About the song
## Uncle Albert/Admiral Halsey – Paul McCartney (1971)
Paul McCartney’s “Uncle Albert/Admiral Halsey” is a quirky, whimsical track that often flies under the radar amidst his more iconic works. Released in 1971 as the opening track of his self-titled solo album, this song showcases McCartney’s playful and imaginative songwriting, as well as his ability to blend different musical styles seamlessly.
The song’s title itself is a curious juxtaposition of two seemingly unrelated figures: Uncle Albert, a fictional character, and Admiral Halsey, a real-life American naval officer. This pairing sets the tone for a song that is both lighthearted and thought-provoking.
The music begins with a jaunty, upbeat melody, driven by McCartney’s lively piano playing. The arrangement is filled with quirky details, such as the use of a kazoo and the playful interplay between the piano and the bass. The song’s structure is unconventional, with a series of short, catchy sections that flow into one another.
McCartney’s lyrics are equally playful and imaginative. He paints a vivid picture of Uncle Albert, a colorful character who lives in a world of his own. The lyrics are full of humor and wordplay, such as the line “He’s got a duck on his back, and a monkey on his knee.”
The song also includes a brief spoken-word section, featuring a tribute to Admiral Halsey. This unexpected detour adds a touch of historical context to the song and highlights McCartney’s eclectic interests.
“Uncle Albert/Admiral Halsey” is a testament to McCartney’s ability to create music that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. It’s a song that rewards repeated listens, with its catchy melody, quirky arrangements, and imaginative lyrics. While it may not be as well-known as some of McCartney’s other hits, it’s a hidden gem that deserves to be rediscovered.
Video
Lyrics
We’re so sorry, uncle Albert
We’re so sorry if we caused you any pain
We’re so sorry, uncle Albert
But there’s no one left at home
And I believe I’m gonna rain
We’re so sorry, but we haven’t heard a thing all day
We’re so sorry, uncle Albert
But if anything should happen
We’ll be sure to give a ring
We’re so sorry, uncle Albert
But we haven’t done a bloody thing all day
We’re so sorry, uncle Albert
But the kettle’s on the boil
And we’re so easily called away
Hands across the water, water
Heads across the sky
Hands across the water, water
Heads across the sky
Admiral Halsey notified me
He had to have a berth or he couldn’t get to sea
I had another look and I had a cup of tea and butter pie
Butter pie?
The butter wouldn’t melt so I put it in the pie
Hands across the water, water
Heads across the sky
Hands across the water, water
Heads across the sky
Live a little, be a gypsy, get around
(Get around)
Get your feet up off the ground, live a little, get around
Live a little, be a gypsy, get around
(Get around)
Get your feet up off the ground, live a little, get around
Hands across the water, water
Heads across the sky
Hands across the water, water
Heads across the sky