The Beatles: The Cover Song They Regretted?
When the Beatles first came to the limelight in 1962, they were EMI artists, going through a long grooming process before their breakthrough. Their second recording session, post their debut session, consisted of a mix of original and cover songs. Let's uncover the story behind the cover song, 'How Do You Do It,' which seemed to have played a pivotal role in the band's early decision-making process.
Before the Breakthrough
On September 4, 1962, the Beatles rehearsed for their second recording session, after their initial debut. Their rehearsals included six songs in total, out of which five were original works by Lennon and McCartney, titled 'Love Me Do,' 'Tip of My Tongue,' 'Ask Me Why,' 'P.S. I Love You,' and 'Please Please Me.' The sixth track, 'How Do You Do It,' was a cover song, as detailed by George Martin, the renowned producer who played a crucial role in shaping their sound.
George Martin's Vision
George Martin, the producer, had a profound belief in the industry. In those days, going for public domain songs from Tin Pan Alley was a common practice, and Martin was no stranger to this. He states, 'It was common in those days to find material for artists by going to Tin Pan Alley and listening to the publishers' wares. That was a regular part of my life: I spent a lot of time looking for songs and what I wanted for The Beatles was a hit.'
Martin was convinced that 'How Do You Do It' had potential to become a hit. Though it wasn’t the most remarkable piece of songwriting, he thought it had an essential ingredient that would resonate with a wide audience. Despite this, the band’s take on the song significantly differed from what Martin had anticipated.
The Reluctant Recording
The Beatles were initially reluctant to record 'How Do You Do It.' However, the charismatic producer, along with the band, eventually decided to go ahead. Nevertheless, it was a non-negotiable condition for them that their original compositions, 'Love Me Do' and 'P.S. I Love You,' would become their debut single. Although George Martin wanted the Beatles to record 'How Do You Do It' as their second single, the band's persistence prevailed. The covers 'Please Please Me' and 'Ask Me Why' were released on the reverse side of the 'Love Me Do' single, marking the beginning of their unprecedented success.
What Happened Next?
Ironically, despite not being on the debut release, 'How Do You Do It' soon had a life of its own. Ron Richards, Martin's assistant, produced a version for Gerry and the Pacemakers, another prominent act. Their cover of 'How Do You Do It,' recorded in January 1963 and released in March, became a Number 1 hit, validating Martin's insights. This cover largely borrowed from the Beatles' arrangement made earlier that September, creating a remarkable parallel between the two versions.
The What-If Scenario
Considering the aftermath, one can definitely ponder on the hypothetical scenario: Would the Beatles' version of 'How Do You Do It' have also hit Number 1? It is a question that has intrigued many music aficionados and Beatles fans alike. The 2013 episode of 'Playhouse Presents,' titled 'Snodgrass,' even explored this angle by imagining a unique scenario in which John Lennon left the band after the release of 'How Do You Do It.' Though this episode proves entertaining, it also highlights the pivotal role the song played in shaping the band's early career.
The Art of Songwriting and Decision Making
While 'How Do You Do It' serves as a prime example of a cover song that could have taken the Beatles in a different direction, it also underscores the importance of originality and creative decision-making. The choice to opt for 'Love Me Do' and 'P.S. I Love You' ultimately paved the way for the Beatles' songwriting legacy, highlighting their profound impact on the music industry.
Legacy of 'How Do You Do It'
Though 'How Do You Do It' didn't take the lead position in the chart, it remains an interesting footnote in the band's history. It highlights the ever-evolving landscape of the music industry and the crucial decisions that shape an artist's career. The cover song, while significant, was outshone by the original compositions that solidified The Beatles’ place in music history.
Conclusion
In the quest to understand the Beatles' journey and their decision-making process, examining cover songs such as 'How Do You Do It' provides valuable insights. While it might not have been a favorite, it certainly played a crucial role in their early career, showcasing the intricate decisions that every successful artist must face and make. The legacy of 'How Do You Do It' lives on today, serving as a reminder of the many paths that can lead to success in the music industry.