All The Number One Hits Paul McCartney Wrote

With numerous chart-topping successes, the Lennon-McCartney collaboration was one of the best songwriting teams in music history. How many of those No. 1 songs, however, were Paul McCartney’s original compositions? Let’s examine some of the iconic Beatles songs that were written by Ser Macca and reached the top of the Billboard charts.

1. Yesterday
With its straightforward yet impactful words, “Yesterday,” one of the most tragic songs ever penned, conveys the anguish of lost love. In a well-known statement, McCartney said that the melody had come to him in a dream and that he hurried to his piano to perform it as soon as he woke up to avoid forgetting. Its string arrangement and unadorned sound made it one of the most covered songs ever.

2. Let It Be
“Let It Be” is one of the few songs that feels so cozy and intimate. Writing this upbeat song as a message of optimism and resiliency, McCartney was inspired by a dream he had about his mother. One of the Beatles’ most cherished songs is this one because of its emotional depth and gospel-like vibe.

3. Can’t Buy Me Love
McCartney made a rock ‘n’ roll classic out of the adage “money can’t buy happiness.” True love is more valuable than money, even though possessing a few Beatles records doesn’t hurt! “Can’t Buy Me Love” became a Beatles favorite thanks to its catchy melody and upbeat beat.

4. Penny Lane
This nostalgic song vividly depicts Liverpool, complete with oddball personalities and recollections of early years. The song becomes an immediate classic due to McCartney’s intricate narration and its vibrant orchestral arrangement. “Penny Lane” serves as a reminder of the Beatles’ inventiveness and enduring appeal.

5. Get Back
“Get Back” encapsulates the Beatles’ unadulterated energy better than any other song. Originally written as a social critique, the song became one of McCartney’s most famous songs. The rooftop performance is still regarded as one of the most iconic events in rock history.

6. Hey Jude
This lovely ballad was written by McCartney to console Julian Lennon following his parents’ divorce. The song was one of the Beatles’ biggest hits, topping the American charts for nine weeks. Because of its upbeat lyrics and catchy chorus, it has become a song of encouragement and hope.

7. The Long and Winding Road
“The Long and Winding Road” is an orchestrally beautiful, deeply emotional song that embodies desire and melancholy. Despite Phil Spector’s contentious production, McCartney’s sincere performance is clearly evident. It is still regarded as one of the Beatles’ most poignant farewell songs.

8. Hello, Goodbye
“Hello, Goodbye” is a prime illustration of the Beatles’ inventive playfulness, as it is based on paradoxes and contrasts. The lively melody and contagious spirit of the song highlight McCartney’s extraordinary songwriting ability. Simple, catchy, and evidence that great music doesn’t always have to be complex, it is.