Beatles News
No musical artist exists in a vacuum. They’ve all been influenced at one point or another by someone else’s work, and those influences then get filtered into the music that they make. If they’re good enough, they might influence somebody else, further perpetuating the cycle. What’s fascinating about The Beatles and The Beach Boys is that you can point to the exact moments and songs that came from their mutual appreciation. Without them pushing each other, who knows how much amazing music we might have missed?
Parallel Brilliance
The early Beach Boys sound was very much an amalgamation of Brian Wilson’s most powerful influences. Intricate vocal harmonies a la the Four Freshmen, the peppery rock grooves of Chuck Berry, and the ornate productions of Phil Spector combined into a heady stew.
The Beatles shared the Chuck Berry influence, although they also owed a lot to Motown-style R&B as well as Buddy Holly. Their vocal harmonies were more influenced by The Everly Brothers.
The two bands quickly gained a healthy respect for each other. They also (sort of) shared an employee. Derek Taylor first worked as a publicist for The Beatles before moving to America and doing work for The Beach Boys. As a result, it wasn’t uncommon for Brian Wilson to get an early listen to the songwriting of John Lennon and Paul McCartney, and vice versa.
One Song Leads to Another
1965 proved to be a catalytic year in terms of the bands influencing each other. On the 1965 Beach Boys’ album Summer Days (And Summer Nights!!), Wilson included a song called “Girl Don’t Tell Me”, which he thought the Fab Four might record. That same year, The Beatles released Rubber Soul. Wilson marveled at how every song stood on its own and rose way above filler level.
He determined that The Beach Boys should try something similar. Pet Sounds was the result. Released in May 1966, the album found Wilson writing with new levels of musical sophistication. Meanwhile, the lyrics, mostly penned by Tony Asher, left behind the teenage stuff upon which The Beach Boys had previously focused.
In poker terms, Pet Sounds called the brilliance of Rubber Soul and raised it. The Beatles rose to the challenge with their 1966 album Revolver, which arrived two months after that Beach Boys’ masterpiece. Included on the record was “Here, There, And Everywhere”, a song where Paul McCartney admittedly tried to recapture the vibes of Pet Sounds classics like “God Only Knows”
Source: americansongwriter.com/Jim Beviglia
John Lennon was never one to mince his words, and he certainly didn't hold back when it came to his feelings about The Beatles' professional rivals, The Rolling Stones
Once The Beatles achieved mainstream success, the majority of the music industry started attempting to copy them in some form or another.
Being the main songwriters for the Fab Four, John Lennon and Paul McCartney were contacted by numerous bands seeking assistance in creating chart-topping hits throughout the years.
However, Lennon observed that their professional competitors, The Rolling Stones, were attempting to match their success more than any other group. Eventually, he confronted the band's lead singer, Mick Jagger, for copying their material. Lennon told Rolling Stone magazine: "I would like to just list what we did and what the Stones did two months after on every f------ album.", reports the Express.
Lennon went on to add: "Every f------ thing we did, Mick does exactly the same - he imitates us." The Imagine vocalist wasn't the only Beatles member to recognize the obvious parallels between the two groups.
George Harrison once remarked: "Mick Jagger was also there. He was always lurking around in the background, trying to find out what was happening. Mick never wanted to miss out on what the Fabs were doing."
It's understandable why Jagger wanted to monitor The Beatles closely, particularly after they had assisted The Rolling Stones in discovering a new type of success.
During the early 1960s, Jagger became familiar with the Fab Four and ultimately received a major song from them: I Wanna Be Your Man. "We knew [the Beatles] by then," Jagger recalled.
"And we were rehearsing and Andrew brought Paul and John down to the rehearsal. They said they had this tune, they were really hustlers then. I mean, the way they used to hustle tunes was great."
Lennon and McCartney approached the frontman saying: "Hey Mick, we've got this great song."
Source: irishstar.com/Callum Crumlish, Hollie Beale
“I feel so privileged to have been on this planet when the Beatles were born,” says Ozzy Osbourne. “They are and will forever be the greatest band in the world. I remember talking to Steve Jones of the Sex Pistols. He said, ‘I didn’t like the Beatles.’ I said, ‘There is something fucking wrong with you.”
1. “She Loves You” (1963)
This is the one that sucked me in. I was a 14-year-old kid with this blue transistor radio. I heard “She Loves You,” and it floored me. It was as if you knew all the colors in the world. Then someone shows you a brand-new color, and you go, “Fuckin’ hell, man.”
