Usually when we use the phrase "music as memory" here, it's a reference to the way certain songs transport us immediately back to a place and time. We originally coined it in a post that celebrated three amazing records all released on September 24, 2011. (For what it's worth, that's one of the best posts ever committed to electrons on this here blog, and I don't (just) say that because I'm one of the authors.)
Today, though, a new take on music's memorial properties. Last week, Sir Paul McCartney dropped a new single. Entitled, "Days We Left Behind", it's a gauzy look back at the beginning of his musical career.
There's no question that McCartney is one of the giants of the game, and the fact that he's still putting out new music more than 60 years after The Beatles exploded onto the scene is damn well remarkable. The dude is 83! So I'm not one to criticize. Though I do wonder: is this a sweet and melancholy walk down musical memory lane? Or do you find it all a bit maudlin?
I'll hang up and listen.
Posts
