closing time honorable mentioN: tomorrow nvr knows by the beatles
In the expansive tapestry of The Beatles’ discography, certain songs stand out not just as exceptional tracks, but as pivotal moments in the evolution of modern music. “Tomorrow Never Knows,” the closing track on their 1966 album Revolver is one of those songs. Its innovative use of studio technology, intense thematic content, and poetic lyrics combine to create not only a transformative listening experience but also an amazing closing track.
Released on August 5, 1966, "Revolver" marked a pivotal moment in The Beatles' artistic progression. It arrived when the band transitioned from their earlier, more straightforward pop sound to more experimental and introspective territories. From the opening chords and George Harrison's biting critique of the British tax system in “Taxman” to the sonic and lyrical existentialism of “Im Only Sleeping”, "Revolver" showcases a band at the peak of their powers, unafraid to push the boundaries of what was possible in popular music.
One of the album’s most striking features is its sonic diversity. Each track on “Revolver” is a miniature masterpiece in its own right, showcasing The Beatles’ mastery of a wide range of musical styles. From the infectious melodies of “Yellow Submarine'' and “Good Day Sunshine” to the psychedelic tapestries of “And Your Bird Can Sing ” and “She Said She Said,” the album takes listeners on a kaleidoscopic journey through the musical landscape of the 1960s. A journey that begins here, is marked by the closing track `Tomorrow Never Knows' ' but continues along much further than your wildest shroom trip could take you.
“Tomorrow Never Knows” is not only a standout track on Revolver, but it also hits at the direction The Beatles would take with their next project, Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band. The experimental techniques, thematic boldness, and musical innovation that define “Tomorrow Never Knows” are fully realized and expanded upon in Sgt. Pepper. The latter album’s elaborate mix of styles, studio experimentation, and conceptual coherence can trace their roots back to the groundwork laid by this closing track. In many ways, “Tomorrow Never Knows” was a hint and easter egg to the psychedelic and experimental era that The Beatles would come to epitomize.
Thematically: “Tomorrow Never Knows” dives deep into themes of enlightenment, drawing heavily from John Lennon’s fascination with Eastern philosophy and the psychedelic experience. The song’s lyrics were inspired by Timothy Leary’s adaptation of the Tibetan Book of the Dead, specifically The Psychedelic Experience. The thematic focus of letting go of ego and exploring the mind’s deeper realms was groundbreaking for its time, marking a significant departure from the more conventional pop themes of love and heartache.
The song invites listeners to “turn off your mind, relax, and float downstream,” urging them to release their earthly concerns and embrace a higher state of consciousness. This thematic approach was not only innovative but reflective of the cultural and spiritual explorations that were becoming prominent in the mid-1960s.
Lyrically: In terms of lyrics, “Tomorrow Never Knows” is minimalist yet profound. John Lennon’s words are simple but loaded with meaning, creating a hypnotic mantra that compliments the song’s experimental nature. Lines like “Lay down all thoughts, surrender to the void” and “It is knowing, it is knowing” are both meditative and commanding, guiding the listener through a journey of self-discovery and inward enlightenment.
The lyrics’ repetitive and mantra-like quality reinforces the song’s transcendental theme. Unlike the narrative storytelling found in many of their earlier songs, “Tomorrow Never Knows” employs a lyrical style that is more about creating a mood and mindset, aligning perfectly with the track’s sonic landscape.
Musically : Simply put, this song is a revolution in sound. The Beatles, especially under the guidance of producer George Martin, utilized groundbreaking recording techniques and innovative instrumentation that paved the way for future musical exploration. The track features a single chord (C major) throughout, creating a drone-like effect that was heavily influenced by Indian Classical music.
One of the most striking features is Ringo Starr’s drumming. His relentless, hypnotic beat provides a solid foundation over which the otherworldly sounds can float. John Lennon’s vocals, are processed through a Leslie speaker to give it an ethereal yet disembodied quality, further enhancing the song’s experimental vibe. The use of tape loops, created by Paul McCartney, introduces a collage of reversed guitar solos, sped-up vocal fragments, and various other unorthodox sounds, creating a rich, textured soundscape unlike anything heard in popular music.
As the final notes of “Tomorrow Never Knows” fade into the ether, one can't help but marvel at the sheer audacity and ambition of the song and the project as a whole. In just 34 minutes and 36 seconds, The Beatles managed to redefine the possibilities of music, creating an album that remains fresh and vital today, as it did upon release over half a century ago. As a piece that invites listeners to journey beyond the ordinary in song and in their minds, it stands as a timeless testament to The Beatles’ innovative spirit and eternally enduring influence.
