The Original 'Yellow Submarine' Song: A Journey Through Sound Effects and Lyrics

In 1967, The Beatles released their iconic song 'Yellow Submarine,' which became an instant hit. Two years later, in 1968, United Artists released an animated film of the same name. The song won an Ivor Novello Award for the highest certified sales of any single issued in the UK in 1966.

The creation of the song was a collaborative effort between John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr. They used unconventional methods to create sound effects, including blowing through straws into a pan of water to create a bubbling sound, talking through tin cans to make the incomprehensible orders of the captain's voice, and even yelling 'Cut the cable! Drop the cable!' outside the recording room.

In addition to their own creative endeavors, The Beatles also worked with other musicians to produce the song. John Lennon and Donovan, a British singer-songwriter, contributed to the lyrics, which were written with children in mind. The result was a catchy and imaginative tune that has become a beloved classic.

Interestingly, the song's lyrics have been interpreted as conveying the ideological themes of the Summer of Love, an event that took place in 1967. Written by George Harrison in 1966, 'Yellow Submarine' has become synonymous with The Beatles' innovative approach to music and their ability to push boundaries creatively.

The original recording of the song was completed on May 26, after five takes, but several sound effects were added later on June 1. Two Abbey Road employees, John Skinner and Terry Condon, even got in on the action by twirling chains in a tin bath to create water sounds.

In conclusion, 'Yellow Submarine' is a testament to The Beatles' creativity and innovative approach to music-making. With its catchy melody, imaginative lyrics, and unique sound effects, it's no wonder that this song has endured as a beloved classic for generations.

Yellow submarine song original