The Top 20 Beatles Songs, #12: “Yesterday” - American Songwriter

About the song

The Beatles: Yesterday (With Spoken Word Intro / Live From Studio 50, New York City / 1965)

A Timeless Ballad from The Fab Four

In the realm of popular music, few names hold the enduring power and influence of The Beatles. The British quartet revolutionized the sound of music in the 1960s, captivating audiences worldwide with their infectious melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and groundbreaking musical style. Among their vast repertoire of iconic songs, “Yesterday” stands out as a poignant ballad that has touched the hearts of generations.

A Song of Loss and Memory

Written by Paul McCartney, “Yesterday” is a hauntingly beautiful song that delves into themes of loss, memory, and the ephemeral nature of life. The song’s opening lines, “Yesterday, all my troubles seemed so far away / Now it seems as though they’re here to stay,” capture the essence of the song’s melancholic tone. McCartney’s gentle vocals and the song’s simple yet evocative melody create an atmosphere of quiet introspection, inviting listeners to reflect on their own experiences with loss and longing.

A Live Performance from Studio 50

The version of “Yesterday” featured here is a live performance from Studio 50 in New York City in 1965. It is a stripped-down rendition of the song, showcasing McCartney’s raw and emotive vocals accompanied solely by his acoustic guitar. The intimate setting and McCartney’s heartfelt delivery amplify the song’s emotional impact, making it a truly memorable performance.

A Legacy of Musical Brilliance

“Yesterday” remains one of The Beatles’ most beloved and enduring songs. Its timeless message of loss and remembrance has resonated with listeners worldwide, cementing its place as a classic of popular music. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to connect with people on a deeply personal level, evoking universal emotions of sadness, nostalgia, and the bittersweet beauty of life’s fleeting moments.

Video

Lyrics

“Yesterday”

 

Yesterday all my troubles seemed so far away.
Now it looks as though they’re here to stay.
Oh, I believe in yesterday.Suddenly, I’m not half the man I used to be.
There’s a shadow hanging over me.
Oh, yesterday came suddenly.Why she had to go?
I don’t know, she wouldn’t say.
I said something wrong.
Now I long for yesterday.

Yesterday love was such an easy game to play.
Now I need a place to hide away.
Oh, I believe in yesterday.

Why she had to go?
I don’t know, she wouldn’t say.
I said something wrong.
Now I long for yesterday.

Yesterday love was such an easy game to play.
Now I need a place to hide away.
Oh, I believe in yesterday.

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