US album release: Ram by Paul and Linda McCartney

Ram, Paul McCartney’s second post-Beatles album, was released in the United States on 17 May 1971, four days before its UK release.

The only album credited to Paul and Linda McCartney, Ram initially received a mixed critical reception – reviews in Rolling Stone and Playboy were particularly hostile. It was also given lukewarm responses by Paul McCartney’s fellow former Beatles.

It was, however, a commercial success. Ram peaked at number two in the US, held off by Carole King’s Tapestry, although it spent five months in the top 10 and was certified platinum. In the United Kingdom it reached number one.

Additionally, the US single ‘Uncle Albert/Admiral Halsey’ became McCartney’s first post-Beatles number one single.