Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

Ok gentlemen. I would like some objective opinions on what you think Macca's least spectacular. Again, lets be objective and un biased. I have head them all and my vote is for "Press to Play"

I'd have to say Wild Life. There's really nothing on that album that stands out.

I disagree with that. "Some People Never Know" is a great song. I like "Mumbo" too. Nice little rocker, and full of Macca humor. For me, his worst album is McCartney II - but Press To Play is a close second.

I'm with Carmen. "Wild Life" is worst for me as well. I haven't actually heard "Press to Play" yet, so it isn't in the mix. If it was, it might be different. There are a slew of his recordings after "Tug of War" (very good one) that I don't have.

McCartney II, Wild Life, Pipes of Peace are at the bottom of my list. I like some of Press to Play except for Only Love Remains. I want to hurl when I hear that song.

I guess I'm the odd man out--I love Wild Life!

Worst for me are McCartney II & Driving Rain

My money is on Driving Rain.

If one is a Paul fan, which I'm assuming we all are to varying extents, it's tough to criticize.

However, when you examine the scope of his work, in particular, his incredibly "hot" period with the Beatles and the monumental songs that almost define periods of time in the life of his fans, it's not that difficult to be a bit disappointed with the "other" material.

Wings was a pretty good period, too! Lots of hits and other catchy songs with strong melodies. Some not-so-good material too! We became expectant of hearing a hit McCartney single, many times that single being a number 1. And we were able to expect that for almost 20 years (I think "Say, Say, Say" was Paul's last number 1 in '83, is that right?)

Anyway, I'm still a huge fan, but it has been over 20 years since McCartney had a huge hit, let alone a number 1 single.

While it saddens me that one of my "heroes" isn't able to pen music that is up to his own lofty standards anymore, it is quite understandable though. How many huge hits can one brain come up with?

I think the opinions expressed here are simply voiced along those lines.

David:

Groups hugs all around.

Now, where were we? I'd also have to say Wild Life, Press To Play...there's so many, particularily when someone like McCartney has to compete with his own giant legacy with the Beatles.

Red Rose Speedway is not an album I like. My Love is a song that just grates at me.

Particularly

The Fine Art of Critique, when practised well, often opens one's eyes to subtleties and possibilities that one did not see/hear before.

Each artist may intend for their painting/song/book/poem/sculpture to represent a certain idea or ideas, but once that creative is released to the outside world, it no longer remains the sole "property" of the creator. (note: this is not meant to be taken literally; I am not encouraging the lack of copyright, etc...)

Such art is then interpreted differently by each person who experiences it, which explains, to a large degree, my disinterest in music videos, which more-often-than-not put blinders on any other interpretation than that offered by the video (though it can be argued that the video itself is a piece of art).

Revolution in the Head by the late Ian MacDonald was a great book, as the author communicated to the reader the why's and how's of each song, but also how and why he believed each song "worked".

It was an informed opinion that had me re-examine many of my preconceptions about the Beatles' body of work.

That is a good thing. Some of his conclusions I accepted, some I didn't.

Good criticism will do that; shed a light on a possible path of understanding/interpretation one may not have thought to explore.

Good film and music criticism has led to me going back to rewatch/relisten to a film or song. It can enhance my enjoyment of a piece.

Much like a good conversation between friends, particularly late-at-ngiht with some tasty beverages at hand.

Just remember something: Paul McCartney's worst song is better than any song you lot will ever write.

Great point Brian.

David, you almost make me sorry I started this thread

I don't agree Brian. I've written a couple of tunes that I think are better than "Temporary Secretary", "The Other Me" and "Temporary Secretary"! I mention that one twice because I really dislike that one! Sorry Rick.

You might be right Brian. I forgot about "Temporary Secretary". Even I wrote a couple better ones than that.