Andy you are quite possibly the most insightful musical mind on RUclips. Your thoughts on art and music are much more thoughtful, interesting and intelligent than anyone I’ve discovered. Thank you for all you do for our community. We are smarter for hearing your voice
I couldn't possibly choose a favorite Beatles' song. They have been my favorite band for 50 years. They have so many absolutely fantastic and interesting songs. Their incredible output in such a short period of time is just unbelievable. They will never be surpassed IMHO.
A young teen when this song (Blue Jay Way) came out. I was entranced by Lord of the Rings, and for a magical month or so, would come home from school, go up to my room, and re-enter Middle Earth. I connected 'there's a fog upon LA' with the equally eerie fog on the barrow downs, before the hobbits are rescued by Tom Bombadil.
There's a great version by a young lady names Aurora. I think it's the best version and I'm sure John would have loved it. She adds a counter melody at the end and it just works beautifully
Love this rambling Andy. Reminds me of my early years listening to music with friends while becoming increasingly stoned and philosophising without limits. That was in 1968.
I can remember my first hearing Led Zeppelin was on Radio 1 in early 1969, I couldn’t believe what I was hearing it was Communication Breakdown, it rocked like nothing I heard before and I knew this band was going to be big.
If I Fell. Perfect lyrics, progression, and especially harmonies! I always have to stop myself from singing, and just listen. Best love song ever. Happy Valentine’s Day ❤️
Absolutely amazing video. I am a poet who believes that art is about subjective interpretation. That the true meaning of any work of art is whatever the recipient (listener, reader, viewer) takes out of it. True art leaves space for the recipient to put their own experience into the work of art, and come out with their personal meaning from it. You explore that beautifully. Your separate takes on “Blue Jay Way” fit into that perfectly, illustrate that theory perfectly.
George's expedition through psychedelia is most interesting. It is often underestimated just how much George contributed to the "Beatlesque" soundscape.
Unusual pick. Mentions my city, but not anywhere near my favorite song. Off the top of my head, We Can Work It Out might be my favorite. Really resonated with me as a kid (the musical aspects). Now my favorite would probably be Dear Prudence. Or Long Long Long. Or . . . 100 others.
great vid. I think Pythons 'meaning of life' might be based on magical mystery tour a little bit. Mr creosote very similar to Lennon feeding the big lady spaghetti with a spade in the restaurant. Palin's sgt major walking up and down the square quite similar to Spinetti's. and xmas in heaven seems to be based on 'your mother should know', a big cheesy show in the afterlife. Almost like the Pythons tried to make a slightly more understandable digestible version of MMT
I was flicking through a Beatles book of mine yesterday; and realised that the first time that one of their songs broke the three minute mark, was Ticket To Ride (and just a pinch over three minutes at that) on their fifth album, "Help!". How mad is that!
That's one of the things that's so brilliant about them. Their songs hardly ever overstay their welcome. There's no reason that every song has to be 3 min +, but that became the norm later on, and it got worse in the CD age.
Hi Andy: an Englishman of your generation, out here in the colonies I get entirely what you're saying about MMT (the general and the glorious particulars): my first ever album, at 10 years old, and an amateur drummer in a Beatles tribute band in my late teens. Thank you so much for your academic-level articulation of the film . Sir Paul & Ringo will love this. I'm a Phil prof. in my old age, and I can affirm you in your insight that subjective-objective are the same reality from two different perspectives--which is not to deny Truth.
There's always been that bit at the end of Hey Bulldog where Paul and John are mucking about. It reveals so much about the dynamics at play between the guys.
I understand and appreciate the reason the Beatles didn't include singles on their lps, yet I can't help but imagine the Rubber Soul album with "What Goes On" & "Think For Yourself" replaced by "Day Tripper" & "We Can Work It Out."
As a nine 1/2 year old, in Chicago, USA, 'Blue Jay Way' was the first one of the 'new' songs I heard. It was over FM radio in the evening. I was alone. The room was dark, but for a small, shaded wall lamp. How are we 'intrigued' by something at that age, but that is the best word to explain my first hearing of your fave Fab's tune.
I was 25 years old in 1967, and I remember really loving Blue Jay Way, and I had never taken any psychedelics. Love this channel. It’s truly “mind expanding”.
I love Blue Jay Way. I see people’s rankings of Beatles songs and BJW usually ranks pretty low and I scratch my head. It’s so dreamy. My favorite Beatle song is I Want You ( She’s so Heavy).
Blue Jay Way reminds me of "I Went To Sleep" by The Beach Boys. Brian Wilson at the height of his medication or possible LSD come down still managed to write something incredibly literal/beautiful about what he saw that day. "Flying is one of my favourites by the Beatles, because it doesn't sound like them but a like session band. Which goes to show how many groups were inspired and sounded like them. Thanks Andy, another good one.
Yeah. To me it's coming down flat by himself when he needs his friends to get there to keep him up. Sleep is no solution. It speaks to his disillusionment with the lsd scene.
