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The Beatles – Yesterday – 1965

About The Song

“Yesterday” is a timeless ballad by The Beatles, released in 1965 on their album “Help!” Written and sung by Paul McCartney, the song features a simple yet elegant melody and poignant lyrics. “Yesterday” is celebrated as one of The Beatles’ most enduring and widely covered compositions, showcasing McCartney’s songwriting brilliance.

5 Facts about The Beatles’ “Yesterday” (1965):

  1. Solo Acoustic Performance: “Yesterday” is notable for being a solo performance by Paul McCartney, with him playing an acoustic guitar and providing vocals. The simplicity of the arrangement, combined with McCartney’s emotive singing, contributed to the song’s universal appeal.
  2. Recorded in One Take: The recording of “Yesterday” was a relatively quick process. McCartney recorded the song solo in one take, accompanied only by his acoustic guitar. The straightforward approach captured the sincerity and vulnerability of the song.
  3. Orchestral Overdub: Although initially recorded as a solo acoustic track, George Martin, The Beatles’ producer, decided to enhance “Yesterday” by adding a string quartet. This decision elevated the song’s emotional impact and contributed to its lush and timeless quality.
  4. Most Covered Song: “Yesterday” holds the record for being one of the most covered songs in the history of popular music. Various artists from diverse genres have recorded their own versions, showcasing the song’s enduring appeal and its ability to transcend musical boundaries.
  5. Grammy Hall of Fame: In 1997, “Yesterday” was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame, recognizing its cultural and artistic significance. The song’s influence and continued popularity have solidified its place as one of The Beatles’ most iconic and beloved compositions.

Video

Lyrics

Yesterday all my troubles seemed so far away.
Now it looks as though they’re here to stay.
Oh, I believe in yesterday.

Suddenly, I’m not half the man I used to be.
There’s a shadow hanging over me.
Oh, yesterday came suddenly.

Why she had to go?
I don’t know, she wouldn’t say.
I said something wrong.
Now I long for yesterday.

Yesterday love was such an easy game to play.
Now I need a place to hide away.
Oh, I believe in yesterday.

Why she had to go?
I don’t know, she wouldn’t say.
I said something wrong.
Now I long for yesterday.

Yesterday love was such an easy game to play.
Now I need a place to hide away.
Oh, I believe in yesterday.

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