The Beatles were a groundbreaking British rock band formed in Liverpool in 1960, consisting of John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr. They are widely regarded as one of the most influential and successful musical acts of all time. Their innovative approach to music and recording transformed popular music and culture.
The Beatles’ discography includes a series of iconic albums such as *Please Please Me* (1963), *A Hard Day’s Night* (1964), *Rubber Soul* (1965), *Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band* (1967), *The White Album* (1968), and *Abbey Road* (1969). Their music spans a range of genres, from rock and pop to experimental and psychedelic sounds.
Key to their success was their songwriting partnership of Lennon and McCartney, who crafted many of the band’s most enduring songs. The Beatles’ influence extends beyond their music to their impact on fashion, film, and social movements. Their innovative studio techniques, combined with their charismatic performances and profound lyrical content, have left a lasting legacy in music history.
1. Something
“Something” is a song by The Beatles, written by George Harrison and featured on their 1969 album *Abbey Road*. It’s one of Harrison’s most acclaimed compositions and is known for its beautiful melody and heartfelt lyrics. The song is a love ballad that expresses admiration and deep affection, with its lyrics focusing on the enigmatic qualities of the beloved.
The arrangement features a prominent guitar solo by Harrison, and the orchestral strings, arranged by George Martin, add a lush, romantic quality to the track. “Something” is widely praised for its emotional depth and musical craftsmanship and has been covered by many artists over the years. It remains one of The Beatles’ standout love songs and is celebrated for its timeless appeal and lyrical simplicity.
2. Hey Jude
“Hey Jude” is a classic song by The Beatles, released in 1968 as a single. Written by Paul McCartney and credited to the songwriting partnership of McCartney-Lennon, the song was initially composed to comfort John Lennon’s son, Julian, during his parents’ divorce. It was originally titled “Hey Jules,” but McCartney changed it to “Hey Jude.”
The song is known for its uplifting and encouraging lyrics, with a chorus that builds to a powerful and extended sing-along section. The lyrics, “Na-na-na-na-na-na-na-na-na” create a sense of collective participation and emotional release. Its arrangement features a gradual build-up, culminating in a lengthy, rousing coda.
“Hey Jude” became one of The Beatles’ most successful singles, reaching number one on the charts in multiple countries and becoming one of their most beloved and enduring songs.
3. Let it be
“Let It Be” is one of The Beatles’ most iconic songs, released in 1970 as both a single and the title track of their final studio album. Written by Paul McCartney and credited to the McCartney-Lennon songwriting partnership, the song was inspired by McCartney’s reflections on his mother’s comforting words during a time of personal uncertainty and the band’s internal strife.
The lyrics, “When I find myself in times of trouble / Mother Mary comes to me / Speaking words of wisdom, let it be,” offer a message of solace and acceptance. The song features a simple, yet profound piano melody and a lush orchestral arrangement, giving it a timeless quality.
“Let It Be” was released as The Beatles were preparing to disband and became a symbol of their legacy, resonating with listeners for its message of peace and resilience. The song achieved widespread acclaim and remains one of The Beatles’ most celebrated and enduring works.
4. In my life
“In My Life” is a song by The Beatles, released in 1965 on their album *Rubber Soul*. Written primarily by John Lennon and Paul McCartney, the song is a reflective and nostalgic piece that looks back on past experiences and relationships.
The lyrics, “There are places I remember / All my life, though some have changed,” convey a sense of longing and appreciation for the people and places that have shaped one’s life. The song features a memorable piano melody, played by George Martin, and includes a distinctive baroque-style solo that adds to its reflective mood.
“In My Life” is often praised for its lyrical depth and emotional resonance, marking a significant step in The Beatles’ evolution as songwriters. It has been widely covered and remains a beloved track in The Beatles’ catalog for its poignant and introspective qualities.
5. Strawberry fields forever
“Strawberry Fields Forever” is a 1967 single by The Beatles, written by John Lennon and credited to the Lennon-McCartney songwriting partnership. It was released as a double A-side with “Penny Lane.” The song is a quintessential example of the band’s exploration of psychedelic and experimental music during the late 1960s.
Inspired by Lennon’s childhood memories of a Salvation Army children’s home called Strawberry Field, the song features a dreamlike, surreal quality with its innovative production and orchestration. The track includes complex arrangements, including a mix of traditional rock instruments and unconventional ones like the Mellotron, which gives the song its distinctive sound.