Wow, Blue Jay Way, I never imagined that at the start of your video Andy. That said, your argument in favour of it is so compelling. For me, it's Strawberry Fields Forever every time and i think it is probably the greatest rock tune by anybody ever.
I have taken several poetry classes at university. The professors stated poets have a meaning that is intentional, however the reader is free to participate in poems and can bring his/her own meaning.
I have two favourites, depending on my mood. While My Guitar Gently Weeps and A Day In The Life. Probably 1 and 1A in that order. There are a lot to choose from though.
Can't Buy Me Love is my favorite Beatles song. Because I love to dance and it has that lovely youthful energy that only young people can have. Also, the scream in the song is very youthful and could be understood as the scream of a young person facing adulthood and the uncertainty of life - realizing how lacking of experience he/she is. But hey, we take it all with dancing steps and with a belief that life will sort out, like it has for the previous generations. Let's dance! Crab the moment!
What's interesting is that Andy's interpretations of "Blue Jay Way" run directly counter to what George Harrison and members of the Beatles' inner circle said about it. This is Derek Taylor: "In one of the great books called 'Twilight of the Gods' the author says, 'This song is about the lost young of our time. #My friends have lost their way.# And then there was another interpretation that said the line #Please don't be long# was actually giving instructions to the young: 'Don't belong - as in 'Don't belong to society as we know it. Drop out.' But it's just a simple song." Going to LA and what he saw and experienced in Haight Ashbury in '67 is what ultimately turned George off and away from the psychedelic drug scene ~ but he'd written "Blue Jay Way" from a house in Blue Jay Way before the negativity began to kick in.
Interesting choice, Andy. I esp. like your reading of "don't belong". The song has a beautiful haunting melody. You could read the lyrics as addressing the other 3, don't be long or I will be tired of being a Beatle. I have another favorite Beatles song that doesn't get a lot of recognition, Long, Long, Long from the White Album. A masterpiece of timeless music in my opinion.
So many terrific songs to choose from . . . probably almost every Beatles song has multiple persons that say it is their favorite. Lol, for whatever my opinion is worth, my favorite is "I've Just Seen a Face." That was a compelling story about your memory of being a tiny child and in a panic because of what the babysitter told you; "they aren't coming back" must have been absolutely terrifying! I sincerely hope that you are recovering.
Your channel: came for the prog, stayed for the PH'LOG! "The sublime is the unification of chaos and order." Of course! Ego and Id, the self and the other(s), Peters and Lee, cats and dogs living together, localised in YOUR KITCHEN. But seriously (arf), more of this please.
Yes, I LOVE "Blue Jay Way" very unusual and "Trippy"! I don't really have a favorite, but if I had to pick one, I would go with "Here There and Everywhere" just for the pure Beauty of it; but "Blue Jay Way is definitely way up there on my list!
It’s not a cinema but a live performance from Bonzo Dog Doo Da Band playing Death Cab For Cutie. Paul and Ringo aren’t in that scene. Paul filmed The Fool On The Hill in France due to English Tax issues.
From a musical perspective, this song is remarkable because it's so eminently trippy. The Beatles achievement is to capture in sound the time dilation many people experience when experimenting with psychedelics. P.S.: I found your personal account very touching
I LOVE Philosophy Sundays! And really appreciate your interpretations of Blue Jay Way. Fascinating! I never cared for the song but now have a new perspective on it. Thanks!
The ones I go back to a lot are "Happiness Is a Warm Gun," "Cry Baby Cry," and "Long, Long, Long." Not saying they're the greatest, but they're the ones I keep going back to.
I'm a long way down the comments so you may never read this. Have finally subscribed. Well, I've watched so many of your videos now. I haven't read all of the comments - but just in case no one's mentioned this check out James Hargreaves Magical Mystery Tour. He suggests, based on known evidence - such as Paul's piece of paper with a circle drawn on it, that the film was conceived by Paul as a version of the Tibetan Book of the Dead. There are seven set pieces, each based on the stages as described in the book. It's fascinating and chimes very well with your ideas around Blue Jay Way. Anyway, I'll be adding a comment to the Greatest Songs video later.
George wrote some of the best pre-prog Songs, which means to rise his stardom to views on life, that have never been recorded before, starting with Taxman and leading to my personal favorite Only A Northern Song, which is nothing more than perfect in the relationship between it's lyrics to the guiding music, he birth of what we call in Germany Diskurs- Pop. ..allthoug a Day in the Life is the peak of it all.
You are spot on on blue jay way. !!! Beatles always considered sound and music as a meaning of expression . sounds , and mood of the music can complement .. or totally change the meaning of the lyrics. As a french person, i never tried originally to get the english lyrics. but the sound makes me think of a weird cemetary or voices from the dead. without understanding a word.
Interesting. When you talked about how speaking about dead people made them alive in a certain way, it made me think about those people who discover Nick Drake's music and life and write something like "it's so sad he died without knowing how much appreciated his music is today" under a video of one of his songs. When I read that, I always feel compelled to write that "he knows, actually".
