What Beatles Song was Originally Titled "Scrambled Eggs"?
The Beatles are one of the most iconic and influential bands in the history of popular music. With a discography spanning over a decade, they left an indelible mark on the music world. However, what’s lesser known is the band’s early struggles with songwriting, as evidenced by their frequent title changes. Among the most notable examples is a song originally titled "Scrambled Eggs" before being given its eventual, and iconic, name. Let’s dive into the fascinating story behind the Beatles’ "Scrambled Eggs".
Early Songwriting Attempts
During the summer of 1968, Paul McCartney began working on a new song that would become one of the Beatles’ most beloved and enduring songs. However, this was not without its share of struggles. The song was initially called "Scrambled Eggs", and McCartney has stated that it was inspired by a French song he had heard.
The Origin of "Scrambled Eggs"
The name "Scrambled Eggs" has puzzled fans and scholars alike. McCartney himself has shed light on the matter, explaining that he chose this title because of his habit of singing a "scrambled egg" refrain – a series of nonsense words that were essentially meaningless but sounded nice.
| Refrain Examples | Reason |
|---|---|
| Let it be | Referenced from a meditation teacher |
| Yellow Submarine | Inspired by a phrase from Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland |
| Scrambled Eggs | Unrelated nonsense words, not meaningful |
The song was slowly taking shape, but it wasn’t until John Lennon got involved that it gained its current name.
The Name Change
During a songwriting session, John Lennon proposed that McCartney change the title to "Let It Be". Lennon had a spiritual moment of insight and believed the phrase had deep meaning, and thus, the iconic title was born.
How the Lyrics Evolved
While "Scrambled Eggs" may not have yielded its secrets to posterity, the song’s evolution sheds light on the band’s collaborative approach. George Harrison, for example, contributed some crucial lines to the chorus:
|"Whisper words of wisdom, let it be… Whisper words of peace and hope…" |
Meanwhile, McCartney worked on the verses and melody. It was through this blending of styles that "Let It Be" took its final shape.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What Beatles song was originally titled "Scrambled Eggs"?
"Let It Be"!
- Why did the Beatles call the song "Scrambled Eggs"?
Because McCartney was singing nonsense words he liked, but later John Lennon proposed changing the title to "Let It Be".
In Conclusion
The Beatles’ creative journey is replete with examples of artistic struggle, perseverance, and the convergence of diverse styles. "Let It Be" is an anthem of hope and solace that continues to captivate audiences today. Despite the seemingly ordinary title change from "Scrambled Eggs" to "Let It Be", this evolution embodies the quintessential Beatles experience: taking the unexpected, making it extraordinary, and crafting music that resonates with us all.