What Was the Last Great Song of the Beatles?
When discussing the Beatles' legacy, it's natural to wonder what their last great song was. This article explores several contenders and delves into the significance of these compositions.
Reunions and Audiophilic Achievements
Reunions and posthumous tracks have often stirred debate among fans. Two of the most notable tracks during the Beatles' re-activation in the 1990s were "Free as a Bird" and "Real Love." These songs were recorded by the surviving members of the band using a demo by John Lennon. The fact that this project brought together three of the four original members, more than twenty-five years after the band's dissolution, and produced something that sounded authentically Beatles-esque, is nothing short of spectacular. Can you imagine another band matching such an achievement? This project highlighted the enduring magic of the Beatles, even in the absence of their most famous member.
The Finale of Abbey Road
Among the various tracks, my personal favorite is the closing piece 'the End' from Abbey Road. This song is a perfect conclusion to the entire album. It features the Beatles making loud music and having fun, trading off guitar solos and spotlighting a drum solo by Ringo. Above all, the weed-wilted voice of the three remaining members together in a final goodbye - 'And in the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make.' The song concludes with an orchestra crescendo, a magnificent guitar sendoff by George, and wordless voices singing 'goodbye.'
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Even though 'Something/Come Together' wasn’t a commercially visible release, it's essential to note that 'You Never Give Me Your Money' serves as a powerful suite on the second side of Abbey Road. This song stands alone as a brilliant piece, with itsbuild up throughout the entire song creating a comprehensive crescendo that reaches a completely manic end. This track sets the template for the following tracks but ultimately stands out as the band's final great piece. Abbey Road, the album that essentially marked the end of the Beatles, is a fitting finish for a band on its last legs. The finality of the breakup becomes evident in 'Let It Be,' which, despite being finalized in 1970, is not considered a bad close to such an influential band.
Personal Preferences and Anomalies
It's important to mention that everyone has their subjective preferences. Some might argue that 'Hey Jude' is the band's last great song. However, I find it dirge-like and boring, a far cry from the innovative and energetic compositions of this legendary band. In my opinion, 'Hey Jude' pales in comparison to other Beatles' songs.
The Break-Up and Last Great Song
I remain firm in my suggestion that 'I'm Only Sleeping,' from the album 'Revolver,' could be considered the band's 'true last great song.' This track signifies a crucial point in the band's history - the beginning of the end. It marks the passage from live performers to studio creatures and foreshadows the band's eventual break-up. As Ian McDonald aptly puts it in his book, 'Revolution In The Head,' 'I'm Only Sleeping' and the works that followed presage the 'empty business of the mundane world.' This song stands as a poignant reminder of the wear and tear that Beatles underwent after years of fame and success.
Ultimately, the Beatles remain a shining example of musical genius. Their last great songs, whether it be 'the End,' 'You Never Give Me Your Money,' or 'I'm Only Sleeping,' encapsulate the magic and creativity that defined their career and their enduring influence in the music industry.