As Paul McCartney embraced the 21st Century in his late 50s, he was at a pivotal moment in his illustrious career, a time when many individuals consider winding down towards retirement. However, McCartney, a former member of the legendary Beatles, had more than earned his rest, and instead, he showcased his unwavering creativity and passion for music.

Having been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame with the Beatles over a decade prior, he was entering an exciting new phase as a solo artist, celebrating over 30 years of remarkable achievements. With the breakup of Wings two decades earlier, his musical legacy was firmly established and revered.

Since the year 2000, McCartney has released a remarkable total of seven rock albums. This includes Electric Arguments, a groundbreaking 2008 collaboration with Martin “Youth” Glover as part of The Fireman project. Impressively, with the exception of 2001’s Driving Rain, all of his solo records have landed in the U.S. Top 10, demonstrating his enduring popularity and influence in the music industry.

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In a triumphant return to form, McCartney’s 2018 album Egypt Station soared to become his first Billboard chart-topping album since the 1980s. Following closely, McCartney III reached an impressive No. 2 in 2020. Both Chaos and Creation in the Backyard from 2005 and Memory Almost Full from 2007 received gold certifications, while his collaboration on the multi-platinum single “FourFiveSeconds” with Rihanna and Kanye West further solidified his relevance in contemporary music.

What about resting on his past accolades? McCartney chose to keep creating and evolving, adding 15 new tracks to his extensive repertoire of timeless classics that have delighted fans for decades. Below is a curated list of the most outstanding Paul McCartney songs that have emerged in the 21st Century.

No. 15. “I Can Bet”
From: New (2013)

With “I Can Bet,” McCartney successfully channels the signature sound of Wings while infusing it with a fresh, vibrant musical context. Utilizing advanced vocal treatments, programming, and loops, the track reflects a modern production style. However, McCartney had been developing “I Can Bet” over time, beginning with a self-recorded, multi-overdubbed demo. He later collaborated with his touring band members, Rusty Anderson and Wix Wickens, who contributed guitar and Hammond organ, respectively. In the final stages, McCartney incorporated classic Wurlitzer and Moog sounds, likely with the expertise of producer Giles Martin at Hog Hill Studios, bringing this innovative piece back to the nostalgic days of rock history.

No. 14. “Dominoes”
From: Egypt Station (2018)

“Dominoes” serves as a captivating career retrospective, where McCartney delves deep into his extensive legacy originating from the Beatles. The song opens with a light, acoustic riff reminiscent of the White Album, seamlessly traversing through various musical eras of his career. Drawing on the rhythmic cadence of his ’80s works, the lush background vocals of his ’70s style, and a backward guitar reminiscent of the ’60s, McCartney’s lyrics beautifully convey how one event can lead to another in unexpected ways. The song concludes with a poignant line: “It’s been a blast.“, encapsulating his enduring joy in creating music.

No. 13. “Spinning on an Axis”
From: Driving Rain (2001)

In Driving Rain, McCartney faced the challenge of merging two distinct aspects of his artistry: his natural inclination toward intricate pop melodies and a desire for lengthier musical forms. Simultaneously, he grappled with the emotional turmoil of losing his beloved wife, Linda, while welcoming a new romantic relationship. “Spinning on an Axis” emerged as a standout track, as McCartney momentarily set aside his internal conflicts. The song opens with a relaxed and free-flowing vibe, capturing a lively groove that feels refreshingly spontaneous. Unfortunately, the overall album’s complexity may have overshadowed this gem, reflecting the tumultuous thoughts swirling in McCartney’s mind during this period.

No. 12. “Fine Line”
From: Chaos and Creation in the Backyard (2005)

With “Fine Line,” it becomes apparent that McCartney possesses an innate ability to craft catchy tunes effortlessly. This particular track, which reached the Top 20 in the U.K., opens with a profound lyric: “There’s a fine line between recklessness and courage.” McCartney, who had completely reimagined his creative process for this aptly titled album, made a significant change by collaborating with renowned producer Nigel Godrich, known for his work with Radiohead. Godrich encouraged McCartney to build the song around a deliberate bass note that deviated from conventional expectations, resulting in an engaging and memorable listening experience.

No. 11. “New”
From New (2013)

One of the most refreshing aspects of New is McCartney?s evident comfort in his own artistry after a brief period of exploring the Great American Songbook. While the production features contemporary elements, the title track remains firmly rooted in McCartney’s signature style. Flowing like a more robust version of “Penny Lane” or a less polished “Got to Get You Into My Life,” “New” may not entirely live up to its name, but it certainly avoids becoming a fleeting modern curiosity, showcasing McCartney?s timeless musical charm.

No. 10. “Deep Down”
From: McCartney III (2020)

McCartney?s exploration in “Deep Down” transcends the need for a concrete theme. Recorded during the isolating pandemic lockdown, III allowed him to delve deep within himself, unlike his previous albums that often featured external producers. Instead, McCartney embraced a raw and unfiltered approach, capturing the spontaneous energy reminiscent of deep cuts from the White Album and his inaugural solo project. An artist of McCartney’s caliber, after numerous promotional campaigns and industry pressures, often struggles to achieve this level of authenticity. Yet, in “Deep Down,” he achieves a sense of discovery that feels both genuine and liberating.

