Released as part of McCartney III, “Slidin’” quickly became a fan favorite. This high-energy track blends raw guitar riffs with adrenaline-fueled lyrics. Originally written during the Egypt Station sessions, it found its perfect home on the 2020 album.
The song’s title draws inspiration from the Winter Olympics, reflecting its fast-paced rhythm. Lyrics like “I feel the rush” capture the thrill of movement. Its music video, directed by Jack McCoy, showcases breathtaking surfing scenes while supporting ocean conservation.
What makes this song stand out is its spontaneous creation. The legendary artist embraced studio experimentation, resulting in a gritty, unfiltered sound. Fans of classic McCartney hits will appreciate its rebellious edge.
Key Takeaways
- Featured on the 2020 album McCartney III.
- Written earlier but released later for maximum impact.
- Inspired by the speed and energy of winter sports.
- Music video highlights surfing and environmental advocacy.
- Mixes improvisation with polished studio techniques.
Introduction to Slidin’ by Paul McCartney
Few fans know this track started as a spontaneous riff during a live band rehearsal. In 2016, McCartney and his touring group transformed a Düsseldorf soundcheck into a fiery jam session. The legendary artist often used these moments to test equipment—and ignite new ideas.
Spotify’s Storyline feature reveals thousands of such improvisations logged over the years. Guitarist Rusty Anderson later confirmed the riff resurfaced during Egypt Station sessions. What began as a raw guitar experiment evolved into a polished studio masterpiece.
The song’s journey mirrors McCartney’s creative process: unpredictable yet intentional. By the time it landed on McCartney III, every note carried the energy of that first rehearsal. For the band, it was proof that magic often strikes offstage.
The Creation of Slidin’
A fiery riff born during a routine soundcheck became the backbone of this electrifying track. In May 2016, McCartney’s touring band transformed a Düsseldorf rehearsal into a jam session. These moments weren’t just for tuning instruments—they sparked creative gold.
From Soundcheck to Studio
Engineer Jamie Sicam meticulously logged every improvisation. The guitar riff from that day stood out, later refined during Egypt Station sessions. Rusty Anderson, the band’s lead guitarist, shaped its gritty texture, bridging raw energy with studio precision.
The track’s punchy intro came from a clever drums trick. By recording tom-toms at double speed, the team achieved a deeper, thunderous effect. This technique mirrored McCartney’s philosophy: “Improvisations are instant, then gone.”
The Role of Improvisation
For McCartney, spontaneity fuels creativity. The band’s soundcheck jams often blurred the line between rehearsal and invention. McCartney’s creative process thrives on these unplanned moments, proving magic happens when least expected.
The Recording Process of Slidin’
Vintage gear and modern creativity shaped this explosive recording. At Hog Hill Studio, the team blended analog warmth with digital precision. The iconic Studer J37 tape machine added gritty texture, mirroring the song’s live energy.
Studio Techniques and Innovations
Producer Greg Kurstin helped refine the track’s structure, balancing raw riffs with polished layers. “We wanted it to feel like a live jam, but tighter,” he noted. Drummer Abe Laboriel Jr. recorded tom-toms at double speed for thunderous impact.
COVID-19 lockdowns pushed McCartney to experiment solo. He played most instruments himself, embracing a hands-on approach. The deluxe edition later included the original 4:58 Düsseldorf jam as a bonus track.
Collaborations and Contributions
Guitarist Rusty Anderson’s riffs became the song’s backbone. His partnership with Kurstin ensured every note packed punch. In 2021, Radiohead’s Ed O’Brien reimagined the track for McCartney III Imagined, adding atmospheric textures.
| Studio Gear | Role in Recording |
|---|---|
| Studer J37 Tape Machine | Added analog warmth to guitars |
| Neve Console | Mixed live and studio tracks |
| Pro Tools HD | Edited layered takes |
The result? A track that feels both spontaneous and meticulously crafted. From tape hiss to remixes, every detail honors McCartney’s rebellious spirit.
Thematic Elements of Slidin’
Winter Olympics commentary sparked the song’s central metaphor. Announcers’ use of “sliding” during snowboarding events inspired its title and relentless rhythm. The track channels the same heart-pounding excitement as an athlete racing downhill.
