10 Greatest Beatles Classic Rock Songs

Revolution’s composition was characterised by indecision, both lyrically and musically. He hedged his bets on the track’s production and arrangement, releasing both the gentle, doo-wop flavoured album version and the faster, harder rocking take that became Hey Jude’s B-side.

None of the indecision left a mark on that final version though. Lennon’s vocal and the distorted guitar attack behind it share an invigorating intensity. This time Lennon is clear that you can count him, “out,” of violence and destruction, in contrast to one of his band’s most aggressive performances. It’s a foot stomping, fist punching call for pacifism that proved politically divisive but remains one of The Beatles’ stand out rock moments.