1970 LET IT BE

LET IT BE : Finally, to the sadness of the world, the last of The Beatles. The greatest band of the century is no more. When this album was released, none of The Beatles have already ceased to be an entity and none were available to see to the content of the album. hence it's distorted state. Whatever the case, as always indicated, The Beatles' worst were only worst among their circle, other bands would sell their mothers to have made such an album as "Let It Be" for it contained three No.One singles no less. Phil Spector was bought in to sort out the mess and to his credit, because him, we have one more Beatles' album.

TWO OF US : A nice quiet acoustic opener from Paul that hacked back to their earlier. Initially thought to be about John and Paul but it was actually about Paul and Linda.

DIG A PONY : John Lennon have been on record saying that this track was a piece of garbage. That's a bit too harsh. Great song it ain't but garbage it certainly isn't. I can live with this.

ACROSS THE UNIVERSE : This is more the John that we've known and loved. The melody is great while the lyrics are just superb. Written as only John can, the word play is a joy to listen to.

I ME MINE : George's song and it was also the title of his autobiography. Not the greatest of songs but it fitted in nicely here.

DIG IT :  This was a forty five minutes song which they wisely extracted from a 12 minute jam. I've heard the long version. It was nothing more than a long endless jam with words or names made up as they play.

LET IT BE : One of the last great Beatles' song. Another of those songs that I never grow tired of listening of. This version is slightly different from the version released as the single. George's guitar is given more prominent here. Hymn like and beautiful beyond words.

MAGGIE MAE :  Another of those studio jam seasons which they've recorded for prosperity. John have a longer version of this song in his anthology box set. In the old days, when I was recording songs in cassette form, I use to insert this song for the short bit of tape left just before the last songs ended. The Beatles have lots of this short songs.

I'VE GOT A FEELING : One of those rare moments when John and Paul have both their unfinished songs mingled into one. I like this rocking number. And it feels kinda warm when you have the two feuding greats singing alongside each other.

ONE AFTER 909 : This one was dated from their old days before they became music Gods. John added in another of his song to make the song whole. Not one of my favourite but it's way better then when they originally sang it.

THE LONG AND WINDING ROAD : Another great one from Paul, thought not as universal as 'Let It Be  '. I've always imagine this song should be a theme for a great movie. Movies along the line of "Gone With The Wind", or "Doctor Zhivago". Great song for a great movie. A truly incredible masterpiece that tugs at your heart string wherever or whoever you are. Love it, love it love it.

FOR YOU BLUES : George final song as a Beatle. This one is quite jolly thought not as memorable as his other songs. The slide guitar, courtesy of John, is a joy to listen to. The power that be thought enough of this song to include it in "The Best Of George Harrison" album, a decade later.

GET BACK : This version of 'Get Back' was not the same as the version issued as the single. The version here was much shorter with snippets of The Beatles chatting near the end of the song. Ironic that the last song here was called 'Get Back' when after this, The Beatles were all going their separate ways.

1969 ABBEY ROAD

ABBEY ROAD : Although "Let It Be" was the last official Beatles release, Abbey Road was their real swan song, a fitting cap to their career and the decade hey dominated. As was usual with Beatles' album, there are no bad tracks here. Divided into two distinct halves with one half being stand alone songs and the other half a continuous medley of songs that justifies its musical pretentious. With this album. George Harrison finally came out of Lennon / McCartney's shadow and produced the two best tracks from the album. The Beatles although deep in tension with each other, set aside their differences long enough to show the world they still have the power to rock 'n' roll and in return we have the best rock 'n' roll record ever from The Beatles or from anyone else in the rock era.

COME TOGETHER : John with his quasi-nonsense lyrics again and arguably the best of the lot. One of the few songs that John sang in his concert and also one of the best opener of any Beatles albums. I am never tire of this song and also one of the few Beatles' songs that I love singing during my karaoke seasons.

SOMETHING : Frank Sinatra once praised George by saying that "this was one of the century most beautiful love songs ever written.." but stabbed him in the back by saying " by Lennon / McCartney ". This was the only Beatles song that Frank Sinatra would sing. Whatever Frank say or he may have got the credits mixed up, we agreed with his first statement for this is indeed one of the most beautiful love songs ever written. George Harrison's finest achievement within The Beatles.

MAXWELL'S SILVER HAMMER : The Beatles generally didn't care much for this number except for Paul McCartney who wrote it of course. I love it. Singing in his clearest voice, in nursery rhyme style the song is about a serial killer. Not really one for the children but the melody and arrangement is so catchy and irresistible that you just can't help but let your children listen to it.

OH DARLING : Another Paul McCartney's song written in the style of John Lennon. Yet another song that I don't care much for initially. When I finally got round to it, it have me in even more awe of  the power that was The Beatles. This was the one the separates the mere singers from the real singers. Engelbert Humperdinke could never sing this in a million years or for a million bucks. It's unbelievable when you think that the sweet voice that sang 'I Will', 'Yesterday' and 'Here, There And Everywhere' could actually sounds  like this. Awesome.

OCTOPUS'S GARDEN : The first Ringo Starr composed Beatles' song that I genuinely like. Written with a little help from his friend, George, it was a sequence of sort to 'Yellow Submarine'. It have charms in spades. One of those Beatles' song that I never get tired of listening to. Ringo got his dues.

I WANT YOU : John at his heaviest on this album. This is generally a good song with limited lyric but it went on for too darn long. If John have shorten it a bit, it could even be single material. Yeah it was that good but then again too long. The influence of Yoko is felt here.

HERE COMES THE SUN : George's second song on the album and generally considered the second best song on the album. Just the song to lift your spirit up when you are having a bad day.

BECAUSE : One of John most beautiful love song to Yoko, this one have three part harmonies by John, Paul and George and it is almost their best.

YOU NEVER GIVE ME YOUR MONEY :  This song starts their famous medleys. It was due to Paul's genius that he managed to link the follow eight songs and linked them together beautifully.
This song have three parts. It starts off with a piano ballad, turned into a blues rocker in the middle then fades out with a nursery like ending. Paul was always a master at linking unfinished songs together as he have demonstrated again and again in his solo outings.

SUN KING : The next song in the medley which I considered the weakest. Maybe it was due to the Roce Royce standard of  the other songs, this one sounds rather...ahem....stale.

MEAN MISTER MUSTARD : With this the tempo picks up. John at his rocking best although a wee bit too short. Before you know it, it's over. Frustrating to say the least.

POLYTHENE PAM : The sister of 'Mean Mister Mustard', this one demonstrated the rock 'n' roll side of John that he loves so much.

SHE CAME IN THOUGH THE BEDROOM WINDOW :  Paul back in the game with this beautiful song due to a recent incident. Joe Cocker would record his own version but The Beatles' version are still the best.

GOLDEN SLUMBERS : With this beautiful lullaby, the tempo quieten down. Paul demonstrated yet again he is at the top of the game. While visiting his father, he came across a song book with a traditional song 'Golden Slumbers' written by one Thomas Dekker, from the 17th century. As he couldn't read music, he wrote his own version of the song with the same title but a totally different song. Awesome.

