty million records out. He’s always working." This dedication proved instrumental in Wings' significant commercial achievements.
Unpacking the Band's Impressive Statistics
Wings' commercial success throughout the 1970s is undeniable. From 1971 to 1980, the band consistently produced hit records. Their track record includes impressive figures that solidify their place in rock history.
- Eight Top 10 US LPs
- Five US chart-topping albums
- 14 Top 10 singles
- Six number-one singles
- Remarkably, all 23 of their US singles achieved Top 40 status.
Over their active years, Wings garnered six Grammy Awards and sold approximately 14 million records. This extensive sales record earned them seven platinum and nine gold discs, a testament to their widespread appeal and musical impact.
Behind the Scenes
The new book includes recollections gathered by Academy Award-winning director Morgan Neville. These memories feature voices from Linda McCartney, Denny Laine, and Jimmy McCulloch, all of whom are now deceased. Their perspectives offer a comprehensive view of the band's dynamic evolution.
Challenges, Triumphs, and a Lasting Legacy
“Wings: The Story of a Band on the Run” takes readers on a journey from the band's early recordings, such as "Wild Life" in 1971, through their peak as an arena rock act in the mid-1970s. The book details McCartney's efforts to refine his bandmates' skills, transforming them from dance-hall players into a powerhouse quintet ready for superstardom.
Despite facing initial criticism and skepticism, McCartney successfully reshaped the band multiple times, consistently achieving blockbuster success. The book serves as a powerful rebuttal to those who doubted McCartney's post-Beatles venture, highlighting the band's unique musical fusion.
A Catalog of Hits
The meticulous production behind Wings' hit records is a focal point, reminding fans of classics like:
- "My Love"
- "Live and Let Die"
- "Band on the Run"
- "Jet"
- "Junior's Farm"
- "Listen to What the Man Said"
- "Silly Love Songs"
- "Let ’Em In"
- "Maybe I’m Amazed"
- "With a Little Luck"
- "Goodnight Tonight"
- "Coming Up"
The band's journey concluded following McCartney's 1980 Japanese drug bust, which led to the group's disbandment. McCartney released a new solo album, "Tug of War," in 1982, marking a new chapter in his career. However, the legacy of Wings endures, as the new book and anthology powerfully demonstrate.
The Ultimate Anthology: A Sonic Experience
Accompanying the book is a new self-titled compendium of Wings' standout tracks. While previous anthologies, such as "Wings Greatest" (1978) and "Wingspan: Hits and History" (2001), have been released, this latest collection aims to be the most comprehensive. It addresses previous omissions by gathering both hit songs and fan favorites into a single release.
This new anthology presents McCartney and Wings' extensive work in breathtaking high fidelity. Listeners can experience the energy, urgency, and passion inherent in the group's finest moments, now with the added dimension of Dolby Atmos in its physical format, offering an unparalleled sonic experience.
Fans will have an opportunity to celebrate the band's music at the inaugural Everything Fab Four Fest. A special Wings listening party, hosted by Mark Lapidos and Ken Dashow, is scheduled for Friday, November 7th. Tickets for the festival are available for purchase online.