Many people turn to The Beatles music as an outlet to escape the pressures and problems in the world. But the Fab Four weren’t immune to the negative events and forces that sometimes intruded upon the idyllic world often promoted within their songs. In other words, they sang about more than just peace and love. The Beatles occasionally got downright topical, writing and singing commentary about the issues of the times. Here are five songs in their catalog that stand out in that department.
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“Taxman” from ‘Revolver’ (1966)
It’s telling that George Harrison made it to issue-oriented songs before either John Lennon or Paul McCartney. After all, Harrison got a much later start in writing for the band than his counterparts. In addition, he was generally afforded only a song or two on each record. The spiritually inclined Harrison didn’t mind speaking out about concerns within the material world. “Taxman” takes the British government to task for their punitive levies. When Harrison sang, “There’s one for you, 19 for me,” he wasn’t exaggerating. The Beatles were saddled with a 95% tax rate on their earnings.
“Revolution” Single (1968)
Of the songs on this list, “Revolution” caused the most consternation within the band. John Lennon stuck out his chest and promoted it as a track that should be an A-side. He was outvoted in favor of “Hey Jude”, which, truth be told, turned out OK. But his point was that The Beatles had a bully pulpit to speak to the younger generation. He wanted them to use it to give their takes on the issues of the day. The Beatles did give “Revolution” their all in the studio, adding screaming electric guitars that bring a little bit of fun to Lennon’s serious declarations and commentary.
“Piggies” from ‘The Beatles’ (1968)
The three remaining songs on this list hail from The White Album. One is simply a different version of a song we’ve already discussed. What accounts for that? Well, they had a lot of space to fill on the double album. But you can also attribute it to the fact that they were now calling their own shots. Brian Epstein wasn’t around anymore to steer them towards politeness and tact. George Harrison’s “Piggies” takes aim at the class system in British society. It borrows a bit from George Orwell’s Animal Farm concept. But Harrison’s dark humor is the song’s defining character trait.
“Blackbird” from ‘The Beatles’ (1968)
There’s some debate about whether Paul McCartney originally had the Civil Rights movement in mind when he wrote this song. Some quotes he’s given throughout the years seem to put that into question. Even if he started formulating the song without such specific intent, it’s clear that his empathy for those who’ve been held down too long was always at the forefront. And that’s what ultimately matters. “Blackbird” by The Beatles evokes all the injustice through somewhat vague commentary. Spelling it out might have turned out clunky. In any case, the melody captures both the tragedy at the heart of the story and the triumph we wish for the character.
“Revolution 1” from ‘The Beatles’ (1968)
“Revolution 1” actually preceded “Revolution” in terms of when it was recorded. It was released after the other take, however, as the White Album came out after the single release. This version was how Lennon always envisioned the song. It’s folky underpinnings help put the focus on his lyrics. For as controversial as “Revolution 1” might have been within the band, Lennon’s words actually promote caution and diligence. He claims in the song that causes are only as worthwhile as the plans in place to address them. And he won’t be hoodwinked into backing anything until he hears the details.
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