I spent the night at the crumbling Blue Jay Way mansion in 1980. I didn't even know that I was on the street Blue Jay Way. There were 7 punk superstars there that night, drinking and dancing and other stuff. We all slept a bit and we woke up and there were condiments and no food. I collected ten bucks from the cheapskates and got a ride to Rock and Roll Ralph's on Sunset Boulevard. Coming back to the house I realized I was on Blue Jay Way. I boiled eggs and potatoes and mixed them with tasty condiments and served oranges as breakfast dessert. The punk superstars were grateful. My friend Marc Modica told me, in 1967, that George was saying "please don't belong...".
I too greatly appreciate “Blue Jay Way” for its paradigm changing nature. But, I would choose “Tomorrow Never Knows” as the radix of sonic transition in “popular music.” Simply, the “sound” of it is so intriguing! Integrating, broadening the horizons of “popular” music ( use of the studio as an instrument-thank you Yoko and Paul!) is why for me, I would cite “Tomorrow Never Knows” as my pick.
For some reason Blue Jay Way came into my thoughts as possibly being your favorite Beatles tune. It's definately one of mine.Revolver has always been my top album of theirs with Magical Mystey Tour a close second. Thanks for all your terrific analysis.
Fascinating how a song can encapsulate a moment in time. At ages 3-5, my daughter had night terrors. I would sit beside her holding her hand. To this day, the song Silent Lucidity chokes me up.
I point this out because so many younger fans don't know that. They praise the "Magical Mystery Tour" songs based on the superior music, especially the wonderous and astonishing "Strawberry Fields Forever" -- which was released BEFORE "Sht. Pepper's" -- on Side 2. "Magical Mystery Tour" is Paul's repackaging of "Sgt. Pepper's," and the music to it is among the weakest of their catalog. "I Am the Walrus" was originally the "B"-side of a single, released before "Magical Mystery Tour," and in the film is lip-synced. But one point you make about "The Beatles" is absolutely true: they had FUN, and that was INFECTIOUS. I recall an early interview with them in which they were essentially asked if they'd ever quit. The answer was: "If it stops being fun." They were funny guys -- there is a youtube clip of them standing together, being asked, for the billionth time, "Why the name 'Beatles'?" Paul says, "Well, we could have been called "The Shoes" -- and the four of them begin to "seriously" discuss that possibility. It is fall-off-the-chair hilarious. And John was even funnier -- their very last live performance, on the roof of Apple -- the biggest band in history and at the time being forced to "turn it down!" (the original complaint of parents against the first generation of rock and roll) -- saying: "I'd like to thank you on behalf of the group and meself, and I hope we passed the audition." Um, well, yeah, I think they DID -- "finally" -- pass the audition.
I was in 7th grade when my entire family sat down to watch the Beatles on the Ed Sullivan show. They struck me as a relatively superficial pop group with young girls screaming in the audience while they were doing All my Loving, Till There Was You etc. I was more captivated by Bob Dylan with songs like Times They Are a Changin’ and in 65 The Byrds with Mr Tambourine Man and Turn Turn Turn which seemed closer to my feelings of early teen angst. That initial evaluation of the Beatles would change when I encountered Norwegian Wood very soon thereafter.
Surprising but excellent choice. Love that song. Also, on the album, it segues into the wonderful instrumental "Flying," which seems like a perfect combination. Sorry this isn't the negative kind of comment that Andy says he prefers. 😢
Blue Jay Way, like Tomorrow Never Knows and Glass Onion are three songs that for their composers are self-reflective at their core. I tip my hat as a favourite to Glass Onion. It shares many other characteristics with the other pieces, eg aurally inventive, sung with minor notes or chords, and philosophical, poetic and mature in lyrics. “Music on Music” is a special playlist I grow in my diverse and extensive collection of music. Glass Onion is a first Lennon memoir on his portfolio. Lennon even at his young age presets his life and portfolio as a layered yet transparent reality, as reflected in the song’s perfect title for its subject matter.
Kids, you don’t need drugs, just subscribe to Andy and listen up to the words of the wise, transcendental that indeed was. I always thought Blue jay was about someone waiting for some kind of psychological help or spiritual help, and due to the oddness of the music, not quite getting that which he was waiting for.
Outstanding! It is astonishing that you can spontaneously expound upon a seed thought and take it to such depths in such an illuminating and entertaining way. Bravo! Thank you for painting a picture of Blue Jay Way in such vivid colors, you have changed the way I will hear it forever. Cheers!
Phenomenal stuff Andy! Don’t know where to start, you unpack a lot of things. So interesting to hear you download your thoughts for us, and wow it’s a lot of thoughts. Take care Andy and keep being the authentic you 🤓😎🤘
This brings back a few memories. Not knowing that Blue Jay Way was a road in a suburban Los Angeles, I used to think that "L.A." referred to someone from Liverpool (George Harrison?); that "fog" referred to sadness/depression; and that "sleep" referred to death. I didn't get any further than that before discovering the literal meaning of the song.
