The Beatles Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band LP is 50 years old this summer, produced by the late George Martin. George was influential in shaping the sound of the Beatles, so let’s mention what we believe are the best George Martin Beatles’ songs ever recorded.
“Here Comes the Sun” is a classic Beatle song that had George Martins fingerprints all over it. George Martin changed the key, added the flutes and two clarinets, and the piccolos – instruments never heard before in rock songs. George Martin called ‘Here Comes the Sun” the finest Beatle song ever written and recorded and was extremely proud of his contributions to the song.
“Eleanor Rigby” showcased the double string quartet arrangement by George Martin. In fact, none of the Beatles played an instrument on the song – think about that; all the music in this song came from musicians George Martin hired and conducted, the Beatles simply added their vocals.
“Paperback Writer” was the Beatle response to “Sloop John B” by the Beach Boys, driven by George Martin. George thought the Beach Boys harmonies had ‘one upped’ the Beatles, so while working with Paul’s concept, he quickly responded with his own arraignment.