About The Song
"This Boy" is a poignant and soulful ballad by The Beatles, written by John Lennon. It was released as the B-side to the single "I Want to Hold Your Hand" in 1963 and later included on the "Meet the Beatles!" album in the United States. The song showcases Lennon's ability to infuse emotion into his songwriting and performances.
In "This Boy," John Lennon explores themes of heartache and unrequited love. The lyrics tell the story of a young man who is yearning for the affection of a girl, lamenting the pain of not being able to hold her hand. The song's sincerity and vulnerability set it apart from the more upbeat and lighthearted songs that characterized The Beatles' early catalog.
Lennon's vocal delivery in "This Boy" is particularly notable for its raw emotion. The song features three-part harmonies, with Lennon taking the lead backed by harmonies from Paul McCartney and George Harrison. The vocal arrangement adds depth to the heartfelt lyrics, creating a sense of longing and melancholy that resonates with listeners.
Musically, "This Boy" is accompanied by a simple yet effective acoustic guitar arrangement. The stripped-down instrumentation allows the emotional core of the song to shine through. The brief instrumental bridge features a subtle shift in dynamics, adding to the overall emotional impact of the composition.
Despite being the B-side of a single, "This Boy" has gained recognition over the years for its emotional depth and vocal harmonies. The song showcases a more vulnerable side of The Beatles, hinting at the artistic maturity that would define their later work. "This Boy" remains a testament to John Lennon's songwriting prowess and the band's ability to convey genuine emotion through their music.
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Lyrics
Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
That boy took my love away
Though he'll regret it someday
But this boy wants you back again
That boy isn't good for you
Though he may want you too
This boy wants you back again
Oh, and this boy would be happy
Just to love you, but oh my
That boy won't be happy
Till he's seen you cry
This boy wouldn't mind the pain
Would always feel the same
If this boy gets you back again
This boy
This boy
This boy