I have the Magical mystery tour EP with Blue Jay Way. I remember playing it for the first time when I was about 11 years old. Although I never really listen to it I've never forgotten it. It left an impression in my subconscious.
Wow! I’m a little speechless. What a deep, thought provoking piece Andy. Love the possible interpretations of the song… but that’s what being subjective is all about, ya? Interpretation. Great video! Keep up the tremendous work, it’s fantastic! Oh, and while it is REALLY difficult to pick one song as my favourite, if push comes to shove, it would be “Nowhere Man”.
This was amazing Andy! I suppose this might be common among little children, but I have a memory of a story almost identical to yours, Andy. To this day, I have great trouble saying goodbye to my parents when I leave after a visit, or even getting off the phone with friends and family.
Or, more simply.... George was suddenly alone in LA. Not used to having no adoring fans/friends (Apple Scruffs !) around. Lucas nicked it from Joseph Campbell (Hero of a Thousand Faces).
Hi Andy. Great video. I think your insights in videos in RUclips the best on the net. You are always provocative in yout channel( In a good way) and I glad to learn so many things about music, art...and quite a British Humor😊( I from Brazil, but love the english estetisc)
Blue Jay is a bird very common in parts of America and Canada. We had mystery bus trips which always finished at a pub.. When people talk about My Truth and your Truth, it closes down discussion and the victim is THE TRUTH as each retreats to THEIR opinions.
Thanks to you, I've listened to Blue Jay Way for the first time. I simply paused your video, searched Blue Jay Way and listened to it. And... I'm not as in love with it as you are. But I absolutely love your interpretations. As usually, it was a joy to watch (or rather listen to, as I consume your videos a bit like podcasts).
*_Truth_* is like a 3 edged sword in relation to every human being and their subjectivity. There is *_your_* truth, there is *_my_* truth, and then is there is the *_actual_* truth, whatever that might be, floating out there in the cosmic ether, forever out of reach, forever unknowable (at least on this plane of existence, if you believe in others that is). Basically, we find meaning where we can. *_Whatever Gets You Through the Night_* is not only alright (as the Lennon song states), but *_It's What You Value_* (a Harrison tune) --- they are one and the same thing.
Absolutely love your video. Very illuminating and insightful. The Beatles are the most seminal music artists in my life and Magical Mystery Tour is the first album I ever got for myself when I was 13 in 1967, and it completely blew my mind. It's the most important album for me personally.
Even Ringo was essential, according to Paul McCartney. He said that Ringo held them together. Was a special time and they were at the forefront. A big influence on Pat Metheny. 'Nuff said. 👋
Amazed at the insights into art, philosophy, culture, music and literature. And all of it involving a subject matter which I know very well. I remember listening to this song in my teens. I was kind of a Beatle freak just born a few years to late. The song on the surface is not that amazing but for some reason it did resonate with me. The explanation of the secondary and tertiary levels of meaning do make a lot of sense. Especially about the "sojourn" toward California , spirituality and drugs. WOW Thank you very much Andy. Keep it up.
30:00 I never had the opportunity to see the film to see visuals, but I often had the exact same feeling about Blue Jay Way, it certainly takes one 'out there' and back again if you are lucky. That it reminded me of a dream sequence and vision of... death. Great episode, here.
A haunting composition and production that I also spent many hours contemplating the levels of meaning in, as a child experiencing this music when it was new and I had yet to be familiar with the chemically induced altered states that inspired it, and later in my teenage years when I had a bit more of a clue. ;) 😏 I largely had the same conclusions as Andy. "We'll be over soon they said" could be taken as they/our lives will be over soon. Additionally, "Ask a policeman on the street, there's so many there to meet" could be taken to mean that, when one is in an altered state and obviously behaving abnormally, every "normal" person you encounter is likely to give you some form of a reality check in their response, objectively "policing" your awareness of your own subjective state of consciousness.
That the Beatles are not only the greatest, but also the most popular band- that their genius was irrestible to high and low- well, sometimes things go right in the world.
Andy you are quite possibly the most insightful musical mind on RUclips. Your thoughts on art and music are much more thoughtful, interesting and intelligent than anyone I’ve discovered. Thank you for all you do for our community. We are smarter for hearing your voice
I concur with this statement!
Love hearing your insight, Andy!
I agree, he's always interesting.
Yes, I couldnt agree more. Note that this video should be just as interesting even if you never heard The Beatles
We are not worthy!
I love the Beatles. If I were forced to choose, I think "Rain" would have to be my favorite because the rhythm section is so ferocious.
I love rain, the guitar tone, the bass riff… the lyrics, the harmonies…
I remember being 10-11 years old and figuring out the lyrics of rain to mean basically people can’t be in the moment.
It’s just a state of mind.
