The Beatles were a groundbreaking British rock band formed in Liverpool in 1960. The core members—John Lennon (vocals, guitar), Paul McCartney (vocals, bass), George Harrison (guitar, vocals), and Ringo Starr (drums, vocals)—are often considered one of the most influential bands in the history of popular music.
Their early work, including hits like “Love Me Do” and “She Loves You,” helped popularize the “Beatlemania” phenomenon and established them as leading figures in the British Invasion of the U.S. music scene in the mid-1960s. The Beatles’ music evolved over time, from their early rock and pop sound to more experimental and diverse styles, including psychedelic rock, folk, and classical influences.
1. Something
“Something” is a classic song by The Beatles, written by George Harrison. It was released on their 1969 album *Abbey Road* and has since become one of Harrison’s most celebrated compositions.
The song is renowned for its beautiful melody, expressive lyrics, and Harrison’s poignant guitar work. Its chorus, “Something in the way she moves attracts me like no other lover,” reflects the depth of romantic admiration and affection. The song’s arrangement features lush strings and a memorable guitar solo, adding to its emotional resonance.
“Something” was widely acclaimed and has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Frank Sinatra, who called it one of the greatest love songs ever written. The track showcases Harrison’s growth as a songwriter and his ability to craft deeply moving and timeless music.
2. Hey Jude
“Hey Jude” is a song by The Beatles, released as a single in 1968 and later featured on their “The Beatles” album, commonly known as the “White Album.” Written by Paul McCartney, the song was originally intended to comfort John Lennon’s son, Julian, during his parents’ divorce. It features a soothing, repetitive chorus and an extended coda, creating a sense of catharsis and unity. With its uplifting message and sing-along quality, “Hey Jude” became one of The Beatles’ most popular and enduring songs, topping the charts worldwide and earning acclaim for its emotional depth and McCartney’s heartfelt performance.
3. Let it be
“Let It Be” is one of The Beatles’ most iconic songs, released in 1970 as the title track of their final studio album, *Let It Be*. Written by Paul McCartney, the song is known for its comforting and reflective lyrics, which were inspired by McCartney’s personal experiences and the sense of reassurance he found in his mother’s advice.
The chorus, “Let it be, let it be, let it be, yeah, let it be,” conveys a message of acceptance and tranquility in the face of life’s challenges. The song’s arrangement features a memorable piano melody, with orchestral strings and a gospel-like feel that contribute to its uplifting and soothing quality.
“Let It Be” was released during a tumultuous period for the band and became a symbol of hope and resilience. It reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and has since been covered by numerous artists across various genres. The song’s enduring appeal and simple, profound message have made it one of The Beatles’ most beloved and enduring works.
4. In my life
“In My Life” is a deeply introspective song by The Beatles, written by John Lennon and Paul McCartney. Released in 1965 on their album *Rubber Soul*, the track is celebrated for its reflective lyrics and innovative musical arrangement.
The song features a memorable melody and a distinctive, baroque-style piano solo played by George Martin, which adds a unique texture to the track. The lyrics, “There are places I remember all my life, though some have changed,” evoke a sense of nostalgia and contemplation about life’s journey and the people who have been part of it.
“In My Life” is often praised for its emotional depth and lyrical sincerity. It represents a significant departure from The Beatles’ earlier, more straightforward pop songs, showcasing their evolution as songwriters. The track has been widely covered by various artists and remains one of The Beatles’ most cherished and enduring songs.
5. Strawberry fields forever
“Strawberry Fields Forever” is a song by The Beatles, released as a single in 1967 and featured on the “Magical Mystery Tour” album. Written by John Lennon, the track is known for its surreal lyrics and innovative production, reflecting Lennon’s nostalgic and introspective mood. The song’s title refers to a real place, Strawberry Field, a Salvation Army orphanage near Lennon’s childhood home in Liverpool. With its distinctive psychedelic sound, including layered instrumentation and experimental effects, “Strawberry Fields Forever” is considered one of The Beatles’ most groundbreaking and influential tracks, showcasing their evolution in music and production techniques.
6. Yesterday
“Yesterday” is a classic song by The Beatles, released on their 1965 album *Help!* and later featured on the compilation album *The Beatles’ Greatest*. Written by Paul McCartney, the song is known for its poignant, melancholic melody and introspective lyrics. It reflects on themes of regret and longing for the past. The track stands out for its simplicity, featuring McCartney’s vocals accompanied by a string quartet, a departure from The Beatles’ usual rock sound. “Yesterday” has become one of the most covered and enduring songs in popular music, admired for its emotional depth and McCartney’s heartfelt performance.
7. I want to hold your hand
“I Want to Hold Your Hand” is one of The Beatles’ most iconic early songs, released in 1963 as a single and later included on their album *Meet the Beatles!* The song was written by John Lennon and Paul McCartney and is known for its infectious energy and catchy melody.
The track features upbeat rhythms and harmonized vocals, with the memorable chorus, “I want to hold your hand, I want to hold your hand.” Its straightforward, enthusiastic expression of romantic desire captures the spirit of early 1960s pop and rock.
“I Want to Hold Your Hand” played a significant role in The Beatles’ rise to fame in the United States, helping to spark the “British Invasion” and solidify their place as global superstars. The song topped the Billboard Hot 100 and became one of their most enduring and beloved hits.
8. A day in the life
“A Day in the Life” is the final track on The Beatles’ 1967 album *Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band*. Written by John Lennon and Paul McCartney, the song is known for its ambitious structure and innovative production. It combines two distinct sections: Lennon’s introspective and surreal verses about life and death, and McCartney’s more upbeat and vivid depiction of daily routines. The song culminates in a dramatic, orchestral crescendo followed by a famous final, resonant chord. “A Day in the Life” is celebrated for its artistic complexity, emotional depth, and its role in defining the concept album genre.
9. While my guitar gently weeps
“While My Guitar Gently Weeps” is a poignant and powerful song by The Beatles, written by George Harrison. Released in 1968 on the double album *The White Album*, the track is known for its emotional depth and Harrison’s soulful guitar work.
The song features a melancholic melody and introspective lyrics, with lines like “I look at the floor and I see it needs sweeping, still my guitar gently weeps.” Harrison’s use of a slide guitar solo adds a haunting quality to the track, and the song’s orchestral arrangement enhances its emotional resonance.
“While My Guitar Gently Weeps” is celebrated for its lyrical poignancy and the way it reflects Harrison’s feelings of sadness and disillusionment. It has been widely covered by various artists, and its enduring appeal is a testament to Harrison’s skill as a songwriter and musician. The song remains one of The Beatles’ most beloved and influential tracks.
10. Come together
“Come Together” is the opening track on The Beatles’ 1969 album *Abbey Road*. Written by John Lennon, the song features a distinctive, funky groove and cryptic, stream-of-consciousness lyrics that paint an enigmatic portrait of various characters and scenarios. Its memorable bassline, Lennon’s laid-back vocal delivery, and the song’s overall moody atmosphere contribute to its unique and timeless appeal. “Come Together” is often praised for its innovative sound and has been interpreted in various ways over the years, reflecting The Beatles’ experimentation and growth during their later years.