Today’ Allan Kozinn joins me to tell the behind-the-scenes story of 'I Want to Hold Your Hand’ - why hadn’t the Beatles cracked America prior to this song? How did a teenage girl and a radio DJ force the Beatles record label to rush release the song? How did the JFK assassination set the stage for Americans embrace of aspirational British pop?
Plus we break down the song piece by piece to show how the Fab Four constructed a perfect single which was just as groundbreaking and sophisticated as their later work - from the lyrics to the harmonies, the guitar parts and their first use of four-track overdubbing, the sexual undertones in the music and how it marked the apex and the climax of their 'Wooo’ period.
If you enjoyed this episode, pick up a copy of Allan’s book Got That Something! How the Beatles’ “I Want to Hold Your Hand” Changed Everything.
Listen in the player above or download the episode by clicking here.
Subscribe to the podcast in Apple Podcasts here or search 'My Favorite Album' wherever you listen to podcasts.
My Favorite Album is a podcast on the impact great music has on our lives. Each episode features a guest on their favorite album of all time - why they love it, their history with the album and how it's influenced them.
Jeremy Dylan is a filmmaker, journalist, concert promoter and photographer. He directed the the feature music documentary Jim Lauderdale: The King of Broken Hearts (out now!) and the filmBenjamin Sniddlegrass and the Cauldron of Penguins.
If you've got any feedback or suggestions, drop us a line at myfavoritealbumpodcast@gmail.com.
LINKS
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