For the most part, the Beatles had a keen sense of which member should take on lead vocals. Most of their catalog feels right and just–every member playing to their strengths. However, there are a few songs that could’ve done well with a switcharoo. Below, find three Beatles songs that arguably beg for a different frontman.
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“When I’m Sixty Four”
While “When I’m Sixty Four” screams “Paul McCartney”, it would have an entirely different tone if Ringo Starr were to have been the lead vocalist. From McCartney’s point-of-view, this Beatles song is a syrupy-sweet mark of devotion. Like many of his best tracks, “When I’m Sixty Four” sees McCartney wear his heart on his sleeve when he sings, Will you still need me, will you still feed me / When I’m sixty-four? If this song had been given to Starr, it would’ve been a light-hearted tune, akin to “Yellow Submarine”. It would’ve been given a shot of humor–one that would’ve likely helped this song in its heyday. Many, like John Lennon, felt this tune was a little too schmaltzy for the Beatles. Starr’s irreverent take would’ve helped to cut some of the heavy-lifting fans had to do.
“Across the Universe”
On paper, “Across the Universe” seems more like a song George Harrison would’ve written amid his Hare Krishna days. It’s just heady enough to give off the impression of higher enlightenment and meditative practice. Lennon sings this song perfectly well. His distinctive vocals helped make this song a classic in the Beatles’ catalog. However, we dare to say that Harrison on lead vocals could’ve made an even bigger splash. But, all’s well that ends well, we guess. Harrison had plenty of songs that flexed his soul-searching intellect.
“Good Night”
You’d be forgiven for thinking that McCartney penned “Good Night”. It has his signature melodrama and musical theater flair. In actuality, Lennon penned this tender Beatles song for his son, Julian. Despite how personal this song was, he passed it off to Starr. The final product functions perfectly well as a lullaby, but we would’ve loved to have heard Lennon deliver a rare sentimental moment with this track. Now it’s time to say good night / Good night, sleep tight, would’ve sounded oh-so-sweet coming from Lennon. Moreover, Lennon singing this track would’ve made the fact that McCartney penned the most famous song in honor of Julian a little less peculiar. Lennon did record a ballad for his second son, Sean. It would’ve been nice to have a complete set of Lennon’s most paternal compositions.
(Photo by Everett/Shutterstock)
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