I couldn't possibly choose a favorite Beatles' song. They have been my favorite band for 50 years. They have so many absolutely fantastic and interesting songs. Their incredible output in such a short period of time is just unbelievable. They will never be surpassed IMHO.
Agree 100% i actually just go with My Favorite Beatle Song…at the moment
A young teen when this song (Blue Jay Way) came out. I was entranced by Lord of the Rings, and for a magical month or so, would come home from school, go up to my room, and re-enter Middle Earth. I connected 'there's a fog upon LA' with the equally eerie fog on the barrow downs, before the hobbits are rescued by Tom Bombadil.
Across The Universe!
I cannot help but sing harmonies whenever I hear this one. It is also a joy to play on guitar.
There's a great version by a young lady names Aurora. I think it's the best version and I'm sure John would have loved it. She adds a counter melody at the end and it just works beautifully
@@jackpearson1110 I like Fiona Apple's version, which uses elements of all the various Fabs' renditions.
Strong choice. One of my favorites.
Choosing your favourite Beatles song is like choosing your favourite child. They're all different and you love them all equally.
Yeah, no.
Love this rambling Andy. Reminds me of my early years listening to music with friends while becoming increasingly stoned and philosophising without limits. That was in 1968.
It's remarkable to think that George Harrison was only 22 when he realized that the path he was on with the Beatles was a spiritual dead end.
"It's All Too Much" from the Yellow Submarine album - psychedelic and joyous.
It's not going to be a George song.🙄
@@peterolbrisch8970 Au contraire mon ami! Andy picked a George song! Blue Jay Way!
The scene in Yellow Submarine that this accompanies is great too.
as is "Only a Northern Song"
I can remember my first hearing Led Zeppelin was on Radio 1 in early 1969, I couldn’t believe what I was hearing it was Communication Breakdown, it rocked like nothing I heard before and I knew this band was going to be big.
If I Fell. Perfect lyrics, progression, and especially harmonies! I always have to stop myself from singing, and just listen. Best love song ever. Happy Valentine’s Day ❤️
Yea ! There's a version of them performing it acapella in the studio. Vocal harmonies as good as the Everly's. Check it out !
In 1975 I was driving around LA in the fog and this tune came on the radio! It still sticks in my head!
Absolutely amazing video. I am a poet who believes that art is about subjective interpretation. That the true meaning of any work of art is whatever the recipient (listener, reader, viewer) takes out of it. True art leaves space for the recipient to put their own experience into the work of art, and come out with their personal meaning from it. You explore that beautifully. Your separate takes on “Blue Jay Way” fit into that perfectly, illustrate that theory perfectly.
George's expedition through psychedelia is most interesting. It is often underestimated just how much George contributed to the "Beatlesque" soundscape.
Unusual pick. Mentions my city, but not anywhere near my favorite song. Off the top of my head, We Can Work It Out might be my favorite. Really resonated with me as a kid (the musical aspects). Now my favorite would probably be Dear Prudence. Or Long Long Long. Or . . . 100 others.
The Beatles have somthin for everyone.
great vid. I think Pythons 'meaning of life' might be based on magical mystery tour a little bit. Mr creosote very similar to Lennon feeding the big lady spaghetti with a spade in the restaurant. Palin's sgt major walking up and down the square quite similar to Spinetti's. and xmas in heaven seems to be based on 'your mother should know', a big cheesy show in the afterlife. Almost like the Pythons tried to make a slightly more understandable digestible version of MMT
My personal favourite Beatles song is “Michelle”. I just love that song.
Love to hear Andy talk about the Beatles. I grew up with them but I never gave them proper attention.
I don`t think I can choose my favorite Beatles song. I believe choosing my least favorite would be an easier task.
I was flicking through a Beatles book of mine yesterday; and realised that the first time that one of their songs broke the three minute mark, was Ticket To Ride (and just a pinch over three minutes at that) on their fifth album, "Help!". How mad is that!
That's one of the things that's so brilliant about them. Their songs hardly ever overstay their welcome. There's no reason that every song has to be 3 min +, but that became the norm later on, and it got worse in the CD age.
Hi Andy: an Englishman of your generation, out here in the colonies I get entirely what you're saying about MMT (the general and the glorious particulars): my first ever album, at 10 years old, and an amateur drummer in a Beatles tribute band in my late teens. Thank you so much for your academic-level articulation of the film . Sir Paul & Ringo will love this.
I'm a Phil prof. in my old age, and I can affirm you in your insight that subjective-objective are the same reality from two different perspectives--which is not to deny Truth.
There's always been that bit at the end of Hey Bulldog where Paul and John are mucking about. It reveals so much about the dynamics at play between the guys.
All you need is toast
😂😂😂😂
All you need is toast
Da da da da da
All you need is toast
Da da da da da
All you need is toast, toast
All you need is toast
But if you want some jam,take Ob-la -di bla -da.
I understand and appreciate the reason the Beatles didn't include singles on their lps, yet I can't help but imagine the Rubber Soul album with "What Goes On" & "Think For Yourself" replaced by "Day Tripper" & "We Can Work It Out."
