The Beatles' 'White Album': Genre and Concept
When I started listening to the Beatles' iconic 'White Album' in the early 1990s, it was often described as a 'concept album' and the band was generally known for a 'pop' sound. However, these terms have become increasingly meaningless, as they have been applied so widely and loosely that they no longer offer much insight into the true nature of the album.
Conceptual vs. Genre-Based Interpretation
I doubt that any Beatle ever explicitly stated an intentional concept for the entire work. The term 'concept album' likely originated from the album's 'conceptual art'-type packaging, as it was released as a double-LP rather than two separate albums. This suggested that it was meant to be one cohesive work.
The minimalist artwork might have contributed to the notion of it being a 'postmodern' album, although this is probably more based on the remarkable use of existing styles. The band no longer combined different influences into a single track but rather kept them separate, with the notable exception of 'Happiness Is a Warm Gun.' While this may not have been the primary intention behind the album, it is a significant aspect in understanding the fragmentation of genres on the record.
Genre Parody and Paradox
Most of the album's tracks can be attributed to a genre with more ease than most of their other works. One of the most notable examples is the opener 'Back in the USSR,' which parodies Chuck Berry's patriotic 'Back in the USA' in a style reminiscent of the Beach Boys. 'Helter Skelter' was inspired by Pete Townshend's claim about The Who's new song being their loudest and rawest yet. However, when McCartney heard the song, he found it less wild than he had imagined. 'Yer Blues' and 'Honey Pie' are other obvious genre parodies, showcasing the band's ability to playfully subvert genre conventions.
Parts of 'Revolution 9' may come across as a collage reminiscent of Monty Python, and some samples might have been used satirically. However, the approach seems too innovative and experimental to be considered a postmodern piece or a mere pastiche of avant-garde. The artistic ambitions and the achieved quality ensure that anything on the album is much more than mere parody. Lennon's 'Julia' is especially sincere, contrasting with the more playful and experimental nature of other tracks.
Eclectic in a Musical Context
Overall, while most of the album's tracks can be attributed to a specific genre with more ease than most of the band's other works, I think the safest term to describe 'The White Album' is 'eclectic.' This term captures the wide range of musical influences and styles present on the album, from rock and pop to avant-garde experimental sounds. The Beatles managed to create a cohesive yet diverse work, challenging and transcending conventional genre boundaries.
By approaching the 'White Album' not as a concept album but as a collection of genre experiments, new perspectives emerge. Each track seems an attempt to surpass other acts in a particular genre at any given time. The band's eclecticism not only reflects their broad musical talents but also their willingness to push the boundaries of what was expected of them as pop musicians.
Understanding 'The White Album' through the lens of its eclecticism offers a richer and more nuanced appreciation of the album. It highlights the innovative and boundary-pushing nature of the record, setting it apart from the band's other works. In a world where music genres have become increasingly well-defined, the 'White Album' stands as a testament to the power of eclecticism in music.