The Beatles – This Boy: A Glimpse into Early Harmony Magic
Ah, The Beatles. A name synonymous with revolution, innovation, and an undeniable mark on the landscape of music. But before the mop-top haircuts and screaming crowds, there were the formative years in Hamburg, honing their craft and developing the tight harmonies that would become a cornerstone of their sound. This Boy, released in 1963 as the B-side to their chart-topping hit “I Want to Hold Your Hand,” offers a delightful glimpse into this early period, showcasing their budding songwriting skills and the vocal interplay that would soon captivate the world.
Background
This Boy isn’t a complex ballad or a driving rock anthem. Instead, it’s a charmingly simple song, built around a catchy melody and a playful lyric. Written by John Lennon (credited to Lennon-McCartney), the song explores the familiar teenage angst of a love triangle. The protagonist warns a young woman about a past lover, hinting that this “boy” isn’t good for her despite his supposed affection. The lyrics, while straightforward, are imbued with a youthful innocence that resonates with listeners of all ages.
Where the song truly shines is in the vocal harmonies. This was a period when The Beatles were heavily influenced by the tight, three-part harmonies of American doo-wop groups like The Four Seasons. This Boy serves as a testament to their mastery of this technique. John Lennon, Paul McCartney, and George Harrison weave their voices together seamlessly, creating a rich and textured soundscape that elevates the simple melody. This interplay between the vocals adds a layer of depth and emotional weight to the song, even as the lyrics themselves remain lighthearted.
This Boy is also notable for its stripped-down arrangement. Recorded during a busy session after completing “I Want to Hold Your Hand,” the song features a basic rhythm section with prominent drums and bass, supplemented by a tasteful electric guitar line. This minimalist approach allows the vocals to take center stage, further emphasizing the importance of the harmonies.
Though not a chart-topping hit in its own right, This Boy holds a significant place in the Beatles’ legacy. It serves as a reminder of their early influences, their blossoming songwriting talents, and the vocal interplay that would become a trademark of their sound. For music lovers and Beatles enthusiasts, the song provides a captivating window into the development of one of the most influential bands in history.
Lyric
That boy isn’t good for youThough he may want you tooThis boy wants you back againOh, and this boy would be happyJust to love you, but, oh, myThat boy won’t be happyTill he’s seen you cry
Video
Here are some additional details about the song:
- The song was written by John Lennon (credited to Lennon-McCartney).
- It was released in November 1963 as the B-side to the single “I Want to Hold Your Hand.”
- The song was recorded during a single session on October 17, 1963, at Abbey Road Studios in London.