A Year of Innovation: The Beatles in 1966

The year 1966 marked a significant period of innovation and transformation for British band The Beatles. Their journey through 1966 was filled with groundbreaking music, controversial images, and an ever-changing dynamic that would cement their place in music history.

Marching Through the Months

2016 dawned quietly with 'We Can Work It Out', a song that followed the release of Rubber Soul, which had reached the top of charts worldwide. It was in February that The Beatles conducted separate interviews with The Evening Standard's Maureen Cleave, where John Lennon made his now infamous 'more popular than Jesus' remark. This statement would cause significant controversy in America, particularly in the American bible belt.

Their March was spent laying the groundwork for their next album. They set aside a day for an avant-garde photo session, one result of which was the infamous 'butcher image'. This controversial image, depicting the band members in smocks surrounded by raw meat and body parts, was later recommended by the band as the cover for Yesterday and Today, released in July. The photograph and its notoriety remain a testament to the band's willingness to push boundaries.

Record Breakers

The rest of their time in 1966 was dedicated to the recording of what would become Revolver. Songs like 'Paperback Writer' and 'Rain' were recorded during these sessions and released as a single at the end of May, ensuring they remained at the top of charts in several countries. The album Revolver was released at the beginning of August and was met with critical acclaim, though American critics were less enthusiastic, leading to speculation that the version released in the US was missing three songs by John Lennon.

Simultaneously, the single 'Eleanor Rigby/Yellow Submarine' was released, topping charts around the world, with the exception of the US, where it missed the Hot 100 for the first time in a long while.

On the Road: Touring and Controversy

During mid-August, The Beatles toured the United States, a trip marred by protests and threats due to John Lennon's 'Jesus quote'. The band members were often drowned out by the screaming of their fans. Deciding to quit the road, they returned home and informed Brian Epstein of their decision not to perform concerts.

After a few weeks dedicated to personal activities, such as Liverpool's World Cup watching and family time, the band focused on Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band. However, with no new album for the Christmas market, Parlophone released an oldies collection, notable for the first non-US release of a cover of Larry Williams’ 'Bad Boy'.

A Laid-back Conclusion

To wrap up 1966, The Beatles released their annual fan club record, offering a heartfelt thank you to their supporters and including a collection of festive jams.

1966 was a tumultuous yet productive year for The Beatles, as they embraced innovation, weathered controversy, and created some of their most iconic music.