Wings Recording “With A Little Luck” (11 May 1977, Fair Carol Studio Yacht)

Wings 1977 London Town era – Paul McCartney and Wings recording With A Little Luck aboard the Fair Carol yacht, US Virgin Islands

Recording: With A Little Luck by Wings

Wednesday 11 May 1977 | Recording | Paul McCartney, Wings

Wings continued work on the track “With A Little Luck” during sessions held aboard the recording yacht Fair Carol in the US Virgin Islands on 11 May 1977.

The session took place aboard the Fair Carol, a 105-foot yacht fitted with mobile recording equipment from the Record Plant in New York. The vessel was moored in Francis Bay, St John, providing an unconventional studio environment for the ongoing London Town album sessions.

Production was led by Paul McCartney, with engineering support from Geoff Emerick and Mark Vigars. The project reflected McCartney’s increasing use of mobile and remote recording setups during the mid-to-late 1970s.

The backing track for “With A Little Luck” had already been recorded by Paul and Linda McCartney on 9 May. During this session, McCartney attempted a bass guitar overdub, but was ultimately dissatisfied with the result. The bass part would later be re-recorded on 12 May.

Recording Context

The London Town sessions were notable for their mobile approach, with Wings frequently recording outside traditional studio environments, including ships and remote island locations, reflecting both logistical experimentation and McCartney’s desire for a more relaxed creative atmosphere.

Location: Francis Bay, St John, US Virgin Islands

FAQs

Where was “With A Little Luck” recorded?

It was recorded aboard the yacht Fair Carol in Francis Bay, St John, US Virgin Islands.

Who produced the session?

Paul McCartney produced the recording, with Geoff Emerick and Mark Vigars as engineers.

Was the bass part completed on this day?

No. McCartney attempted the bass overdub but was unhappy with it and re-recorded it the following day.

Why was the studio on a yacht?

Wings were using a mobile recording setup aboard the Fair Carol as part of the experimental London Town sessions.

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