CARRY THAT WEIGHT : Another sing-along song from Paul. This song show Paul's thought of The Beatles in its twilight days with its subjects of moneys, business problems and the burdens that goes with it.

THE END : The final song from the final album from the greatest band of all time, or was it. This track was more instrumental than vocal. It was as if The Beatles know that it was to be their last album, their last hurrah so each of them, John, Paul and George have a guitar solo. Even Ringo have a drum solo. The last verse for this song says it all " And in the end, the love you take is equal to the love you made'. And with that, The Beatles bowed out. They did not go out with a whim, they went out with a bang that would be heard forever.

HER MAJESTY : This last song or could it be called a song was originally slotted to be part of the medley but somehow deemed unsuitable so it was left out. The original album doesn't have this title on the record sleeve so fans was pleasantly surprised when they heard it. Sub-sequence CD have this title on the sleeves.

1968 THE BEATLES ( AKS THE WHITE ALBUM )

THE BEATLES ( AKA THE WHITE ALBUM ) : The Beatles first double album and yet another masterpiece. With this effort, The Beatles decided to go back to their root but instead it took them everywhere. Never before or since, in the history of rock music, have there been so many varieties of music cramped into an album. There are soul, reggae, blues, good old fashioned rock 'n' roll, 50's style rag time and everything else you can name. Most of the songs were written in India. The album also show the different directions the bands were going and the disharmony within the group. Although it is The Beatles in all their brilliance, it is actually a recording of four individuals with the others acting as backing band. George Martin reportedly tried to get the lads to trimmed it down to a single album but at this point, The Beatles were beyond negotiable  Nevertheless, a great album.

BACK IN THE USSR : This great rock 'n' roll number by Paul open the album. Influenced by their boyhood idol Chuck Berry and said to be a send up to The Beach Boys, this one was an instant classic.

DEAR PRUDENCE : Written about Mia Farrow's sister, Prudence, this was a rare softer side of John Lennon that's more in the style of Paul McCartney. I found this quite slow at first but gradually like most Beatles' songs, it grew on me.

GLASS ONION : One of those nonsensical songs that John was so good at. Written to confuse fans about the secret messages in their songs. This song gives fans a field days 'cos it contain several references to their earlier hits. A solid number no less.

OBLADI, OBLADA :  A firm favourite during my school days and it's not hard to see why. When my brothers have this album on tape, due to the stereo effect, only this song have vocals on it while the rest of the songs doesn't. Even my mother was taping her foot to this infectious song. The Marmalade took advantage of The Beatles not releasing this song and took it to the top of the chart themselves.

WILD HONEY PIE : A throwaway track which Paul McCartney probably made up in the studio.

THE CONTINUING STORY OF BUNGALOW BILL :  This next one from John was not a favourite with me. Probably another one that John made up just to fill up the album's space. Nevertheless, one man's mean could well be another ones poison. There are others who like this.This was also the first time that Yoko made her vocal contribution on a Beatles song.

WHILE MY GUITAR GENTLY WEEPS : The first great one from the quiet one. Incredibly I don't like this when I first heard it. Finding it too long and right after this, the great John Lennon's song 'Happiness Is A Warm Gun' doesn't help either. Now, this song is indispensable to me. I could press the repeat button and listen to it again and again.

HAPPINESS IS A WARM GUN : This ones been a favourite to me ever since the first time I heard it. Consisting of four different sings somehow mingled together wondrously as only the late great John Lennon can. Till today, this song can still stop me in my track. Ironically in the end, it was a gun that cut short his happiness.

MARTHA MY DEAR : Paul's song supposedly about his sheepdog but in actuality about his then relationship with Jane Asher, in that famous music hall sounding horn arrangement that he was so good in. This will have you shaking your hips and smiling through the song's duration. Very distinctively Paul McCartney. Love it.

I'M SO TIRED : One of John's lazy song which he did so perfectly in 'I'm Only Sleeping' on "Revolver". I sing this song whenever I am feeling weary or tired. A good one to sing to your other half when she is asking you to do things and you are feeling so darn tired.

BLACK BIRD : A sweet little ditty written and sung by Paul McCartney with just his acoustic guitar. This is just one of those songs that The Beatles could write in their sleep and it sound just as sweet too. Such is the power of The Beatles.

PIGGIES : Another favourite of mine. This ones from George. Clearly George is showing his grown as a songwriter within the class of Lennon / McCartney thought he doesn't have as many songs as them.

ROCKY RACCOON : A country 'n' western song which was a straight favourite of mine as well as my mum. Can you beat that. The Beatles' music can even reach my mother, a typical Chinese lady who doesn't know English from Spanish. This is one of the Beatles' song that I like to sing at karaoke. I don't usually do Beatles' songs 'cos they are all sacred songs to me but I do this one.

DON'T PASS ME BY : Even Ringo got in the act with this country 'n' western number. Not a particular favourite but tolerable. I much prefer his improvised live version of this song in one of his later live albums.

WHY DON'T WE DO IT IN THE ROAD :  A close to 4 minutes song with only one sentence. Incredible. I never used to like this song but as the years pass....The piano thumbing lends a sense of urgency that stops you from pressing the skip button. Initially I though it was Ringo singing this but of course it was Paul doing his 'Lady Madonna' kind of vocal.

I WILL : Trust The Beatles to follow up with one of their hardest song on the album with one of the gentlest and most beautiful one. When Paul turned on his charms, even the birds will stop and listen such as this one. Another nice to sing to your lover.

JULIE : As mentioned before, sometimes John can write a Paul McCartney song as well as Paul McCartney as he so ably demonstrated on this gentle track about his mother, whenever he want to.

BIRTHDAY : Again, another tracks that I don't like initially. It was so heavy. Too heavy for my tender ears. I was only 9 years old for crying out loud. Now I love it enough even to sing it to my Beatles loving friends' birthdays.

YER BLUES : I like this tracks even when I haven't a clue what John was singing about. This is just one of two or was it three Beatles' songs that he performed when The Beatles disbanded. A solid blue number about suicide. It there anything that The Beatles can't write and sing about and sings it so brilliantly too.

MOTHER NATURE'S SON : Another Paul McCartney's gem that he seems to write so effortlessly. A beautiful country ballad but due to it's inclusion so late in the album somehow lesser it's impact. A beautiful song nevertheless. John Denver covered this and tried to claim it as his own but nope, Paul's version is the best as most Beatles' songs are. No one can best the bestest.

EVERY BODY'S GOT SOMETHING TO HIDE EXCEPT FOR ME AND MY MONKEY : What a mouthful. This is one of those rare Beatles' songs that I never like. Written in protest of a cartoon that showed Yoko as a monkey that was riding on his back, draining him of his talents.  Maybe there's some truth in that cartoon, temporary.

SEXY SADIE : You just can't keep a good man down. John bounced back splendidly with this wonderful ballad about his disillusion with the Maharishi who was said to have made a pass at one of his followers. True or not, we are all grateful for the inspiration it gave birth to this great classic.

