The Beatles - Let It Be - 1970
Input
The Beatles' "Let It Be" "Let It Be" is a song by the English rock band the Beatles, released in March 1970 as a single and (in an alternate mix) as the title track of their album Let It Be. It was written and sung by Paul McCartney, but credited to the Lennon–McCartney partnership. The song has a notable place in the Beatles' history and in popular culture.
Background
The song's origins lie in the troubled sessions for the Beatles' self-titled double album, commonly known as The White Album. McCartney's mother, who died of cancer when McCartney was fourteen, was the inspiration for the song. The song's message provides a note of hope and comfort. McCartney said, "I had a dream where my mother, who had been dead for ten years or so, came to me in the dream and was reassuring me, saying, 'It's all right, don’t worry. Just let it be.'"
Recording
"Let It Be" was recorded during the Let It Be sessions in January 1969. The single version of this song, produced by George Martin, features a different solo by lead guitarist George Harrison compared to the album version produced by Phil Spector. The song is notable for its simplicity and emotional impact.
Release and Reception
Upon its release, "Let It Be" received mixed reviews but was a commercial success. It was the final single released by the Beatles before McCartney announced his departure from the band. Over the years, it has become one of the band's most famous and popular songs. It has been covered by many artists and featured in movies, television shows, and commercials.
Legacy
"Let It Be" holds a significant place in the Beatles' legacy and in the history of rock music. Its message of hope and acceptance resonates with listeners worldwide. The song is a testament to McCartney's songwriting genius and the enduring appeal of the Beatles' music.
For more detailed information, you can refer to MOOCit or the Wikipedia page on "Let It Be" by the Beatles.
Interactive Tasks
Quiz: Questions on the song
What inspired Paul McCartney to write "Let It Be"? (A dream about his late mother) (!A poem he read) (!A conversation with John Lennon) (!A scene from a movie)
In what year was "Let It Be" released as a single? (1970) (!1969) (!1968) (!1971)
Who produced the single version of "Let It Be"? (George Martin) (!Phil Spector) (!Brian Epstein) (!John Lennon)
What is unique about the guitar solo in the single version of "Let It Be"? (It's different from the album version) (!It was played by Paul McCartney) (!It was recorded in one take) (!It includes a famous riff from another Beatles song)
What was the status of "Let It Be" in relation to the Beatles' career? (The final single before McCartney announced his departure) (!The first single from their last album) (!A track released after the band's breakup) (!The first single featuring Ringo Starr as a vocalist)
Quiz: Questions on the Performer
Which band member wrote "Let It Be"? (Paul McCartney) (!John Lennon) (!George Harrison) (!Ringo Starr)
What is the Beatles' album that features "Let It Be" as the title track? (Let It Be) (!Abbey Road) (!The White Album) (!Rubber Soul)
In what year did the Beatles officially disband? (1970) (!1969) (!1971) (!1968)
Which Beatles member left the band first, leading to their eventual breakup? (Paul McCartney) (!John Lennon) (!George Harrison) (!Ringo Starr)
What was the Beatles' last recorded album, although not their last released album? (Abbey Road) (!Let It Be) (!The White Album) (!Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band)
Quiz: Questions on the lyrics
What is the main theme of "Let It Be"? (Hope and comfort) (!Love and peace) (!Loneliness and despair) (!Happiness and celebration)
Which family member does "Let It Be" reference? (Paul McCartney's mother) (!John Lennon's son) (!George Harrison's father) (!Ringo Starr's brother)
What is a recurring phrase in the song "Let It Be"? ("Whisper words of wisdom") (!"Love is all you need") (!"Here comes the sun") (!"Imagine all the people")
How does the song "Let It Be" start? (With the phrase "When I find myself in times of trouble") (!"Yesterday, all my troubles seemed so far away") (!"Here comes the sun, doo-doo-doo-doo") (!"Hey Jude, don't make it bad")
What does the song suggest doing in times of darkness? ("Let it be") (!"Walk on through") (!"Keep dreaming") (!"Hold on tight")
Memory
| Paul McCartney | Wrote "Let It Be" |
| 1970 | Year "Let It Be" was released |
| George Martin | Producer of the single version |
| Mother's dream | Inspiration for the song |
| Hope and comfort | Main theme of "Let It Be" |
Open Tasks
Easy
- Research The Beatles: Look up information on the Beatles' early history and their impact on popular music.
- Design a Cover: Create your own cover art for the "Let It Be" single.
- Explore the Lyrics: Write down your interpretation of "Let It Be" lyrics.
Standard
- Analyze the Music: Discuss how the musical elements of "Let It Be" contribute to its mood and message.
- Beatles' Influence: Explore how the Beatles influenced other musicians and genres.
- Compare and Contrast: Compare "Let It Be" to another Beatles song in terms of theme and musical style.
Difficult
- Songwriting Process: Research and write an essay on Paul McCartney's songwriting process.
- Historical Context: Analyze the historical context of "Let It Be" and its relevance to the late 1960s and early 1970s.
- Cover Versions: Investigate different cover versions of "Let It Be" and how each artist interprets the song.
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Oral Exam
- Discuss the Legacy: Talk about why "Let It Be" remains relevant in modern times.
- Song Meanings: Discuss the various interpretations of "Let It Be" and what the song symbolizes.
- The Beatles and Culture: Explore how the Beatles influenced popular culture beyond music.
- Music Evolution: Discuss how the Beatles' music evolved over time, using "Let It Be" as a reference point.
- Musical Innovation: Evaluate the Beatles' contributions to musical innovation and experimentation.
OERs on the Topic
Links
MUSIC QUIZ
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