Explosion Network may receive a commission when you purchase something via a link on our site
Bevan Beat(le)s
us share music we love, explore themes, and spotlight what’s been on repeat. Find this edition’s
playlist on YouTube
and Spotify.
During my weird years of high school, I found a band of boys from Liverpool — The Beatles.
Their music took me on adventures and helped me make sense of the world.
Across one band lies a startling range of sounds, thanks to four members each adding their own flair.
Journey through the Beatles’ discography with me: a collection of personal favourites whose influence
spans generations. Maybe you’ll fall a little in love, too.
-
1) Helter Skelter
When people say the Beatles didn’t rock, I point them here. Raw, frustrated energy pours through
the thrashing guitars and Ringo’s hammering drums — a perfect reminder of the band’s range. -
2) Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds
Lennon denied the LSD link, citing a drawing from his son — but the kaleidoscopic storytelling fits
Sgt. Pepper’s perfectly. Regardless of intent, it transports you somewhere else entirely. -
3) A Day in the Life
Sgt. Pepper’s at its finest: vocals floating like a dream before the day begins — a journey
that threads real-life tragedies and memories into something magical. -
4) Help!
Kicking off with that urgent, harmonised “Help!” is iconic. Keeping harmonies tight in such a fast
song adds a manic tone that mirrors the anxiety of asking for help. -
5) Yellow Submarine
Ringo-led songs have a lovable, wacky charm. It’s easy to see why this spawned books and films — a
fantastical voyage that’s pure imagination. -
6) I Am the Walrus
Lennon wrote to baffle song analysts, stacking nonsense into a vivid, surreal world. Meaningless by
design — and still thoroughly brilliant.
-
7) Don’t Let Me Down
That guitar tone! Lennon’s vulnerability is front and centre, reflecting his faith in his
relationship with Yoko — complicated legacy and all. -
8) While My Guitar Gently Weeps
Harrison’s writing radiates pain and beauty; Eric Clapton’s lead part adds another layer to an
already masterful song. -
9) Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band
The curtain-raiser for the album’s fictional band conceit. It sets the stage for bolder experiments
and playful storytelling — like the start of a show. -
10) Come Together
That opening bassline is a portal back to discovering the Beatles for the first time. The closing
solo sings — lifted by Ringo’s crashing cymbals. -
11) Eleanor Rigby
From stark harmonies to dramatic strings, it makes you feel the characters’ loneliness. McCartney
pushed against pop trends, while George Martin’s string arrangement is unforgettable.
-
12) Hey Jude
One of their most iconic songs. Written by Paul for John’s son Julian during a difficult time, it’s
a balm — the kind of song that finds you when you need it. -
13) Here Comes the Sun
Harrison’s legacy piece — probably the Beatles’ most universally “movie-famous” track. Written while
dodging band business, you can feel the relief and warmth in every bar. -
14) The End
The last song the Beatles recorded together in the same studio. A farewell with weight — sadness,
yes, but also a hopeful grace note to close the chapter.
