20 underrated songs by The Beatles

Uncovering Hidden Gems

The Beatles, one of the most iconic bands in history, are known for their unforgettable hits that have shaped the musical landscape for decades. Yet even among their vast catalog, there are songs that have been overlooked, overshadowed, or underappreciated. These hidden gems span the range of their musical styles and showcase the band’s depth and versatility. Here are 20 Beatles songs that deserve more love than they often receive:

Table of Contents

20. Savoy Truffle (The Beatles, 1968)

Often dismissed due to its whimsical lyrics about chocolates, “Savoy Truffle” is a blues-rock masterpiece that showcases George Harrison’s growth as a songwriter. The addition of a horn section adds to its charm.

19. The Night Before (Help!, 1965)

Featuring a stellar Paul McCartney vocal performance, harmonies by Lennon and Harrison, and electric piano by John, “The Night Before” is a gem from the “Help!” album that sometimes gets overshadowed by more famous tracks.

18. There’s A Place (Please Please Me, 1963)

Described by Lennon as a “Motown, black thing,” “There’s A Place” contrasts upbeat music with introspective lyrics, reflecting The Beatles’ ability to explore emotional complexity.

17. Don’t Bother Me (With The Beatles, 1963)

Harrison’s first composition for The Beatles, “Don’t Bother Me,” features a double-tracked vocal, a sour lyric, and unique percussion, showcasing his early songwriting efforts.

16. Don’t Let Me Down (b-side of Get Back, 1969)

With John Lennon’s impassioned vocals and a soulful musical backdrop, “Don’t Let Me Down” stands out as a powerful declaration of love for Yoko Ono.

15. The End (Abbey Road, 1969)

As the last song recorded by all four Beatles, “The End” serves as a fitting finale to the Abbey Road album, featuring solo performances from each member and a memorable conclusion.

14. I’m Down (Help! b-side, 1965)

Paired with Lennon’s “Help!” on the b-side, McCartney’s “I’m Down” is a high-energy rock ‘n’ roll track that showcases his Little Richard influence.

13. Baby, You’re A Rich Man (All You Need Is Love b-side, 1967)

A Lennon-McCartney collaboration, “Baby, You’re A Rich Man” merges two unfinished songs into a psychedelic masterpiece with studio effects and rumored backing vocals by Mick Jagger.

12. She’s A Woman (I Feel Fine b-side, 1964)

McCartney’s perky rock ‘n’ roll track “She’s A Woman” features insistent guitar licks by Lennon and perhaps the first drugs reference in a Beatles song.

11. She’s Leaving Home (Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, 1967)

A baroque pop gem from “Sgt. Pepper,” “She’s Leaving Home” showcases McCartney’s songwriting depth and orchestrational skills, creating a poignant narrative.

10. I’ll Follow The Sun (Beatles For Sale, 1964)

Written by McCartney as a teenager, “I’ll Follow The Sun” is a subtle and tender break-up song that highlights his gift for melody.

9. The Inner Light (Lady Madonna b-side, 1968)

George Harrison’s Indian-flavored “The Inner Light” draws from the Taoist Tao Te Ching and features exotic instruments, demonstrating his growing interest in Eastern spirituality.

8. Yes It Is (Ticket To Ride b-side, 1965)

A complex ballad by Lennon, “Yes It Is” showcases intricate harmonies, a tricky time signature, and emotional depth.

7. Happiness Is A Warm Gun (The Beatles, 1968)

Lennon’s psychedelic mini-suite, “Happiness Is A Warm Gun,” is a sonic journey that encapsulates various moods and styles in under three minutes.

6. Things We Said Today (A Hard Day’s Night, 1964)

McCartney’s introspective song “Things We Said Today” combines folk and pop influences, featuring rhythm guitar by Lennon and a double-tracked vocal by McCartney.

5. I’ve Just Seen A Face (Help!, 1965)

A brisk country-infused track, “I’ve Just Seen A Face” captures the exhilaration of first love through McCartney’s acoustic guitar and spirited vocals.

4. She Said She Said (Revolver, 1966)

Inspired by an acid-fueled conversation, “She Said She Said” features Lennon’s lysergic lyrics and Harrison’s piercing guitar, creating a unique musical experience.

3. If I Needed Someone (Rubber Soul, 1965)

Harrison’s Rickenbacker-driven “If I Needed Someone” influenced The Byrds and showcases his melodic sensibility and intricate guitar work.

2. Rain (Paperback Writer b-side, 1966)

“Rain” is a pioneering track with backwards vocals, complex rhythms, and innovative studio effects, setting the stage for later experimental songs.

1. Hey Bulldog (Yellow Submarine, 1969)

Led by Lennon’s piano riff, “Hey Bulldog” is a full-throttle rock track with Harrison’s fuzzed-out solo and McCartney’s inventive bassline, capturing The Beatles at their best.

These songs stand as a testament to The Beatles’ artistic prowess and their ability to create enduring music that continues to resonate with audiences today. While some tracks may have been overlooked in the shadow of their more famous counterparts, they remain essential pieces of The Beatles’ remarkable legacy.