Beatles Beginnings: Exploring Their Early Cover Songs
The Beatles are often revered as musical geniuses, likened to classical composers like Bach and Beethoven. However, before they became legends themselves, Paul McCartney, John Lennon, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr were inspired by artists like Chuck Berry, Little Richard, and The Everly Brothers. Let's take a look back at three of the best cover songs recorded by The Beatles in their early years.
One of the most covered artists by The Beatles in their early days was Chuck Berry. John Lennon often led the band in covering Berry's songs, but George Harrison took the lead on "Roll Over Beethoven" in 1961. This track appeared on the album With The Beatles and remained in their setlist until 1964. The song symbolizes the passing of the torch from classical music to rock and roll, with lyrics like "Roll over Beethoven / And tell Tchaikovsky the news."
Paul McCartney referred to "Honey Don't" as a "Cavern item," a nod to the Cavern Club in Liverpool where The Beatles frequently performed. Ringo Starr took on the vocals and drums for this Carl Perkins tune, which had also been sung by Lennon. Starr had a history with the song from his pre-Beatles days and was drawn to country rock music. "Honey Don't" was originally released by Perkins in 1956 as the B-side to "Blue Suede Shoes."
On October 13, 1963, The Beatles performed at the London Palladium, marking the beginning of Beatlemania. They closed the set with "Twist And Shout," one of their most popular covers. This track also served as the closing song on their debut album, Please Please Me. Producer George Martin described it as a challenging song vocally, but Lennon's raw and powerful delivery added a rebellious edge to the pop music scene. Despite being a cover, "Twist And Shout" showcased The Beatles' ability to transform and revolutionize the music that inspired them.
In their early years, The Beatles paid homage to their musical influences through cover songs that showcased their talent and versatility. These tracks laid the foundation for their groundbreaking contributions to the world of rock and roll, setting the stage for their iconic status in music history.