Ozzy Osbourne is a lifelong fan. His daughter once said, "Birthdays and Xmas are easy. Just give him something to do with the Beatles or John Lennon and he's happy."
I think we were all changing. I think evolving is a better description. That being said we just came out different a whole generation throughout the world it felt like we all thought the same about racial equality, wars so far so on we just thought differently from the beginning and we all evolved together.
'Thoughts meander like a restless wind inside a letterbox' might be the best line John Lennon has ever written. The poetry of that metaphor, stunningly beautiful.
No choir, no wall of sound, no embellishment on the Naked version, which is the version the Beatles intended for the album to be...a live-in-studio recording. Great review man!
I like them both too. The Let it Be version is transcendent. Like you said, mystical, The second, Johns voice is right there, with him strumming on the guitar Just as it would have been when he was working on the song. I can't tell you how good it makes me feel to see a person from your generation really show his love for John and admiration for his work. Peace.
I'm 69 and when I was in Grade 10 I wrote the lyrics of this song in my English class journal. It was one of my absolute favs. Universal souls unite! ✨💛✨
Deva is a cognate of the Latin word Deus and the Greek word Theos, all referring to gods or divinity and having a common Proto-Indo-European source. Deva is also a word in Persian, but the devas got demoted to demons in Persian religion so that gives us our source for "devil." The Persian word "Ahura" (spirit) supplied the name of the Zoroastrian god, Ahura Mazda (Great Spirit). In Sanskrit the cognate Asura came to mean demon the way Deva did in Persian.
I know this is sometimes unpopular, but I prefer the Phil Spector mixes because to me they are they originals. That is what I grew up with before the Naked mixes. Especially Long and Winding Road.
Like the Spector version of Universe better. It adds some counterpoint which totally fits the song. I hear it in my head anyway when I listen to the Naked version. Like (and like) the wah-wah...bit after each line of the chorus.
Lizzie Bravo and Galeen Pease were Apple Scruffs (fans who hung out outside the Apple building). They were brought in because they could sing and did the background vocals. I was FB friends with Lizzie (who passed away recently) and she told me about it. So amazing! RIP Lizzie 💕
@@L33Reacts Since you appreciated this tune, I would be curious as to what you make of Lennon's song 'Love'. For me, it has a similar melancholic yearning in it, as does Across The Universe. 👍😎
John said this in a 1980 interview: "I was lying next to me first wife in bed, you know, and I was irritated. She must have been going on and on about something - and she gone to sleep and I kept hearing these words over and over: 'flowing like an endless stream'. I went downstairs and it turned into sort of a cosmic song - rather than an irritated song. It drove me out of bed. I didn't want to write it. I went downstairs and I couldn't get to sleep until I put it on paper." So this beautiful song started out as John just being irritated at Cynthia chatting on and on about something while they were lying in bed. He kept hearing the words in his head... "flowing like an endless stream" describing Cynthia's endless chatting as he was trying to go to sleep. His irritation somehow magically turned into some of the best lyrics he ever wrote. Also... I find it quite interesting that here he was in early 1968 (the song was recorded on February 4th, 1968) still with his wife, Cynthia... and he wrote: "Nothing's gonna change my world". The Beatles and their wives (Paul took Jane Asher) went off to India shortly after this. Later that summer after they returned to the UK... John left Cynthia for Yoko. Those lyrics ("Nothing's gonna change my world") could not have been more wrong. Btw... The Beatles recorded 4 songs in early 1968 before they headed off to India: "Lady Madonna" Paul's song which became the A side for their next single, "The Inner Light" George's song which became the B side, and two John songs "Across The Universe" and "Hey Bulldog". I've always thought it was a bit weird that "The Inner Light" was selected for the single's B side over those two Lennon songs. I think John wasn't happy with the recording of either of them... so they went unused for a long time. But I think they are both great.
It isn't wrong because it is deeper -- that which is behind ego and ideation. Christianity called it, among other things, "the ultimate ground of being".
@@jnagarya519 - Completely wrong, imv. John's world could hardly have changed more than it did when he dropped his wife and son... to become John&Yoko.
@@aBeatleFan4ever His world couldn't have changed more than when he went from unknown and struggling musician in an unknown band to world famous and wealthy. His world couldn't have changed more from that to the insanity of worldwide "Beatlemania". His world couldn't have changed more than when Bob Dylan turned him on to reefer. His world couldn't have changed more than when he did so much acid that for a time he lost color-vision. But that is all surface. Behind the ego, behind the conscious ideation, there is a "self" that is unchanging. One learns that from meditation when one sees how ideation -- "thought" -- arises from "nowhere" without "you" doing anything to cause it. And with that insight one can in time "step back" and watch the contents of consciousness as separate from one's awareness. The awareness never changes despite all the "external" changes. John's relationship with Yoko was unhealthy -- he even called her "Mother". And wrote a song about his "actual" Mother. That is how he was "programmed" -- he had severe abandonment issues -- by all the childhood trauma. His counterreaction to the series of abandonments was to be dependent and possessive. That was the relationship he had with everyone he was close to. John's father dropped John's mother and him. John repeated that pattern by dropping Cynthia and Julian. I loved John -- what "we" knew of him as an IMAGE. But that doesn't make him perfect and flawless.
The first version being the version most of us grew up with feels right, even with the overproduction. Spector's production gave it a feel of mysticism to me. The naked version hits different, it feels very much plaintive, a personal plea to God.
