The Beatles – Rain – 1966

About The Song

“Rain” is a song by The Beatles released as the B-side to the “Paperback Writer” single in 1966. Known for its innovative use of reverse tape effects and intricate musical arrangement, “Rain” is considered one of The Beatles’ groundbreaking and experimental tracks.

Five Facts:

1. Pioneering Use of Backward Recording: “Rain” is notable for its groundbreaking use of backward recording techniques. The coda of the song features the band’s vocals played backward, adding an avant-garde element to the production. This innovative approach showcased The Beatles’ willingness to experiment with studio techniques.
2. Inspiration and Creation: The song’s lyrics are often interpreted as a reflection on the cyclical nature of life and the inevitability of challenges and struggles. The band members have shared that the inspiration for the song came during a time of introspection and philosophical exploration.
3. Evolution of Drumming: Ringo Starr’s drumming in “Rain” is celebrated for its intricate patterns and fills. The song is considered a notable example of Starr’s evolving drumming style, moving beyond traditional rock patterns and contributing to the growing complexity of The Beatles’ sound.
4. Released as B-Side: Despite its experimental nature and critical acclaim, “Rain” was initially released as the B-side to the “Paperback Writer” single. The A-side, “Paperback Writer,” was a commercial success, but over time, “Rain” has gained recognition as a standout track in its own right.
5. Visual Accompaniment: An early promotional music video was created for “Rain,” featuring The Beatles performing the song on a soundstage while surrounded by various psychedelic visual effects. This video is considered one of the earliest examples of a music video and reflects the band’s engagement with the visual aspects of their music.

Video

Lyrics

If the rain comes
They run and hide their heads
They might as well be dead
If the rain comes
If the rain comes

When the sun shines
They slip into the shade (when the sun shines down)
And sip their lemonade (when the sun shines down)
When the sun shines
When the sun shines

Rain
I don’t mind
Shine
The weather’s fine

I can show you
That when it starts to rain (when the rain comes down)
Everything’s the same (when the rain comes down)
I can show you
I can show you

Rain
I don’t mind
Shine
The weather’s fine

Can you hear me?
That when it rains and shines (when it rains and shines)
It’s just a state of mind (when it rains and shines)
Can you hear me?
Can you hear me?

Sdeah reiht edih dna nur yeht
Semoc niar eht fi (rain)
Niar (rain)
Senihs nus (rain)