No. 9. “How Kind of You”
From: Chaos and Creation in the Backyard (2005)

The production of Chaos and Creation in the Backyard underwent a transformation when producer Nigel Godrich stepped in, elevating the project beyond its initial setup with McCartney’s touring band. One of the standout tracks, “How Kind of You,” began in a typical jangle-pop style, yet it evolved into a breathtaking expression of vulnerability. In this song, McCartney extends heartfelt gratitude to those who supported him during challenging times. Godrich?s expertise facilitated a rich, immersive soundscape that evokes the feeling of an underwater harmonium.

No. 8. “Queenie Eye”
From: New (2013)

Imagining a scenario where the Beatles never broke up, “Queenie Eye” encapsulates what their sound might have evolved into by the 2010s. The song features an orchestral introduction, lively wordplay, a dynamic groove, and processed vocals that evoke a sense of nostalgia for their late-’60s successes with producer George Martin. Yet, the production remains distinctly contemporary. As “Queenie Eye” progresses, a momentary pause creates a dream-like state, only for McCartney to reignite the energy with a vibrant chorus, piano interlude, and a sudden shift, embodying the spirit of innovation.

No. 7. “Anyway”
From: Chaos and Creation in the Backyard (2005)

This project carries a consistent tone of introspection, which may divert attention from McCartney’s well-known idiosyncrasies. The album?s closing ballad, “Anyway,” resolves this issue by delivering a familiar, orchestral finale. The refrain evokes memories of the earlier “Little Willow,” while the piano motif draws inspiration from “People Get Ready.” This track serves as a fitting conclusion to one of McCartney?s finest albums, reminding listeners of his extraordinary talent and emotional depth.

No. 6. “Vintage Clothes”
From: Memory Almost Full (2007)

“Vintage Clothes” reflects McCartney’s nostalgic sentiments regarding his lengthy first marriage to the late Linda McCartney. Following Linda’s battle with cancer in the late ’90s and the subsequent strains in his second marriage, McCartney’s emotions found their way into this song. The track’s structure features unique tempo changes, with McCartney skillfully navigating behind a Mellotron, a nod to the Abbey Road Studio setting he famously used during the “Strawberry Fields Forever” sessions.

No. 5. “Jenny Wren”
From: Chaos and Creation in the Backyard (2005)

With “Jenny Wren,” McCartney crafts a Grammy-nominated composition that recalls the finger-picking brilliance found in “Blackbird” and “Calico Skies.” Drawing inspiration from nature, he penned the lyrics while gazing at a picturesque canyon landscape. The character Jenny Wren, named after his favorite bird, becomes a vessel for his storytelling. The song was later enriched with the addition of an Armenian woodwind instrument known as a duduk, adding a unique texture to the piece.

No. 4. “Sun Is Shining”
From: The Fireman’s Electric Arguments (2008)

The Fireman project marked a significant evolution in McCartney’s approach to experimental pop, distinguishing it from his earlier solo endeavors. Electric Arguments boasts a vibrant spontaneity, reminiscent of the original “Get Back” ethos, yet reimagined for the indie era. Even a track like “Sun Is Shining,” which embodies McCartney’s signature lightness, feels revitalized through this fresh lens of creativity and experimentation.

No. 3. “See Your Sunshine”
From: Memory Almost Full (2007)

With “See Your Sunshine,” McCartney revisits the pure pop sound that characterized the era immediately following the Beatles’ breakup. This track is particularly poignant as it was created during his divorce from second wife Heather, infusing the song with emotional depth. “See Your Sunshine” is a notable part of a project known for its eclectic musical variety, showcasing McCartney’s ability to resonate with listeners even amid personal turmoil, a testament to his enduring appeal.

No. 2. “I Don’t Know”
From: Egypt Station (2018)

Opening his first No. 1 album since 1982, “I Don’t Know” reveals a surprising depth of introspection, diverging from McCartney’s typical lighthearted themes. Instead of presenting a carefree narrative, he delves into feelings of uncertainty, offering a rare glimpse into his thoughts. The verses present a stark contrast to the soothing, comforting chorus, where McCartney’s piano guides the listener through this emotional landscape, beautifully balancing vulnerability with reassurance.

No. 1. “Only Mama Knows”
From: Memory Almost Full (2007)

Amidst the personal turmoil of a very public divorce, Paul McCartney defied expectations by embracing a raw, honest approach in “Only Mama Knows.” Rather than retreating into familiar pop tropes, he boldly delivers a nostalgic yet powerful track that resonates with listeners. This dynamic song has earned its place as a staple in McCartney?s concert repertoire, demonstrating his ability to connect with audiences through genuine emotion and musical prowess.

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