Omfg. I’ve never heard the naked version -it’s STUNNING. The clarity of his voice is breathtaking. I’ve always considered his voice one of top 5 in all of rock/pop -this is just incredible. >> the entire album like this? 😲 - I have to go now…
Isn’t it amazing? I’ve heard it a few more times now and it really is stunning. They did such a good job with it that it’s almost two different amazing songs lol
Indescribably beautiful and magical. Lennon said this song came to him at him at bedtime and "wouldn't let him sleep" until he wrote it down. The imagery sounds dream-like, when an artist's creativity is not limited by expectations or past songwriting experiences. The lyrics are from the mind and soul of an inspired genius of the highest level.
Jai guru deva, om - I believe that is sanskrit, and the song is a testament to what he learned from his experience with Indian religion.. Sad and sweet
The clear imagery of the tumbling luminous cascade of beautifully chosen and sung words is the ultimate Beatles song. It remains unequaled and irreplaceable after 57 years. I love it.
Let it Be was my first Beatles album. My older brother introduced me to them, And then they broke up! So I came in at the end, haha, but was instantly addicted. Having grown up with the Let It Be version of Across the Universe, it will always be my favorite. It's so beautiful and kind of mesmerizing. Don't be sad, it's not a sad song. I feel it's more mystical than sad. Because "We all shine on, like the moon and the stars and the sun..." Nothing did change John's world, his essence, his soul and what he left behind. He is still shining on, like a crazy diamond, LOL. Everything is just made up of the same stuff vibrating at a different rates. We're all just tumbling through the Universe together, with life and light ringing through us wherever and whatever we are. John's music is flowing through you right now, his light shone very brightly, still does. He is the same as he was, just vibrating at a an even higher level. We have the gifts he gave us in the now. What we push out in this world is what we get back. "And in the end the love you take is equal to the love you make," maybe the most profound one-line lyric ever written. Many Beatles songs were deeply spiritual, especially the more abstract ones. There's hidden meaning and enlightenment in those seemingly nonsensical lyrics. Across the Universe I Me Mine Tomorrow Never Knows I'm Only Sleeping Within Without You. All You Need Is Love Let It Be John and George especially went on to record many other esoteric songs. But really, the one song that explains it all is All You Need Is Love. Ponder the lyrics. There's deep truth in them. These songs express deep insight into the nature of our existence and the Universe. I realize the pain and lost potential in the tragedy of John Lennon's death. I'll never forget that day, where I was, what I was doing. But I'm starting to think when I watch these artists that died so young, or even the ones in our own lives we lost too soon, maybe that's how long they were supposed to be here. There was only one Janis Joplin, only one John Lennon, one Jimmy Hendrix. They gave so much while they were with us and they're still giving, still here in a way, for you and all others to hear, here and in the future. They had and are having a ripple effect. They were special. I feel more grateful than sad these days. Everything is a matter of perspective. Everything's going to be okay. Just remember to Always Look on the Bright Side of Life. 😗🎶 (Cue song). ⬇️ ua-cam.com/video/X_-q9xeOgG4/v-deo.htmlsi=5-8mcbWCOW5-Gd6q I love your channel, It really brightens my day, thank you. Shine on, dude!!! ⭐✨🌟 ✌️🕉️☮️ The Phil Spector version sounds like the song IS actually going out across the Universe. There are no limitations...
Lennon was very determined to live his life his way. Love hearing hm, I know he wasn’t fond of his voice but it’s distinctly the sound of a real human being, flaws and beauty both.
Often we change taste in music as we grow older, but having grown up with the Beatles, listening for so many years, this is still my favourite Lennon song. There's a beautiful live version by Rufus Wainwright, Moby and Sean Lennon, which is worth a listen.
One of my very favorites. I saw John Prine once in the 80's, and he gave a shout out to this song, saying it opened him up as to what songwriters could do.
Such a beautiful song that brings on a torrent of emotions. Sadness and hopefulness, despair and comfort all in the same breath. Thank you, Laura, this one hit deeply. Wonderful reaction as always ,Lee. Love how music brings out the heart on your sleeve. Blessings all, truly
For the sake of completeness I just went and listened to the WWF version which is on Past Masters. I thought it was really charming, with the addition of the "Apple Scruffs" girl singers (Lizzie Bravo and Gayleen Pease to give them due credit). So there are 3 versions and apparently it's compulsory to choose a favourite. However, I like them all. They've each got their own merits and it's great that there are three different versions. ps Linda and Gayleen are sadly no longer with us, having died in 2021 at the age of 70. They must have been 17 at the time (February 1968). How amazing to be asked to sing on a Beatles' record!
One of my very fav songs. Why does it always bring tears to my eyes? Been listening to this for 50 years! Must be the beauty that affects me. Great reaction!
John's voice is so comforting. The naked version is so much better, more honest . I say it every week: I love your reactions. You help me remember how it felt when I discovered the brilliance of "our boys". ✌️❤
Interesting. I love this song, and in my entire life, it never made me sad. It made me peaceful, calm, and opened a door to my imagination. It made me content as I pictured his words doing exactly what he said. Such magnificent poetry.
The people who hate the Spector version tend to be very vocal about it, but on balance I still prefer it, partly because it's what I originally heard, but also because it does add something. I like both. Interesting hearing them back to back.
I agree with a statement earlier. Many Beatles/McCartney fans echo Paul when they disparage the Let It Be album/Phil Spector. I like the album. It is a matter of taste whether one likes the songs stripped of the Spector production. As for me, I first heard these songs as they appear on Let It Be and I enjoy them that way.
Spector's addition to the album was impressive no doubt. But we have to keep in mind that the original intention was for Let It Be to be recorded live-in-studio, no overdubs, much like Please Please Me. But when they broke up in 1970, the project was abandoned by the band and they no longer had anything to do with the final mix and release. If they hadn't broken up, we could have had a version of Let It Be that is close to the Naked version. With Across the Universe, the embellishment is a bit subtle in the original release, but in the case of The Long and Winding Road, the wall of sound kind of overwhelms the song and rendered Billy Preston's keyboard solo in the middle inaudible. The one that appeared on the Naked version is a bit brighter with Preston's solo shining in the middle part.
