What is the best Paul McCartney album to start with?

The best album to start with is "New" (2013). It's the most representative of what makes Paul McCartney worth hearing.

What are the best Paul McCartney albums?

The essential Paul McCartney albums include "Paul McCartney Live in Los Angeles", "The McCartney Interview", "McCartney" (1970), "The Back Seat of My Car" (1971) and "Another Day" (1971).

How many albums does Paul McCartney have?

Paul McCartney has 137 releases in their discography, including 73 albums and 8 EPs.

Photo: Raph_PH · CC BY 2.0

Paul McCartney

Q: Who is Paul McCartney for?

If you're into classical and pop rock, Paul McCartney is worth your time. Rich in melodic movement, McCartney's music balances intricate vocal harmonies with rhythmic shifts that evoke both warmth and spontaneity.

Rich in melodic movement, McCartney's music balances intricate vocal harmonies with rhythmic shifts that evoke both warmth and spontaneity.

pop rock · psychedelic rock

United Kingdom

Read about Paul McCartney on Bookshop

Start here

The album

Egypt Station (2018)

Presents a cohesive blend of McCartney's melodic style and modern influences, making it accessible for new listeners.

The song

“Maybe I'm Amazed”

An engaging track that showcases McCartney's signature sound and emotional depth, for introducing his artistry.

See the full guide

Songs to start with

If you'd rather pick a song than an album.

1

"One Hand Clapping (One Hand Clapping sessions)" — from One Hand Clapping (2024)

establishes the sonic palette early
2

"Pipes of Peace" — from Pipes of Peace (1983)

establishes the sonic palette early
3

"Stranglehold" — from Press to Play (1986)

accessible entry with immediate hook
4

"Drive My Car" — from Paul Is Live (1993)

accessible entry with immediate hook
5

"Junk" — from Working Classical (1999)

accessible entry with immediate hook
6

"Coming Up" — from McCartney II (1980)

accessible entry with immediate hook

About Paul McCartney

Paul McCartney's significance transcends his storied career with one of music's most iconic bands; as a solo artist, he has continually reshaped the contours of popular music.

His ability to blend sophisticated melodies with accessible pop sensibilities has made him a touchstone for subsequent generations of artists seeking to balance commercial appeal with artistic integrity. McCartney's willingness to explore various styles and formats—be it through lush orchestration or sparse arrangements—has influenced countless musicians, encouraging them to blur the lines between mainstream and avant-garde. His approach often involves a playful experimentation with sound and structure, embracing both traditional songwriting techniques and innovative production methods. McCartney's knack for crafting catchy hooks is complemented by an adventurous spirit that sees him juxtaposing dissimilar musical elements, allowing for unexpected moments within his compositions. This duality not only redefines expectations but also enhances listener engagement, making each track feel like a fresh exploration. Lyrically, McCartney frequently delves into themes of love, nostalgia, and personal reflection, employing a conversational tone that invites listeners into intimate narratives. His songwriting can oscillate between earnest storytelling and wry observation, threading sincerity through whimsical imagery while exploring the human experience from various angles. The result often feels relatable yet artfully layered.

73 studio albums· 137 total releases· 5 decades· United Kingdom