The Beatles have left an indelible mark on music history, crafting numerous classics that continue to resonate with fans. Yet, even the legendary band had its share of songs that didn’t quite hit the mark.
Despite their immense popularity, some tracks struggled to find their footing among listeners. These songs often stood in stark contrast to the band’s monumental hits, leaving fans wondering what went wrong.
One of the most notable examples is their final chart-topping single, which failed to live up to expectations. In this article, we’ll explore five Beatles songs that didn’t work for fans and why they missed the mark.
“The Long and Winding Road”
“The Long and Winding Road” stands out as one of The Beatles’ final No. 1 songs, released alongside “For You Blue” as a double A-side single. While it topped the Billboard Hot 100, this ballad has drawn criticism for being a lackluster conclusion to the band’s groundbreaking career.
Many fans see it as an insipid, easy-listening track that falls flat compared to the innovative spirit of earlier hits like “Yesterday” and “Something.” The song’s simplicity has left some listeners feeling underwhelmed.
Furthermore, it is often viewed as a precursor to Paul McCartney’s later work with Wings, which did not achieve the same level of acclaim. This transition marks a shift away from the creativity that defined The Beatles’ most beloved songs.
“Her Majesty”
“The End” serves as an impressive finale to Abbey Road, showcasing The Beatles’ experimental spirit and their hippie ideals. However, the true last track on the album is a brief, 23-second joke song titled “Her Majesty.”
This lighthearted piece attempts to humorously depict a scenario of seduction involving Queen Elizabeth II. Unfortunately, it largely misses the mark, coming off more as an insult than an amusing commentary.
While Paul McCartney often excelled at infusing humor into his music, “Her Majesty” is widely regarded as a misstep. Instead of providing a fitting send-off, it leaves listeners scratching their heads and wondering what went wrong.
“Dig a Pony”
Let It Be often doesn’t receive the same praise as earlier Beatles albums. While some fans argue it’s a masterpiece, others see it as a disjointed effort from a band in decline.
“Dig a Pony” is frequently cited as evidence of the album’s shortcomings. With a lackluster melody and John Lennon’s psychedelic lyrics that fail to convey a clear mood, it exemplifies the challenges the band faced during this period.
“Christmas Time (Is Here Again)”
While The Plastic Ono Band and Paul McCartney enjoyed success with their Christmas songs, The Beatles struggled to create a standout holiday track. “Christmas Time (Is Here Again)” is often seen as a repetitive and monotonous offering that fails to capture the festive spirit.
The song’s lack of a compelling instrumental arrangement contributes to its shortcomings, leaving listeners wanting more. Even Ringo Starr’s solo rendition couldn’t breathe new life into the track, highlighting its shortcomings as a memorable Beatles holiday contribution.
“Revolution 9”
“Revolution 9” stands out as one of The Beatles’ most controversial tracks. Innovative in its approach, this sound collage experiments with various audio clips and techniques, departing sharply from the band’s usual style. However, many fans find it difficult to engage with, as it lacks a traditional musical structure.
The avant-garde nature of “Revolution 9” has led to mixed reactions, with some listeners labeling it as inaccessible. Rather than being entertained, many are left puzzled by the chaotic arrangement of sounds.
Its inclusion on the iconic White Album raises questions about The Beatles’ artistic direction during this experimental phase. Instead of showcasing their melodic strengths, the track feels like a bold but ultimately divisive departure from what fans loved about the band.