About the Song
On the Wings of a Nightingale is a beautiful pop ballad written by Paul McCartney and recorded by the Everly Brothers in 1984 for their album EB 84, produced by Dave Edmunds. McCartney, known for his generosity with his musical talents, had long admired the Everly Brothers’ harmonies, and this song marked a gift in return for their influence on his early career.
The Everly Brothers had an indelible impact on The Beatles, particularly in their harmonies. McCartney famously drew inspiration from their sound when writing songs like Please Please Me, and their influence was evident in early Beatles hits. In a sense, On the Wings of a Nightingale was a way for McCartney to repay an old debt by helping the Everlys make a slight comeback in the 1980s, showcasing his talent for writing songs that fit perfectly within another artist’s style.
The song is a masterclass in pop songwriting. From the catchy opening to the elegant conclusion, McCartney channels the essence of the Everlys, creating a piece that could easily belong in their catalog. His ability to craft songs in the voice of other artists is one of McCartney’s rare gifts, and On the Wings of a Nightingale is no exception.
The track was specifically designed to highlight the Everly Brothers’ signature vocal harmonies, much like how With a Little Help From My Friends was crafted to suit Ringo Starr’s vocal range. The Everly Brothers’ energetic rendition of the song reflects both McCartney’s thoughtful songwriting and the influence of producer Dave Edmunds. This collaboration stands as a testament to the Everlys’ enduring talent and McCartney’s deep respect for their contributions to music.
Lyrics
When I love
I get a feeling like I’m travelling through the sky
On the wings of a nightingale
As I ride
My head is reeling but I don’t even wonder why
On the wings of a nightingale I’ll fly
High above land and sea
I’ll be thinking of you and me
Couldn’t ask for a better place to be
Oh, I can feel something happening
Oh, I can feel something happening
Oh, I can feel something happening to me
So hold my hand
I got a feeling that the journey has just begun
On the wings of a nightingale
And if you like
we’ll fly together to the land of eternal sun
On the wings of a nightingale of love
High above land and sea
I’ll be thinking of you and me
Couldn’t ask for a better place to be
Oh, I can feel something happening
Oh, I can feel something happening
Oh, I can feel something happening to me
When I love
I get a feeling like I’m travelling through the sky
On the wings of a nightingale
On the wings of a nightingale
On the wings of a nightingale fly
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