10 Underrated Paul McCartney Songs Every Fan Should Know
When it comes to music legends, Paul McCartney stands in a league of his own. From revolutionizing pop culture with The Beatles to carving out a prolific solo career and crafting hits with Wings, McCartney’s songwriting legacy is immense. But hidden behind the household names like “Maybe I’m Amazed” and “Live and Let Die” lies a treasure trove of lesser-known gems — songs that showcase his genius in subtle, often overlooked ways.
Here are 10 underrated Paul McCartney songs every fan should have on their radar, spanning the depth and diversity of his post-Beatles catalog.
1. “Back Seat of My Car” – Ram (1971)
A lush, romantic epic with shifting moods and grand orchestration, this track captures youthful longing and rebellion with Beatlesque flair. Overshadowed by bigger singles, it’s a masterclass in McCartney’s melodic storytelling — dramatic, tender, and full of heart. It was also a personal favorite of his wife Linda, who helped shape Ram’s unique charm.
2. “Warm and Beautiful” – Wings at the Speed of Sound (1976)
This heartfelt piano ballad, dedicated to Linda, is among McCartney’s most sincere love songs. Though not a chart success, its raw emotionality and haunting melody linger long after it ends. He later revisited the song with a fresh orchestral arrangement, reaffirming its lasting significance in his life and work.
3. “Little Willow” – Flaming Pie (1997)
Written as a tribute to Ringo Starr’s late ex-wife, Maureen, “Little Willow” is quiet, graceful, and deeply moving. Its delicate acoustic arrangement and hushed vocals make it one of McCartney’s most vulnerable and affecting tracks. It’s proof that subtlety can sometimes speak louder than spectacle.
4. “Single Pigeon” – Red Rose Speedway (1973)
Clocking in at under two minutes, this gentle piano ballad offers a wistful metaphor for solitude and longing. With elegant phrasing and minimal arrangement, it’s a shining example of McCartney’s ability to evoke emotion in the simplest of ways.
5. “Only Mama Knows” – Memory Almost Full (2007)
A jolt of rock energy from McCartney’s later years, this track tells a gritty coming-of-age story with punchy guitars and a driving rhythm. It’s vintage Wings-style rock with a modern twist, proving that Paul hadn’t lost his fire even after four decades in the game.
6. “Tomorrow” – Wild Life (1971)
Despite Wild Life’s mixed reception, “Tomorrow” is a shining highlight — a hopeful, gospel-tinged ballad with rich harmonies and an uplifting message. It’s the sound of McCartney letting go of polish in favor of warmth and spontaneity.
7. “Souvenir” – Flaming Pie (1997)
Blending soul, groove, and vintage studio effects, “Souvenir” finds McCartney in experimental form. It’s smooth, understated, and soulful — a hidden standout that feels both retro and refreshingly unique in his discography.
8. “Calico Skies” – Flaming Pie (1997)
Written during a power outage caused by a hurricane, this acoustic tune is stripped-back, poetic, and full of heart. A gentle protest song wrapped in romance, it’s one of McCartney’s most powerful pieces — not because it’s loud, but because it’s honest.
9. “Arrow Through Me” – Back to the Egg (1979)
A sleek, funk-influenced groove, this track stands out for its smooth bassline, falsetto vocals, and laid-back swagger. Later sampled by Erykah Badu, “Arrow Through Me” shows McCartney flexing his musical versatility and effortless cool.
10. “I’m Carrying” – London Town (1978)
Soft, sparse, and deeply heartfelt, “I’m Carrying” is a tender acoustic ballad that caught the ear of even George Harrison. It’s a reminder that McCartney doesn’t need grand production to make a lasting impression — just a guitar, a melody, and sincerity.
These hidden gems may not have climbed the charts, but they reveal McCartney’s endless creative well — his gift for melody, emotional depth, and fearless exploration across genres. For fans willing to go beyond the hits, these tracks offer a deeper, richer portrait of the man behind the music.
