EP014 - Twist And Shout

10/06/24 • 33 min

In this episode, Peter and Kenyon dive into the electrifying "Twist and Shout." They reveal the song's origins, originally written by Phil Medley and Bert Berns and covered by the Isley Brothers before the Beatles' iconic version. Recorded as the final track during the marathon session for "Please Please Me," John's powerful vocal performance, despite a cold, is a standout. The hosts discuss the impact of John's scream, the significance of the recording session, and the song's thrilling energy, capturing the Beatles' ability to transform and energize a track.

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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Previous Episode

EP013 - There's A Place

In this episode of The Beatles: Note by Note, Peter and Kenyon dive into "There's a Place," a track from the Beatles' debut album Please Please Me. The hosts explore the song's introspective lyrics, drawing parallels between John Lennon's emotional depth and the influence of songs like "Somewhere" from West Side Story. They discuss the song's Motown-inspired origins and its thematic connection to early Beach Boys tracks like "In My Room," highlighting Lennon's ability to craft a mental escape through music. Peter and Kenyon also reflect on the track’s "psychedelic" undertones, suggesting it foreshadows the Beatles' later exploration of transcendental meditation and altered perceptions. The episode breaks down the harmonies, led by Paul McCartney, which add an ethereal quality, and the recording process at Abbey Road Studios, noting the use of harmonica and overdubs. The hosts debate whether this could be considered the Beatles' first psychedelic lyric, underscoring the song's experimental nature despite its placement on their first album.

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Next Episode

LS015 - From Me To You - Lecture Series (bonus)

In this lecture, Kenyon takes an in-depth look at "From Me to You," a 1963 song by John Lennon and Paul McCartney. As the Beatles’ first number-one hit in the UK, the song showcases their early knack for melody and personal connection with fans. Kenyon explores the song’s structure, including its signature harmonica intro, chord progressions, and its place in the "pronoun game" used by the Beatles to engage listeners directly. He delves into the harmonic shifts, blues influences, and lyrical themes, breaking down how the song’s simplicity belies a sophisticated use of tension and release. The lecture also highlights the unique decision to end with a harmonica phrase that harkens back to the intro. With historical context and musical insights, Kenyon reveals how "From Me to You" fits into the Beatles' broader evolution and the songwriting genius that made them pioneers in pop music.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.