Paul McCartney Announces New Book Recounting Wings Era

Paul McCartney has announced the upcoming release of his new book, Wings: The Story of a Band on the Run, slated for publication on November 4, 2025. With his then-wife Linda McCartney and guitarist Denny Laine, Wings became a significant part of McCartney's musical journey post-Beatles, achieving considerable success before disbanding in 1981. The book is an oral history, collated from hours of interviews with McCartney and other key figures from the band, meticulously edited by historian Ted Widmer.

The narrative captures the band's formation, their creative processes, and their evolution through various line-ups. Renowned for hits such as “Band on the Run,” “Jet,” and “Live and Let Die,” Wings left a substantial legacy. The book includes over 100 photographs, many of which have never been publicly shared, further enriching the visual storytelling of this era.

McCartney reflects on the transition from The Beatles to Wings as a mix of challenges and triumphs. He describes the beginning as a daunting task, filled with moments of self-doubt. However, over time, as Wings gained prowess and recognition, McCartney saw the band’s potential and success parallel to his work with The Beatles. This reflective journey is set to be the crux of the book, highlighting both McCartney's personal and professional growth during this period.

The book is part of a broader celebration of Wings and McCartney’s enduring legacy. Concurrently, there are reissues and retrospectives, such as the 50th anniversary edition of “Venus and Mars” and a theatrical release of the film “One Hand Clapping,” amplifying the legacy of Wings. This compendium aims to contextualize McCartney’s post-Beatles achievements, bridging historical narratives with personal stories and musical innovation.

Throughout his career, McCartney has continued to be a prolific artist. Beyond this new book, he has hinted at working on a new solo album, promising to continue contributing to the musical landscape. His recent performances, such as a headline set at Glastonbury, further underscore his lasting influence and relevance in the music industry.