@@JustCharlemagne Even if into a terminal crisis after Lennon's divorce declaration on late September 1969, The Beatles weren't broken up still by 1970 and the film/album project wasn't abandoned by them: In January the band (Minus John) recorded I Me Mine anew on eight track with various overdubs and embellished the song Let It Be with new brass, vocals and bass parts (Therefore contradicting their no-overdubs policy themselves). George also re-did his vocals on For You Blue that month (Another sign that the group members had long surpassed the original goal for authenticity). Then, it was John and George (So, still members of the band, not some stranger) to appoint Phil Spector with the task of completing the album: The decision was made known also to Paul and Ringo, and everyone agreed on that and were aware of Phil's involvement. Then, George and Ringo used to visit Abbey Road during Spector's mixing sessions that spring, and Ringo even played drums with the orchestra during the symphonic overdubs of 1st April 1970. So as you can see The Beatles were still monitoring on the album during its final mixes and were co-responsible for its conceptual mutation from the raw Get Back to the embellished Let It Be. When the final mixes were submitted to the band members right after April the 1st, John, George and Ringo were satisfied with it. Paul only had to complain about The Long And Winding Road but, otherwise, had nothing to say about the rest of the songs, so the album, edited and overdubbed in its other parts, was ok with him
Bowie's "Young Americans" album includes his cover of this song, featuring Lennon on guitar, as well as a Bowie-Lennon-Alomar co-write, "Fame," which also features John on guitar, as well as Jean Millington (of Fanny, who David was dating at the time) and Lennon on background vocals.
I think Spector's production on Let It Be could be considered a mixed bag. McCartney was very unhappy with Spector's gaudy additions to "The Long and Winding Road" while Lennon was pleased with Spector's more subtle treatment of "Across the Universe".
There is a great movie from 2007, called Across the Universe. The time is the 60's and it incorporates Beatle's songs throughout to tell the story of a young Londoner who finds himself in America at a turbulent time. Please take the time to watch...you won't be disappointed. Thx for taking this journey into the Beatles...
I was brought up on the original mix..It may be over produced but has the vibe..The second is more like a demo mix..but it's a great Lennon tune regardless of the techniques involved.
John said that "He ( spector) was given the shittiest load of badly recorded shit - and with a lousy feeling to it - ever. And he made something out of it. He did a great job. When I heard it, I didn't puke."
@@visaman I was always surprised that John and George liked Spector’s approach so much. I always thought his style was too heavy-handed, but that’s just my opinion. Paul thought so too, for what it’s worth. We all react to things differently. Nothing wrong with that.
The original version was recorded February 1968, mixed October 1968, released December 1969 and now appears on "Past Masters". The Glyn Johns 1970 mix was released 2021 on the "Let It Be - Super Deluxe Edition".
There's another version of this song which appeared in 1969 charity album that's a bit faster tempo and with a wah wah-type pedal used. But this version is a bit cleaner and seems to sound better. It may be worth checking out. Great job on these Beatles reaction videos. It's still sad for me to hear John's voice having been a kid when a news report broke into Monday Night Football announcing his murder. It literally shocked everyone, including the sports announcers. It's still such a sad incident to end a brilliant man's life like that.
Also worth checking out are versions on Anthology 2, White Album Super Deluxe Edition, Let It Be (Glynn Johns version) and Past Masters. John could never get a recording he was happy with and ultimately abandoned working on it as he felt he wasn’t getting the support he needed from the other Beatles
My absolute favorite Beatles song! I would also recommend the 2021 mix of this song on the Let it Be Super Deluxe. Gives the original the proper mix it deserved and it is the best version imo.
Lenon said he wrote the song after having an argument in bed with his wife. Glory to the great remover of darkness is the repeating line in Sanskrit. He learned this line when the Beatles visited the guru,Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. Lenon says that the song treasures the individual that they mean something in the greater scheme of things, but our problems come and go washing into the expensive void of the universe, and that no matter how bad it gets, be calm, all is well, nothing's going to change my world.. Lenon said the song was given to him, he was just a conduit, a recipient of the words.
@@lauraallen55 I’m glad you kept the naked version. The winged version has a kind of earthly charm, but for the sweetness of John’s voice, I really love the naked one.
@@Coquinagirl I had to go with the Naked version for the reason you stated. His vocals just made the song. Would have been absolutely perfect if the sound of the flapping wings was kept in that version though. It seemed to fit with the feeling of the song and his words and voice, also symbolically.
The version of Across The Universe that might be the closest to what the Beatles had intended might be the "Glyn Johns" mix released on the Super Deluxe version of Let It Be. The Beatles actually did a final mix of this song without George Martin (that version, take 8 RM2, is available on bootlegs), so is clearly the way they intended it. This had a backwards guitar overdub and some ultra high backing vocals sung by a couple of "Apple Scruffs." George Martin's mix that comes from the Wildlife compilation LP (available on Past Masters), mostly keeps the Beatles version intact, except that it is sped up and he added the sounds of birds flying to the start and finish since the Wildlife LP was released in support of the preservation of wildlife habitats. You can most clearly hear the vocals by the two young ladies that the Beatles invited in to the recording session on his mix. And an alternate take released on Anthology is so beautiful with an extra swirling guitar. Listen to them all!
Beautiful song! It's very easy to get lost, listening to this song with the imagery and Lennon's captivating voice. He didn't deserve what happened to him and that makes me very sad. His inspiration continues to guide us to this very day. Peace and Love.
John was the poet, the man of soul, the expressor of agony and angst and bliss and a multitude of questions questing toward his personal meaning of life....sigh.
