About The Song
(Watch the video below)
"Everybody's Got Something to Hide Except Me and My Monkey" is a dynamic and enigmatic track by The Beatles, featured on their iconic double album "The Beatles" (commonly known as the White Album), released in 1968. Written by John Lennon, the song reflects the band's experimentation with diverse musical styles and showcases their ability to push the boundaries of conventional pop and rock.
The song opens with a burst of energy, driven by a pulsating and infectious rhythm. Lennon's vocals are characterized by a raw intensity that captures the rebellious spirit of the late 1960s. The lyrics, while often cryptic, suggest a sense of defiance and a desire for privacy amidst a world filled with hidden agendas and secrets.
The recurring refrain, "Come on, come on, come on, come on, come on, come on, come on, come on, come on, come on, come on," adds to the frenetic energy of the track, creating a sense of urgency and momentum. The repetition of this mantra-like phrase contributes to the hypnotic quality of the song, drawing listeners into its whirlwind of sound.
Musically, "Everybody's Got Something to Hide Except Me and My Monkey" features a diverse array of elements. The prominent use of a distorted guitar riff, played by George Harrison, adds a gritty and edgy texture to the song. The rhythm section, driven by Paul McCartney's dynamic bassline and Ringo Starr's energetic drumming, propels the track forward with a sense of controlled chaos.
The eclectic nature of the song is further highlighted by the inclusion of unconventional instruments, such as maracas and handclaps, adding to its overall kaleidoscopic sound. The sonic experimentation in "Everybody's Got Something to Hide Except Me and My Monkey" aligns with the broader approach of the White Album, which saw The Beatles exploring a wide range of genres and styles.
The meaning behind the lyrics has been a subject of speculation, and Lennon himself acknowledged the cryptic nature of the song. Some interpretations suggest that the "monkey" mentioned in the title refers to Yoko Ono, with whom Lennon was in a relationship during this period. The lyrics might allude to the scrutiny and public attention their relationship faced.
The title itself suggests a desire for authenticity and openness in the face of a world filled with hidden agendas. The notion of a "monkey" as a companion who doesn't hide anything might symbolize a genuine and unfiltered connection in the midst of a society where everyone else seems to have something to conceal.
Live performances of "Everybody's Got Something to Hide Except Me and My Monkey" were rare during The Beatles' career, adding to the mystique of the song. Its dynamic and unpredictable nature might have made it challenging to replicate in a live setting.
In conclusion, "Everybody's Got Something to Hide Except Me and My Monkey" stands as a testament to The Beatles' willingness to venture into uncharted musical territory. Its frenzied energy, cryptic lyrics, and eclectic instrumentation contribute to its status as a standout track on the White Album. The song encapsulates the spirit of experimentation that defined The Beatles' later years, as they continued to evolve and challenge the conventions of popular music.
Video
Lyrics
Let's sing along with the lyrics!
Come on come on, come on come on
Come on its such a joy
Come on its such a joy
Come on let's take it easy
Come on let's take it easy
Take it easy take it easy
Everybody's got something to hide except for me and
My monkey
The deeper you go, the higher you fly
The higher you fly, the deeper you go
So come on come on
Come on its such a joy
Come on its such a joy
Come on let's make it easy
Come on let's make it easy
Take it easy, take it easy
Everybody's got something to hide except for me and
My monkey
Your inside is out when your outside is in
Your outside is in when your inside is out
So come on come on
Come on its such a joy
Come on its such a joy
Come on let's make it easy
Come on let's make it easy
Make it easy, make it easy
Everybody's got something to hide except for me and
My monkey