5 Hidden Sections In Beatles Songs Fans Missed

The Beatles have a timeless catalog of less than 200 songs that we’ve been obsessing over for over half a century. Despite our love for the band, there are still nuances and hidden aspects of some of their songs that might have eluded us. Let’s explore five subtle surprises within the music of the Fab Four.

“Please Please Me” Sexual Innuendo

In their early years, The Beatles had a reputation for innocence and charm. However, hidden beneath the surface of their catchy melodies and exuberant sound, there were subtle expressions of sexual frustration. One such example can be found in the song “Please Please Me.” While often overlooked, the lyrics reveal the narrator’s dissatisfaction with his date’s lack of reciprocation when they are alone together.

Amidst the energetic rhythm and harmonious vocals, the narrator subtly conveys his longing for a deeper connection. It is through the clever use of innuendo that The Beatles hint at this unfulfilled desire. The contrast between the innocent image projected by the band and the underlying sexual tension adds depth and complexity to the song, making it more than just a cheerful pop tune.

“What Goes On” In-Joke

“What Goes On” from The Beatles’ album “Rubber Soul” is not only a standout track for its musicality but also for a clever in-joke that may go unnoticed by casual listeners. The song is credited to the songwriting trio of Lennon, McCartney, and Starkey (Ringo Starr’s real name). However, what makes this credit unique is Ringo’s playful insertion of a reference to a previous Beatles song called “Tell Me Why.”

Towards the end of the second verse, if you listen carefully, you can hear John Lennon shouting, “We already told you why.” This playful remark is a delightful nod to their past work and showcases the camaraderie and sense of humor within the band. This subtle in-joke adds an extra layer of enjoyment for fans and demonstrates The Beatles’ ability to infuse their music with hidden gems that reward attentive listeners.

“A Day in the Life” Stealthy Rhythms

The legendary song “A Day in the Life” by The Beatles has been extensively analyzed and celebrated for its groundbreaking composition and profound lyrics. However, amidst all the praise and scrutiny, there is an often overlooked detail that adds a touch of magic to the song. Pay close attention to the first three verses, and you’ll notice a subtle and weightless musical backing featuring acoustic guitar, steady bass, and quiet piano chords.

But here’s where the surprise lies – during the grand crescendo and transition into Paul McCartney’s section, the previously separate musical elements magically converge, seamlessly coming together to create a cohesive and bouncy beat. This ingenious arrangement choice showcases The Beatles’ mastery in crafting complex and evolving soundscapes, elevating the song to new heights. It’s a subtle surprise that enhances the overall impact of “A Day in the Life” and demonstrates the band’s penchant for pushing the boundaries of musical creativity.

“I Am the Walrus” Cliffhanger Ending

The enigmatic lyrics of “I Am the Walrus” have captivated fans and scholars alike, sparking numerous interpretations and debates. However, the musical genius within the song often goes unnoticed, specifically in its unresolved ending. As the song gradually fades out, attentive listeners can appreciate a clever musical technique called a Shepard tone that The Beatles incorporated.

The Shepard tone creates an illusion of perpetual ascent or descent, giving the impression of an endless spiral. In “I Am the Walrus,” this effect is achieved by having the strings rise and the bass fall simultaneously, creating a sonic illusion that tricks the ear into perceiving a continuous musical progression. This unresolved ending adds an extra layer of intrigue and leaves the listener hanging, perfectly complementing the cryptic and mysterious nature of the song’s lyrics. It’s an artistic choice that showcases the band’s attention to detail and their willingness to experiment, even in the smallest musical nuances.

Lennon’s Vocals on “Across the Universe”

Despite its critical acclaim, “Across the Universe” did not receive the same level of attention during its initial release as some of The Beatles’ other iconic tracks. However, one fascinating aspect of the song deserves recognition – the manipulation of John Lennon’s vocals on different versions. The vocals were slightly sped up in one version and slowed down in another.

By altering the speed of Lennon’s vocals, the band achieved distinct emotional effects and unique tonalities within the song. This experimentation with vocal manipulation adds an ethereal quality to the track, enhancing the dreamlike and introspective atmosphere of “Across the Universe.” For those seeking to experience Lennon’s vocals at their original speed, the Let It Be… Naked version provides a window into the raw beauty and intended sound of his performance. This subtle surprise serves as a testament to The Beatles’ dedication to exploring new sonic territories, even in the realm of vocal production and experimentation.