Inspiration from the Winter Olympics
Lines like “I feel the rush” mirror the adrenaline of extreme sports. McCartney transforms Olympic speed into musical momentum, with guitar riffs mimicking sharp turns on a slope. The song’s structure feels like a live broadcast—unpredictable and electrifying.
Lyrics and Meaning
The lyrics balance danger and freedom. “I can fly / But I know that I can die trying” captures the duality of risk. Surfing footage in the video, directed by Jack McCoy, reinforces this theme. Pro surfer Craig Anderson’s stunts mirror the track’s raw energy.
- Environmental advocacy: Partnered with the Surfrider Foundation to highlight ocean conservation.
- Wordplay: Phrases like “windows in my hair” add playful depth to intense themes.
- December 2020 release: Dropped during peak winter sports season, amplifying its thematic resonance.
Slidin’ in Paul McCartney’s Discography
The raw energy of this track carved its unique space in McCartney’s musical journey. As the centerpiece of McCartney III, it became a defining moment in his late-career resurgence. The album debuted at #1 on the UK Charts, proving his enduring appeal.
Placement in McCartney III
This release completed McCartney’s DIY trilogy, following McCartney (1970) and McCartney II (1980). Like those works, it showcased his hands-on approach—writing, recording, and producing alone. Critics noted its heavier edge, drawing comparisons to classic McCartney hits like “Helter Skelter.”
The song’s inclusion was strategic. Its adrenaline-fueled riffs balanced softer moments on the record. Fans loved the deluxe edition’s bonus: the unfiltered 2016 Düsseldorf jam session.
Reception and Legacy
Rolling Stone called it “a thunderous return to rock’s primal energy.” The Grammy nomination for Best Rock Song cemented its critical acclaim. Even decades into his career, McCartney proved he could still push boundaries.
- Chart dominance: McCartney III topped charts in multiple countries.
- Studio innovation: The track’s layered guitars became a masterclass in home recording.
- Fan connection: Live performances often feature extended jam sections, honoring its improvisational roots.
The Lasting Impact of Slidin’
Few tracks blend environmental activism with rock energy as powerfully as this one. Its 2020 release sparked a movement, with proceeds supporting the Surfrider Foundation’s anti-drilling campaigns. The song’s urgency resonated globally, proving music can drive change.
Director Jack McCoy amplified its message through a gripping video. Surfers rode towering waves, mirroring the track’s relentless rhythm. McCoy’s visuals, paired with McCartney’s advocacy, turned the project into a cultural force.
The 2021 EOB remix added new layers. Radiohead’s Ed O’Brien infused ambient textures, creating a haunting contrast to the original’s grit. Critics praised its innovation, cementing the song’s legacy as both a studio experiment and rallying cry.
Though never performed live, fans still clamor for a concert debut. Its place in McCartney’s later work highlights his fearless creativity—a reminder that great art knows no limits.
FAQ
What album is "Slidin’" featured on?
The track appears on McCartney III, released in December 2020. It’s part of his solo project recorded during lockdown.
How was "Slidin’" created?
The song evolved from a spontaneous soundcheck jam. McCartney refined it in the studio, blending raw energy with polished production.
Did anyone collaborate on this track?
While primarily a solo effort, Ed O’Brien (EOB) later contributed a remix. The original version highlights McCartney’s multi-instrumental talent.
What inspired the lyrics?
The Winter Olympics sparked the theme, using “slidin’” as a metaphor for life’s unpredictable moments. The lyrics mix playfulness with deeper reflection.
How was the song received by fans?
Critics praised its gritty guitar riffs and loose vibe, calling it a standout on McCartney III. Fans loved its throwback rock energy.
Are there any official videos for "Slidin’"?
Yes! Jack McCoy directed a surf-themed visualizer, matching the song’s raw, rhythmic flow. It’s available on McCartney’s official channels.
How does it compare to his earlier work?
The track echoes the experimental spirit of his 1970s solo albums while feeling fresh. It bridges his classic and modern styles seamlessly.