The first version is slightly slowed down. The "Anthology 2" version is pretty good too - Upfront and clean vocal with George & Ringo playing tambura & swarmandal.
I personally never noticed this until now hearing them back to back, but it seems that the Phil Spector version is pitched a good half-note lower than the naked one. Maybe the lower tone is also part of why it tends to "make you sad" more.
You should do Ravi's set at Monterey with the piece of film that accompanies it. John: he was killed 8th December, 3 months exactly since his 40th birthday and 4 days after my birthday, 4th December. Worst birthday ever followed by a torturous year. I (we) have been living without him for 44 years. It's been long, man. I have never got over it.
There are many, many versions o' Across The Universe to hear if yer willin' to go the extra mile to experience it. This is one o' my favorite Beatles songs as well as one o' my favorite John Lennon songs. My impression is he was on a really good trip...Thank you John for sharin' this revelation with us.
Both are excellent. The first one swept me along with it, floating and beautiful. The second was so pure. so stripped down. I like to listen to 'Unplugged' sessions of singers/bands. This had that unplugged effect on me. hard hitting, wonderful!
This is the wonder of the power of music. When it comes from "that place" it touches your soul in some way. The first time I heard this it gave me a feeling that I couldn't begin to quantify :) I knew that it was special in some way. An enigma.
![Lp. Сердце Вселенной #60 РОЖДЕНИЕ ЛОЛОЛОШКИ [Финал] • Майнкрафт](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/YoR0pAV9FVQ/mqdefault.jpg)
She Said She Said
Agree !!
Correct!
Too easy!
You got it, my friend!
Yup
Ozzy Osbourne is a lifelong fan. His daughter once said, "Birthdays and Xmas are easy. Just give him something to do with the Beatles or John Lennon and he's happy."
John said these were his favorite lyrics he ever wrote
Which says a lot considering how incredible his lyrics were.
Up there with "Strawberry Fields Forever".
"Limitless undying love which shines around me like a million suns".... One of my all time favorite Beatles lines.
One of the best lines in any song.
Yes, these are the words that speak to me also. So very hopeful and reassuring. Blessings.
That line alone would make it a great song . But it’s so much more…. Crazyc
A timeless beauty ❤
I'm 70 and it still makes me cry.
That, in itself, is sad . . . on so many levels. So, I tend to agree with the Cher quotation.
@@Brandi6666
cute. from a populist movie and 99¢-store psychotherapy.
that’s not how emotions work.
Me too, brother. I'm 73
“Falling in love with someone and losing them at the same time”. That’s brilliant. I felt the same way with Stevie Ray.
It’s rough to feel so deeply. I always have. Probably why I loved heroin so much lol
@@L33Reacts🤭🤭🤭🤭
I feel sorry for those that didn't grow up with the Beatles. As we changed so did they.
I always thought of it "as they changed so did we".
I remember where I was and who I was with when we heard I Want to Hold Your Hand. That's how different it was as you must know. I was 14
I think we were all changing. I think evolving is a better description. That being said we just came out different a whole generation throughout the world it felt like we all thought the same about racial equality, wars so far so on we just thought differently from the beginning and we all evolved together.
'Thoughts meander like a restless wind inside a letterbox' might be the best line John Lennon has ever written. The poetry of that metaphor, stunningly beautiful.
He writes so well. It’s 4d lyrics lol
I love that line.
Oh how we miss you John❤😢
Pools of sorrow waves of joy are drifting through my opened mind.
Possessing and caressing me.
What a poet he was, dear John.
John’s voice is clear, alone in infinity with the beauty of his poetry.
Naked
George Martin said John Lennon had an almost "haunting" quality to his voice.
No choir, no wall of sound, no embellishment on the Naked version, which is the version the Beatles intended for the album to be...a live-in-studio recording. Great review man!
I like them both too. The Let it Be version is transcendent. Like you said, mystical, The second, Johns voice is right there, with him strumming on the guitar Just as it would have been when he was working on the song. I can't tell you how good it makes me feel to see a person from your generation really show his love for John and admiration for his work. Peace.
Melodic beauty, gentleness. John's voice is haunting and unforgettable.
John was my favorite. Thank's a lot John. You were the best.
Mine too..
The naked version is more real, more clear & pure. Love it, thanks Lee.
Those are my thoughts and that’s why I wanted him to do the naked version.
Really more whiney as well.
Nah. Spector did a great job on this.
@@mjames4709not on this song. John’s voice sounds better on this song without the double tracked affect
I'm 69 and when I was in Grade 10 I wrote the lyrics of this song in my English class journal. It was one of my absolute favs. Universal souls unite! ✨💛✨
What an amazing voice. He didin't even like his voice!
So sad not having him around. :( RIP John Lennon. 🙏❤
John once said this was his best song, and after all this years I agree with him, Dear Prudence being at second place.
It’s one of my favorite songs, lyrics are amazing.
First time I heard this song was the day after John was killed. Completely lost it when he sang, "Nothing's gonna change my world".
He’s out there somewhere.. he IS the universe now. Such a tragedy but what a legacy he has left…
Same here. I didn’t even know who John Lennon was before. But I cried all the same. I was 12. I still cry thinking about it. Beautiful song.
@@L33Reacts”…I am of the Universe! And you know what it's worth…”
Ooh, don't start me off 😢
After December of 1980 it was a long time before I could listen to this incredible song again without breaking down!
44 years later it's still hard
That 'feeling' is exactly what I felt. It's timeless.
I can’t really put into words correctly but wanderlust is close… I don’t know if it’s for John or for me. But it’s there. Thank you for watching!
Jai = “joy, hail, glory to”
Guru = “remover of darkness”
Deva = “a shining one”, source of English word “divine”.
