LS031 - Don't Bother Me - Lecture Series (bonus)

02/23/25 • 41 min

In this lecture, Kenyon takes a detailed look at George Harrison’s songwriting debut with "Don’t Bother Me," from With the Beatles. Written during a bout of illness in a Bournemouth hotel room, the track showcases Harrison’s unique perspective, focusing less on heartbreak and more on isolation and frustration. Kenyon examines the song’s harmonic ambiguity, highlighting its blend of Dorian and Aeolian modes, and how its use of unconventional chord choices reflects Harrison’s experimentation. The session also explores the rhythmic complexity, with Latin-inspired percussion and George’s melodic phrasing, which outlines the pentatonic scale in fresh ways. Kenyon discusses how the song’s introverted themes and curmudgeonly tone differ from Lennon-McCartney’s approach, offering early insights into Harrison’s emerging voice as a songwriter. This lecture provides a comprehensive analysis of "Don’t Bother Me," revealing its place as a pivotal moment in Harrison’s artistic journey and the Beatles’ evolving sound.

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

Previous Episode

EP030 - All My Loving

What makes “All My Loving” the song that signaled a shift in the Beatles' dynamic? In this episode, Peter and Kenyon dive into Paul McCartney’s first major contribution to the Beatles’ catalog, written during a tour bus ride in 1963. The song marked a turning point as McCartney's melodic genius began to rival Lennon’s dominance. With influences ranging from country and western to pop balladry, the track introduced signature elements like John Lennon’s relentless triplet rhythm guitar and George Harrison’s Nashville-inspired solo. The hosts also explore how "All My Loving" became a cultural phenomenon, despite never being released as a single, with performances on The Ed Sullivan Show helping to ignite Beatlemania in the United States. Packed with surprising insights, this episode highlights the song's pivotal role in shaping the Beatles’ legacy and offers a fresh look at one of their most beloved tracks.

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

Next Episode

EP031 - Don't Bother Me

What inspired George Harrison to write his first song, “Don’t Bother Me”? A bout of illness and some friendly pressure from Mersey Beat’s Bill Harry played a role. In this episode, Peter and Kenyon explore Harrison’s 1963 composition, marking his songwriting debut in the Beatles’ catalog. Written in a Bournemouth hotel room while George was bedridden, the track stands apart from Lennon-McCartney’s upbeat hits with its minor key and moody tone. The hosts discuss the song’s harmonic ambiguity, its unique blend of rock and Latin rhythms, and Harrison’s use of unconventional chords that add tension to the composition. They also delve into the recording process, including Ringo Starr’s use of a doumbek drum and the challenges of double-tracking George’s vocals. Discover why “Don’t Bother Me” is more than just a deep cut—it’s the first step in George Harrison’s journey as a songwriter.

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