Mr. Moonlight (song)
| "Mr. Moonlight" | ||||
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| Song by The Beatles from the album Beatles for Sale | ||||
| Released | December 4, 1964 (mono and stereo) | |||
| Recorded | October 18, 1964, EMI Studios, London |
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| Genre | Rock and roll | |||
| Length | 2:33 (mono version) 2:36 (stereo version) 2:40 (US stereo version) |
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| Label | Parlophone | |||
| Writer | Roy Lee Johnson | |||
| Producer | George Martin | |||
| Beatles for Sale track listing | ||||
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"Mr. Moonlight" is a song written by Roy Lee Johnson, best known for being covered by The Beatles on the 1964 albums Beatles for Sale in the United Kingdom and Beatles '65 in the United States.
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[edit] Different versions
The first known recording of the song was by blues pianist Piano Red, recording as "Dr. Feelgood and the Interns". It was released as a B-side of a minor rhythm & blues hit single (titled "Dr. Feelgood") in 1962.[1] The record became something of a cult favorite among several young British R&B enthusiasts, some of whom would soon go on to become members of well-known bands.
Another emerging Beat group, The Hollies, recorded and released their own performance of the same song nearly simultaneously with The Beatles' version.
In addition, the song was also covered by The Merseybeats in 1963.
[edit] The Beatles' version
The Beatles covered the song in their live act years before it appeared on record. Their recording of the song remains the best known version, featuring Latin-style percussion, prominent vocal harmonies, and, unusually, an organ solo. John Lennon sings lead, with backing vocals from Paul McCartney and George Harrison.
[edit] Recording
The Beatles recorded this song two different days in 1964. The first day was August 14, where they recorded four takes (one and four of which appear on Anthology 1). They recorded again on October 18, again in four takes, the last two of which showcased McCartney on Hammond organ.[1]
[edit] Personnel
- John Lennon – vocals, acoustic rhythm guitar
- Paul McCartney – harmony vocals, bass, Hammond organ
- George Harrison – harmony vocals, lead guitar, African drum
- Ringo Starr – percussion
- Personnel per The Beatles Bible[1]
[edit] Notes
- ^ a b c "The Beatles Bible: Mr. Moonlight". http://www.beatlesbible.com/songs/mr-moonlight/. Retrieved April 14, 2009.
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