HELTER SKELTER : Earlier it was John Lennon writing a Paul McCartney like ballad, now it's Paul's turn to write a John Lennon's type of rocker. I really doesn't like this at all when I first heard it during my tender years. I'm not sure I like it still. The distorting guitar and obnoxious scream. This is arguably the first heavy metal record although John said the first was 'Ticket To Ride'. I much prefer the more slimmer down version that Paul did in the 2000's at the Grammy show.

LONG, LONG, LONG : Again after you have lower the volume down for 'Helter Skelter, came this rather soft offering from George. So soft you'll have to turn up the volume again. This is a beautiful song but a tab too soft for my liking. I was hoping that George would do a re make of this track and make it more assessable to the ears, but.......

REVOLUTION 1 : I like this one. The false starting and all.  John having his say at politic and he did it best in music. It's much softer in tune than the other version with the distorting guitar and much more louder. Impact wise the other one, I have to admit was bigger.

HONEY PIE : Another ragtime kind of music from Paul McCartney. I love this one. So fun filled and lively. Surprisingly, this was one of his least successful ragtime kind of song. Fortunately, it does not hinder him from writing more of these kind of songs.

SAVOY TRUFFLE : George's final track and it's written based on a chocolate that Eric Clapton have eaten that have given him a toothache. When we have toothache, we go and see a dentist but when The Beatles or anyone they know got a toothache, they go and write a song about it. Regarded by some as the best rock 'n' roll song from this album, this is great stuff.

CRY BABY CRY : John Lennon writing a fairy tale in musical language. A charming song although a bit long. Still the charms cannot be denied.

REVOLUTION 9 : The most hated track on the album or the most hated Beatles' track. A recorded voice calling out No.9, No9, No9...till you want to scream and then followed by snippets of interviews that goes on forever. Yoko have her hand all over this. George Martin and the rest of The Beatles tried desperately to keep this out of the record, but John wouldn't bulged. All these years, due to my debt to The Beatles, I've heard the whole track through only once and that was it. Never again.

GOODNIGHT : John made his amendment after the above atrocious track. A beautiful lullaby written for his son, Julian but was given to Ringo to sing. I use to sing this to my children to sleep. A nice end to an awesome album.

1969 YELLOW SUMBARINE

YELLOW SUBMARINE :  Released in 1969, this soundtrack broke a Beatles record. It was the album that broke their streak of nine No.1 albums that stretched back to 1964. It only reached No.2 on the Billboard's album chart. The poor showing however, doesn't reflect on The Beatles' creativity or popularity, for this album consist of only four new Beatles' songs with two previously released tracks and the other side made up of orchestra music by George Martin. Only four new songs but still managed to bring the album to No.2 is a considerably achievement for any band, I would say. Again, a failure only by Beatles' standard but a triumph by any other bands.

YELLOW SUBMARINE : The same track from "Revolver".

ONLY A NORTHERN SONG : A George Harrison's song showing his resentment that much of the earning from his song was taxed by the accountants, the taxmen, etc. A subject he tackled so effectively on 'Taxman' on the "Revolver" album. His attempt here is much weaker but it still have its charms. I quite enjoy this.

ALL TOGETHER NOW : A relatively new Beatles song to me which I only got to heard when I have it recorded on one of my cassettes. A charming little ditty that can only come from Paul McCartney. I love singing this to my daughters when there were still small.

HEY BULLDOG : The heavyweight from this album naturally can only come from John Lennon. I love this one. The guitar sound was so far out. Hard to imagine that all the songs gather here were considered as throwaways by The Beatles not worthy to be on any of their albums.

IT'S ALL TOO MUCH : A six minutes long track from George Harrison that waxes philosophical with 'Tomorrow Never Knows' styled guitar and tape effects. There are people who swear that this is one of The Beatles or George Harrison's greatest song. Who am I to argue, but at six minutes long, it's a tab bit too long for me and it's not exactly 'Hey Jude'.

ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE : The same track from "Magical Mystery Tour".

1967 MAGICAL MYSTERY TOUR

MAGICAL MYSTERY TOUR : I've never have this album during my younger days. When I finally got the CD, the songs were quite 'new' to me other than the singles, of course. I once stumbled upon the EP in a record shop. I should have grabbed it but during that time, a school boy's allowance is quite limited. If I have got my hand on that EP, what a collection's items it would be now. Sign.

MAGICAL MYSTERY TOUR : It was this side of the album that I was not familiar with till years later. Quite a revelation for me. I guess I was one of the rare ones who don't quite get this title track. It was the title track and it was supposed to grab you by the throat like some many before it. But nope, I didn't feel the magic this time. Never like the song and never have.One of these rare Beatles' tracks that I pressed the skip button.

THE FOOL ON THE HILL : The Beatles redeemed themselves somewhat with this Paul McCartney song. I say somewhat because I've mentioned somewhere, great as the song may be, it was better done by Sergio Mendes & Brasil '66. I like the bass line which was practically invented by Paul and the melody. A classic nevertheless.

FLYING : The first time an instrumental track even graced a Beatles album and the first time all Beatles were credited on a track. A throwaway thought doesn't deem necessary to press the skip button.

BLUE JAY WAY : George's turn to shine but sadly he didn't. A boring tune if I could ever say that to a Beatles' track. This one just go on and on and on on the same note that makes you want to scream. Supposingly about his friend Derek Taylor being lost on his way to see the lads. Boring.

YOUR MOTHER SHOULD KNOW : It was up to Paul to save the day again with this delightful little song cut from the same cloth as 'When I'm Sixty Four', which Paul was so good in. Nice.

I AM THE WALRUS : Now I am back in familiar territory. Heard first on the flip side of 'Hello, Goodbye', I find this song weird and nothing's like what The Beatles have done. Often hailed as John Lennon's masterpiece, the lyric is pure nonsensical and show John's admiration for Lewis Carroll. This is one of those songs that can only be written by John Lennon. Not even Bob Dylan can come up with something close like this.

HELLO, GOODBYE : The more radio friendly Beatles' song that is readily lapped by the public in opposed to the more experimental and adventurous 'I Am The Walrus'. A No. 1 no less. I like to sing this to my baby girl with me singing one verse and she singing the next.

STRAWBERRY FIELDS FOREVER : Coupled with 'Penny Lane', this was universally agreed by critics and fans alike to be the single most important single of all time. Incredibly, and to the eternal shame of the Britons, it was held off the No.1 spot by Engelbert Humperdinck's 'Release Me' and it broke their long run of  No.1 hits. When I first heard this, I find it a vastly different kind of music. Initially I couldn't it was The Beatles. It was meant as part of the Sgt. Pepper's album but The Beatles were pressured to released to release a single after their long hiatus in between albums.

PENNY LANE : As usual, Paul's song is the more radio friendly and this was the one that got to No. 1 while 'Strawberry Fields Forever' got to No.8. An irony actually when the DJs took the two songs on the the same record as separate singles. Truly, rock never got more adventurous than this. Two vastly separate individuals who are as alike as night and day, recording different songs on the same subject on the same disc.

