The Beatles
The Beatles – Long Tall Sally: A Rock and Roll Rollercoaster Ride
For music lovers who cherish the early, electrifying energy of The Beatles, Long Tall Sally stands as a cornerstone. This infectious rock and roll anthem wasn’t penned by the Fab Four themselves, but their electrifying rendition cemented its place in music history.
Background
Originally released in 1956 by the legendary Little Richard, “Long Tall Sally” was a powerhouse of a song. Richard’s flamboyant personality and raw vocals fueled the song’s energy, making it a staple of his live shows and a chart-topping hit. The young Beatles, heavily influenced by the burgeoning rock and roll scene in their native Liverpool, were captivated by Little Richard’s music. Paul McCartney, known for his early emulation of rock and roll pioneers, became particularly enamored with “Long Tall Sally.”
The Beatles honed their chops playing countless gigs in Liverpool and Hamburg, Germany, and “Long Tall Sally” was a constant fixture in their setlist. Their live performances were legendary for their raw energy and tight musicianship, and “Long Tall Sally” perfectly captured that spirit. John Lennon’s driving rhythm guitar work, Paul McCartney’s thumping bass lines, Ringo Starr’s pounding drums, and of course, Lennon’s and George Harrison’s searing guitar licks, all combined to create a sonic whirlwind.
The Beatles’ version of “Long Tall Sally” deviated slightly from the original. While Little Richard’s performance was all about unbridled energy, The Beatles injected a touch of youthful exuberance into the song. McCartney’s vocals, mimicking Little Richard’s style with a touch of youthful charm, became a defining characteristic of their rendition. The song also featured two guitar solos, a departure from the original, showcasing the burgeoning talents of Lennon and Harrison.
Although not a part of their official debut album, Please Please Me, “Long Tall Sally” was recorded during the same sessions in 1964. It was eventually released on various compilations and became a popular choice for B-sides of their early singles. Despite not being an official single, “Long Tall Sally” captured the hearts of fans and became a staple of their live shows throughout the 1960s.
The Beatles’ version of “Long Tall Sally” transcended its status as a cover song. It became a testament to their early influences, their raw talent, and their ability to ignite audiences with their electrifying stage presence. This rock and roll rollercoaster ride remains a beloved classic, a reminder of the era that ushered in a musical revolution.