Opinion Poll: “Tomorrow Never Knows,” by The Beatles

[Mitre226644]

Hello.

Beatles fans: I am curious as to what you think about the last track on 1966’s Revolver,

I find it very interesting how people feel about the song, as it tends to be polarizing.

Some laud it as an example of the band’s innovation in the studio, their consistent evolution and experimentation, and a pioneering track for psychedelic rock, while others dislike the chaotic nature of the record, and find it unpleasant in general. 

What do you think? No bad answers. 

 

 

[AdamDamon · Accepted solution]

Great topic, @Mitre226644!

“Tomorrow Never Knows” is probably my favorite song by the Beatles, and the only song of theirs that I’ve considered adding to my Spotify playlists in recent years. I think this track has a really nice chord progression and vocal melodies, and I enjoy hearing most of the various layers of effects that contribute to the song’s psychedelic sound as well—even the sounds that remind me of seagulls 😅

However, I also usually find that some of the more trebly sound effects that float into and out of the song can be a bit annoying, so I prefer listening to this cover version of “Tomorrow Never Knows” by Electric Moon, which sounds less chaotic to me while still retaining a very spaced-out and psychedelic atmosphere:

Cheers!

[Mitre226644]

@AdamDam,

Thanks for responding! I love your take. 

I also consider it to be one of my favorite Beatles tracks.

I was surprised to learn that it was actually the first fully formed track when they began recording the album.

I have been listening to the Beatles since I was in grade school (so 30 years), and the song has always entranced me. It’s so powerful with the omnipresent, non-modulated drumbeat, the loops and overdubs and other studio trickery, and of course Lennon’s mesmerizing voice.

I find I listen both out of appreciation of their music as well as how remarkable of a phenomenon they were. The timing was perfect with the tumult of the 60’s, the fact that they write their own music, and that they were so damn good as composers, musicians, lyricists, and artists. 

Truly a seminal song in my opinion. I would have loved to see the reaction of people listening to it for the first time!