Chains

The next song on the debut LP is the second cover song heard on side one. This is also the first song heard with a George Harrison lead vocal. The original version was performed by a group called the Cookies. I have to tell you that I've never heard the original but I'm assuming that this was a girl group. The song was written by the successful "Brill Building" songsmiths Gerry Goffin and Carole King.

Mostly three part harmony, George , John and Paul sing like angels on this version. The middle eight is basically George alone and to me he sounds a little nervous. I'm sure that if there would have been more time to record, Harrison may have been able to relax a bit and take his time. His voice seems to quiver a bit, but it sounds very confident nonetheless.

The song was recorded in four takes but the first take was used for the album. I have yet to hear any outtakes from this song as I think it would be interesting. The opening harmonica is likely played by John. Other than that, not much more to say about this one.

The song was played live at the BBC four times ("Here We Go", "Side by Side" "Pop Go the Beatles" program 4 and "Pop Go the Beatles" program 14.)

Apart from being available on the mono and stereo "Please Please Me", the song can be found on the Canadian 6000 series "Twist and Shout" LP, the US Vee Jay "Introducing the Beatles" LP and the US Capitol "The Early Beatles" LP/CD.