The Beatles – Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da: A Jaunty Jaunt Through Cross-Cultural Inspiration
Even the most casual music listener can instantly recognize the iconic sound of The Beatles. Delving deeper into their vast catalogue, however, reveals a treasure trove of experimentation and genre-bending exploration.
One such example is the infectiously catchy “Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da”, a song that stands out for its unique blend of styles and playful spirit.
Background
Released in 1968 as part of their self-titled double album, often referred to as the “White Album,” “Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da” arrived at a pivotal time in The Beatles’ career.
The band was transitioning away from the more controlled studio sounds of their earlier work, experimenting with a looser, more psychedelic approach. This spirit of exploration is evident in “Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da”, a song that defies easy categorization.
Composed primarily by Paul McCartney, with some credit given to John Lennon as per their songwriting partnership, the song’s origins lie in McCartney’s fascination with the Jamaican ska sound. Ska, characterized by its offbeat rhythms and driving guitars, had begun to gain popularity in Britain during the late 1960s.
McCartney, ever the musical magpie, incorporated these elements into “Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da”, creating a song that feels both familiar and refreshingly new.
The song’s arrangement is a delightful mix of styles. The driving ska rhythm section provides the backbone, while McCartney’s playful vocals and the band’s signature harmonies add layers of texture. The inclusion of brass instruments further injects a celebratory spirit, making “Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da” an irresistible sing-along experience.
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
Desmond has his barrow in the marketplaceMolly is the singer in a bandDesmond says to Molly, “Girl, I like your face”And Molly says this as she takes him by the handOb-la-di, ob-la-da, life goes on, brahLa-la, how their life goes onOb-la-di, ob-la-da, life goes on, brahLa-la, how their life goes onDesmond takes a trolley to the jeweller’s store (choo-choo)Buys a twenty-carat golden ring (ring)Takes it back to Molly waiting at the doorAnd as he gives it to her, she begins to sing (sing)Ob-la-di, ob-la-da, life goes on, brahLa-la, how their life goes onOb-la-di, ob-la-da, life goes on, brahLa-la, how their life goes on