The Beatle Behind the Lyrics: Who Sang 'I Want to Hold Your Hand'?
When analyzing The Beatles' iconic song, 'I Want to Hold Your Hand,' we often focus on the lead singer, Paul McCartney. However, this article delves into the story behind the song, revealing that George Harrison was the primary vocalist for this captivating track. Let's explore the intriguing background of this legendary song and its fascinating history.
Who Sang 'I Want to Hold Your Hand'?
When Paul McCartney, the alleged lead writer behind 'I Want to Hold Your Hand,' sang the lead on the song, it was George Harrison, not Paul, who was the de facto lead singer. In a fascinating twist, it was George who started the track in the studio, and his distinctive voice captured the essence of the song. However, in the final arrangement, Paul sings the lead vocals, as George originally excluded himself from the credits.
How the Song Was Written
Paul McCartney shared in the songwriting credits with John Lennon, as it is common with The Beatles' collaborative process, but the specific contribution from Paul and John on this track is debatable. According to Paul, the song was written 50/50 between him and John, while John himself claimed that Paul had little to do with it. Nevertheless, both accounts agree that the song was better suited for George to sing, as it only contained three distinct guitar notes. This explains why George's guitar on the original recording is exclusively panned right.
The Inspiration
The inspiration behind 'I Want to Hold Your Hand' lies in a memorable Disney film, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. In the movie, Snow White asks some doves, 'Wanna know a secret? Promise not to tell,' before singing the famous song 'I’m Wishing.' Interestingly, John Lennon's mother used to sing this song to him as a child, which deeply inspired him and later influenced the melody and structure of 'I Want to Hold Your Hand.'
Release and Success
Billy J Kramer and the Dakotas were the first to release the song, titled 'You Think of Me,' on a single in 1963. However, The Beatles' version of 'I Want to Hold Your Hand' took the world by storm upon its release on March 23, 1964, in the United States. It quickly climbed the charts and became a chart-topping hit on the Billboard 200, reaching number one soon after its release. This marked the beginning of The Beatles' dominance in the American music scene.
Trivia and Conclusion
'I Want to Hold Your Hand' remains a classic to this day, a testament to The Beatles' creativity and musical prowess. The song not only highlights the often-overlooked talent of George Harrison but also showcases The Beatles' collaborative spirit and their ability to blend different influences into a timeless piece of music. Whether George or Paul sang the lead, it's clear that this song has left an indelible mark on both music history and the hearts of Beatles fans worldwide.