About The Song
"Helter Skelter" is a groundbreaking and revolutionary song by The Beatles, released on their 1968 album "The White Album." Written by Paul McCartney, the track is often credited with foreshadowing the heavy and aggressive sound that would later become a hallmark of hard rock and heavy metal.
The song's title, "Helter Skelter," was inspired by McCartney's desire to create a piece with a raw and chaotic feel. The term itself originated from a fairground ride in the United Kingdom known for its spiraling descent, and McCartney intended to capture that sense of uncontrolled energy in musical form.
"Helter Skelter" stands out for its stark departure from The Beatles' earlier, more melodic work. The track is characterized by its distorted guitar riffs, powerful drumming, and McCartney's intense, almost screaming vocals. The sheer intensity of the song was a departure from the band's previous sound, marking a bold step into a heavier musical territory.
Regarded by many as an early precursor to the heavy metal genre, "Helter Skelter" had a profound impact on the evolution of rock music. Its influence extended beyond The Beatles' catalog, inspiring countless bands and artists in the years to come.
Interestingly, the song gained notoriety due to Charles Manson's misinterpretation of its lyrics, incorrectly believing it to be a call for apocalyptic violence. Despite this association, "Helter Skelter" remains a significant cultural and musical landmark, showcasing The Beatles' ability to innovate and explore new sonic landscapes. The track's aggressive and experimental nature makes it a standout piece in the band's diverse and influential body of work.
Video
Lyrics
Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
When I get to the bottom I go back to the top of the slide
Where I stop and I turn and I go for a ride
Till I get to the bottom and I see you again
Do, don't you want me to love you
I'm coming down fast but I'm miles above you
Tell me, tell me, tell me, come on tell me the answer
Well, you may be a lover but you ain't no dancer
Helter skelter, helter skelter
Helter skelter
Will you, won't you want me to make you
I'm coming down fast but don't let me break you
Tell me, tell me, tell me the answer
You may be a lover but you ain't no dancer
Look out
Helter skelter, helter skelter
Helter skelter
Look out, 'cause here she comes
When I get to the bottom I go back to the top of the slide
And I stop and I turn and I go for a ride
And I get to the bottom and I see you again, yeah, yeah
Well do you, don't you want me to make you
I'm coming down fast but don't let me break you
Tell me, tell me, tell me your answer
You may be a lover but you ain't no dancer
Look out
Helter skelter, helter skelter
Helter skelter
Look out, helter skelter
She's coming down fast
Yes, she is
Yes, she is
Coming down fast