The lyrics are often interpreted as reflecting Lennon’s introspective thoughts and feelings of nostalgia and escapism. “Strawberry Fields Forever” is renowned for its creativity and originality and is considered one of The Beatles’ most influential and groundbreaking songs.
6. Yesterday
“Yesterday” is one of The Beatles’ most iconic and enduring songs, released in 1965 on their album *Help!*. Written by Paul McCartney and credited to the McCartney-Lennon songwriting partnership, the song is known for its melancholic and reflective tone.
The lyrics, “Yesterday, love was such an easy game to play / Now I need a place to hide away,” express a deep sense of regret and longing for the past. The song features a simple yet poignant acoustic arrangement, accompanied by a string quartet, which adds to its emotional impact.
“Yesterday” is celebrated for its timeless melody and heartfelt lyrics, and it has become one of the most covered songs in the history of recorded music. Its universal themes of loss and nostalgia resonate with listeners around the world, cementing its place as a classic in The Beatles’ catalog.
7. I want to hold your hand
“I Want to Hold Your Hand” is a 1963 single by The Beatles, written by John Lennon and Paul McCartney. It was released as the lead single from their first compilation album, *The Beatles’ Second Album*. The song marks a significant moment in The Beatles’ career as it was their first major hit in the United States, helping to ignite the “Beatlemania” phenomenon.
The track features a catchy, upbeat melody and simple, yet infectious lyrics expressing the excitement and eagerness of a new romantic relationship. The song’s energetic rhythm and enthusiastic vocals helped to establish The Beatles as a major force in popular music. “I Want to Hold Your Hand” became a massive hit worldwide, reaching number one on the charts in both the UK and the US. Its success was a key moment in the band’s rise to global fame and is celebrated for its contribution to the early Beatles sound and their impact on the music industry.
8. A day in the life
“A Day in the Life” is the final track on The Beatles’ groundbreaking 1967 album *Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band*. Written by John Lennon and Paul McCartney, the song is renowned for its complex structure, innovative production, and poignant lyrics.
The song is divided into two distinct sections: Lennon’s introspective and surreal verses, which reflect on a newspaper article about a tragic event, and McCartney’s vibrant and upbeat middle section, depicting a mundane yet lively daily routine. The track concludes with a dramatic crescendo of sound that fades into a long, resonant chord.
The lyrics, such as “He blew his mind out in a car,” offer a snapshot of contemporary life and reflect on themes of life, death, and the passage of time. “A Day in the Life” is celebrated for its orchestral arrangement, experimental production techniques, and its ambitious synthesis of different musical styles. It is widely regarded as one of The Beatles’ most artistic and influential works.
9. While my guitar gently weeps
“While My Guitar Gently Weeps” is a poignant song by The Beatles, released in 1968 on their self-titled album, commonly known as the *White Album*. Written by George Harrison, the song reflects his deep feelings of sorrow and frustration about the state of the world and the lack of love and understanding among people.
The lyrics, “I look at the floor and I see it needs sweeping / Still my guitar gently weeps,” convey a sense of melancholy and introspection. The song features Harrison’s emotive lead guitar work, including a distinctive solo performed by Eric Clapton, who was brought in to contribute to the track.
“While My Guitar Gently Weeps” is notable for its rich, emotional depth and its blend of acoustic and electric elements. The song has been praised for its lyrical poignancy and Harrison’s expressive guitar playing, making it one of the standout tracks on the *White Album* and a significant contribution to The Beatles’ catalog.
10. Come together
“Come Together” is a 1969 song by The Beatles, written by John Lennon and credited to the Lennon-McCartney partnership. It is the opening track on their album *Abbey Road*. The song features a distinctive groove and a blend of rock, blues, and funk influences, showcasing a more experimental and eclectic side of The Beatles.
The lyrics of “Come Together” are known for their abstract, surreal imagery, and they have been subject to various interpretations. The song’s verses are characterized by Lennon’s laid-back, almost spoken vocal delivery and a memorable bassline. The track also features distinctive instrumentation, including a prominent drum beat by Ringo Starr and a unique keyboard part played by Paul McCartney.
“Come Together” is celebrated for its innovative production and its role in defining the final phase of The Beatles’ musical evolution. It remains one of their most iconic and influential songs, demonstrating their ability to push the boundaries of popular music.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