BABY, YOU'RE A RICH MAN : A somewhat lesser song as compared to the first two titans. A mingle of two separate songs that was suppose to be about their manager, Brian Epstein. Still, any recordings by The Beatles warrant listening and this one is no exception.

ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE : One of John most simplest and grandest statement ever. A timeless love anthem for all the world to sing along. No one writes anthems better than John and he wrote a couple more in the years that follow.

1967 SGT. PEPPER'S LONELY HEART CLUB BAND

SGT. PEPPER'S LONELY HEART CLUB BAND : If The Beatles, starting from "Rubber Soul" started their transcend from merely a good band to a great band, then this 1968 release surely sees them reached their musical Nirvana. This album has been called the greatest album of all time and heaps of lavish praises allocated it by critics and fans alike. But somehow it still falls short of something. There seems to be more fillers here than on other Beatles' album. I place my bet on either "Rubber Soul", "Revolver" or "Abbey Road" or even "The Beatles"  for the greatest Beatles album or the greatest album of all time. Still, this does not mean that "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Heart Club Band " is bad. It's a great album but there are just better Beatles abound. There are many 'first' that comes with this album. Among the most significant was that it was the first album that comes with an open sleeve and also the first that comes with lyrics of the songs.

SGT. PEPPER'S LONELY HEART CLUB BAND : The album's famous opener that spurred a thousand imitations. Jimi Hendrix was so impressed with this song that he was singing it on his concert within days of it's released. It also inspired the ill fated movie of the same name starring The Bee Gees and Peter Frampton plus a host of other stars. A favourite of mine.

WITH A LITTLE HELP FROM MY FRIENDS  The second successful Ringo Starr vehicle since 'Yellow Submarine" from "Revolver". Joe Cocker later would make an even more successful cover of this song taking it to greater height. Still, I prefer this version to Joe Cocker's or any others versions.

LUCY IN THE SKY WITH DIAMOND : The first totally blown out psychedelia song by John with his love of words play. Inspired by a drawing by his son Julian's friend called Lucy. It was also suspected to be a drug song not helped by its initials LSD,which John denied to his dying days.

GETTING BETTER : After the surreal feeling from 'Lucy In The Sky With Diamond', we are bought back to earth by this bountiful wonderful song by Paul. It's a optimist song with a few cynical remarks thrown by John. A winner and the lead guitar is awesome.

FIXING A HOLE : Another winner by Paul. This one is about just what the song song implied, fixing a hole. Fixing a hole in the ceiling or whatever but somehow the power that be suggested that it might be another drug song as in getting a fix. Those in the know knows that you don't look for deep meaning in Paul McCartney's songs unlike John Lennon who might just do that.

SHE'S LEAVING HOME : Compare to the glorious ballads in their respective albums, this one is quite a downer for me. Not that it's bad, on the contrarily, most band of the day would sell their mothers to able to compose a song like this. Just that compared to the greater than great ballads in their previous albums, this one is a step down.

BEING FOR THE BENEFIT OF MR. KITE : This one is an eye opener. Close your eyes when this song is being played, you could swear that you are in the circus. Copied almost words for words from an old circus poster, this one shows the power that The Beatles process. I am convinced that that can even make a hit song out a telephone book.

WITHIN YOU, WITHOUT YOU : A weird but fine track from George Harrison. This one features only George and a few Indian musicians. It's a joke to play this at home and have your neighbors giving you strange look. Initially I used to skipped this track but in time, I grew to appreciate the musical side of it.

WHEN I'M SIXTY FOUR : A personal favorite of mine and anyone who's over 50. A nice to sing to your lover during the courting stage. Never fail.

LOVELY RITA : A slight filler on the album according to Beatles standard. Beatles fillers are usually still the best on any other artists album. Filler or not, this one have a catchy melody.

GOOD MORNING, GOOD MORNING : A throwaway according to the composer, John Lennon. This one's the same as above. Filler only by Beatles standards. I've been using this as wake up call on my phone since forever. A good way to start any mornings with Beatles waking you.

SGT. PEPPERS' LONELY HEART CLUB BAND ( REPRISE ) : This second time this song appear on the album, though only a short one. This one is more upbeat.

A DAY IN THE LIFE : This song have been listed by many polls as being the most popular Beatles songs of all time. It's the perfect blending of actually two songs by both John and Paul and the result is earth shattering to say the least. In spite the reputation it have acquired since, it's not my favorite on this album, 'cos there are just too many great songs for me to choose from here.

1966 REVOLVER

REVOLVER : The Beatles began their transcend from being a mere pop group to greatness beyond the reach of mortal bands during their last album "Rubber Soul" and it continued from here. This is the album where George Harrison finally came out of the shadow of Lennon / McCartney and  also the only Beatles album that housed three George Harrison's compositions. John Lennon's songs here are more experimental than ever where Paul McCartney's songs are all bona file classics that some even went as far as to call this a Paul McCartney's CD. We have this album in the house.

TAXMAN : George's finest song so far and a splendid opening. The lead guitar is what drive the song and it's being played by Paul. It's every beat as good as any Lennon '/ McCartney song and it also fits in very well with The Beatles' tendency to open their albums with an upbeat number. A solid number.

ELANOR RIGBY : Paul's next number is an instant classic. Written in almost the same style of 'Yesterday', but with more orchestral backing. This was one of the few songs that John and Paul have some disagreement over how much input John have into the lyrics. This song also won the 1966 Grammy for Best Contemporary Pop Vocal Performance, Male. So what more is there to say.

I'M ONLY SLEEPING : A lazy song for lazy people but what a glorious lazy song. I like this song. It's nice to sing to someone who try to get you up early in the morning.

LOVE YOU TO : Another of George's songs that reflects his Eastern wisdom that he gathered from from his visits to the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, complete with Indian instruments. Not one of my favourite but it fits with the album.

HERE, THERE AND EVERYWHERE : Paul can always be depended upon to come up with a beautiful ballad or two on any Beatles' album and this time, he seems to have outdone himself. Arguably his greatest ballad, and my all time favorite, this I was told was a favorite among young courting couples on the dance floor and one song that I could press on the repeat button forever. Paul did another version of this song on one of his solo album in the eighties.

YELLOW SUBMARINE : Amid all these classics, they still find time to write a children's song for Ringo Starr to sing. In Ringo's word, 'You can start a career with just this one song' and he have been singing this song ever since. A delightful distraction, this song will definitely outlive us all.

SHE SAID, SHE SAID : A song inspired by something that Peter Fonda said, this is another one of John Lennon's experimental song. Experimental songs don't come any better than this. The lead guitar is awesome.

GOOD DAY SUNSHINE : Paul seems to be on the right footing with his lady love on this album as opposed to his songs on "Rubber Soul". Almost all his song save for the lonely 'Elanor Rigby' are bountiful and a joy to listen to and this is no exception. The Tremeloes have a hit with this song.

