Studio One, Olympic Studios, London
Producer: Glyn Johns
Engineer: Phil Chapman
Wings began recording a studio version of ‘The Mess’, the b-side of the ‘My Love’ single, on 8 March 1972.
Initially known as ‘The Mess I’m In’, ‘The Mess’ emerged from Wings’ first rehearsals at the Scotch of St James club in London on 20 January 1972. It was first performed during Wings’ UK university tour in February 1972.
Wings took numerous takes to try to harness the energy heard in the live versions, and the band remained unhappy with the ‘best’ take. Paul McCartney remained hopeful, and overdubbed piano, organ, and lead vocals.
The studio recording was shelved, however, and side B of the planned double album, as well as the ‘My Love’ single, ended with a live version of ‘The Mess’ recorded at the Congresgebouw in the Hague on 21 August 1972 during the Wings Over Europe Tour.