McCartney Talks Lyrics

Legendary songwriter Sir Paul McCartney has been busy discussing his new album 'Electric Arguments', and in a new interview has named the Beat Generation writers as an inspiration.

Former Beatle McCartney released the new album from his project The Fireman last year. Joined by long time collaborator Youth, the pair set about deconstructing McCartney's legacy, leaving behind an intriguing proposition that sits alongside the best of McCartney's solo years.

In a new interview with Rolling Stone McCartney claims that Beat Generation writers such as William Burroughs and Allen Ginsberg inspired his lyrical approach. "We had a ball making this album, and it was a great departure because it seemed more like improv theater" he claimed.

"In the improv spirit, there are William Burroughs-type cut-ups in the lyrics. I came to "Sing the Changes," as well as all the other songs in the album, with absolutely no concept of what the melody or lyrics would be about. So it was like writing on the spot, which I think lent an electricity to the whole sound."

Continuing McCartney said "it's kind of what happens when you write a song... but on speed. You've just got to think of the idea there and then: "First thought, best thought," as Allen Ginsberg said."

ClashMusic could be wrong, but we actually think it was Jack Kerouac who coined that phrase. But whatever, good to hear from you Macca - keep in touch!