Paul McCartney’s highly anticipated book Wings: The Story of a Band on the Run offers a raw, intimate look at his turbulent post-Beatles journey. Releasing November 4 via W.W. Norton & Company, this 528-page oral history features never-before-seen interviews and photos documenting Wings’ evolution from scrappy touring act to chart-topping phenomenon.
Formed in 1971 after The Beatles’ dissolution, Wings initially faced skepticism from critics and fans. ‘Starting from scratch felt crazy,’ McCartney admits in a
candid reflection on rebuilding his career. The band’s core lineup – featuring guitarist Denny Laine and keyboardist Linda McCartney – gradually silenced doubters through relentless touring and era-defining hits.
Wings’ commercial peak included three pivotal achievements:
- 1973’s multiplatinum Band on the Run album
- Historic 1976 Wings Over the World Tour
- Four consecutive #1 singles between 1976-1978
Edited by historian Ted Widmer, the book reveals how 1974’s ‘Jet’ and 1976’s ‘Silly Love Songs’ became cultural touchstones despite initial industry resistance. Linda McCartney’s contributions receive special focus, countering critics who dismissed her as a non-musician.
While Wings disbanded in 1981, their influence persists through modern acts covering their work and streaming-era rediscovery. McCartney’s memoir follows his acclaimed The Lyrics and 1964: Eyes of the Storm, completing a trilogy of musical self-portraits.
‘This isn’t just nostalgia,’ Widmer notes. ‘It’s a masterclass in artistic reinvention.’ With pre-orders surging, Wings: The Story of a Band on the Run promises to reshape understanding of 1970s rock history.
