Written by:Â Lennon-McCartney
Recorded: 13, 14, 20 August 1968
Producer:Â George Martin
Engineer:Â Ken Scott
Released: 22 November 1968 (UK), 25 November 1968 (US)
Available on:
The Beatles (White Album)
Personnel
John Lennon: vocals, backing vocals, lead guitar
Paul McCartney: bass
George Harrison: lead guitar
Ringo Starr: drums
About The Song
Yer Blues is a song by the English rock band the Beatles, from their 1968 double album The Beatles (also known as “the White Album”). Though credited to Lennon–McCartney, the song was written and composed by John Lennon during the Beatles’ retreat in Rishikesh, India.
The song is a parody of blues music, specifically English imitators of blues. The lyrics are full of clichés and non-sequiturs, such as “I’m so lonely, I could die” and “I’m so tired, I could sleep.” Lennon’s vocals are whiny and exaggerated, and the music is slow and mournful.
Despite its parodic nature, Yer Blues is a powerful and moving song. It captures the feeling of despair and alienation that Lennon was experiencing at the time. The song is also a reminder that even the greatest artists can be self-deprecating and insecure.
Yer Blues was released as a single in the United States in 1969, but it failed to chart. The song has since been recognized as one of Lennon’s best solo compositions. It has been covered by many artists, including Eric Clapton, the Rolling Stones, and the White Stripes.
Here are some interesting facts about the song:
- The song was recorded in one take on September 10, 1968.
- Lennon played the harmonica on the song, which was a rare occurrence for him.
- The song features a distinctive guitar solo by Eric Clapton, who was a guest musician on the White Album.
- The song’s title is a play on words. The word “yer” is a contraction of the words “you are,” and it is also a slang term for “your.”
- The song’s lyrics are full of references to other blues songs, such as “Stormy Monday” and “Cross Road Blues.”
Yer Blues is a unique and groundbreaking song that helped to define the sound of the White Album. It is a testament to John Lennon’s songwriting skills and his willingness to experiment.