The Beatles were known for their incredible versatility in experimenting with various musical genres throughout their remarkable journey. The band effortlessly explored a variety of themes and genres, seamlessly transitioning between ballads, experimental Indian classical music, and rock ‘n’ roll. Their adaptability was instrumental in catapulting them to worldwide fame.
At times, however, the Fab Four felt the need to elevate their performance, increase the intensity, and truly ignite their creativity. After witnessing The Who’s electrifying performance, Paul McCartney, who was seen as the de facto leader of the group, was inspired to create a song that would match their energy and intensity. He strove to create a song that would be both distinctive and groundbreaking for rock and roll. It was clear that the piece had to be the most energetic and intense rock number imaginable.
Few songs have gained as much notoriety as The Beatles’ White Album masterpiece, ‘Helter Skelter’. The track is an energetic and dynamic number that showcases the band’s versatility in effortlessly navigating through various musical styles. Naturally, the song quickly acquired its symbolism due to the notorious cult leader Charles Manson.
Manson appropriated the title of the song and twisted it to fit his twisted vision of a violent racial conflict, which prosecutors referred to as the ‘Helter Skelter scenario‘. This idea has been present throughout the entire journey.
During a conversation with Playboy in 1980, Lennon affirmed the notion, attributing it entirely to Paul. The Manson incident revolved around George’s song about pigs, according to him. Paul’s song captures the essence of an English fairground. This is completely irrelevant and has absolutely no connection to me. Lennon was eager to distance himself from that theory as swiftly and genuinely as he could, a wise decision given the tragic events associated with the Manson Family.
Despite its notorious reputation, the track has consistently remained popular among the band’s dedicated fanbase, most likely due to its unique departure from the Beatles‘ usual style. Although The Beatles originated from the rock ‘n’ roll scene, they began to explore unexpected musical avenues. ‘Helter Skelter’ represented a return to the fundamentals in many aspects.
With the first strum of the guitar, the song bursts forth with an intense and powerful energy, propelled by McCartney’s dynamic bassline and Ringo Starr’s thunderous drumming. The guitar riffs from John Lennon bring a fiery energy to the song, amplifying its intense atmosphere. Meanwhile, McCartney fills his vocals with passion and emotion, rising above the chaotic soundscape and evoking a feeling of urgency and desperation.
However, the song didn’t focus on groundbreaking architecture, but rather on taking risks and giving it your all. The idea stemmed from The Who’s inspiration. In 1968, Paul McCartney, the primary songwriter of the song, explained the inspiration behind the track. He mentioned that it was influenced by a review he had read. The review described another band as wild and energetic, with lots of echo and screaming vocals. And I distinctly recall thinking, ‘Oh, it would be fantastic to create one.’ Unfortunately, they’ve done it. Must be fantastic— a truly impressive record. And then I listened to their record, which had a straightforward yet sophisticated sound.
Macca felt let down by the Beatles’ apparent lack of impact and determined to craft his unforgettable moment, his soaring rock anthem. He continued: “It wasn’t harsh or loud with tape echo, not at all.” So I thought, ‘Oh well, we’ll create something similar.’ I had this song called ‘Helter Skelter’ and it’s just a ridiculously catchy tune. So we approached it in that manner because I appreciated a bit of commotion.
In 1968, Paul McCartney was hesitant to disclose the name of the band in question. However, by 1985, any potential tensions had diminished, allowing him to finally reveal that it was Pete Townshend’s group. According to McCartney, “The Who had created a track that was incredibly loud, raucous, and the dirtiest thing they had ever done.” It got me thinking, ‘Okay.’ I have to do it. I enjoy indulging in that type of geeking up. And we chose to perform a high-energy, intense rock song that would make a lasting impact.
The recording session had an unusual atmosphere. As Paul McCartney attempted to record his iconic vocal performance for the song, despite its imperfections, Harrison added some excitement to the studio by playfully setting fire to an ashtray and entertaining everyone with his spot-on impersonation of Arthur Brown, the enigmatic artist behind the hit ‘Fire‘. Ringo Starr reminisced about the creation of “Helter Skelter.” He described it as a song that was recorded in a state of complete chaos and excitement in the studio. Occasionally, one simply had to let loose and enjoy the music.
The preserves that found their way to the base of this specific tree were nothing but unhealthy snacks. ‘Helter Skelter‘ is a deliciously indulgent treat that is sure to satisfy your cravings. It may not be the healthiest option, but sometimes you just need to indulge in a little guilty pleasure. And trust us, it’s worth every bite.
