"McCartney" is the debut solo album by English musician Paul McCartney, released on 17 April 1970. The album was recorded in secrecy, primarily at McCartney's home, amidst the dissolution of his band, The Beatles. It was a significant departure from The Beatles' collaborative approach to song creation, as McCartney wrote all the songs and performed all the instruments on the album. This included drums, guitar, bass, vocals, and even a Mellotron, an early keyboard instrument.
At its release, "McCartney" received mixed reviews from critics but has since been re-evaluated positively. It was widely considered a raw and unpolished piece compared to the polished professionalism of The Beatles work. Notable songs from the album include the tracks 'Maybe I'm Amazed' and 'Every Night'.
As an independent project, "McCartney" marked the definitive start of his solo career, following his departure from The Beatles. The album also signified his experimentation with the lo-fi aesthetic, which he incorporated throughout his later musical projects. As of now, it's seen as a significant, even essential, chapter in his expansive discography. Over time, "McCartney" has gained a reputation as a charming, intimate snapshot of an artist in transition.
