Recording ‘Seaside Woman’ by Suzy And The Red Stripes – 21 March 1972

Recording 'Seaside Woman' by Suzy And The Red Stripes – Olympic Studios, 21 March 1972

Tuesday 21 March 1972 | Paul McCartney, Studio, Wings

On 21 March 1972, Wings completed the recording of 'Seaside Woman', a song written by Linda McCartney, during a session at Studio One, Olympic Studios in London. The session was produced by Glyn Johns and engineered by Phil Chapman.

Although recorded in 1972, the song would not be released until 1977, when it appeared under the pseudonym Suzy And The Red Stripes.

Linda McCartney's First Song

'Seaside Woman' holds particular significance as it is widely regarded as the first song written by Linda McCartney. The track was inspired by her experiences and enjoyment of Caribbean life, reflecting a relaxed, rhythmic style distinct from much of Wings' early material.

The song later gained further recognition when it was adapted into an animated short film, created by Linda McCartney and artist Oscar Grillo, which went on to win the prestigious Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival.

The Legal Context

The recording of 'Seaside Woman' was partly driven by a legal dispute involving Northern Songs and Maclen Music, who had challenged the songwriting credit given to Linda McCartney on 'Another Day'.

By recording a professionally produced version of Linda's composition, Paul McCartney aimed to demonstrate her genuine songwriting ability, strengthening their legal position.

Recording at Olympic Studios

Prior to this session, Wings had recorded a demo of 'Seaside Woman' at Rude Studio in Scotland. However, McCartney felt that a more polished studio recording was required.

During the 21 March 1972 session at Olympic Studios, the song was refined and developed further:

  • A new introduction was added
  • Guitar parts were reworked
  • Keyboard arrangements were adjusted

By the end of the session, a rough mix had been completed and prepared for submission to the McCartneys' legal team.

Release as Suzy And The Red Stripes

Despite being recorded in 1972, 'Seaside Woman' remained unreleased for several years. When it finally appeared in 1977, it was issued under the name Suzy And The Red Stripes, rather than Wings.

The release added an intriguing footnote to the McCartneys' catalogue, highlighting both Linda's emerging role as a songwriter and the unusual circumstances surrounding the track's creation.

Wings in Early 1972

The session took place during a formative period for Wings. Having recently completed their university tour across the UK, the band were developing their sound and identity through a combination of live performances and studio work.

Sessions like this one demonstrated Paul McCartney's determination to establish Wings as a fully functioning band while also supporting Linda's growing creative involvement.

Location

Olympic Studios – Studio One
117 Church Road
Barnes
London
England

The studio where Wings completed recording 'Seaside Woman' on 21 March 1972.

FAQs

Who wrote 'Seaside Woman'?

The song was written by Linda McCartney and is considered her first composition.

Why was 'Seaside Woman' recorded?

The recording helped demonstrate Linda McCartney's songwriting ability during a legal dispute over her credit on 'Another Day'.

When was 'Seaside Woman' released?

The track was released in 1977 under the name Suzy And The Red Stripes.

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