by Scott Ashley
Paul McCartney is currently the most successful songwriter of all time; he holds the record of 32 songs that hit #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 Charts. His #1 hits came from his time with the Beatles, Wings, collaboration with Michael Jackson (“Say, Say, Say”) and as a solo artist.
In the vast realm of Pop music, few names shine as brightly as Paul McCartney. As a founding member of The Beatles, Wings, prolific solo artist and Classical composer, McCartney's influence on the world of songwriting is immeasurable. In this article, we'll delve into the songwriting secrets that have made him one of the most successful and enduring figures in the history of music.
Melodic Mastery Gift
One of Paul McCartney's signature strengths lies in his ability to craft unforgettable melodies. Paul says that his usual method is to “sit down with a guitar or at the piano and just look for melodies, chord shapes, musical phrases, some words, a thought just to get started with.”
His innate sense of melody has been the cornerstone of numerous timeless hits. Songs like "Yesterday," "Hey Jude," and "Let It Be" showcase his knack for creating melodies that resonate deeply with listeners. Aspiring songwriters can learn from McCartney's emphasis on crafting memorable and singable tunes that stand the test of time.
Emotional Connection
McCartney's songs have an uncanny ability to evoke strong emotions. Whether it's the melancholy of "Yesterday" or the uplifting spirit of "Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da," McCartney knows how to connect with his audience on a visceral level. Aspiring songwriters can take note of his skill in tapping into universal emotions and crafting lyrics that resonate with a wide audience.
Diverse Songwriting Styles
Paul McCartney's versatility is evident in the diverse range of musical styles he has explored throughout his career. From Pop to the rock 'n' roll energy of early Beatles hits to the Classical, experimental and orchestral arrangements in later works, McCartney has fearlessly ventured into various genres. Songwriters can draw inspiration from his willingness to push boundaries and explore new musical territories.
Collaborative Genius
While McCartney is celebrated as a solo artist, his collaborative work with John Lennon is legendary. The dynamic synergy between the two songwriting powerhouses produced some of the greatest songs in the history of popular music. Aspiring songwriters can learn from McCartney's collaborative spirit, emphasizing the importance of working with others to bring out the best in their creative endeavors.
Timeless Storytelling
At the core of McCartney's songwriting lies a gift for storytelling. McCartney's lyrics use verbal imagery to tap into our innermost thoughts, desires and fears. His ability to craft narratives within the confines of a three-minute song is unparalleled. Songwriters can take inspiration from McCartney's storytelling prowess, using vivid imagery and relatable themes to create narratives that captivate and resonate with listeners.
Conclusion
Paul McCartney's songwriting secrets are not just lessons in songwriting; they are a masterclass in the art of creating enduring and impactful songs. Aspiring songwriters can glean valuable insights from McCartney's melodic mastery, emotional connection, diverse styles, collaborative spirit, and timeless storytelling. By studying the genius of this legendary songwriter, one can embark on a journey to refine their craft and leave an indelible mark on the world of music.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Scott Ashley is a songwriter and graduate of the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston. He is a voting member of the Recording Academy (National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences). He is currently working as the Artist Relations director with the USA Songwriting Competition and IAMA (International Acoustic Music Awards). His book "How to Write Better Songs" hit #1 on the Amazon Best Seller Books Charts last year. Click here to purchase Scott Ashley's book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B5PLFGKX
For information on the 29th Annual USA Songwriting Competition, go to: https://www.songwriting.net