Well, this video has it all. Including a funny ending. I won’t expand my comment here but I just loved it from the start to the end. That’s it.
I knew it !!!
The Beatles song that stands out for me is “Come Together” There is something about its rhythm that moves me.
As a nine 1/2 year old, in Chicago, USA, 'Blue Jay Way' was the first one of the 'new' songs I heard. It was over FM radio in the evening. I was alone. The room was dark, but for a small, shaded wall lamp. How are we 'intrigued' by something at that age, but that is the best word to explain my first hearing of your fave Fab's tune.
Please don't be long > Don't belong. Seriousy trippy.
@@user-qn7qw7dj6m please don't you be very long - doesn't work
I was 25 years old in 1967, and I remember really loving Blue Jay Way, and I had never taken any psychedelics. Love this channel. It’s truly “mind expanding”.
I never took any drugs in the ‘60’s, yet I loved listening to The Beatles. One does not have to be on drugs to enjoy their music.
I love Blue Jay Way. I see people’s rankings of Beatles songs and BJW usually ranks pretty low and I scratch my head. It’s so dreamy.
My favorite Beatle song is I Want You ( She’s so Heavy).
As you mention, my favorite too along with Hey Jude.
Blue Jay Way reminds me of "I Went To Sleep" by The Beach Boys. Brian Wilson at the height of his medication or possible LSD come down still managed to write something incredibly literal/beautiful about what he saw that day.
"Flying is one of my favourites by the Beatles, because it doesn't sound like them but a like session band. Which goes to show how many groups were inspired and sounded like them. Thanks Andy, another good one.
Yeah. To me it's coming down flat by himself when he needs his friends to get there to keep him up. Sleep is no solution. It speaks to his disillusionment with the lsd scene.
I used to have a friend, whom I thought was brilliant. Maybe still the most brilliant person I've ever met.
And you remind me of him.
What a lovely thing to say.
Wow, Blue Jay Way, I never imagined that at the start of your video Andy. That said, your argument in favour of it is so compelling. For me, it's Strawberry Fields Forever every time and i think it is probably the greatest rock tune by anybody ever.
I have taken several poetry classes at university. The professors stated poets have a meaning that is intentional, however the reader is free to participate in poems and can bring his/her own meaning.
This is too simplistic. It is not a binary. It is more like Yin Yang
Poets are intentionally ambiguous, unless they are writing greeting cards.
Favorite for me tends dependent on mood when there are so many many to choose from.
I have two favourites, depending on my mood. While My Guitar Gently Weeps and A Day In The Life. Probably 1 and 1A in that order.
There are a lot to choose from though.
Can't Buy Me Love is my favorite Beatles song. Because I love to dance and it has that lovely youthful energy that only young people can have. Also, the scream in the song is very youthful and could be understood as the scream of a young person facing adulthood and the uncertainty of life - realizing how lacking of experience he/she is. But hey, we take it all with dancing steps and with a belief that life will sort out, like it has for the previous generations. Let's dance! Crab the moment!
The double A side ( PL SFF ) between Revolver and Sgt Peppers - so incredible, so rich in everything that make up music. Still fresh as ever.
What's interesting is that Andy's interpretations of "Blue Jay Way" run directly counter to what George Harrison and members of the Beatles' inner circle said about it. This is Derek Taylor:
"In one of the great books called 'Twilight of the Gods' the author says, 'This song is about the lost young of our time. #My friends have lost their way.#
And then there was another interpretation that said the line #Please don't be long# was actually giving instructions to the young: 'Don't belong - as in 'Don't belong to society as we know it. Drop out.'
But it's just a simple song."
Going to LA and what he saw and experienced in Haight Ashbury in '67 is what ultimately turned George off and away from the psychedelic drug scene ~ but he'd written "Blue Jay Way" from a house in Blue Jay Way before the negativity began to kick in.
As Andy said, a great thing was that the Beatles always pushed love, something Paul has said he is so proud of.
It’s a fair guess that Blue Jay Way is Kevin Parker’s favourite Beatles track, too.😊
Interesting choice, Andy. I esp. like your reading of "don't belong". The song has a beautiful haunting melody. You could read the lyrics as addressing the other 3, don't be long or I will be tired of being a Beatle. I have another favorite Beatles song that doesn't get a lot of recognition, Long, Long, Long from the White Album. A masterpiece of timeless music in my opinion.
How do you explain 'please don't you be very long'
So many terrific songs to choose from . . . probably almost every Beatles song has multiple persons that say it is their favorite. Lol, for whatever my opinion is worth, my favorite is "I've Just Seen a Face." That was a compelling story about your memory of being a tiny child and in a panic because of what the babysitter told you; "they aren't coming back" must have been absolutely terrifying! I sincerely hope that you are recovering.
