Episodes

3. I’m A Loser
Music David Pannell Music David Pannell

3. I’m A Loser

A song written by John that was almost the first hint of a huge change that was coming in the Beatles’ song writing: the switch from lyrics that focused almost exclusively on girls, boys and love, to lyrics that ranged across almost every possible theme. An early song displaying an influence of Bob Dylan. The first Beatles song to include a 12-string acoustic guitar, but was it the same guitar as we can see John playing on "You've Got To Hide Your Love Away" in the Help! movie? Unusually, all eight takes from the recording sessions are available for fans to hear. 

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2b. While My Guitar Gently Weeps
Music David Pannell Music David Pannell

2b. While My Guitar Gently Weeps

We continue looking at one of George's best-loved songs. "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" was presented to the band before John and Paul had recalibrated (upwards) their views about George's songwriting ability. It’s the only Beatles track that includes a guest playing lead guitar. It was the first EMI recording for which they used an eight-track recorder. The use of distorted bass was unusual, and the use of distorted bass chords was particularly unusual. And, at least music-wise, it’s one of George’s great Beatles songs.

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2a. While My Guitar Gently Weeps
Music David Pannell Music David Pannell

2a. While My Guitar Gently Weeps

One of George's best-loved songs, "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" was presented to the band before John and Paul had recalibrated (upwards) their views about George's songwriting ability. It’s the only Beatles track that includes a guest playing lead guitar. It was the first EMI recording for which they used an eight-track recorder. The use of distorted bass was unusual, and the use of distorted bass chords was particularly unusual. And, at least music-wise, it’s one of George’s great Beatles songs.

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1. And Your Bird Can Sing
Music David Pannell Music David Pannell

1. And Your Bird Can Sing

"And Your Bird Can Sing" was mainly written by John, with some input from Paul. The Beatles recorded two distinct versions of the song, releasing the second one on Revolver outside the US, and on Yesterday And Today within it. Twin lead guitars played by George and Paul provide the dominant sound of the recording. The target of the song's lyrics is surprising. 

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0. Introduction
Music David Pannell Music David Pannell

0. Introduction

In 1966, The Beatles sang, “You tell me that you’ve heard every sound there is.” In this podcast, I’ll be talking about every sound the Beatles made in the songs they released through EMI between 1962 and 1970. I’ll be looking at the stories behind each song, its composition, arrangement, recording process, lyrics, instruments, and much more.

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