Let 'Em In - Wings (1976) 12/5/22

I'll start today straight off by saying that many people consider "Let 'Em In" by Paul McCartney and Wings (from the 1976 album "Wings at the Speed of Sound" a piece of fluff...and not even CLOSE to a "Great Song."

I beg to differ, and I'll present my case.

First of all, the instrumentation in the song is eclectic to the point of fascinating. It begins with a vibraphone impersonating a doorbell, and before it's over, flutes, trombones, and a marching snare drum are mixed in. Somehow Paul makes it all work...with one final surprise: it fades out at the end, only to come back with a definitive two note "stinger" to close things off. The fact that he even THOUGHT it would all work--and proved it--is a testament to is songwriting prowess.

But now, let's look at the litany of names he tosses out during the song. Some of them are easy to figure out. Other s are not. And others are not who you think they are.

Here's the list In order:

Sister Susie. This is actually Linda McCartney, whose nickname was "Susie," especially after she recorded a song under the name of "Susie & The Red Stripes."

Brother John. This is NOT John Lennon. This is Linda's brother John Eastman.

Martin Luther: It may surprise you, but it's not the founder of Lutheranism, nor is it Martin Luther King, Jr. It's a snarky nickname that Paul, George and Ringo had for John Lennon! (He was always protesting something.)

Brother Michael: Paul's Brother, the singer professionally known as Mike McGear.

Phil & Don: The Everly Brothers

Uncle Ernie: Paul's good friend Keith Moon, original drummer for The Who. Keith played "Uncle Ernie" in the movie version of The Who's rock opera "Tommy." (Note: Ringo has also played Uncle Ernie, but this was a definite shout out to Keith).

Auntie Gin: Paul's real life Aunt.

IMHO, When you know all this information, it just makes "Let 'Em In" even more fun to listen to.

Finally, let's look at chart positions--which, admittedly, are not always the be-all and end all arguments for greatness. But consider this: "Let 'Em In" went to #1 on the Adult Contemporary Charts in both the US and Canada, and #3 in both countries on the Top 40. It also reached #2 in the UK and Ireland.

Okay, I think I've made made a case for "Greatness," but maybe you(still) disagree. Nonetheless, I'm calling "Let 'Em In" by Paul McCartney & Wings a "Great Song of 1976! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=re61B8sKQWk