Thanks for introducing me to your favorite Beatles song. Hadn't ever heard it before. :)
You Can't Do That = All Blues, Miles and the Beatles together - Same Chords - So Cool
Your channel: came for the prog, stayed for the PH'LOG! "The sublime is the unification of chaos and order." Of course! Ego and Id, the self and the other(s), Peters and Lee, cats and dogs living together, localised in YOUR KITCHEN. But seriously (arf), more of this please.
Yes, I LOVE "Blue Jay Way" very unusual and "Trippy"! I don't really have a favorite, but if I had to pick one, I would go with "Here There and Everywhere" just for the pure Beauty of it; but "Blue Jay Way is definitely way up there on my list!
In the early 90's i was talking to a yoof and was shocked to learn they had never heard of the Beatles and this was in Liverpool
Liverpool is sadly no longer the city it was in the '60s with the Beatles.
It’s not a cinema but a live performance from Bonzo Dog Doo Da Band playing Death Cab For Cutie. Paul and Ringo aren’t in that scene. Paul filmed The Fool On The Hill in France due to English Tax issues.
My favorite Beatles song, as well. Has been since I was a youth, and my affection had only grown in the subsequent 40 years.
From a musical perspective, this song is remarkable because it's so eminently trippy. The Beatles achievement is to capture in sound the time dilation many people experience when experimenting with psychedelics.
P.S.: I found your personal account very touching
I LOVE Philosophy Sundays! And really appreciate your interpretations of Blue Jay Way. Fascinating! I never cared for the song but now have a new perspective on it. Thanks!
Very impressive. A one-hour soliloquy on "Blue Jay Way." Love the song, but damn.....haha. I do love it. Cheers
The ones I go back to a lot are "Happiness Is a Warm Gun," "Cry Baby Cry," and "Long, Long, Long." Not saying they're the greatest, but they're the ones I keep going back to.
I'm a long way down the comments so you may never read this. Have finally subscribed. Well, I've watched so many of your videos now. I haven't read all of the comments - but just in case no one's mentioned this check out James Hargreaves Magical Mystery Tour. He suggests, based on known evidence - such as Paul's piece of paper with a circle drawn on it, that the film was conceived by Paul as a version of the Tibetan Book of the Dead. There are seven set pieces, each based on the stages as described in the book. It's fascinating and chimes very well with your ideas around Blue Jay Way. Anyway, I'll be adding a comment to the Greatest Songs video later.
1:03:15 When you said, Someone was calling you up which might herald the end of the video, I swear I instantly thought of, "it was the salmon mousse,"
George wrote some of the best pre-prog Songs, which means to rise his stardom to views on life, that have never been recorded before, starting with Taxman and leading to my personal favorite Only A Northern Song, which is nothing more than perfect in the relationship between it's lyrics to the guiding music, he birth of what we call in Germany Diskurs- Pop.
..allthoug a Day in the Life is the peak of it all.
You are spot on on blue jay way. !!! Beatles always considered sound and music as a meaning of expression . sounds , and mood of the music can complement .. or totally change the meaning of the lyrics. As a french person, i never tried originally to get the english lyrics. but the sound makes me think of a weird cemetary or voices from the dead. without understanding a word.
Interesting. When you talked about how speaking about dead people made them alive in a certain way, it made me think about those people who discover Nick Drake's music and life and write something like "it's so sad he died without knowing how much appreciated his music is today" under a video of one of his songs. When I read that, I always feel compelled to write that "he knows, actually".
I spent the night at the crumbling Blue Jay Way mansion in 1980. I didn't even know that I was on the street Blue Jay Way. There were 7 punk superstars there that night, drinking and dancing and other stuff. We all slept a bit and we woke up and there were condiments and no food. I collected ten bucks from the cheapskates and got a ride to Rock and Roll Ralph's on Sunset Boulevard. Coming back to the house I realized I was on Blue Jay Way. I boiled eggs and potatoes and mixed them with tasty condiments and served oranges as breakfast dessert. The punk superstars were grateful. My friend Marc Modica told me, in 1967, that George was saying "please don't belong...".
I too greatly appreciate “Blue Jay Way” for its paradigm changing nature. But, I would choose “Tomorrow Never Knows” as the radix of sonic transition in “popular music.”
Simply, the “sound” of it is so intriguing! Integrating, broadening the horizons of “popular” music ( use of the studio as an instrument-thank you Yoko and Paul!) is why for me, I would cite “Tomorrow Never Knows” as my pick.
For some reason Blue Jay Way came into my thoughts as possibly being your favorite Beatles tune. It's definately one of mine.Revolver has always been my top album of theirs with Magical Mystey Tour a close second. Thanks for all your terrific analysis.
Fascinating how a song can encapsulate a moment in time. At ages 3-5, my daughter had night terrors. I would sit beside her holding her hand. To this day, the song Silent Lucidity chokes me up.
The "Magical Mystery Tour" LP is a compilation. The side 2 tracks were all SINGLES, including "I Am the Walrus".
