Decoding the Beatles: Lyrics and Inspiration
Decoding the Beatles: Lyrics and Inspiration
The Beatles were together for less than a decade, but in that time produced a lifetime of music. While some of it was straightforward, some was complex and perplexing. Here is a look at some songs of the Beatles and the inspiration and meaning behind them.
“Hey Jude”
While John and Paul were frequently at odds, when John left his wife and son’s mother for Yoko Ono, Paul wrote a song to comfort John’s son, Julian. The song was original called “Hey Jules” but was later changed to “Hey Jude”.
“She Came in Through the Bathroom Window” and “Polythene Pam”
These songs were both inspired by fans of the Beatles. One tried to enter Paul’s home by using a ladder to enter his second floor bathroom. Pam was inspired by an early fan of the group who often attended shows at The Cavern. She was known to the band for her almost non-stop snacking from plastic bags.
“A Day In the Life”
This highly produced song, backed with a 41-piece orchestra, was a tribute to Tara Browne, who was an heir to the Guinness beer fortune, but died in a tragic car crash. Tara was friends with many rock stars at the time. Some speculated Browne had taken LSD prior to his death.
“For the Benefit of Mr. Kite”
Central to the circus/carnival theme of the “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” album on which it appeared, this song was inspired by an actual circus poster. John had acquired the poster, originally printed in 1843, detailing the talents and feats of Pablo Fanque’s Circus Royal and its appearance in Lancashire, England.
“I Want to Hold Your Hand”
No mystery here. This is a song about holding hands.
In just eight years, the Beatles had 20 number one hits and some 34 top ten hits. Their core catalog of 23 albums contained 213 songs. The band even was involved in five movies, including A Hard Day’s Night, Help!, Magical Mystery Tour, Yellow Submarine and Let it Be.
Many forget that John, Paul, George and Ringo went on to varying degrees of success following their breakup in 1970. John’s legacy includes “Imagine”, “Instant Karma” and more. George’s biggest hit as a solo artist was “My Sweet Lord” and Ringo gave us “Photograph” and “It Don’t Come Easy”. It is Paul, however, who has had the most success with Wings and a long list of solo hits.
Do you have questions about your insurance? Find an insurance agent near you with our Agent Finder
Search All Blogs
Search All Blogs
Read More Blogs
The Entrepreneur’s Toolkit: From Startup to Success, Insuring Every Step of the Journey
A phase-by-phase guide for entrepreneurs on the essential business insurance policies they need.
Beyond a Payout: How Life Insurance is a Living Financial Tool
A guide to how life insurance can be a living financial tool, with a focus on its cash value component.
The Driver’s Playbook: How to Maximize Your Auto Insurance Benefits
A playbook for drivers, revealing key policy benefits and strategies to get the most from your auto insurance.
Beyond the Big House: Uncovering the Hidden Value in Home Insurance
A deep dive into the valuable but often overlooked components of a home insurance policy.
The Thrill of the Grill: A Masterclass in BBQ Perfection
An ultimate guide to mastering grilling and barbecue, with tips, techniques, and delicious recipes.
The Entrepreneur’s Armor: A Guide to Protecting Your Business
A crucial guide to business insurance, covering essential policies and strategies for entrepreneurs.
The Gift of Security: A Simple Guide to Life Insurance
An easy-to-understand guide to life insurance, explaining policy types and a simple way to calculate your needs.
Hitting the Road Safely: Understanding Your Auto Insurance Policy
A simple guide to auto insurance, explaining coverage, premiums, and tips for finding the best policy.
The Homeowner’s Handbook: Protecting Your Property and Peace of Mind
A clear guide to home insurance, covering policy types, inventory tips, and how to save money.
The Art of the Perfect Pizza: From Dough to Delight
A comprehensive guide to making delicious, restaurant-quality pizza at home, from dough to toppings.