Introduction

The musical legacy of Paul McCartney and John Lennon, collectively known as Lennon-McCartney, extends far beyond their iconic band, The Beatles. This article explores five top-tier Lennon-McCartney songs that were recorded and performed by artists other than The Beatles. Each of these collaborations offers a unique insight into the creative synergy between two of the most influential songwriters in pop music history.

5. Thingumybob - The Black Dyke Mills Band

One of the earliest known uses of a Lennon-McCartney composition outside The Beatles is the instrumental "Thingumybob." This short piece was crafted to mark the launch of Apple Records in 1968. Its jaunty, catchy melody evokes the atmosphere of a college football game or a grand Disneyland parade, making it a captivating start to the UK and American sides of the record. The track serves as a testament to the enduring influence of the Lennon-McCartney duo even beyond their primary band.

4. I'll Keep You Satisfied - Billy J. Kramer and The Dakotas

While compelling, it’s surprising that Lennon-McCartney didn't choose to record a Beatles version of "I'll Keep You Satisfied." The song's simplicity and appealing melody make it a standout, especially when performed by Billy J. Kramer and The Dakotas. Released in November 1963, the original tracks never graced a Beatles album, despite the band's prolific output in the following years. The rendition by Billy J. Kramer and The Dakotas exemplifies the band's ability to deliver a genuine, heartfelt take on the song, showcasing their talent and the vast potential in Lennon-McCartney's compositions.

3. Step Inside Love - Cilla Black

Cilla Black delivered a powerful performance of "Step Inside Love," written on the spot by Paul McCartney when asked to add a verse during a BBC session for his 1968 TV show. The song's lyrics provide a complex narrative, and Cilla Black's delivery adds a rich texture to the performance. It was later revealed in the 2018 White Album boxset that Paul McCartney himself also performed parts of the song. This collaborative effort by Cilla Black and Paul McCartney highlights the duo's ability to adapt their songs to the strengths of different vocalists, making it a memorable and versatile piece.

2. Give Peace A Chance - John Lennon

Technically, "Give Peace A Chance" is credited to Lennon-McCartney, despite the fact that it was completely written by John Lennon and was only performed by him during his solo career. This song not only stands as a testament to John Lennon's solo career but also as one of the best non-Beatle Lennon-McCartney songs ever produced. It became iconic and remains an enduring symbol of peace and harmony, illustrating Lennon's solo artistic range and the enduring impact of Lennon-McCartney's songwriting.

1. Come And Get It - Badfinger

Paul McCartney leveraged his influence to elevate Badfinger, a band that would rival The Beatles in terms of success. He composed "Come And Get It" for the Magic Christian film and provided a demo around the Abbey Road sessions. Badfinger's rendition of the song marked the beginning of their illustrious career, putting them on the map and paving the way for their later success. This song serves as a prime example of McCartney's supportive role in nurturing talented musicians and showcasing the versatility of Lennon-McCartney's compositions.

Conclusion

These five songs highlight the collaborative spirit and enduring talent of Lennon-McCartney. From the raw, lively "Thingumybob" to the heartfelt "Give Peace A Chance," each song represents a unique facet of the duo's creative output. By exploring these lesser-known renditions, we gain a deeper appreciation for the impact of The Beatles and the legacy of Lennon-McCartney's broader influence on the music world.