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From 1960 to 1970, the Beatles were the biggest band not only in the world but in the history of popular music. From Please Please Me all the way to Let it Be, they released countless hits that shaped the way we look at music forever. It’s safe to say that I like every song the band wrote, but because this list is only requiring that I list my 10 favorite songs by them, I will follow suit. Without further ado, I present the top 10 Beatles songs!
10. “Octopus Garden”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=De1LCQvbqV4
This song is one of only two songs that drummer Ringo Starr wrote while he was part of the Beatles. The song has a very pleasant and welcoming sound to it, with it often being considered a good introduction to the band for younger fans. I personally believe that it transcends boundaries and is enjoyable for all to listen to. Besides, who wouldn’t want to visit an octopus’ garden after listening to this song?
9. “Yellow Submarine”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ztHxu-13UqI
The song that inspired a movie named after it, “Yellow Submarine” is another track that gives Starr the chance to take a shot at lead vocals. The result is a whimsical, imaginative journey through the titular aquatic vehicle. For pure fun, this song comes out on top.
8. “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VtXl8xAPAtA
Often considered to be one of the greatest songs from the group’s greatest album, “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” presents the titular band within a band. The group does a stellar job presenting this group as if it actually existed and the arrangement of horn instruments adds a grand vaudeville theme not normally seen in their work.
7. “Penny Lane”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vfxQ1oDiEJM
I often jokingly refer to this song as “Nostalgia: The Song” and I think it’s not hard to see why. Paul McCartney wrote the song based off of his experiences at the titular street. The lyrics depict the street vividly and colorfully, making the viewer feel as if they have been there in the past.
6. “Twist and Shout”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2RicaUqd9Hg
This song is actually a cover of an Isley Brothers song, but this version is far superior. Whereas the original is slow and plodding, this one is energetic, upbeat and makes you want to do as the title says. It helps that it’s been featured in favorite movies of mine, such as Ferris Bueller’s Day off. How could you NOT want to twist and shout after hearing this song?
5. “Lucy in the Sky With Diamonds”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=naoknj1ebqI
The song that is THE definitive scapegoat for association with drugs, “Lucy in the Sky With Diamonds” brings listeners to a fantastical world of tangerine trees and marmalade skies. Waxing lyrical aside, John Lennon’s vocals are soothing and hypnotizing, making it feel as if he’s reading a fantasy story to the listener. Overall a classic.
4. “Birthday”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dhdOPhTHeoE
A surprising choice, but it is my list after all. Forever presenting a far cooler way of wishing someone their titular special day, “Birthday” has catchy lyrics, great guitar work and pure fun laced within it.
3. “Revolution”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6MbqzDm1uCo
A cynical take on the activism of the late 1960s, “Revolution” derides the hypothetical listener for their grand ideas, explaining that “they’re not gonna make it far anyhow”. Most protest songs of the 1960s weren’t as jaded or as biting as this, so it’s a welcome, refreshing change.
2. “Come Together”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oolpPmuK2I8
Supposedly, this is one of the last songs that the group recorded together before they dissolved. Ironic titles can be quite fun after all. This song manages to combine a slower pace with pure empowerment, which is no easy feat. It’s also never not funny to hear the lyrics about shooting Coca-Cola.
1. “Here Comes the Sun”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUNqsfFUwhY
I may not have said this before, but I believe that George Harrison is vastly underrated as a songwriter. That’s why it saddens me to see his work often overlooked by others. This song is proof as to why, as it’s calming and relates to a visceral feeling we all can understand; waiting for summer. Of course, the titular lyrics can be interpreted metaphorically, but I love summer, so I’ll go literal.
