The Songwriting Credit Breakdown for The Beatles' White Album

The Beatles' White Album, released in 1968, was a milestone in the band's musical journey. Comprising a double album with 30 tracks, it showcased the diverse musical styles and personal growth of each band member during the 1968 period.

India and Transcendental Meditation

Begun in February 1968, The Beatles embarked on a journey to India for an extended Transcendental Meditation (TM) retreat. This period, known as the "Indian phase," saw significant changes in the group's musical style and personal lives. Notably, Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr still practice TM to this day. It was during this retreat that the majority of the White Album's tracks were written. The only western instrument available was the acoustic guitar, which resulted in a scaled-down and more organic sound compared to their earlier works like Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band and Revolver.

The Contributions of the Beatles

Most of the songs on The White Album were written by John Lennon and Paul McCartney, with contributions from George Harrison and Ringo Starr. George Harrison's involvement was particularly influenced by his friend Donovan, who taught him finger-picking techniques that were used on several songs. Ringo Starr, while not as prolific, contributed several original tracks, and even a track that dated back to 1962.

Specific Songwriting Breakdown

John Lennon's Contributions

John Lennon's contributions to the White Album are noteworthy. He wrote several of the album's standout tracks, including:

"Dear Prudence": This tracks was written and sung to Mia Farrow's sister Prudence, a participant in the ashram, to encourage her to come out of her room and interact. It also showcased John's use of Donovan's finger-picking technique. The song reflects on John's personal life and the spiritual journey of others. "Julia": Inspired by John's own mother, the song includes a string of John's musical and spiritual preferences. "Happiness Is a Warm Gun": A double entendre, this song explores themes of guns and sexual desire. It was one of the four band members' favorite songs on the album. "Everybody Got Something to Hide Except Me and My Monkey": Satirical in nature, the song pokes fun at the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi's teachings. "I'm So Tired": Referencing John's insomnia and his relationship with Yoko Ono, this song is more personal in tone. "Revolution" and "Revolution 1": These songs addressed the social upheavals of the 1960s, reflecting John's political views. "Sexy Sadie": While debunked, this song was written in response to unfounded rumors about the Maharishi.

Paul McCartney's Contributions

Paul McCartney, too, made significant contributions, including:

"Back in the USSR": A playful jab at the Beach Boys, the song was meant to bring amusement to the ashram participants. "Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da": Written in an attempt to lure Prudence Farrow out of her room, the song took inspiration from a lighthearted dialogue. "Rocky Raccoon": This song, based on a story from an ashram participant, features a cowboy character. "Why Don't We Do It in the Road?": A humorous take on the ashram's playful atmosphere, the song references the playful interactions between band members. "Blackbird": Inspired by the birds at the ashram, the song also contains a subtle civil rights movement theme. "Mother Nature's Son": A reflection on the teachings of the Maharishi, the song uses a similar structure to "Child of Nature." "I Will": The melody for this song came to Paul quickly during the ashram retreat, with the lyrics following later.

George Harrison's Contributions

George Harrison, always a creative force, was part of several key tracks, including:

"Long Long Long": A spiritual song expressing his longing for a divine connection. "Not Guilty": Written when John and Ringo left the ashram early, it reflects on George's feelings of being unfairly blamed.

Ringo Starr's Contributions

Ringo Starr brought several original compositions to the White Album, including:

"Don't Pass Me By": Written in 1962, this track showcases Ringo's early songwriting skills.

In summary, the White Album represents a unique chapter in The Beatles' musical history. Each member brought their unique perspective and creative flair to the project, resulting in a rich and diverse collection of songs that stand as testaments to the band's evolution and creative spirit.