Latin - Divus
Deva is a cognate of the Latin word Deus and the Greek word Theos, all referring to gods or divinity and having a common Proto-Indo-European source. Deva is also a word in Persian, but the devas got demoted to demons in Persian religion so that gives us our source for "devil." The Persian word "Ahura" (spirit) supplied the name of the Zoroastrian god, Ahura Mazda (Great Spirit). In Sanskrit the cognate Asura came to mean demon the way Deva did in Persian.
Wow! Impressive post.
i was this many days old when you taught me this. thank you!
@@gregoryeatroff8608 Great ! Thanks for the lesson. I, like you, also love words and their sources .
I know this is sometimes unpopular, but I prefer the Phil Spector mixes because to me they are they originals. That is what I grew up with before the Naked mixes. Especially Long and Winding Road.
Thought it sounded weird.
The world wildlife version was actually the first version of the song.
Like the Spector version of Universe better. It adds some counterpoint which totally fits the song. I hear it in my head anyway when I listen to the Naked version. Like (and like) the wah-wah...bit after each line of the chorus.
I’m the opposite, the Raw version, to my ears, is far better.
@timr Think I'll be even more unpopular. I prefer the World Wildlife fund version but that's the version I heard first.😊
A mystical song, when I was a kid I used to listen with the lights off and trip out into the universe.
A great song. One of my favorite lyrics “Sounds of laughter shades of life are ringing through my open ears inciting and inviting me.
Lizzie Bravo and Galeen Pease were Apple Scruffs (fans who hung out outside the Apple building). They were brought in because they could sing and did the background vocals. I was FB friends with Lizzie (who passed away recently) and she told me about it. So amazing! RIP Lizzie 💕
@Channel My favourite version. RIP Lizzie.
Yes, Lee should play THAT cut as well for the Wildlife take.
On 2nd listening, She Said She Said. Several listeners already got this, so good job, team Beatles!
Yup! I’m gonna start doing that now since we got so many Beatles scholars on this channel now :)
@@L33Reacts Since you appreciated this tune, I would be curious as to what you make of Lennon's song 'Love'.
For me, it has a similar melancholic yearning in it, as does Across The Universe.
👍😎
John said this in a 1980 interview: "I was lying next to me first wife in bed, you know, and I was irritated. She must have been going on and on about something - and she gone to sleep and I kept hearing these words over and over: 'flowing like an endless stream'. I went downstairs and it turned into sort of a cosmic song - rather than an irritated song. It drove me out of bed. I didn't want to write it. I went downstairs and I couldn't get to sleep until I put it on paper."
So this beautiful song started out as John just being irritated at Cynthia chatting on and on about something while they were lying in bed. He kept hearing the words in his head... "flowing like an endless stream" describing Cynthia's endless chatting as he was trying to go to sleep. His irritation somehow magically turned into some of the best lyrics he ever wrote.
Also... I find it quite interesting that here he was in early 1968 (the song was recorded on February 4th, 1968) still with his wife, Cynthia... and he wrote: "Nothing's gonna change my world". The Beatles and their wives (Paul took Jane Asher) went off to India shortly after this. Later that summer after they returned to the UK... John left Cynthia for Yoko. Those lyrics ("Nothing's gonna change my world") could not have been more wrong.
Btw... The Beatles recorded 4 songs in early 1968 before they headed off to India: "Lady Madonna" Paul's song which became the A side for their next single, "The Inner Light" George's song which became the B side, and two John songs "Across The Universe" and "Hey Bulldog". I've always thought it was a bit weird that "The Inner Light" was selected for the single's B side over those two Lennon songs. I think John wasn't happy with the recording of either of them... so they went unused for a long time. But I think they are both great.
It isn't wrong because it is deeper -- that which is behind ego and ideation. Christianity called it, among other things, "the ultimate ground of being".
@@jnagarya519 - Completely wrong, imv. John's world could hardly have changed more than it did when he dropped his wife and son... to become John&Yoko.
@@aBeatleFan4ever His world couldn't have changed more than when he went from unknown and struggling musician in an unknown band to world famous and wealthy.
His world couldn't have changed more from that to the insanity of worldwide "Beatlemania".
His world couldn't have changed more than when Bob Dylan turned him on to reefer.
His world couldn't have changed more than when he did so much acid that for a time he lost color-vision.
But that is all surface. Behind the ego, behind the conscious ideation, there is a "self" that is unchanging. One learns that from meditation when one sees how ideation -- "thought" -- arises from "nowhere" without "you" doing anything to cause it. And with that insight one can in time "step back" and watch the contents of consciousness as separate from one's awareness. The awareness never changes despite all the "external" changes.
John's relationship with Yoko was unhealthy -- he even called her "Mother". And wrote a song about his "actual" Mother.
That is how he was "programmed" -- he had severe abandonment issues -- by all the childhood trauma. His counterreaction to the series of abandonments was to be dependent and possessive. That was the relationship he had with everyone he was close to.
John's father dropped John's mother and him. John repeated that pattern by dropping Cynthia and Julian.
I loved John -- what "we" knew of him as an IMAGE. But that doesn't make him perfect and flawless.
@@jnagarya519 - "But that doesn't make him perfect and flawless."
Does anyone see John Lennon as "perfect and flawless"..?
@@aBeatleFan4ever How about comprehending and addressing my entire comment, which refutes your original assertion?
John's incredible lyrics here are what set my tears flowing every time.
And his vocal. Yes, gorgeous lyrics. Interesting this was his favorite of everything he ever wrote.
Every single time 😢
Both of them are good in their own way. Thanks for playing both.
So great to see you appreciating the Beatles music from 60 years ago!!!