AND YOUR BIRD CAN SING : John again and it sounds like he is having a ball. This song used to be the theme song for their cartoon series on TV. I love this song. The only complain was that it was too short. Just when you were getting into the groove of thing, it ended. Damn.

FOR NO ONE : Another great one from Paul. When I say that Paul was on a roll, now you know what I mean. Heck, this album doesn't seems like an ordinary album at all. Matter of fact it seems more like a greatest hit album than the normal album. This is a quieter track in direct contrast to John's earlier louder effort.. This was later re recorded by Paul as well in the eighties.

DOCTOR ROBERT : This is said to be about the good doctor who introduce The Beatles to the world of drug. A rocking number, I somehow detected some similar musical notes from 'Nowhere Man'

I WANT TO TELL YOU : The last one from George. Not my favorite but a  worthwhile song anyway.

GOT TO GET YOU INTO MY LIFE : An awesome one from Paul that you never thought anyone could top. Well, Earth, Wind & Fire did just that in the ill faded 'Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Heart Band' soundtrack. In fact, this was the only song that most people remember from that album. Still, much as I loved Earth, Wind & Fire's version of this song, Paul's version here could not be faulted either.  Just like comparing oranges and apples. Just different.

TOMORROW NEVER KNOWS : The last one from John Lennon was the one that have everybody from here the moon raving. Not really one of my favorite but there are really no bad Beatles' songs just different. You may not like a particular song but they will be many others who will swear by it.

1965 RUBBER SOUL

RUBBER SOUL : Two years of Beatlemania have afforded The Beatles considerable confidence and with this offering, they didn't even bother to put their name on the cover. This album mark a tremendous leap forward for them. Though there are still the occasional love songs, the lyrics here are overall more mature and thoughtful. The influence of Bob Dylan and The Byrds are more obvious and the inclusion of other instruments like the sitar and the fuzz bass rocked in a way that does not sound dated. Incredible, my brother does not have this in his collection.

DRIVE MY CAR : The best opener for any Beatles album so far. This is by the far the hardest track on the album. The rest sounded relatively quiet. Oneof the best rocker by The Fabs. I still use the Beep Beep Yeah on my hand phone.

NORWEGIAN WOOD ( THIS BIRD HAS FLOWN ) : The second track on the album have always been featured on any critics or fans favorite list of Beatles' songs included this one. The sitar bit was a touch of brilliance that lifted an already fantastic song into the beyond.

YOU WON'T SEE ME : Paul's problem with his then current girl friend, Jane Asher was a blessing in disguise, for Beatles fans that is. If he does not have this problem with her, he would not be inspired to write all these gems and the world would be poorer for the lack of these songs.

NOWHERE MAN : The fourth song and still no sign of slipping. This was the first song that does not have the love theme and boy what a song. An acoustic type of song that would suite any mood. One of my all time favorite Beatles song and one that I never get tired of listening. If it's being played on the radio just as I am getting out of the car, I'll sit it out and then I'll get out of the car.

THINK FOR YOURSELF : George's turn finally. With the first of his customary two tracks from this album, George was gradually growing as a composer of substance. The fuzz buss here was a first for The Beatles and any pop since now for that matter. Great as this track may be to other, I wasn't a fan of it. But I do recognise a great song when I hear one even though I may not be a fan of it.

THE WORD : The first slogan song by John Lennon. He was to write a few even more prominence slogan songs in the future of course. Compare to his later ones, this was the lesser one but nevertheless still enjoyable.

MICHELLE : The customary ballad from Paul McCartney and the most popular track from the album although it was not the best track. The Highlanders took the song to the top spot when The Beatles didn't release it as a single themselves.

WHAT'S GOES ON : I don't know why but most people tend to skip this song whenever they played the album. Even my brothers when they tapped the album on cassette, they will leave out this song. Maybe they don't like Ringo's voice but I like it. It have a country style through it. This track also have the distinction of being the only Beatles track with the composers' credit of Richard Starkey / John Lennon / Paul McCartney.

GIRL : Clearly, John Lennon was on a roll here. His contributions here just keeps going up and up with no sign of wearing thin. The haunting tune will stop anyone in his track and listen.

I'M LOOKING THROUGH YOU :  Another Paul McCartney's song showing his displeasure at Jane Asher. God, I just love Jane Asher. This one was cut along the same cloth as 'You Won't See Me' but still a great track. Lesson to be learn here, never get into the wrong book of any artists, you could be  immotalised forever and not necessarily in the best of light.

IN MY LIFE : With this song, John Lennon got the nod even from his most harshest of critics. It's truly amazing and a wonder that a young lad of 25 can evoke so much emotions in a song that's only 2.26 minutes. Suffice to say, I am never tired of this song too and that middle part where George Martin plays the piano still sends a chill up my spine whenever I hear it. I've told my children that I want this song be played on my funeral and the lyrics be embedded on my tombstone.

WAIT : A somewhat playful tune. Not exactly the most memorable tune in the world but nevertheless doesn't warrant pressing the skip button.

IF I NEEDED SOMEONE : The second George Harrison song on the album. George's confidence was given a much needed boost when The Hollies covered this and got a hit out of it. Not my favourite though.

RUN FOR YOUR LIFE : This was considered another 'horror' from John Lennon but then John was always the most brutal critics of his own song. I disagree with John Lennon and I love this track. The first line was taken from an Elvis Presley's song 'Baby, Let's Play House'.Not the greatest Beatles track but then it is far from their worst.

1965 HELP !

HELP! : SOUNDTRACK FROM THE MOTION PICTURE : 1965 bring gave us "Help!", the soundtrack to their second feature film of the same name. The album lead more towards folk rather than pop. Clearly the influence of Bob Dylan could be plainly felt. Containing two No.1 hits no less and the most covered song in history 'Yesterday', it was still considered relatively weak in Beatles standard.

HELP! : The first confessional song from John that's in actuality a cry for help. But because he is obliged to write a theme song for the movie, the tempo was speed up and so we have another another No.1 from the lads. Tina Tuner made an impressive version later in her career. Yet another song that was over exposed. Not one that I listen to too often.

THE NIGHT BEFORE : This was Paul's song. An average song that somehow doesn't merit its place on the second track on the album. Still a Beatles song can't be all bad. 

YOU'VE GOT TO HIDE YOUR LOVE AWAY : Here The Beatles redeem themselves with this Bob Dylan influenced love song rumored to be about their gay manager, Brian Epstein. A highlight from this album. This use to be one of favorite but again due to over exposure.....

I NEED YOU : On this, George was beginning to show his meddle as a songwriter who's on his way to rival Lennon and McCartney. A sweet country sounding little ditty, this one is a favorite with me. Strangely, George doesn't think much of this track 'cos he didn't even mention this on his autobiography "I.Me,Mine".

ANOTHER GIRL : A throwaway from Paul, and also a throwaway only by Beatles standard. This one nevertheless have its little charm. A song of it's time.

