The Beatles – Leave My Kitten Alone: A Rock and Roll Footnote with a Soulful Edge
For those who cherish the groundbreaking sounds of The Beatles, “Leave My Kitten Alone” might not be the first song to spring to mind.
Nestled amongst the band’s iconic catalogue of self-penned masterpieces, this 1964 release stands as a curious outlier – a playful cover that hints at the band’s early R&B influences and their developing stage presence.
Background
Originally recorded in 1959 by American soul singer Little Willie John, “Leave My Kitten Alone” was a bluesy stomper built on a driving 12-bar blues progression.
The song’s lyrics, penned by John and his collaborators, were a playful plea to leave his “kitten” (slang for girlfriend) alone. While lighthearted in tone, the song resonated with audiences for its raw energy and John’s impassioned vocals.
The Beatles, during their formative years in Hamburg, Germany, honed their skills by performing a wide range of covers, including many R&B and soul standards. “Leave My Kitten Alone” was likely part of their repertoire during this period, and by 1964, they decided to include it on a recording session.
The Beatles’ version of “Leave My Kitten Alone” deviates slightly from the original. John Lennon takes center stage on vocals, channeling the raw energy of Little Willie John while injecting a dose of youthful exuberance.
he band’s signature tight rhythm section, anchored by Paul McCartney on bass and Ringo Starr on drums, lays down a solid foundation. However, it’s George Harrison’s searing lead guitar work that truly steals the show.
His stinging riffs and bluesy bends add a layer of grit and excitement, showcasing his developing skills as a guitarist.
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Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
You better leave my kitten all aloneYou better leave my kitten all aloneWell, I told you, big, fat bulldogYou better leave her aloneYou better leave my kitten all aloneYou better leave my kitten all aloneThis dog is gonna get youIf you don’t leave her aloneWell, Mister DogI’m gonna hit you on the top of your headThat child is gonna miss youYou’re gonna wishThat you were deadIf you don’t leave my kitten all aloneWell, I told you, big, fat bulldogYou better leave her aloneWell, alright!Well, Mister DogI’m gonna hit you on the top of your headThat gal is gonna miss youYou’re gonna wishThat you were deadIf you don’t leave my kitten all alone, oh yeahWell, I told you, big, fat bulldogYou better leave her aloneHey, heyYou better leaveYou better leaveYou better leaveYeah, you better leaveYou better leaveOh, you got to leaveYeah, heyWell, I told you, big, fat bulldog