About The Song
Cast your mind back to the heady days of the early 1960s. The Beatles, a band on the cusp of superstardom, were still rough around the edges, brimming with raw energy and an insatiable appetite for experimentation. Their music, a potent blend of rock and roll and catchy pop melodies, was captivating audiences worldwide. “What Goes On”, a hidden gem nestled amongst the tracks on their 1965 album Rubber Soul, offers a glimpse into a lesser-known facet of The Beatles’ early work. This introspective ballad, written primarily by John Lennon with some input from Paul McCartney (and credited to Lennon-McCartney), showcases a vulnerability and depth often overshadowed by their upbeat hits.
“What Goes On” stands out from The Beatles’ earlier, guitar-driven anthems. Unlike their earlier, polished pop tunes, it’s a stripped-down ballad built on a bed of melancholic piano chords and a gentle drumbeat. Ringo Starr’s drumming is understated, yet effective, providing a steady pulse for the introspective lyrics. John Lennon’s vocals are raw and emotionally charged, conveying a sense of heartache and confusion. The song feels like a late-night confession, a whispered secret shared in the quiet of the night.
The lyrics themselves are a cryptic tapestry woven with questions and unspoken emotions. Lines like “What goes on in your heart? What goes on in your mind?” and “You are tearin’ me apart. When you treat me so unkind” paint a picture of a love gone awry, a relationship teetering on the brink of collapse. “What Goes On” doesn’t offer easy answers; it simply lays bare the emotional turmoil of a love lost.
“What Goes On” holds historical significance within The Beatles’ discography. It marks one of the first songs where Ringo Starr takes on lead vocals, a unique departure from the Lennon-McCartney dominance. While not a commercial success, the song’s introspective nature hints at the artistic evolution The Beatles would embark on in the years to come.
Despite its understated nature, “What Goes On” remains a captivating listen. The raw emotion in John Lennon’s vocals, the simple yet effective melody, and the introspective lyrics create a powerful emotional impact. The song’s ambiguity allows listeners to project their own experiences onto the lyrics, adding to its enduring appeal.
So, put on your headphones and let “What Goes On” transport you back to a simpler time. Allow yourself to be drawn into the world of quiet heartache and unanswered questions. It’s a reminder that even The Beatles, the band known for their infectious energy, had a softer side, a side that explored the complexities of love, loss, and the vulnerabilities of the human heart.
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