YOU'RE GONNA LOSE THAT GIRL : Another average song saved only by The Beatles marvellous harmonising skill. I used to love this song but I grew out of it, rending it just another average song to me.

TICKET TO RIDE : This, according to John Lennon was the first heavy metal song. Driven by a riff that's so infectious that it'll take days before you can get it out of your head. The second No.1 from the album and deservedly so. Another song that is so over exposed that it almost killed my interest in it.

ACT NATURALLY :  From the first album on, this is easily my most liked Ringo's vocal. This is country and western at its most infectious. Years later, Ringo would re record this song with the writer , Buck Owens on one of his solo album.

IT'S ONLY LOVE : Regarded by John Lennon as totally rubbish, this is one of my favourite on the album. 

YOU LIKE ME TOO MUCH : Not terribly memorable nor terribly bad, this was George's second song on the record. Still, I prefer this more than his contribution on "Rubber Soul".

TELL ME WHAT YOU SEE : Considered a filler, this was nevertheless a Beatles track so it wasn't all that bad. 

I'VE JUST SEEN A FACE : This is one of the gem from Paul McCartney. A country and western tune, it was a favourite of Paul's too 'cos he played this song time and time again at his solo concert. 

YESTERDAY : The standard of all standards. This was pure Paul from beginning to end. Who could have thought that classical music and pop music can blend so well together. Not really my favourite though, I much prefer his other standards or rather his version from his solo soundtrack from the movie "Give My Regards To Board Street". 

DIZZY MISS LIZZY : Trust The Beatles to come up with this rip roaring vocal right after the gentle reading of 'Yesterday'. I've hated this song for a good many years 'cos it was too hard for me. I only came to appreciate it after hearing it from the "Live At The Hollywood Bowl" album. The bass there was more upfront softening the rawness of this song. Hence, I am able to appreciate it more now.

1964 BEATLES FOR SALE

BEATLES FOR SALES : During this time The Beatles were under contract to produced two albums per year and given the absurd work rate, the strain took its toll on the band. It does shows on the album cover. Unsmiling and serious. After the high of "A Hard Day's Night" which consisted of all originals, this one took a slight step backward, following the first two albums format mixing the albums with 8 originals and 6 covers. Generally considered to be a step backward by most, I, however, disagreed for I found this album to be more enjoyable than their first two albums and I played it often too. Overall, the feel of this album are more country and rock-a-billy influence, which is not a bad thing 'cos it show their versatile.

NO REPLY : Said by some as the weakest opening of any Beatles albums. I beg to differ. Though it's not exactly my favorite track, it does have that infectious melody that only The Beatles can write and record. This together with 'I'm A Loser', and 'Eight Days A Week' were at one time seriously considered as singles material until John pop up with 'I Feel Fine', so it can't be that weak as an opening song, can it.

I'M A LOSER : A Bob Dylan influenced number, this one I like. It show the insecurity of John Lennon in love and in life. This was actually the first song that John write that he could convey his innermost feeling.

BABY'S IN BLACK : This was performed regularly during their concert. A rather dark song. Not my favorite but their harmonizing is amazing.

ROCK AND ROLL MUSIC : This cover show just the way the song should be sung. In many ways it's better than the Chuck Berry's original. A good one for the party goers.

I'LL FOLLOW THE SUN : Any Beatles album would not be complete without a Paul McCartney's ballad. Most of Paul's ballad are heartfelt and outstanding but this one was not it. Simple and short, it only lasted 1.47 minutes. Still, it does have its charm.

MR. MOONLIGHT : Most critics and fans agreed that this was the worst Beatles cover but I disagree. There are others that are lot more worst than this. I rather like this one though. It was a favorite with me and my band and we sang it without fail whenever we jammed.

KANSAS CITY / HEY, HEY, HEY, HEY : Like most of their harder sound, this one does not work for me. I usually skipped this whenever I play this record. I've learn to tolerate it since and listen to it now and then, but still, it's not my favorite.

EIGHT DAYS A WEEK : The hit song from this album. It's distinction was the fading in instrumental which was a first in those days. A nice melody but not too great for me. The Beatles are way beyond this kind of music anyway.

WORDS OF LOVE : A wonder rendition of one of Buddy Holly's love song. In fact, I find it's much better than the original. The lead guitar is so arresting that you can't help humming the melody over and over again.

HONEY DON'T : Ringo's turn on a Carl Perkins' original. Ringo may not be one of the world's best singer but now and then, if given the right song, he could shine, as is shown here. I don't press the skip button on this track so it's okay in my book.

EVERY LITTLE THING : One of those average song that was lifted out of their averageness as only The Beatles could. The rare time when a Paul McCartney's song was cover by John. A good track.

I DON'T WANT TO SPOIL THE PARTY : Another nice one from John. This one with a strong folky country style to it. A self pity song that's cut from the same cloth as 'I'm A Loser'.

WHAT YOU'RE DOING : Paul's turn to shine. I especially like the drumming. This one have all the boys shouting on the first world of each verse. A nice one for any band to cover 'cos they can all participate.

EVERYBODY'S TRYING TO BE MY BABY : The last one was a cover from George. Again I usually stop playing this when the record needle reaches here but in time I've learn to tolerate it. I like the instrumental more than the singing. Must better than I can tolerate 'Kansas City'

1964 A HARD DAY'S NIGHT

A HARD DAY'S NIGHT : SOUNDTRACK FROM THE MOTION PICTURE :  Another album and yet another milestone for The Beatles. This was the first Beatles album to composed all original materials and out of the thirteen tracks, all but three are by John Lennon which made this the closest thing to a John Lennon album that you can find. The other three by Paul McCartney proved that quality are more than a match for quantity. Of course this album is the soundtrack to the movie of the same. The movie have being called 'The Citizen Kane of Junkbox Movie" and well, that's another story. We have this album in the house, coutesy of my brother of course so I am very familiar with the songs here. This album got lost in transaction and years later I got my own album and later CD of course.

A HARD DAY'S NIGHT : From the unmistakable opening clang from George Harrison's 12-string Rickenbacker, this is clearly the song to beat on the album but nope, this is just not possible 'cos the songs that follows just get better and better. This song also suffered from over exposure for me. It could well be the best track from the album but not for me. This was also one of the few songs by The Beatles that is instantly recognizable in the first two seconds.

I SHOULD HAVE KNOWN BETTER : This song was a blast. Anybody who doesn't like this song can't seriously be called a music lover. The harmonica alone makes me wanna go right and buy me one.

IF I FELL : John's attempt to write a ballad and boy what a ballad it was. Most band would have given their right arms to come up with this song. Those early detractors who say that The Beatles can't sing should listen to this. The harmony is awesome to say the least.

I'M HAPPY JUST TO DANCE WITH YOU : This was considered a throwaway by John and it was given to George to sing. Don't know about you guys but this was one of the highlights for me from this album. The ooohs......from the boys are so cute. I usually press the repeat whenever I came across this song.

