The First Beatles Solo Records I Puzzled Over: McCartney, Ram, and All Things Must Pass

In the early days of my Beatles fandom, I was eagerly waiting for the release of my favorite band's solo records. These personal favorites, 'McCartney' and 'Ram', have remained a significant part of my musical journey.

McCartney - The Cherries Album

My journey with the Beatles' solo records began in 1970 when I purchased the album 'McCartney', also known as the "cherries" album. The term "cherries" is a fan-named moniker for the album due to the deep cherry red color of the album's cover. This record introduced me to the more experimental side of Paul McCartney, showcasing his solo capabilities and the production skills of George Martin.

Ram - A Savings of 3 Weeks

My next significant purchase in 1971 was 'Ram'. At the time, I was a sophomore at University High School in Los Angeles. I had managed to save up my lunch money for three weeks to afford this album. 'Ram' marked a turning point in the band's solo record releases, with Paul McCartney transitioning from the studio-recorded 'McCartney' to a more live, improvised, and unpolished sound. This album reflects his creative experimentation and the influence of his musical partners at the time.

All Things Must Pass - Christmas 1970

For Christmas that same year, 1970, I received 'All Things Must Pass' as a cherished gift. Although it was too expensive for me to buy, the album had a significant impact on my perception of Paul McCartney as a songwriter. 'All Things Must Pass' is not only a popular Beatles record but also a landmark solo project, featuring contributions from George Harrison and Ringo Starr, along with a collaborative production by George Martin. It was a period of rich musical creativity that marked a new era in Beatles history.

The 2000s: Rebuying CDs and New Remastered Versions

The 2000s brought a revival of my interest in collecting Beatles records, particularly their solo work. I started rebuying all the Beatles records on CD. This was a significant move, as the CDs offered improved sound quality and the ability to explore remastered and remixed versions, often masterminded by Giles Martin, son of George Martin. This continued my obsession with the perfect sound and every nuance of the Beatles' music.

1972 or 1973 - Live and Let Die by Paul McCartney and Wings

During that same period, around 1972 or 1973, when I was 11 or 12 years old, I purchased 'Live and Let Die' from Paul McCartney and Wings. This iconic album, produced by Phil Spector and featuring David_messages, was a product of McCartney's collaboration with his band Wings and the dramatic Spector production that was characteristic of the time. 'Live and Let Die' was another crucial addition to McCartney's solo catalog, blending catchy hooks, strong lyrics, and a distinctive production style that set it apart from his other albums.

The exploration of the Beatles' solo work was a journey that enriched my understanding of each member's musical abilities and solo career trajectories. These records played a crucial role in shaping my musical taste and, in many ways, my personal identity as a music lover.