2. “I Want to Hold Your Hand” (1963)
3. “I Am the Walrus” (1967)
Lennon and McCartney were like sweet and sour. Paul would be the guy who said, “It’s getting better all the time.” John would say, “It couldn’t get much worse.” I loved Lennon’s plays on words. I love any song where you can go, “I don’t know what that means,” but you understand it anyway.
4. “A Day in My Life” (1967)
5. “Hey Jude” (1968)
6. “Help!” (1965)
When I hear this, I hear Lennon thinking, “You can’t get bigger than big.” But they did. They got beyond massive. And he just goes, “Help!” because they don’t know what they’ve done. They only know how they did it.
7. “Eleanor Rigby” (1966)
“Eleanor Rigby” is fucking phenomenal. I don’t know why. I just know that every time I heard something from the Beatles, it made me feel better that day.
8. “Something (1969)
Black Sabbath were doing a residency in a bar in Zurich. It was winter, and we were driving in the van to get home for Christmas. We were homesick and had no money, one cigarette between the four of us. This song reminds me of that time, because we kept hearing it as we were going over the Alps.
Source: rollingstone.com
When you’re the child of a global icon, it’s easy for the world to expect you to follow in famous footsteps. But Beatrice Milly McCartney, daughter of Sir Paul McCartney and Heather Mills, has charted her own course—one that’s refreshingly private and grounded. Let’s dig into what makes the story so unique, background, interests, and how she’s handled life in the shadow of The Beatles’ legacy.
A Star-Studded Beginning, Away from the Spotlight
Beatrice Milly McCartney was born on October 28, 2003, in London, England. From day one, life was touched by fame thanks to her father, Sir Paul McCartney.
With a net worth estimated at $1.2 billion, Paul McCartney is not just a music legend but a household name, having shaped the sound of a generation as a member of The Beatles and later as a solo artist.
But fame isn’t the whole story. Both Paul McCartney and Heather Mills were adamant about giving their daughter a normal upbringing. Instead of thrusting into the public eye, they worked to shield Beatrice from media attention. While celebrity kids often pop up in tabloids and on social media, she has managed to remain largely anonymous—a pretty rare feat these days.
Beatrice is Paul McCartney’s youngest child and his only one with Heather Mills. She’s got three older half-siblings from Paul’s previous marriage to Linda McCartney: Mary (a photographer and writer), Stella (a globally successful fashion designer), and James (a singer-songwriter who’s followed in the family’s musical footsteps).
Despite Sir Paul’s immense fame, Beatrice Milly McCartney’s family life was grounded in stability. The parents divorced in 2008 when she was just four, but they agreed on joint custody.
A British court ordered Paul to provide £35,000 a year in child support until completed secondary school. She spent much of her childhood living with her mom in Robertsbridge, East Sussex, away from the constant buzz of London’s celebrity circles.
Both parents have spoken about their commitment to co-parenting, and Heather Mills once described her daughter as “the best of both of us.” Even though the marriage ended publicly and contentiously, they put their differences aside for well-being.
Education: Building Her Own Dreams
Beatrice Milly McCartney attended Thomas Peacocke Community School in East Sussex, a local school far removed from the exclusive, paparazzi-filled private schools often chosen for celebrity kids. She’s currently furthering her education at the University of Cambridge—one of the most prestigious universities in the world. Talk about brains and ambition!
Interestingly, she is not following Sir Paul into music. Instead, she’s set her sights on marine biology. While she plays the saxophone as a hobby (another nod to the family’s musical flair), real passion seems to be the ocean and its ecosystems. This career path is not only noble but also shows commitment to making a difference outside of the family’s artistic legacy.
Source: brandonsrestaurant.com/Chef Gary
In the annals of music history, few artists have left as profound a mark as John Lennon. As a founding member of The Beatles and a solo artist, Lennon crafted an extraordinary legacy that transcends generations. His songs are not just melodies; they are anthems of love, peace, and introspection that continue to resonate with listeners around the globe. From the vibrant energy of his early Beatles hits to the poignant reflections of his solo career, Lennon’s music captures the essence of human experience.
In this article, we delve into the top 10 most popular John Lennon songs of all time, celebrating the tracks that have defined his illustrious career. Each song tells a unique story, offering a glimpse into Lennon’s thoughts, dreams, and ideals, and showcasing his unparalleled ability to connect with audiences. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering his work for the first time, prepare to embark on a musical journey that highlights the genius of one of the 20th century’s most influential artists. Join us as we explore the timeless magic of John Lennon’s music, one unforgettable song at a time.
