Come Together – The Beatles

About the Song

“Come Together” by The Beatles is the opening track on their iconic 1969 album, Abbey Road. This electrifying rock song, credited to Lennon-McCartney (though primarily written by John Lennon), is known for its driving rhythm, psychedelic flourishes, and enigmatic lyrics.

Origins Shrouded in Mystery: The exact inspiration behind “Come Together” remains open to interpretation. Lennon himself offered various explanations, including it being written for politician Timothy Leary’s California gubernatorial campaign or a personal attempt to write a song in the style of a blues legend. This ambiguity adds to the song’s mystique and allows listeners to find their own meaning within the lyrics.

Psychedelic Soundscape: Musically, “Come Together” is a departure from The Beatles’ earlier pop sound. The song is built on a distorted guitar riff and Ringo Starr’s pounding drums, creating a raw and energetic soundscape. Lennon’s vocals are equally raw, snarling out the nonsensical lyrics with an almost desperate intensity. The song throws in unexpected sonic elements like a backwards guitar solo and distorted clavichord, characteristic of the psychedelic rock era.

Lyrically Intriguing: The lyrics of “Come Together” are as puzzling as the song’s origins. Lines like “Shoot me” and “come into my head” are open to interpretation, adding to the song’s counterculture vibe. Despite the ambiguity, there’s a clear call to unity embedded within the nonsensical phrases. The repeated refrain of “Come Together” acts as a rallying cry, urging the listener to unite for a common purpose.

Enduring Legacy: “Come Together” has transcended its status as an album opener. It’s become a rock anthem, covered by countless artists and featured in various films and television shows. The song’s raw energy, infectious groove, and enigmatic lyrics continue to resonate with listeners across generations. “Come Together” stands as a testament to The Beatles’ willingness to experiment and push boundaries, solidifying their place as one of the most influential rock bands of all time.

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Lyrics: “Come Together”

Here come old flat-top, he come groovin’ up slowly
He got ju-ju eyeball, he one holy roller
He got hair down to his knee
Got to be a joker, he just do what he please

He wear no shoeshine, he got toe-jam football
He got monkey finger, he shoot Coca-Cola
He say, “I know you, you know me”
One thing I can tell you is you got to be free

Come together, right now
Over me

He bag production, he got walrus gumboot
He got Ono sideboard, he one spinal cracker
He got feet down below his knee
Hold you in his armchair, you can feel his disease

Come together, right now
Over me

Right!

Come, come, come, come…

He roller-coaster, he got early warnin’
He got muddy water, he one mojo filter
He say, “One and one and one is three”
Got to be good-lookin’ ’cause he’s so hard to see

Come together, right now
Over me

Ugh!

Come together, yeah
Come together, yeah
Come together, yeah
Come together, yeah
Come together, yeah
Come together, yeah
Come together, yeah
Agh!
Come together, yeah
Come together, yeah
Come together…