About the Song

“Don’t Let Me Down” is a heartfelt ballad by John Lennon, written as a direct and open expression of his love for Yoko Ono, to whom he dedicated the song. It was one of the first tracks penned for Yoko, coinciding with their deepening relationship and eventual marriage on March 20, 1969. The song reflects Lennon’s vulnerability, with lyrics that plead for unwavering support and emotional connection.

Lennon’s raw delivery, coupled with the band’s emotive performance, makes it one of the Beatles’ most powerful love songs. The track showcases a perfect blend of Lennon’s soul-baring vocals and Billy Preston’s

soulful electric keyboard, which adds a gospel-like depth to the arrangement.

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The Rooftop Concert

“Don’t Let Me Down” was famously performed during the Beatles’ iconic rooftop concert on January 30, 1969, atop Apple Corps’ London headquarters. This impromptu performance marked the Beatles’ final live appearance as a group.

The rooftop concert was part of the Let It Be project, initially conceived as a documentary about the band’s live recording sessions. However, tensions ran high, with George Harrison

briefly leaving the group due to creative disagreements. The concert was eventually staged to provide the climactic ending for the resulting film.

During the rooftop performance, Lennon forgot some of the lyrics to the song, but the moment has since become a charming highlight of the session, showcasing the raw, unpolished energy of the Beatles at their core.

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Legacy

Released as the B-side to “Get Back”, “Don’t Let Me Down” became a fan favorite despite not being included on the original Let It Be

album. It’s widely recognized for its emotional honesty and Lennon’s impassioned delivery, standing as a testament to the transformative period in both his personal life and the Beatles’ history.

Does this track hold a special place for you? Let me know if you’d like more insights or to discuss its significance further!