The Story Behind Paul McCartney’s Iconic Song “Coming Up”

Paul McCartney is a legendary musician whose work spanned decades and inspired countless artists. His song “Coming Up” is one of his most iconic works, a song that is beloved by millions around the world. But what is the story behind this timeless classic?

Table of Contents

The Background

“Coming Up” was released in 1980 as a single from Paul McCartney’s solo album, “McCartney II”. The song was a hit, reaching number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 1 on the UK Singles Chart. It was also Paul McCartney’s first top 10 hit in the US since the breakup of the Beatles.

The Meaning Behind the Song

The lyrics of “Coming Up” are surreal and mysterious, and they leave a lot of room for interpretation. However, many fans and critics have offered their own take on the meaning behind the song.

At its core, “Coming Up” is a song about the power of music to connect people and bring them together. The opening lines of the song set the tone: “You want a love to last forever / One that will never fade away / I want to help you with your problem / Stick around, I say”.

The song goes on to describe the feeling of being lost and disconnected from the world, and how music can help to bridge that gap. “Everybody was a-singin’ / And everybody was a-shoutin’ / La la la la la la la la la”.

The Music and Production

“Coming Up” is a catchy and upbeat song, but what makes it truly unique is its innovative use of technology. Paul McCartney recorded the song at his home studio, using a variety of instruments and synthesizers. He also experimented with a technique called “sound on sound” recording, which involves layering multiple tracks on top of each other to create a fuller sound.

The main riff of the song is played on a six-string bass guitar, which gives it a distinctive and funky sound. The chorus is built around a catchy melody that is easy to sing along to.

The Legacy of “Coming Up”

Over the years, “Coming Up” has become one of Paul McCartney’s most beloved songs. It has been covered by countless artists, including Oasis, Simple Minds, and The Black Crowes. It has also appeared in movies such as “The 40-Year-Old Virgin” and “Clerks II”.

One of the most memorable performances of “Coming Up” was at the Concert for New York City, a benefit concert held in the wake of the September 11th attacks. Paul McCartney played an emotional rendition of the song, which brought tears to the eyes of many in the audience.

The Conclusion

“Coming Up” is a timeless classic that has stood the test of time. Its catchy melody and uplifting lyrics continue to inspire people around the world, and its message about the power of music is just as relevant today as it was in 1980.

For Paul McCartney, “Coming Up” was a defining moment in his career, and it helped to establish him as a solo artist after the breakup of the Beatles. But more than that, it is a testament to the enduring power of music to connect us all, and to bring us together in times of joy and sorrow.