John's crystal soul lives through us still, he never left, he never would. Don't be sad, be in love, that's who John was, that's who we are 🎇
The first version being the version most of us grew up with feels right, even with the overproduction. Spector's production gave it a feel of mysticism to me. The naked version hits different, it feels very much plaintive, a personal plea to God.
If by "plaintive" you mean whiney, I have to agree with you.
Given the chantings in the chorus, one has to wonder WHICH god.
Yes, I also prefere the original version
Omfg. I’ve never heard the naked version -it’s STUNNING. The clarity of his voice is breathtaking. I’ve always considered his voice one of top 5 in all of rock/pop -this is just incredible.
>> the entire album like this? 😲
- I have to go now…
Isn’t it amazing? I’ve heard it a few more times now and it really is stunning. They did such a good job with it that it’s almost two different amazing songs lol
@@L33Reacts
Exactly. The added frou-frou versions are great, but this shows the frou-frou was unnecessary 😁
This is as pure as Tracy Chapman.
♥️
John's voice is #1 for me
Indescribably beautiful and magical. Lennon said this song came to him at him at bedtime and "wouldn't let him sleep" until he wrote it down.
The imagery sounds dream-like, when an artist's creativity is not limited by expectations or past songwriting experiences. The lyrics are from the mind and soul of an inspired genius of the highest level.
Jai guru deva, om - I believe that is sanskrit, and the song is a testament to what he learned from his experience with Indian religion.. Sad and sweet
Translates to something like... Hail or glory to the divine teacher
I wasn't expecting to cry so hard after watching your reaction.
The clear imagery of the tumbling luminous cascade of beautifully chosen and sung words is the ultimate Beatles song. It remains unequaled and irreplaceable after 57 years. I love it.
Let it Be was my first Beatles album. My older brother introduced me to them, And then they broke up! So I came in at the end, haha, but was instantly addicted.
Having grown up with the Let It Be version of Across the Universe, it will always be my favorite. It's so beautiful and kind of mesmerizing.
Don't be sad, it's not a sad song. I feel it's more mystical than sad. Because "We all shine on, like the moon and the stars and the sun..." Nothing did change John's world, his essence, his soul and what he left behind. He is still shining on, like a crazy diamond, LOL.
Everything is just made up of the same stuff vibrating at a different rates. We're all just tumbling through the Universe together, with life and light ringing through us wherever and whatever we are.
John's music is flowing through you right now, his light shone very brightly, still does. He is the same as he was, just vibrating at a an even higher level. We have the gifts he gave us in the now.
What we push out in this world is what we get back. "And in the end the love you take is equal to the love you make," maybe the most profound one-line lyric ever written.
Many Beatles songs were deeply spiritual, especially the more abstract ones. There's hidden meaning and enlightenment in those seemingly nonsensical lyrics.
Across the Universe
I Me Mine
Tomorrow Never Knows
I'm Only Sleeping
Within Without You.
All You Need Is Love
Let It Be
John and George especially went on to record many other esoteric songs.
But really, the one song that explains it all is All You Need Is Love.
Ponder the lyrics. There's deep truth in them. These songs express deep insight into the nature of our existence and the Universe.
I realize the pain and lost potential in the tragedy of John Lennon's death. I'll never forget that day, where I was, what I was doing.
But I'm starting to think when I watch these artists that died so young, or even the ones in our own lives we lost too soon, maybe that's how long they were supposed to be here.
There was only one Janis Joplin, only one John Lennon, one Jimmy Hendrix.
They gave so much while they were with us and they're still giving, still here in a way, for you and all others to hear, here and in the future. They had and are having a ripple effect. They were special. I feel more grateful than sad these days.
Everything is a matter of perspective. Everything's going to be okay. Just remember to Always Look on the Bright Side of Life. 😗🎶 (Cue song). ⬇️
ua-cam.com/video/X_-q9xeOgG4/v-deo.htmlsi=5-8mcbWCOW5-Gd6q
I love your channel, It really brightens my day, thank you.
Shine on, dude!!!
⭐✨🌟
✌️🕉️☮️
The Phil Spector version sounds like the song IS actually going out across the Universe. There are no limitations...
A beloved song. Makes me emotional. I miss you John.
He was a poet.
One of John's greatest. Paul's bass lines at the end always stand out for me.
My mate Rob B and I, did a version of this to a tiny group of about 4 people, at an Open Mic today - went pretty well...
Good job, mate.
Lennon was very determined to live his life his way. Love hearing hm, I know he wasn’t fond of his voice but it’s distinctly the sound of a real human being, flaws and beauty both.
The best band, and if not, the best band doesn't exist.
Often we change taste in music as we grow older, but having grown up with the Beatles, listening for so many years, this is still my favourite Lennon song. There's a beautiful live version by Rufus Wainwright, Moby and Sean Lennon, which is worth a listen.
One of my very favorites. I saw John Prine once in the 80's, and he gave a shout out to this song, saying it opened him up as to what songwriters could do.
A favourite of Brian Wilson...and the Moody Blues. That's high praise indeed.
Ohhh such a great song. Glad you are doing both versions of it
Such a beautiful song that brings on a torrent of emotions. Sadness and hopefulness, despair and comfort all in the same breath. Thank you, Laura, this one hit deeply. Wonderful reaction as always ,Lee. Love how music brings out the heart on your sleeve. Blessings all, truly
I’m happy to hear that you like it. It’s one of my favorite of his. 😊
For the sake of completeness I just went and listened to the WWF version which is on Past Masters. I thought it was really charming, with the addition of the "Apple Scruffs" girl singers (Lizzie Bravo and Gayleen Pease to give them due credit). So there are 3 versions and apparently it's compulsory to choose a favourite. However, I like them all. They've each got their own merits and it's great that there are three different versions.
ps Linda and Gayleen are sadly no longer with us, having died in 2021 at the age of 70. They must have been 17 at the time (February 1968). How amazing to be asked to sing on a Beatles' record!