AND I LOVE HER : Paul's first 'Yesterday' according to John Lennon. The song is touching and yet so simple. I remember an image of a female single on TV, just sitting down on a chair and singing this song. There was no need for any other gimmicks. The beauty of the song does it all.

TELL ME WHY : This is not a bad song but it suffered from the stiff competition from the other songs which was nothing but great. After five awesome songs in a row, the bar have to come down a bit. Most bands would still trade their dental for this song though.

CAN'T BUY ME LOVE : The first single from the album and Paul's second song. It went to No. 1 of course. There was also a Chinese version of this song that was very popular with the local. Another song that was not on my favorite list due to over exposure.

ANY TIME AT ALL : When I first heard this, my naive ear couldn't take all that rawness but as with most Beatles' songs, it grew on me and now it's one of my favorite.

I'LL CRY INSTEAD : Any throwaway according to John who was always his own worst critic but I beg to differ. The only thing bad about this song is its length. Only a mere 1.44 minutes. Yet another favorite.

THINGS WE SAID TODAY : Paul's last song on this album and it was another classic. It's amazing that at such tender ages, there were writing reflective songs like this that nobody else was writing. Songs like this are truly universal. You don't need to know the language to enjoy the music and Paul McCartney is a master at creating music like this. Love this.

WHEN I GET HOME : You could call this a distance cousin to 'Tell Me Why' 'cos they are almost identical. John, during this time, could write songs like this in his sleep. Still, it's good that's it's included here just so that we can catch our breath due to the amount of great songs here. And nope, I wouldn't press the skip button on this track either.

YOU CAN'T DO THAT : The Beatles get back on track on the rock 'n' roller. The riffs along will get you in the mood and John's vocal couldn't get any better than this.

I'LL BE BACK : The last song and certainly not the least. Appropriately titled, it'll will leaves you in a whirl and have you pressing the repeat button for The Beatles to be back to entertain you all over again.

1963 WITH THE BEATLES

WITH THE BEATLES : Only 4 months, fresh from their debut came "With The Beatles". It's even better than "Please Please Me" and it's only their second album. Following the same format as their debut, it's a mixture of 7 Lennon / McCartney originals, one George Harrison original and the remaining 6 being covers. The album cover was a reflection of their seriousness they were plying their trade. This albums starts with original songs that were arguably stronger than their debut.

IT WON'T BE LONG : What a start. What a song. I've loved this song even as a young boy, even when I don't really understand what they were singing about. This was what they meant when they say that music was universal and that it need no words to be understood. Apart from a catchy melody, it have that call-and-respond style of singing that The Beatles so playfully excelled in. A good album for any albums.

ALL I'VE WANT TO DO : One of John Lennon's most underrated gems of all.  Sung and written in the lay back style of Bob Dylan, this track started of slowly and then moved on to uptempo and then back to slow again. Written as only John could have written it, this was John at his raw and direct best. This song was never included in any of their numerous collection CD which concluded my thinking that this song was criminally neglected.

ALL MY LOVING : Paul McCartney's first classic. Paul always have a natural gift for writing songs that stuck in your mind for days or weeks and this was one of them. A great song it may be but somehow I feel, this is one of those rare Beatles' song that could have been done better by some other artists. Paul's version is good but it could have been much greater. But that's just me, the song's a standard by any standard.

DON'T BOTHER ME : George Harrison's first ever song committed to record and it wasn't bad at all. Don't know why he waited till a few more albums before he starts to write again. This is one of my favorite track on the album.

LITTLE CHILD : This one's a throwaway for me. It's not really a bad track but The Beatles' standard were much more higher than this.

TILL THERE WAS YOU :  The kind of ballad that Paul McCartney exceeded in.. This was the last cover of a standard that Paul McCartney would be singing as a Beatle. From the next album on, he will be writing his own standard and need I say, it's much more better.

PLEASE MISTER POSTMAN :  The first time I heard this song, I was blown away by their vocals. The call-and -respond style of singing were done so effectively here that you can't help sporting a smile when you are listening to it. I loved this when I first heard it and I am still loving it now. One of my favorite Beatles' cover songs.

ROLL OVER BEETHOVEN : A nice vehicle for George Harrison but somehow lack that something extra. Still it does not warrant a push on the skin button. Tolerable.

HOLD ME TIGHT : Another throwaway, this time from Paul McCartney. I usually skipped this track when I am listening to the album. Paul was to write another song in the 70's with the same title from his solo album 'Red Rose Speedway" which is way much better.

YOU REALLY GOT A HOLD ON ME : If there ever was a contest for the best song that The Beatles ever covered, I guess this will win hand down. I absolutely adored this song. I've heard the original by Smokey Robinson and The Miracles and this version is way much better. The pleading vocal of John Lennon which he again put in good use in 'Don't Let Me Down' will ensured you'll be pressing the repeat again at least one more time.

I WANNA BE YOUR MAN : The song The Beatles gave to The Rolling Stones and which was covered by Ringo Starr here. Not one of my favorite but when you see Ringo sings this on video, you can't help being addicted.

DEVIL IN HER HEART : George again. I love this song. It have an infectious melody and again The Beatles adopted that call-and-respond style of singing so effectively here. I couldn't find the original source of this song as I've committed myself to do for every cover songs The Beatles did, so I could't compare but my money's pretty much on The Beatles.

NOT A SECOND TIME : The last Beatles original on the album but certainly not the least. Far from it. I've always love this song. It always conjured the image of The Beatles in their cartoon form from their cartoon series for me more then the other songs, whenever I heard this song.

MONEY :  Like many of their harder tracks, initially I don't like this track when I first heard it. Being young and impressionable, I guess this was way to raw for me so I usually off the record when I came to this track. Over the years, I've grew to like it. Not as much as the other tracks but I can appreciate it now. Hell,who can resist when Lennon let rips his vocal cord. I can't.

1963 : PLEASE PLEASE ME

PLEASE PLEASE ME : The first Beatles record ever. The one that started it all. What's even more amazing was that 10 of the 14 songs from this album was recorded in one single day. This was almost unheard of during the sixties when singers and songwriters were two separate entities. Fans and critics alike, looking over the credits, were amazed at the numbers of originals on the album. This album was also the first and only Beatles album that have the composition credits of  Lennon / McCartney reversed to McCartney / Lennon. We never have this in the house. I only got to hear snippets of the songs and only years later when I managed to borrowed the album from a relative of mine and have it tapped down on cassette did I finally got myself familiar me with these songs. When our cassette player broke down, I managed to get my neighbor to play it for me. Lucky for me, they were the obliging kind.

I Saw Her Standing There : It's very appropriate that the very first song from The Beatles from their first ever album started off with " 1..2..3...4."........ and the Lennon / McCartney composition team were off to a rollicking start. I loved this song. It was not totally unlike what other were doing at that time but the beat was so infectious and irresistible that you just can't control your hip from swaying and of course the fact that they wrote it didn't hurt either. The song was so popular that there was even a Chinese version of it. Paul McCartney sang vocal on this one.

