John Lennon with The Beatles - Ticket To Ride

About The Song

"Ticket to Ride" is a pivotal track in The Beatles' discography, showcasing the band's evolution and experimentation. Released in 1965 as a single and part of the "Help!" album, the song reflects John Lennon's growing interest in expanding the traditional boundaries of pop music.

Lennon played a significant role in shaping "Ticket to Ride," contributing not only lead vocals but also influencing the song's distinctive sound. The track is characterized by its driving rhythm, marked by a prominent and innovative use of a snare drum, played by Ringo Starr. Lennon's vocals are delivered with a sense of urgency, conveying a narrative of heartbreak and a desire for escape.

Lyrically, "Ticket to Ride" departs from the more straightforward love songs of The Beatles' earlier years. The lyrics hint at the end of a romantic relationship, with the protagonist suggesting that his lover needs a "ticket to ride" away from their shared troubles. This departure from conventional love themes was a notable shift in The Beatles' songwriting, reflecting a more mature and nuanced approach.

Musically, "Ticket to Ride" stands out for its innovative use of the electric guitar, played by George Harrison. The song features a distinctive opening riff that sets the tone for the entire track. The guitar work in "Ticket to Ride" showcased The Beatles' willingness to experiment with new sounds and textures, foreshadowing the more complex arrangements that would characterize their later work.

The success of "Ticket to Ride" was immediate, topping charts in multiple countries. The song's impact extended beyond its commercial success, influencing subsequent generations of musicians. Its departure from conventional pop norms, both lyrically and musically, demonstrated The Beatles' artistic growth and foreshadowed their future explorations into more avant-garde and experimental territory. "Ticket to Ride" remains a classic example of The Beatles' ability to push the boundaries of popular music while maintaining mass appeal.

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Lyrics

Let’s sing along with the lyrics!

I think I'm gonna be sad
I think it's today, yeah
The girl that's driving me mad
Is going away

She's got a ticket to ride
She's got a ticket to ride
She's got a ticket to ride
But she don't care

She said that living with me
Is bringing her down, yeah
For she would never be free
When I was around

She's got a ticket to ride
She's got a ticket to ride
She's got a ticket to ride
But she don't care

I don't know why she's riding so high
She ought to think twice
She ought to do right by me
Before she gets to saying goodbye
She ought to think twice
She ought to do right by me

I think I'm gonna be sad
I think it's today, yeah
The girl that's driving me mad
Is going away, yeah

Oh, she's got a ticket to ride
She's got a ticket to ride
She's got a ticket to ride
But she don't care

I don't know why she's riding so high
She ought to think twice
She ought to do right by me
Before she gets to saying goodbye
She ought to think twice
She ought to do right by me

She said that living with me
Is bringing her down, yeah
For she would never be free
When I was around

Ah, she's got a ticket to ride
She's got a ticket to ride
She's got a ticket to ride
But she don't care

My baby don't care, my baby don't care
My baby don't care, my baby don't care
My baby don't care, my baby don't care