About The Song
"The Ballad of John and Yoko" stands out in The Beatles' discography as a unique and memorable composition. Released in 1969 as a single, the song was primarily written by John Lennon and Paul McCartney and recorded by just the two of them due to logistical constraints involving the other band members. The track narrates the tumultuous events surrounding Lennon's marriage to Yoko Ono, providing a candid glimpse into the couple's life and the media frenzy that surrounded them during that period.
The song's distinctive sound is characterized by its stripped-down arrangement, featuring primarily Lennon on vocals and guitar, with McCartney contributing bass, drums, and backing vocals. The absence of George Harrison and Ringo Starr in the recording process gives the song an intimate and raw quality. The lyrics provide a narrative of Lennon and Ono's journey, from their marriage in Gibraltar to the challenges they faced, including the controversy and public scrutiny that often accompanied their relationship. The ballad format, with its straightforward and conversational lyrics, adds a personal touch to the storytelling.
"The Ballad of John and Yoko" is notable for its topical nature, offering a glimpse into the personal lives of its creators during a turbulent period. Lennon's witty and candid lyricism captures the media's obsession with the couple and the challenges they faced in the public eye. The song also reflects the couple's activism, addressing their peaceful Bed-Ins for peace and the challenges they encountered as advocates for change. The juxtaposition of the serious subject matter with the upbeat and catchy melody adds a layer of complexity, making it both an engaging listen and a reflection of the times.
The single faced some controversy upon its release due to its explicit references to controversial topics and the use of religious imagery, which led to bans in several countries. However, the song's irreverent tone and catchy chorus contributed to its success, reaching the top of the charts in the United Kingdom and becoming one of The Beatles' many hits. "The Ballad of John and Yoko" remains a testament to the band's ability to experiment with different styles while addressing personal and social issues, showcasing their versatility and willingness to push artistic boundaries. The song's enduring popularity lies not only in its historical context but also in its infectious energy and the candid portrayal of the iconic couple's experiences during a pivotal moment in their lives.
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Lyrics
Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
Standing in the dock at Southampton
Trying to get to Holland or France
The man in the mac said, "You've got to go back"
You know they didn't even give us a chance
Christ you know it ain't easy
You know how hard it can be
The way things are going
They're going to crucify me
Finally made the plane into Paris
Honeymooning down by the Seine
Peter Brown called to say
"You can make it OK
You can get married in Gibraltar, near Spain"
Christ you know it ain't easy
You know how hard it can be
The way things are going
They're going to crucify me
Drove from Paris to the Amsterdam Hilton
Talking in our beds for a week
The newspapers said, "Say what you doing in bed?"
I said, "We're only trying to get us some peace"
Christ you know it ain't easy
You know how hard it can be
The way things are going
They're going to crucify me
Saving up your money for a rainy day
Giving all your clothes to charity
Last night the wife said
"Poor boy, when you're dead
You don't take nothing with you
But your soul, think!"
Made a lightning trip to Vienna
Eating chocolate cake in a bag
The newspapers said, "She's gone to his head
They look just like two gurus in drag"
Christ you know it ain't easy
You know how hard it can be
The way things are going
They're going to crucify me
Caught an early plane back to London
Fifty acorns tied in a sack
The men from the press said, "We wish you success
It's good to have the both of you back"
Christ you know it ain't easy
You know how hard it can be
The way things are going
They're going to crucify me
The way things are going
They're going to crucify me