About The Song
(Watch the video below)
"You Can't Do That" stands out as a dynamic and assertive track in The Beatles' catalog. Written by John Lennon, the song was included on the UK album "A Hard Day's Night," released in 1964. Characterized by its distinctive guitar riff and Lennon's assertive vocals, "You Can't Do That" represents a departure from the love-centric themes that dominated much of the band's early work.
The song's lyrics convey a sense of possessiveness and jealousy, as Lennon expresses concern about his partner's interactions with others. The theme of romantic insecurity is delivered with a raw and intense vocal performance, showcasing Lennon's ability to convey emotion through his singing. The lyrics reveal a more complex and mature aspect of relationships compared to some of The Beatles' earlier, more straightforward love songs.
Musically, "You Can't Do That" features a prominent and memorable guitar riff played by George Harrison. The riff, characterized by its bluesy and infectious quality, adds a distinctive edge to the song. The energetic tempo and the band's tight instrumentation create a sense of urgency that complements the assertive tone of the lyrics. The song's overall sound reflects The Beatles' evolving musical maturity and experimentation with different genres, moving beyond the conventional pop-rock formula.
The song's impact was not limited to its musical composition; its inclusion in the film "A Hard Day's Night" showcased The Beatles' ability to seamlessly integrate their music into cinematic storytelling. The energetic performance of "You Can't Do That" in the movie further solidified its place in the cultural zeitgeist of the 1960s. The song, with its blend of catchy melodies, striking lyrics, and memorable guitar work, remains a testament to The Beatles' ability to push the boundaries of popular music while maintaining their unmistakable sound.
Video
Lyrics
Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
I got something to say that might cause you pain
If I catch you talking to that boy again
I'm gonna let you down
And leave you flat
Because I told you before, oh
You can't do that
Well, it's the second time I've caught you talking to him
Do I have to tell you one more time, I think it's a sin
I think I'll let you down (Let you down)
Leave you flat (Gonna let you down and leave you flat)
Because I've told you before, oh
You can't do that
Everybody's green
Cos I'm the one who won your love
But if they'd seen
You're talking that way they'd laugh in my face
So please listen to me, if you wanna stay mine
I can't help my feelings, I'll go out of my mind
I'm gonna let you down (Let you down)
And leave you flat (Gonna let you down and leave you flat)
Because I've told you before, oh
You can't do that, oh
(You can't do that
You can't do that
You can't do that
You can't do that
You can't do that)
Everybody's green
Cos I'm the one who won your love
But if they'd seen
You're talking that way they'd laugh in my face
So please listen to me, if you wanna stay mine
I can't help my feelings, I'll go out of my mind
I'm gonna let you down (Let you down)
And leave you flat (Gonna let you down and leave you flat)
Because I've told you before, oh
You can't do that