About The Song
"I Am the Walrus" stands as one of The Beatles' most enigmatic and experimental songs, showcasing the band's artistic evolution during the psychedelic era of the late 1960s. Released in 1967 as part of the "Magical Mystery Tour" album, the song is primarily attributed to John Lennon, who crafted its surreal and nonsensical lyrics. The title itself originates from a schoolyard rhyme, and its meaning has been the subject of much speculation. Lennon's inspiration for the song came from a letter he received from a student, which included the observation that their teacher was analyzing Beatles' lyrics in class. In response, Lennon decided to compose a piece with deliberately obscure and perplexing lyrics to confound any attempts at interpretation.
The musical arrangement of "I Am the Walrus" is equally eccentric, featuring a complex tapestry of sound that reflects the influence of avant-garde and experimental music. The song incorporates a range of unconventional elements, such as the use of a radio broadcast, animal noises, and orchestral arrangements. The orchestration, conducted by George Martin, adds a layer of grandiosity to the composition, enhancing the overall surreal atmosphere. The juxtaposition of these diverse elements creates a sonic landscape that perfectly complements the cryptic nature of the lyrics, making "I Am the Walrus" a unique and groundbreaking piece of music.
The song's recording process was emblematic of The Beatles' innovative approach to studio work. The studio became a playground for experimentation, and "I Am the Walrus" was no exception. The band employed techniques such as backward tape loops, distortion, and unconventional vocal effects. Lennon's distinctive vocal delivery, coupled with the nonsensical lyrics, creates a sense of detached, dreamlike detachment, drawing listeners into a world where logic and coherence take a backseat to pure artistic expression. The avant-garde production and Lennon's enigmatic lyrics challenged traditional notions of songwriting, solidifying The Beatles' reputation as pioneers in the realm of popular music.
"I Am the Walrus" is a testament to The Beatles' willingness to push the boundaries of conventional songwriting and their ability to seamlessly blend various musical elements into a cohesive whole. The song's enduring legacy lies not only in its experimental nature but also in its impact on subsequent generations of musicians and artists. Its influence can be heard in the work of countless bands and artists who have embraced the spirit of experimentation and innovation that The Beatles epitomized during their creative zenith. As a result, "I Am the Walrus" remains a symbol of the band's artistic daring and a timeless example of the transformative power of music that transcends the boundaries of time and genre.
Video
Lyrics
Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
I am he
As you are he
As you are me
And we are all together
See how they run
Like pigs from a gun
See how they fly
I'm crying
Sitting on a cornflake
Waiting for the van to come
Corporation tee shirt
Stupid bloody Tuesday
Man, you been a naughty boy
You let your face grow long
I am the eggman (Ooh)
They are the eggmen, (Ooh)
I am the walrus
Goo goo g' joob
Mister city p'liceman sitting pretty
Little p'licemen in a row
See how they fly
Like Lucy in the sky
See how they run
I'm crying
I'm crying, I'm crying, I'm crying
Yellow matter custard
Dripping from a dead dog's eye
Crabalocker fishwife pornographic priestess
Boy you been a naughty girl
You let your knickers down
I am the eggman (Ooh)
They are the eggmen (Ooh)
I am the walrus
Goo goo g' joob
Sitting in an English
Garden waiting for the sun
If the sun don't come
You get a tan from standing in the English rain
I am the eggman
They are the eggmen
I am the walrus
Goo goo g' joob g' goo goo g' joob
Expert texpert choking smokers
Don't you think the joker laughs at you?
See how they smile
Like pigs in a sty, see how they snied
I'm crying
Semolina pilchards
Climbing up the Eiffel Tower
Element'ry penguin singing Hare Krishna
Man, you should have seen them kicking Edgar Allan Poe
I am the eggman (Ooh)
They are the eggmen (Ooh)
I am the walrus
Goo goo g' joob
Goo goo g' joob
G' goo goo g' joob
Goo goo g' joob, goo goo g' goo g' goo goo g' joob joob
Joob joob...