Paul McCartney, the legendary musician and former Beatle, continues to captivate audiences with his creative endeavors, proving that his artistic journey is far from over. Following his performance of “The End” during the “SNL50” special, McCartney announced an exciting new project: a book titled “Wings: The Story of a Band on the Run.” Set to be released on November 4, this book will delve into the history of Wings, the band he led throughout the 1970s after the Beatles disbanded.
The book is officially credited as “by Paul McCartney,” but it promises to be more than just a solo narrative. It features the voices of various individuals who played significant roles in the Wings saga, alongside McCartney’s own reflections. The project is edited by historian Ted Widmer, who brings a wealth of experience to the table, having previously served as a speechwriter for President Bill Clinton and authored the acclaimed book “Lincoln on the Verge: Thirteen Days to Washington.” Widmer’s involvement suggests that the book will not only be a personal account but also a well-researched historical document.
In a statement about the upcoming release, McCartney expressed his excitement about revisiting the era of Wings. He reflected on the challenges he faced while starting anew after the Beatles, describing it as a “crazy” experience filled with moments of doubt. However, as Wings began to find their footing and connect with audiences, McCartney felt a sense of validation and joy. “We proved Wings could be a really good band,” he stated, highlighting the thrill of performing for large crowds and making an impact in a different musical landscape.
The book promises to be a treasure trove of insights, drawing from over 500,000 words and dozens of hours of interviews with McCartney and key figures from the band’s history. Additionally, it will feature more than 100 photographs, offering fans a visual journey through the band’s evolution. This rich compilation of stories and images is sure to resonate with both longtime fans and newcomers to McCartney’s music.
In tandem with the book announcement, it was revealed that filmmaker Morgan Neville is working on a documentary that will explore McCartney’s solo career and his work with Wings during the 1970s. This documentary is expected to complement the book, providing a multi-dimensional look at McCartney’s artistic output during a pivotal time in his life.
The U.S. release of “Wings: The Story of a Band on the Run” will be handled by Liveright/W. W. Norton and Allen Lane/Penguin Press, with a U.K. release also in the works through Penguin/Allen Lane. While the cover art has yet to be unveiled, anticipation is building for what promises to be a significant addition to McCartney’s body of work.
Wings, which produced nine albums credited either to the band or to Paul McCartney & Wings, was a major force in the music scene during the 1970s. Their journey began with “Wings Wild Life” in 1972 and culminated with “Back to the Egg” in 1978. Denny Laine was the only other member to remain with the band throughout its entire run, alongside McCartney and his late wife, Linda. Notable albums from this era include the iconic “Band on the Run” and the memorable theme for “Live and Let Die.”
While McCartney has not previously published a memoir, he has collaborated with biographers and shared insights into his life and music. His 2021 release, “The Lyrics: 1956 to the Present,” provided fans with a unique perspective on his songwriting process, featuring annotations for each selected song. The forthcoming book on Wings promises to offer an even deeper dive into his experiences and the dynamics of the band.
As McCartney continues to share his story through various mediums, fans can look forward to a year filled with new revelations and nostalgic reflections. With the book and documentary on the horizon, the legacy of Wings and McCartney’s enduring influence on music will be celebrated and explored in exciting new ways.
