Paul McCartney’s catalog is packed with hits, but the real treasures are often waiting off the main stage. These 10 underrated tracks reveal his creativity, vulnerability, and musical evolution:
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“Monkberry Moon Delight” (RAM, 1971)
A gloriously wild, almost proto-indie burst of creativity—McCartney unfiltered and unapologetic. -
“You Gave Me the Answer” (Venus and Mars, 1975)
A playful throwback to the Roaring Twenties, complete with honky-tonk piano and vintage charm. -
“I’m Carrying” (London Town, 1978)
A soft acoustic confession born on a boat in the Virgin Islands—so intimate, it feels like a whisper. -
“Waterfalls” (McCartney II, 1980)
Gentle synths and tender lyrics make this atmospheric ballad hauntingly beautiful. -
“Ballroom Dancing” (Tug of War, 1982)
Full of energy and swagger, this throwback rock ‘n’ roll anthem channels vintage Little Richard flair. -
“My Brave Face” (Flowers in the Dirt, 1989)
Strip away the ’80s sheen and you’ll find a moving, honest song co-written with Elvis Costello. -
“Calico Skies” (Flaming Pie, 1997)
Just Paul and his acoustic guitar—a simple, heartfelt love song with timeless purity. -
“Jenny Wren” (Chaos and Creation in the Backyard, 2005)
Folk storytelling at its finest, with delicate fingerpicking and a haunting duduk melody. -
“Only Mama Knows” (Memory Almost Full, 2007)
Starts softly with strings, then launches into pure rock grit. Paul’s voice never sounded more electric. -
“Happy With You” (Egypt Station, 2018)
A deeply personal reflection on past struggles and finding peace—raw, introspective, and beautifully mature.
These ten tracks are proof that McCartney still has surprises, even decades into his career. Whether he’s stripping things back or tearing them down, he’s still writing from the heart—and sometimes, the best songs haven’t been played enough.
Give them a spin. 🎸