Fans of the legendary songwriter Paul McCartney appear to have found his “worst collection of lyrics”.
The Beatles and Wings member has released hundreds of songs across his decades-spanning career and, while he’s responsible for the likes of Ram, Chaos and Creation in the Backyard, and Band on the Run, it appears Sir Paul has more than a few clangers under his belt. That’s what fans think anyway, as they pinpoint the one album that stands out for all the wrong reasons.
The 1980s was a difficult time for McCartney and his music. Despite returning to the stage for a Live Aid concert appearance and collaborating with the likes of Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, and Beatles producer George Martin, his lyrics and instrumental style were a touch too pop-oriented for many fans. Those who listened in to his ’80s efforts took to the r/PaulMcCartney subreddit and shared their thoughts on what proved to be a poor period for his music.
While some said that Pipes of Peace, the album McCartney followed up Tug of War with, is an “underrated” part of his discography, others were less convinced. The original poster shared: “Pipes of Peace is so underrated, it’s such a fun and poppy affair even if it isn’t particularly heavy-hitting.
“It feels like Paul is really digging his teeth into that 80’s texture while still integrating with his previous style, I think it’s wonderful. It does lack that one masterpiece of a track that all of Paul’s best work seems to have (e.g. Maybe I’m Amazed on McCartney or Here Today on Tug Of War), but what’s there is still really fun.
“Side One might be one of my favourite sides of any solo Paul work but that’s a very strong might. Keep Under Cover and Average Person are very entertaining songs and definitely my personal favourite songs. I think the Michael Jackson collaborations are Paul’s best solo collabs from the early 80’s, maybe ever, and Say Say Say is easily the best of the lot. This album isn’t a masterpiece or anything (it’s definitely overshadowed by Tug Of War) but I never fail to have a fun time listening to it and I can’t help but appreciate that.”
One fan seemed to agree that Tug of War outshines Pipes of Peace, but added that the reason for this is the Jackson-featuring album is a collection of “scraps” from the previous studio sessions. They wrote: “One of my least favourites of his. Tug of War scraps and probably his worst collection of lyrics ever. Especially disappointing following the great Tug of War album. This started his 80s wilderness period.”
Another fan replied, adding: “Totally agree! I couldn’t wait to hear this album after loving Tug of War – major disappointment!” A third shared: “I’m a big Macca fan and in general love anything he puts out. However, this album didn’t strike a chord with me. I’ll have to give it another listen, haven’t heard it in decades!”
Some also believe that Pipes of Peace has just one good song and that it’s hardly enough to pull together a coherent listening experience. The fan wrote: “I wish I could agree, but Keep Under Cover is really the only song on this album I come back to. It has that great Wings sound combined with George Martin’s production style. The MJ songs do nothing for me. Glad you enjoy the whole album though!”
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