01 I'm Gonna Sit Right Down And Write Myself A LetterHistory
The album's title comes from the lead track "I'm Gonna Sit Right Down and Write Myself a Letter", originally a hit for Fats Waller in 1935.[1] Said McCartney in the liner notes, "I worked with Diana Krall, and great jazz musicians like John Clayton. This is an album very tender, very intimate. This is an album you listen to at home after work, with a glass of wine or a cup of tea."[4] The disc was helmed by jazz producer Tommy LiPuma who has previously worked with Miles Davis and Barbra Streisand, among others.[5][6]
McCartney said, "For years I've been wanting to do some of the old songs that my parents' generation used to sing at New Year...But we tried to work out a slightly different approach, and used a selection of songs that wouldn't be the obvious ones...that everyone tends to cover." McCartney also said working with LiPuma reminded him of his Beatles days with former producer, George Martin, in that both were knowledgeable and influential veterans in the music industry.
"My Valentine", composed by McCartney, the first song released from the album, features Eric Clapton on guitar. Stevie Wonder plays harmonica on "Only Our Hearts".[7][8] McCartney plays acoustic guitar on "Get Yourself Another Fool" and "The Inch Worm", but otherwise contributes only vocals.[9]
Track listing