Misery : To say they excel at rock 'n' roll and ballads is an understatement, as this next track proved. They were equally adapt on the slower numbers. Meant originally as a vehicle for Helen Shapiro, The Beatles recorded it themselves when she declined. A bad judgement. She shouldn't have rejected it 'cos this was one damn catchy song. I love this one too. One of the early instantly recognizable sounds of The Beatles.

Anna ( Go To Him ) : This is one cover that is even better than the original. I've heard the original. It just doesn't have the heart wrenching vocal of John Lennon. John was only 23 during the recording of this track and it's pretty amazing the way he managed to convert so much emotion into this track that you can even feel his pain. And no, I am not biased. I loved this song too.

Chains : George's chance to shine and shine he does. This was a lesser hit for Little Eva who scored with ' The Locomotion'. I've heard a later version of this song by it's composer, Carole King but I haven't really heard the original version of it. But I don't need to 'cos I can't see any other version beating this. Here you have The Beatles singing in a playful mood. One of those songs that recall the days of old  when life was so much more simple.

Boys : Ringo's turn at the mike. Over the years, Ringo does have his moment on The Beatles' album but unfortunately, this is not one of them. Said to cause quite a riot whenever Ringo sings it at their concert but it doesn't work for me. Why is he singing about boys anyway ?  See, told you I was not biased.

Ask Me Why :  This solely John Lennon written vehicle was another one that I don't like at all. Incredibly it was intended to be their next single. Well, I'm glad that idea was not followed through.

Please Please Me : Thankfully, with this track, the boys were back on track. Though it was universally liked everywhere, it was not really my favorite, probably due to over exposure.This thing do happened you know, sometimes they played a song so much that you just wanna scream.

Love Me Do: I much preferred this little lovable ditty to 'Please Please Me'. John's playing of the harmonica is worth the price of admission alone. John was quite obsessed with the harmonica during this period and there were a couple of his songs with harmonica and it was definitely not a bad thing.

P.S. I LOVE YOU : Paul's very own version of The Shirelles' 'Soldier Boy'. It was a prelude to his more successful 'All My Loving' in the next album. A throwaway by Beatles standard. Nevertheless, it still have its charm.

BABY IT'S YOU : I like this cover version. The Beatles singing in answer to the lead singer is impeccable and playful like. I use to sing this with my band mates and it never failed to raise a smile from them. One of my favorite non Beatles' composition track.

DO YOU WANT TO KNOW A SECRET : This was said to be inspired by the Disney's movie "Snow White & The Seven Dwarfs ". John wrote it for George to sing. George doesn't really have a wide range with his voice and this was not the world most difficult so sing. So probably John was trying to give George some of the limelight. Nevertheless. a charming song.

A TASTE OF HONEY : Paul was always considered to be The Beatles' balladeer par excellent so this piece from the board way show "The Music Man" serve as a vehicle for him to prove his meddle. It paved the way for him to write all those timeless classics. Initially I don't like it but as time passed, I grew to love it, especially the Spanish guitar middle part.

THERE'S A PLACE : A throwaway to most but even The Beatles' throwaway have catchy melodies. This track serves as a reminder that during this time The Beatles couldn't write a bad song even if they want to. I love singing this with the guitar.

TWIST AND SHOUT : The last track that closes the first Beatles album is also the only non Beatles' composition that is in serious competition as the best song on the album. Legends has it that John Lennon save this song for last 'cos he wanted his vocal to be as raw as it could be. And what a vocal it turned out to be. There you have it, 14 songs that made the world sit up and take notice.

AN INTRODUCTION

AN INTRODUCTION TO THE GREATEST BAND OF ALL TIME. PERIOD. The Beatles. The Fab Fours, The Mop Tops. And The Band of the Century. Now what can I write about The Beatles that have not already been written. I was barely out of diapers when they were conquering the world so I couldn't really say I have first hand experience of their presence but I can certainly feel their presence 'cos during the sixties, you just cannot escape them. They were everywhere. There were in the newspapers, magazines and they were constantly on TV too. My eldest brother were the one who brought their albums to the house and I was hooked ever since with a fiery passion that still burns to this day. He have a few of their albums and singles which he loaned to his friends and I never seen them again. I remember whenever The Beatles came up on TV, I would rushed to my brother's room and starts banking on his door furiously in excitement informing him. He was with his wife-to-be then. What a pain I must have been and he, bless him, have never even chipped me once about it. When my brother and his friends were listening to "The White Album", I was on the floor singing along and knowing all the words to the songs. Again, what a pain I was. They were trying to listen to The Beatles, not me. But then, what does a 9 years old still wet behind the ears boy know. When I happened to stumbled upon a Beatles magazine in my brother's cupboard, I kept searching that cupboard for years hoping to find another, which I never did of course.

I would cut up all their pictures from every newspaper and magazines and even from the newspaper wrapped on the vegetables that my mom brought home from the market. When The Beatles broke up, I was still too young to comprehend the impact it have on the rest of the world. I couldn't watch the "Let It  Be' movie 'cos it was only shown for one day. As a form of taunting me further, even thought the movie was not shown anymore, for some reasons or other, the movie poster was left on the cinema. Imagine how tantalizing it was for a lad of 11. There was a moment when I was really considering breaking the cinema displace shelf with all the glorious pictures of The Beatles from "Let It Be'. I was this close to breaking the glasses and grabbing the pictures but I didn't of course. Common sense prevailed. Looking back, I still couldn't decide whether I should or should not have taken the pictures. What a treasure it would be if I have it now and what a tale it would make. I contended myself by purchasing my first Beatles SP proper, the 'Let It Be' single with picture sleeve.

As the years went by, I got all their albums and eventually their CD too, of course, including their solo offerings. There was a weird experience many years later when I just started working. I was working late, feeling tired and weary, I passed by this cinema at Sungai Way and it was showing a Beatles movie. It was not ' Magical Mystery Tour' and till today in spite of all the information at our finger tips via the internet, I just could not for the life of me recall what movie it was. It was called "The Beatles Story" but our operators here most likely have changed the title to make it easier to remember so this will most probably remain one of the mystery of my life.

The Beatles were the only T-shirt that I wore although I did wore The Bee Gees and Robin Gibb for a brief while during the sixties when self printed T-shirt was the rage and it was printed by my cousin. Well, sometimes you just gotta make allowance, right. Since then, it was only The Beatles  for me and I have quite a few of them. All of them were gifts given to me by my sister, nieces and nephews. I've never actually bought any of them. Throughout the years, I've accumulated quite a collections of songbooks, magazines, posters, etc. In the eighties, I received a very nice and warming letter from my niece who was studying overseas, telling me that she have got top mark for a composition that she wrote about The Beatles, from all the tales that I've told her during her growing up years. Even her professor was amazed at the knowledge she have regarding The Fabs, considering that the band have long ceased to exist when she was born.

Anyway, for better or worst, The Beatles have remain a steadfast present in my life and here is my little tribute to the four lads who have brought so much joy in my life. John, Paul, George and Ringo, I thank you from the bottom of my heart.