Hey Jude – The Beatles

Introduction

Emerging from the tumultuous era of the late 1960s, “Hey Jude” stands as an enduring anthem of hope and encouragement, a beacon of solace amidst a world in flux. Penned by Paul McCartney, this Beatles masterpiece transcends the boundaries of genre and time, resonating with listeners across generations and cultures.

“Hey Jude’s” origins can be traced back to a period of personal turmoil for McCartney’s friend, John Lennon. Struggling through the dissolution of his first marriage and the pressures of international stardom, Lennon sought comfort in his close bond with McCartney. Inspired by Lennon’s vulnerability, McCartney began crafting a song that would offer solace and support, a message of hope amidst Lennon’s emotional turmoil.

The song’s title, initially “Hey Jules,” was a playful reference to Lennon’s son, Julian. However, as the lyrics evolved, McCartney recognized that the song’s message transcended personal boundaries, extending to the broader audience of Beatles fans and the world at large. Thus, the title was changed to “Hey Jude,” reflecting the song’s universal appeal.

“Hey Jude’s” iconic opening chords, a simple yet powerful progression, immediately set the tone for the song’s emotional journey. McCartney’s gentle vocals, infused with tenderness and empathy, guide the listener through a lyrical tapestry of reassurance and hope.

The song’s chorus, with its soaring harmonies and uplifting message, has become synonymous with resilience and perseverance. The repeated refrain, “Na na na na na, na na na na na, na na na na, hey Jude,” serves as a musical affirmation, a collective chant of support and encouragement.

Beyond its immediate impact, “Hey Jude” has become a timeless anthem, a beacon of hope in times of adversity. Its message of resilience and perseverance has inspired generations of listeners, fostering a sense of unity and shared humanity.

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Lyrics

Hey, Jude, don’t make it bad
Take a sad song and make it better
Remember to let her into your heart
Then you can start to make it better

Hey, Jude, don’t be afraid
You were made to go out and get her
The minute you let her under your skin
Then you begin to make it better

And anytime you feel the pain,
Hey, Jude, refrain
Don’t carry the world upon your shoulders
For well you know that it’s a fool
Who plays it cool
By making his world a little colder

Nah, nah nah, nah nah, nah nah, nah nah

Hey, Jude, don’t let me down
You have found her, now go and get her
Remember to let her into your heart
Then you can start to make it better

So let it out and let it in,
Hey, Jude, begin
You’re waiting for someone to perform with
And don’t you know that it’s just you,
Hey, Jude, you’ll do
The movement you need is on your shoulder

Nah, nah nah, nah nah, nah nah, nah nah yeah

Hey, Jude, don’t make it bad
Take a sad song and make it better
Remember to let her under your skin
Then you’ll begin to make it better, better, better, better, better… oh!

Nah, nah nah, nah nah, nah, nah, nah nah,
Hey, Jude
Nah, nah nah, nah nah, nah, nah, nah nah,
Hey, Jude
Nah, nah nah, nah nah, nah, nah, nah nah,
Hey, Jude (Jude)
Nah, nah nah, nah nah, nah, nah, nah nah,
Hey, Jude (yeah, yeah, yeah)
Nah, nah nah, nah nah, nah, nah, nah nah,
Hey, Jude
Nah, nah nah, nah nah, nah, nah, nah nah,
Hey, Jude (don’t make it bad, Jude)
Nah, nah nah, nah nah, nah, nah, nah nah,
Hey, Jude (take a sad song and make it better)
Nah, nah nah, nah nah, nah, nah, nah nah,
Hey, Jude (oh, Jude)
Nah, nah nah, nah nah, nah, nah, nah nah,
Hey, Jude (Jude, hey, Jude, whoa)
Nah, nah nah, nah nah, nah, nah, nah nah,
Hey, Jude
Nah, nah nah, nah nah, nah, nah, nah nah,
Hey, Jude (ooh)
Nah, nah nah, nah nah, nah, nah, nah nah,
Hey, Jude
Nah, nah nah, nah nah, nah, nah, nah nah,
Hey, Jude
Nah, nah nah, nah nah, nah, nah, nah nah,
Hey, Jude
Nah, nah nah, nah nah, nah, nah, nah nah,
Hey, Jude
Nah, nah nah, nah nah, nah, nah, nah nah,
Hey, Jude [fade out]