The Beatles weren’t just a four-piece band—they had plenty of talented musicians and collaborators who helped shape their sound. Some of them were behind the scenes, while others were already famous in their own right. Here are a few unexpected names who worked with the Fab Four.
Billy Preston – The Only Co-Credited Musician
No list of Beatles collaborators is complete without Billy Preston. Often called “The Fifth Beatle,” he was the only musician ever credited on a Beatles record (“Get Back” was officially labeled “The Beatles with Billy Preston”). His keyboard work was crucial during the Let It Be sessions, bringing much-needed energy to a band on the verge of falling apart. Preston’s impact on the Beatles—and music in general—deserves way more recognition.
Donovan – Folk Legend & Beatles Contributor
Folk singer Donovan might not be the first name that comes to mind when you think of Beatles collaborations, but he played a small but cool role in their music. The British folk icon lent his vocals to “Yellow Submarine”, making him one of the unsung contributors to a classic Beatles track.
Mal Evans – The Roadie Who Did It All
Mal Evans wasn’t just The Beatles’ road manager—he also left his mark on their recordings. He played harmonica on “Being for the Benefit of Mr. Kite”, provided percussion and vocals on “Yellow Submarine”, and even contributed some of the sound effects that made Beatles songs so unique. That alarm clock in “A Day in the Life”? That was Mal. The gravel sounds in “You Know My Name (Look Up the Number)”? Also Mal. His story is a bittersweet one, but his contributions to Beatles history are unforgettable.
Brian Jones – A Rolling Stone in the Studio
Yes, “that” Brian Jones. The Rolling Stones founding member had his own moments with The Beatles, contributing backing vocals to “Yellow Submarine” and playing alto saxophone on “You Know My Name (Look Up the Number)”. Unfortunately, Jones passed away just a few years after those collaborations, but his connection to The Beatles is a little-known piece of rock history.