You Gave Me the Answer: Why did Wings embark on their University Tour?

The Wings renaissance continues! Hot off the press, we just revealed the teaser trailer for the upcoming film Man on the Run, which takes viewers on an intimate journey through Paul’s extraordinary life following the break-up of The Beatles and the formation of Wings. With Paul’s new oral history of the period, and the definitive collection music release, WINGS, all arriving in November, we’re delighted that this iconic band is having another moment in the spotlight.

Back in 2022, we marked an important moment in Wings history with the 50th anniversary of their University Tour. It’s become an iconic moment in the story of the band not only because it was it their first set of live dates, but it also had no planned route! Many fans remember being there when Paul McCartney turned up out of the blue asking to play a show and among them was podcast host Lennie Ware, who spoke about her experience when Paul was a guest on the Table Manners podcast in 2021! Listen to the episode here!

So, with all the Wings excitement building again, we reached out to Lennie to see if she would like to ask Paul a question for this month’s ‘You Gave Me the Answer’ Q&A. Let us roll it to you, Lennie!

Lennie asks: In 1972 Wings played the University of Birmingham when I was a student there on the University committee. I remember we were only told about the performance two hours before show time and I have such vivid memories of everyone scrambling round calling their friends. It was such a memorable evening.

Why did you do the University tour and what was your favourite moment of this show?

Paul: We did the shows because we had to find a way to tour without all the usual fuss, so universities were the perfect answer. I don’t think I have a specific favourite moment, I mainly remember the enthusiasm of the kids we played to, which made it so special for us. Fun memories!

What an amazing memory to have – for the band, and for the fans like Lennie who got to experience the thrill of Paul rocking up to play a surprise show and being one of the first to see his new band! A huge thanks to Lennie for sending in the question.

Paul’s new book, Wings: The Story of a Band on the Run, is out on Tuesday 4 November 2025. Pre-order your copy here.

The new album, WINGS – the definitive collection, personally curated by Paul – is out Friday 7 November 2025. Pre-order here.

The film Man on the Run will be released globally on Prime Video in February 2025. Check out the teaser trailer below!

Got a question for Paul? Submit yours via the Paul McCartney Official Fan Group on Facebook.