One of my very fav songs. Why does it always bring tears to my eyes? Been listening to this for 50 years! Must be the beauty that affects me. Great reaction!
John's voice is so comforting. The naked version is so much better, more honest . I say it every week: I love your reactions. You help me remember how it felt when I discovered the brilliance of "our boys". ✌️❤
You would love the film Across the Universe. Not exactly about the beatles but living in the world the songs describe.
Hard to express. I feel comforted and sad. Like the hug from my father at grandma's funeral.
Interesting. I love this song, and in my entire life, it never made me sad. It made me peaceful, calm, and opened a door to my imagination. It made me content as I pictured his words doing exactly what he said. Such magnificent poetry.
The people who hate the Spector version tend to be very vocal about it, but on balance I still prefer it, partly because it's what I originally heard, but also because it does add something. I like both. Interesting hearing them back to back.
The Spector version drowns out John's whiney voice, so that's a good thing.
@@visamanMartin said Let it Be album was produced by him, over produced by Specter
I agree with a statement earlier. Many Beatles/McCartney fans echo Paul when they disparage the Let It Be album/Phil Spector. I like the album. It is a matter of taste whether one likes the songs stripped of the Spector production. As for me, I first heard these songs as they appear on Let It Be and I enjoy them that way.
I'm a huge McCartney fine but I also love Spector's work on Let It Be
Spector's addition to the album was impressive no doubt. But we have to keep in mind that the original intention was for Let It Be to be recorded live-in-studio, no overdubs, much like Please Please Me. But when they broke up in 1970, the project was abandoned by the band and they no longer had anything to do with the final mix and release. If they hadn't broken up, we could have had a version of Let It Be that is close to the Naked version. With Across the Universe, the embellishment is a bit subtle in the original release, but in the case of The Long and Winding Road, the wall of sound kind of overwhelms the song and rendered Billy Preston's keyboard solo in the middle inaudible. The one that appeared on the Naked version is a bit brighter with Preston's solo shining in the middle part.
@@JustCharlemagne Even if into a terminal crisis after Lennon's divorce declaration on late September 1969, The Beatles weren't broken up still by 1970 and the film/album project wasn't abandoned by them:
In January the band (Minus John) recorded I Me Mine anew on eight track with various overdubs and embellished the song Let It Be with new brass, vocals and bass parts (Therefore contradicting their no-overdubs policy themselves).
George also re-did his vocals on For You Blue that month (Another sign that the group members had long surpassed the original goal for authenticity).
Then, it was John and George (So, still members of the band, not some stranger) to appoint Phil Spector with the task of completing the album: The decision was made known also to Paul and Ringo, and everyone agreed on that and were aware of Phil's involvement.
Then, George and Ringo used to visit Abbey Road during Spector's mixing sessions that spring, and Ringo even played drums with the orchestra during the symphonic overdubs of 1st April 1970.
So as you can see The Beatles were still monitoring on the album during its final mixes and were co-responsible for its conceptual mutation from the raw Get Back to the embellished Let It Be.
When the final mixes were submitted to the band members right after April the 1st, John, George and Ringo were satisfied with it.
Paul only had to complain about The Long And Winding Road but, otherwise, had nothing to say about the rest of the songs, so the album, edited and overdubbed in its other parts, was ok with him
Bowie's "Young Americans" album includes his cover of this song, featuring Lennon on guitar, as well as a Bowie-Lennon-Alomar co-write, "Fame," which also features John on guitar, as well as Jean Millington (of Fanny, who David was dating at the time) and Lennon on background vocals.
I think Spector's production on Let It Be could be considered a mixed bag. McCartney was very unhappy with Spector's gaudy additions to "The Long and Winding Road" while Lennon was pleased with Spector's more subtle treatment of "Across the Universe".
I agree with your adjectives for Spector’s additions.
There is a great movie from 2007, called Across the Universe. The time is the 60's and it incorporates Beatle's songs throughout to tell the story of a young Londoner who finds
himself in America at a turbulent time. Please take the time to watch...you won't be disappointed. Thx for taking this journey into the Beatles...
Came here to recommend the same movie. The soundtrack made up of a number of very interesting Beatles covers.
Thanks a lot! Once again Lennon’s unlimited genius.
One of their best.
I was brought up on the original mix..It may be over produced but has the vibe..The second is more like a demo mix..but it's a great Lennon tune regardless of the techniques involved.
I put this on the other day (naked version, always). It's one of their only songs that still brings me to tears.
This song opens your mind. Shows you how small you are. Send a message of Peace across the universe.
Such a beautiful song. I was really glad Paul initiated the naked version of the album. Always thought spector was too heavy-handed.
John said that "He ( spector) was given the shittiest load of badly recorded shit - and with a lousy feeling to it - ever. And he made something out of it. He did a great job. When I heard it, I didn't puke."
@@visaman I was always surprised that John and George liked Spector’s approach so much. I always thought his style was too heavy-handed, but that’s just my opinion. Paul thought so too, for what it’s worth. We all react to things differently. Nothing wrong with that.
Great reaction, Big Soul Lee. We appreciate all the hard work and time you put into bringing us so much joy.
The original version was recorded February 1968, mixed October 1968, released December 1969 and now appears on "Past Masters".
The Glyn Johns 1970 mix was released 2021 on the "Let It Be - Super Deluxe Edition".
Absolute Masterpiece
For me this is the most underrated Beatles song along with 'It's All Too Much.' Loved your reaction.
It's all too much is freaking amazing! Love it.
If I had to pick a top tier song, of the Beatles, Across the Universe ranks top ten. John’s lyrics are so profound, and beautifully delivered.
