Top Ten Songs by the Beatles

I grew up with the Beatles. I was eight years old when they first appeared on the Ed Sullivan show. I was a young teenager when the White Album came out, an album that everyone my age that I knew played constantly. Beatles music was always there, providing the background for my life. And at the same time I was changing and growing up, the Beatles were also changing and growing, always a step ahead of me. They led the way. It was if they were my big brothers, - if I had had big brothers who were among the most talented men of their generation..

One could easily put together a list of the top 100 Beatles songs, so a list of ten, by necessity, must be highly subjective. These are some of the songs that most appeal to me. The order is roughly chronological.

1. I’ll Follow the Sun

I love the melody on this song. The first four notes of the sung words – “One day, you’ll look” – are beautiful, rising up in what (I think) is a minor key – it’s a sound that’s both unexpected and just right. From the Beatles ‘65 album.

2. In My Life

This song has a beautiful, haunting melody. The words are also haunting and powerful, evoking both the bitter-sweetness of looking back, and the power of love in the present. From Rubber Soul.

3. Norwegian Wood (This Bird Has Flown)

This song tells a story. Or it seems like a story. One thing happens, and then another. But what does it mean? What is this “Norwegian wood” that they sing about, and why is it “good”? There’s a lot to speculate about in this cryptic poetic song, and it’s fun to speculate. The song also has a catchy melody that trips down the scale and is fun to sing. From Rubber Soul.

4. Good Day Sunshine

A feel-good song with great harmonies. From Revolver.

5. With a Little Help from My Friends

Another feel-good classic. From Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Heart Club Band

6. While My Guitar Gently Weeps

Beautiful melody, words, and guitar playing grace this heartfelt George Harrison song. From the White Album.

7. Revolution