About the Song
“Yesterday” is one of the most iconic and beloved ballads in the history of popular music, written primarily by Paul McCartney. It marked a departure from the Beatles’ early rock ‘n’ roll sound to a more introspective and melodic approach. The song captures the melancholy of lost love and longing for the past, with poignant lyrics:
“Yesterday, love was such an easy game to play…”
Historical Context
First released on the Beatles’ 1965 album Help! (and later as a US single), “Yesterday” became a cultural phenomenon. The track’s simplicity—featuring only McCartney’s vocal and acoustic guitar, accompanied by a string quartet arranged by George Martin—was a groundbreaking move for the band.
This was the first Beatles recording featuring only one member, signaling the increasing individuality of their songwriting. Its introspective tone and solo performance stood in contrast to the upbeat pop songs of their earlier work, such as “I Want to Hold Your Hand.”
Record-Breaking Popularity
“Yesterday” is recognized as the most covered s ong in history, with over 3,000 versions recorded
Songwriting and Legacy
The melody came to McCartney in a dream. For weeks, he was convinced he had unintentionally plagiarized it. He initially titled it “Scrambled Eggs” as a placeholder until he finalized the lyrics. Despite its melancholic theme, the song resonates universally due to its simplicity and emotional depth.
“Yesterday” was never released as a single in the UK but topped the US charts, solidifying its status as a classic. McCartney later reflected on its success with astonishment, as the song’s stripped-down arrangement was unlike anything the Beatles had done before.
Impact
The song symbolized the Beatles’ evolution from pop icons to serious musicians. It also paved the way for McCartney’s later ballads and solo work. Despite John Lennon’s minimal involvement, the song is still credited to Lennon–McCartney, continuing their unique partnership.
“Yesterday” remains a timeless classic, often hailed as one of the greatest songs ever written. Do you have a favorite rendition of it, or does the original stand as your favorite?
Lyrics
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.Mm mm mm mm mm mm mm.