There's another version of this song which appeared in 1969 charity album that's a bit faster tempo and with a wah wah-type pedal used. But this version is a bit cleaner and seems to sound better. It may be worth checking out. Great job on these Beatles reaction videos. It's still sad for me to hear John's voice having been a kid when a news report broke into Monday Night Football announcing his murder. It literally shocked everyone, including the sports announcers. It's still such a sad incident to end a brilliant man's life like that.
Always a favorite.
Two more fantastic Beatles songs! You're killin' it this weekend, Lee. Thanks for all the great music!
Thank you! I’m glad you enjoyed :)
Also worth checking out are versions on Anthology 2, White Album Super Deluxe Edition, Let It Be (Glynn Johns version) and Past Masters. John could never get a recording he was happy with and ultimately abandoned working on it as he felt he wasn’t getting the support he needed from the other Beatles
She said She Said, it's quite obvious :D I really appreciate how you feel this music!
My absolute favorite Beatles song! I would also recommend the 2021 mix of this song on the Let it Be Super Deluxe. Gives the original the proper mix it deserved and it is the best version imo.
Everything the Beatles did is registered. Even before they got Famous 😎🎶🎵
Lenon said he wrote the song after having an argument in bed with his wife. Glory to the great remover of darkness is the repeating line in Sanskrit. He learned this line when the Beatles visited the guru,Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. Lenon says that the song treasures the individual that they mean something in the greater scheme of things, but our problems come and go washing into the expensive void of the universe, and that no matter how bad it gets, be calm, all is well, nothing's going to change my world.. Lenon said the song was given to him, he was just a conduit, a recipient of the words.
You are an old soul, Lee. Love your instincts, musically, and that you love the Fabs. We do too.
Thank you, Laura and Lee .
Glad you liked it. It’s one of my favorites. 😊
@@lauraallen55 One of the best ever
@@Coquinagirl I almost went with a third version (first released) with the wings of the birds at the end. I love that version just for that.
@@lauraallen55 I’m glad you kept the naked version. The winged version has a kind of earthly charm, but for the sweetness of John’s voice, I really love the naked one.
@@Coquinagirl I had to go with the Naked version for the reason you stated. His vocals just made the song. Would have been absolutely perfect if the sound of the flapping wings was kept in that version though. It seemed to fit with the feeling of the song and his words and voice, also symbolically.
The version of Across The Universe that might be the closest to what the Beatles had intended might be the "Glyn Johns" mix released on the Super Deluxe version of Let It Be. The Beatles actually did a final mix of this song without George Martin (that version, take 8 RM2, is available on bootlegs), so is clearly the way they intended it. This had a backwards guitar overdub and some ultra high backing vocals sung by a couple of "Apple Scruffs." George Martin's mix that comes from the Wildlife compilation LP (available on Past Masters), mostly keeps the Beatles version intact, except that it is sped up and he added the sounds of birds flying to the start and finish since the Wildlife LP was released in support of the preservation of wildlife habitats. You can most clearly hear the vocals by the two young ladies that the Beatles invited in to the recording session on his mix. And an alternate take released on Anthology is so beautiful with an extra swirling guitar. Listen to them all!
" Jai guru deva om" is Lennon's meditation mantra. The Spector version also is the only Beatle song that had a wah wah pedal on it.
Beautiful song! It's very easy to get lost, listening to this song with the imagery and Lennon's captivating voice. He didn't deserve what happened to him and that makes me very sad. His inspiration continues to guide us to this very day. Peace and Love.
Definitely John's most poetic song.
John was the poet, the man of soul, the expressor of agony and angst and bliss and a multitude of questions questing toward his personal meaning of life....sigh.
Just yesterday I saw a video listing the 20 best singers, according to Ozzy Osbourne. Guess who was number one? John Lennon, of course.
I LOVE how Ozzy is such a huge Lennon fan. Bowie and Kurt Cobain were too.
The first version is slightly slowed down. The "Anthology 2" version is pretty good too - Upfront and clean vocal with George & Ringo playing tambura & swarmandal.
Great to hear this amazing song again! Thanks Laura & L33! ☮❤🎶
Great pick Laura And great reaction L33.
Thanks guys 🙏
Glad you liked it! It truly is one of my favorites.
One of my favorites of his. 😊
There is also the our world charity album version which was actually the first version to be released.
@ken It was donated to the World Wildlife Fund I believe.
I personally never noticed this until now hearing them back to back, but it seems that the Phil Spector version is pitched a good half-note lower than the naked one. Maybe the lower tone is also part of why it tends to "make you sad" more.
Great reaction, one of my favourite Beatles songs. Much appreciated ❤
Thank you for watching. I’m glad you enjoyed
Came back for another watch ❤
You should do Ravi's set at Monterey with the piece of film that accompanies it.
John: he was killed 8th December, 3 months exactly since his 40th birthday and 4 days after my birthday, 4th December. Worst birthday ever followed by a torturous year. I (we) have been living without him for 44 years. It's been long, man. I have never got over it.
There are many, many versions o' Across The Universe to hear if yer willin' to go the extra mile to experience it. This is one o' my favorite Beatles songs as well as one o' my favorite John Lennon songs. My impression is he was on a really good trip...Thank you John for sharin' this revelation with us.
Both are excellent. The first one swept me along with it, floating and beautiful. The second was so pure. so stripped down. I like to listen to 'Unplugged' sessions of singers/bands. This had that unplugged effect on me. hard hitting, wonderful!
she said she said
This is the wonder of the power of music. When it comes from "that place" it touches your soul in some way. The first time I heard this it gave me a feeling that I couldn't begin to quantify :) I knew that it was special in some way. An enigma.