Table of Contents
1. Imagine (1971)
2. Instant Karma! (We All Shine On) (1970)
3. (Just Like) Starting Over (1980)
4. Woman (1980)
5. Give Peace a Chance (1969)
6. Happy Xmas (War Is Over) (1971)
7. Jealous Guy (1971)
8. Mind Games (1973)
9. Power to the People (1971)
10. Working Class Hero (1970)
Source: singersroom.com/Edward Tomlin
George Harrison Invited Paul and Ringo to Join Him in a Rare Tribute to John Lennon
When George Harrison first wrote the first version of his classic song "All Those Years Ago" in 1980, he had no idea the meaning it would end up taking. He had initially written a piece for his friend Ringo Starr to sing on his own record, but the song didn't quite fit Starr's style, so after they recorded it, it seemed the song would be shelved. But then, the music world changed forever. John Lennon was ambushed by a crazed fan while walking into his apartment and was murdered in December 1980, and nothing was the same for his former bandmates after that.
Harrison was in the middle of putting together his 1981 album, Somewhere in England, when the tragedy happened, and in his grief, he was inspired to give "All Those Years Ago" a new life. He changed the lyrics to pay tribute to his late friend, and shared details about their relationship that he had never admitted before.
beatles-band-members-john-paul-george-ringo
The Beatles Song That Reunited John, Paul, George, and Ringo. One song helped The Beatles rekindle their magic when they were at their lowest. "Living with good and bad - I always looked up to you," he opened up in his song. He also praised Lennon for his musicianship and, seemingly, for his political activism, claiming that "You were the one who imagined it all - All those years ago."
You, said it all, though not many had ears
All those years ago
You, had control of our smiles and our tears
All those years ago
Paul McCartney's Song for John Lennon
Harrison wasn't the only one of The Beatles to honor John Lennon in song. Everyone knows that Paul McCartney's relationship with Lennon was very special. Their friendship was anything but simple. They went from being inseparable in their youth to becoming the most successful songwriting partnership in history, and then, for a few years, in the early '70s, they had a very public falling out. They fought each other in their songs, threw blame at each other, and had fans and friends take sides. But they never stopped caring about each other.
Source: collider.com/Val Barone
On This Day, July 23, 1989: Ringo Starr launches his first-ever tour with an All-Starr Band - Deltaplex News
Ringo Starr launched his first tour since his days with The Beatles, backed by an All-Starr Band that included Billy Preston, the Eagles’ Joe Walsh and E Street Band saxophonist Clarence Clemons.
Starr has continued to tour with a similar setup, with members of the All-Starr Band revolving over the years.
Each show features Ringo performing both solo and Beatles songs, along with All-Starr Band members performing selections of their hits.
Over the years, All-Starr Band members included such artists as E Street Band’s Nils Lofgren, Todd Rundgren, Bad Company’s Simon Kirke, Peter Frampton, Levon Helm and Randy Bachman.
The next leg of Ringo’s tour with his latest All-Starr Band kicks off Sept. 10 in Chicago, with dates confirmed through Sept. 27 in Las Vegas. It includes a headlining spot at the Bourbon & Beyond festival on Sept. 13 in Louisville, Kentucky.
The current All-Starr Band lineup includes Toto’s Steve Lukather, Men At Work’s Colin Hay, Warren Ham, Hamish Stuart, Gregg Bissonette and Buck Johnson.
Source: deltaplexnews.com/ABC News
It’s one thing to write a cutting song about your bandmate after you’ve broken up, which the Beatles did a lot of. It’s entirely another to do it right in front of their face. George Harrison once mocked Paul McCartney with a Beatles song, airing his grievances in front of his bandmate. It’s not the most well-known Beatles song, but it does highlight the cracks that were forming between “The Quiet Beatle” and his decisive counterpart.
When Harrison left the band before their breakup, there was no mistaking the cause. His voice was all but forgotten in the studio. No matter how his songwriting shone, it was always eclipsed by the force of the Lennon/McCartney partnership. Though Lennon isn’t absolved from blame, it was McCartney that Harrison was most agrieved with. He found Macca to be a bulldozer, unable to see anything past his creative pursuits.
“At that point in time, Paul couldn’t see beyond himself,” Harrison once said. “He was on a roll, but… in his mind, everything that was going on around him was just there to accompany him. He wasn’t sensitive to stepping on other people’s egos or feelings.”
