“You Can’t Do That” is a song by the Beatles, written by John Lennon (credited to Lennon–McCartney). It was released as the B-side to the single “Can’t Buy Me Love” in April 1964.
The song is a rock and roll song with a driving beat and a catchy melody. Lennon’s lyrics are direct and confrontational, expressing his jealousy and possessiveness towards his lover. He warns her that she cannot do anything without him, and that she will be left alone if she tries to leave him.
The song was a minor hit in the United States, reaching number 50 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. However, it has become more popular over the years, and is now considered to be one of the Beatles’ more underrated songs.
“You Can’t Do That” has been covered by many other artists, including Harry Nilsson, Cheap Trick, and the Ramones. It is also featured in the 1994 film Forrest Gump.
The song is a good example of the Beatles’ early rock and roll sound. It is also a good example of Lennon’s songwriting skills at the time. He was able to write a song that was both catchy and meaningful, and that expressed his emotions in a direct and honest way.
Here are some interpretations of the song’s meaning:
- It is a song about Lennon’s own jealousy and possessiveness.
- It is a song about the controlling nature of some relationships.
- It is a song about the importance of personal freedom.
- It is a song about the dangers of love.
Ultimately, the meaning of the song is up to the listener to decide. It is a song that can be interpreted in many different ways, and that is part of what makes it so interesting and enduring.