Written by:Â Lennon-McCartney
Recorded: 26, 31 January 1969; 1 April 1970
Producers:Â George Martin, Phil Spector
Engineers:Â Glyn Johns, Peter Bown
Released: 8 May 1970 (UK), 11 May 1970 (US)
Available on:
Let It Be
1
Anthology 3
Let It Be… Naked
Give My Regards To Broad Street
Personnel
Paul McCartney: vocals, piano
John Lennon: bass
George Harrison: guitar
Ringo Starr: drums
About The Song
“The Long and Winding Road” is a song by the English rock band the Beatles from their 1970 album Let It Be. It was written by Paul McCartney and credited to Lennon–McCartney.
The song is a slow ballad with a simple piano accompaniment. The lyrics are about a journey that is both physical and metaphorical. The singer is looking for something, but he doesn’t know what it is. He is tired and worn down, but he is determined to keep going.
The song has been interpreted in many different ways. Some people see it as a metaphor for life itself, with its ups and downs, its twists and turns. Others see it as a song about the journey to spiritual enlightenment.
Whatever its interpretation, “The Long and Winding Road” is a beautiful and moving song that has resonated with listeners for generations.
McCartney said that he was inspired to write the song by the view from his farm in High Park, Scotland. He said that he saw a road “stretching up into the hills” and it reminded him of the journey of life.
The song is also notable for its orchestral arrangement, which was added by producer Phil Spector. Spector’s lush orchestrations have been criticized by some fans, but they have also added to the song’s grandeur and emotional impact.
“The Long and Winding Road” was released as a single in May 1970, a month after the Beatles broke up. It became their 20th and last number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States.
The song has been covered by many artists over the years, including Aretha Franklin, Elton John, and Bruce Springsteen. It is a classic of popular music and continues to be enjoyed by listeners all over the world.