Granny Music from Paul McCartney.

Paul McCartney’s Granny Music

“Granny music” is a term often associated with some of Paul McCartney’s songs from his time with The Beatles and his solo career. This nickname, initially coined by John Lennon, refers to McCartney’s penchant for composing songs with a nostalgic, old-fashioned, or music hall style.

These songs often feature elements reminiscent of British vaudeville and variety show traditions. Furthermore, they are characterized by their melodic structures, light-hearted lyrics, and whimsical nature. So, let us explore some of the wonderful music that Paul McCartney gave us.

Notable Examples of Paul McCartney’s “Granny Music”

1. “When I’m Sixty-Four” (1967)

2. “Your Mother Should Know” (1967)

3. “Honey Pie” (1968)

  • Characteristics: “Honey Pie” is obviously a direct throwback to the 1920s music hall style, complete with jazz-influenced instrumentation and lyrics about a man longing for his movie star lover.
  • Album: The Beatles (The White Album)

4. “Martha My Dear” (1968)

  • Characteristics: “Martha My Dear,” while not purely “granny music,” features a music hall piano style and a whimsical feel, inspired by McCartney’s sheepdog, Martha.
  • Album: The Beatles (The White Album)

5. “Maxwell’s Silver Hammer” (1969)

6. “Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da” (1968)

  • Characteristics: “Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da” is a bouncy, ska-influenced tune that some might categorize as “granny music” due to its catchy, repetitive nature and lighthearted feel.
  • Album: The Beatles (The White Album)

Tell us below: Do you really think this song deserves any form of criticism?

Other Examples of McCartney’s Granny Music

While not altogether obvious, the following songs show similar characteristics:

7. “She’s Leaving Home” (1967)

  • Characteristics: “She’s Leaving Home” is a poignant narrative song with orchestral backing. Indeed, this song is reminiscent of classic ballads and musical storytelling.
  • Album: Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band

8. “Good Day Sunshine” (1966)

  • Characteristics: “Good Day Sunshine” is a bright, cheerful song with a vaudevillian piano style and catchy melody. But would you notice this if we hadn’t told you?
  • Album: Revolver

9. “Yellow Submarine” (1966)

  • Characteristics: Though whimsical and aimed at children, “Yellow Submarine” has a sing-along quality and simple structure that align with McCartney’s “granny music” tendencies.
  • Album: Revolver

10. “Rocky Raccoon” (1968)

  • Characteristics: “Rocky Raccoon” of course, this is a country-influenced song with a storybook-like narrative. We include this song in the Granny Music category because of it incorporating old-timey elements and humorous lyrics.
  • Album: The Beatles (The White Album)

11. “All Together Now” (1969)

John Lennon’s Criticism of Granny Music and Public Perception

John Lennon often criticized McCartney’s “granny music,” preferring more avant-garde and rock-oriented styles. Of course, this criticism highlighted the differing artistic directions within The Beatles, contributing to creative tensions. Despite this, many fans and music historians appreciate these songs for their craftsmanship, charm, and McCartney’s ability to write across diverse genres.

However, despite Lennon’s criticism, McCartney’s forays into “granny music” demonstrate his versatility and deep appreciation for a wide range of musical styles. Indeed, these songs have influenced many artists and remain beloved parts of The Beatles’ catalogue, showcasing McCartney’s talent for melody and his willingness to experiment with different sounds.

No matter what John Lennon says about Paul McCartney’s exploration into more old-fashioned diversity, he still played his part in creating the sound that Macca wanted. Likewise, McCartney helped Lennon achieve his sound. Obviously, they were great musicians who helped each other.

Granny Music Extension After The Beatles

Paul McCartney’s love for music allowed him to perform more “Granny Music” long after The Beatles disbanded. The following songs show how Paul McCartney continued to produce much variety after his time with The Beatles:

Granny Music: Solo Career:

  1. “You Gave Me the Answer” (1975)
    • Characteristics: “You Gave Me the Answer” is a tribute to the music hall era, with a jaunty piano melody and nostalgic lyrics. This song would obviously go on John Lennon’s list of granny music. However, this was about five years after The Beatles disbanded. So, it shows that his criticisms never dissuaded McCartney.
    • Album: Venus and Mars

Take a listen to this song because it would definitely be one that Lennon would not agree with:

  1. “Baby’s Request” (1979)
    • Characteristics: “Baby’s Request” is a smooth, jazzy tune with a 1940s feel, featuring lounge-style instrumentation and vocals.
    • Album: Back to the Egg
  2. “English Tea” (2005)
    • Characteristics: “English Tea” is a quaint, pastoral song with lyrics about English customs, accompanied by gentle acoustic guitar and orchestration.
    • Album: Chaos and Creation in the Backyard
  3. “Dance Tonight” (2007)
    • Characteristics: “Dance Tonight” is a simple, catchy melody with a repetitive structure and a whimsical feel, suitable for a broad audience.
    • Album: Memory Almost Full

Granny Music With Wings:

  1. “Silly Love Songs” (1976)
  2. “Listen to What the Man Said” (1975)
    • Characteristics: “Listen to What the Man Said” is a melodic, upbeat song with a lighthearted feel, blending pop with elements of older musical styles. Although hidden behind the popular tune, would you notice the style?
    • Album: Venus and Mars
  3. “London Town” (1978)
    • Characteristics: “London Town” is a mellow, nostalgic tune with a storytelling aspect, reflective of McCartney’s penchant for evocative lyrics and melodies.
    • Album: London Town

McCartney’s Granny Music: In Summary:

Paul McCartney’s inclination towards “granny music” highlights his love for a wide range of musical traditions, of course. It also shows his ability to infuse contemporary music with classic influences. Furthermore, this aspect of his songwriting adds a unique charm and diversity to his catalogue, balancing more experimental and rock-oriented tracks with these lighter, nostalgic pieces.

Despite some criticism, these songs have remained beloved by many fans for their timeless melodies and heartfelt lyrics. Paul’s “granny music” is an integral part of his musical identity, of course. It further reflects his broad influences and ability to blend nostalgia with contemporary music trends.

Finally, what are your thoughts about Paul McCartney’s old-style music? Also, was Lennon right by publicly knocking this type of music?

Retired Driving Instructor

John is the founder of The Beatles Fan Club, and he has designed websites since 2004. He still operates numerous distinguished websites. John has a strong background in the history of The Beatles, gained through numerous projects. He is passionate about the Fab Four and enjoys helping fans with the knowledge he built up in the early 1960s. John holds qualifications in English, business studies, sociology, and others from various institutions.

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