On one hand, McCartney was an expert songwriter. His talents had been proven time and time again with top Beatles hits. On the other hand, his style took a turn his bandmates would often label “silly” towards the end of their career. The Lennon-labeled “Granny Music” was starting to irk his fellow Beatles. Harrison decided to push back.
Harrison’s Chance to Get Back at McCartney
In response to McCartney’s strong-arming in the studio, Harrison penned “Savory Truffle.” The most damning lines in this track read, You know that what you eat you are / But what is sweet now turns so sour / We all know Ob-La-Di-Bla-Da / But can you show me where you are?
Source: americansongwriter.com/Alex Hopper
By 1971, Paul McCartney had traded Abbey Road for his Scottish farm, swapped Ringo for Linda, and swapped global adulation for domestic bliss and critical confusion. Ram, his only album credited to Paul and Linda McCartney, was a patchwork of pastoral charm, baroque pop, and passive-aggressive digs—an album that baffled critics at the time but later found its flock. The vibes were sun-drenched, the melodies pristine, and the drama delicious. It’s no wonder Ram has grown into one of McCartney’s most beloved solo works. Here are five curious facts you might not know about this gloriously weird masterpiece.
1. The thunder on “Uncle Albert/Admiral Halsey” came from a film reel
Norwegian engineer Eirik Wangberg stitched the thunder sounds together using a monaural movie clip. He doubled it onto two tracks to create a fake stereo effect—and it worked. Paul gave him total freedom to mix and sequence the album as he pleased.
2. Linda wasn’t just on backing vocals—she helped choose the band
Linda McCartney may not have had musical training, but she picked guitarist David Spinozza during attic auditions in New York. She later sang co-lead on “Long Haired Lady” and harmonized on nearly every track. Their daughter Heather even chimed in on “Monkberry Moon Delight.”
3. One session yielded 20+ songs—and McCartney couldn’t decide what to cut
From “Another Day” to “Big Barn Bed,” Ram’s sessions produced a trove of unreleased gems. Jim Guercio cancelled his honeymoon to help finish the album, but left after Paul refused to trim the tracklist. In the end, engineer Wangberg helped whittle it down.
4. “Too Many People” was aimed at Lennon—but more subtle than you’d think
While McCartney later admitted “preaching practices” and “you took your lucky break and broke it in two” were pointed jabs, the original lyric said “Yoko” by name. He rewrote it before recording—but the message still landed loud and clear.
Source: thatericalper.com/Eric Alper
Sue Mautner left school at 16 in 1962 and, through chutzpah and serendipity, found herself rubbing shoulders with the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, and many more 60s legends while still in her teens. Mautner went from a Ready, Steady Go! TV dancer to an accidental music journalist and then a record company executive, becoming a front-row witness to pop’s first golden age.
Here she talks about her time with the Fab Four...
Oh my God, I’ve never known a group like them. The four of them fed off one another. It was absolutely unique. John was my favourite. I just thought he was my type of person because he had this cynicism and there was a real edge to what he said. He didn’t suffer fools gladly and could cut you down with two words. But sometimes I’d get a bit worried if I knew I was going to see them and I’d be a bit, oh, is he going to be okay? What side of the bed did he wake up on this morning? Is he going to be in a good mood? Or is he going to cut me to the quick? You know, if I say something wrong, or say something that he thinks isn’t very intelligent – he’d only answer intelligent questions. You had to have your wits about you with John. But he could be lovely too. One night when we’d got back from the Beatles playing on [ITV show] Thank Your Lucky Stars in the Midlands, I remember standing with John at the tea and pie stall at Chelsea Bridge having a cup of tea and talking for what felt like hours. He was very funny all the time and loyal.
I was due to go on the German tour to cover it for the NME and my publisher told me to stand down as he was going instead. I trotted off to Top Of The Pops with the Beatles and as I was leaving the dressing room afterwards, John said, “See you in Germany.” I explained I wasn’t going because the publisher wanted to cover it. And John said, “I’ll see you in Germany.” I didn’t really think anything of it, but talk about working quickly! The next morning, the publisher called me into his office and said, “Oh, a change of plan. I’m just going to cover the first night in Munich and you’ll be doing the rest of it.” I was so happy. Obviously John said something. It all happened so quickly. He must have told the PR, “Sue’s on the tour, make it happen.”
Paul was always very happy go lucky. He was the PR man of the group, everybody had to have a good image. Everybody had to think well of them. He was always affable, always ready to do the interviews where no one else could be bothered. George was a deep thinker, and a good conversationalist and Ringo was Ringo, always affable and happy.
Source: express.co.uk/Garry Bushell