I point this out because so many younger fans don't know that. They praise the "Magical Mystery Tour" songs based on the superior music, especially the wonderous and astonishing "Strawberry Fields Forever" -- which was released BEFORE "Sht. Pepper's" -- on Side 2. "Magical Mystery Tour" is Paul's repackaging of "Sgt. Pepper's," and the music to it is among the weakest of their catalog.
"I Am the Walrus" was originally the "B"-side of a single, released before "Magical Mystery Tour," and in the film is lip-synced.
But one point you make about "The Beatles" is absolutely true: they had FUN, and that was INFECTIOUS. I recall an early interview with them in which they were essentially asked if they'd ever quit. The answer was: "If it stops being fun."
They were funny guys -- there is a youtube clip of them standing together, being asked, for the billionth time, "Why the name 'Beatles'?"
Paul says, "Well, we could have been called "The Shoes" -- and the four of them begin to "seriously" discuss that possibility.
It is fall-off-the-chair hilarious.
And John was even funnier -- their very last live performance, on the roof of Apple -- the biggest band in history and at the time being forced to "turn it down!" (the original complaint of parents against the first generation of rock and roll) -- saying:
"I'd like to thank you on behalf of the group and meself, and I hope we passed the audition."
Um, well, yeah, I think they DID -- "finally" -- pass the audition.
I was in 7th grade when my entire family sat down to watch the Beatles on the Ed Sullivan show. They struck me as a relatively superficial pop group with young girls screaming in the audience while they were doing All my Loving, Till There Was You etc. I was more captivated by Bob Dylan with songs like Times They Are a Changin’ and in 65 The Byrds with Mr Tambourine Man and Turn Turn Turn which seemed closer to my feelings of early teen angst. That initial evaluation of the Beatles would change when I encountered Norwegian Wood very soon thereafter.
Surprising but excellent choice. Love that song. Also, on the album, it segues into the wonderful instrumental "Flying," which seems like a perfect combination.
Sorry this isn't the negative kind of comment that Andy says he prefers. 😢
I like this comment
Blue Jay Way, like Tomorrow Never Knows and Glass Onion are three songs that for their composers are self-reflective at their core. I tip my hat as a favourite to Glass Onion. It shares many other characteristics with the other pieces, eg aurally inventive, sung with minor notes or chords, and philosophical, poetic and mature in lyrics. “Music on Music” is a special playlist I grow in my diverse and extensive collection of music. Glass Onion is a first Lennon memoir on his portfolio. Lennon even at his young age presets his life and portfolio as a layered yet transparent reality, as reflected in the song’s perfect title for its subject matter.
There’s literally fog in the hills of SoCal at times. I remember that from up Bluebird Canyon Road in Laguna Beach.
Kids, you don’t need drugs, just subscribe to Andy and listen up to the words of the wise, transcendental that indeed was. I always thought Blue jay was about someone waiting for some kind of psychological help or spiritual help, and due to the oddness of the music, not quite getting that which he was waiting for.
Revolution Number Nine.
The BEATLES have so many great songs my favourite is always changing depending on my mood at the time.
Outstanding! It is astonishing that you can spontaneously expound upon a seed thought and take it to such depths in such an illuminating and entertaining way. Bravo! Thank you for painting a picture of Blue Jay Way in such vivid colors, you have changed the way I will hear it forever. Cheers!
What you say at 20:54 about England pretty much sums up the way I currently feel about my country (the U.S.A.) and the world in general actually.
Phenomenal stuff Andy! Don’t know where to start, you unpack a lot of things. So interesting to hear you download your thoughts for us, and wow it’s a lot of thoughts. Take care Andy and keep being the authentic you 🤓😎🤘
Ringo stands out in Blue Jay Way. It’s a wonderful album. Strawberry Fields is my favorite.
My favourite Beatlessong is Come Together, because it is so Groovy and different..
1 i am the walrus
2 paperback writer
3 a day in the life
4 michele
5 drive my car
... on the top of my head
This brings back a few memories.
Not knowing that Blue Jay Way was a road in a suburban Los Angeles, I used to think that "L.A." referred to someone from Liverpool (George Harrison?); that "fog" referred to sadness/depression; and that "sleep" referred to death.
I didn't get any further than that before discovering the literal meaning of the song.
I have the Magical mystery tour EP with Blue Jay Way. I remember playing it for the first time when I was about 11 years old. Although I never really listen to it I've never forgotten it. It left an impression in my subconscious.
Wow! I’m a little speechless. What a deep, thought provoking piece Andy. Love the possible interpretations of the song… but that’s what being subjective is all about, ya? Interpretation. Great video! Keep up the tremendous work, it’s fantastic! Oh, and while it is REALLY difficult to pick one song as my favourite, if push comes to shove, it would be “Nowhere Man”.
This was amazing Andy! I suppose this might be common among little children, but I have a memory of a story almost identical to yours, Andy. To this day, I have great trouble saying goodbye to my parents when I leave after a visit, or even getting off the phone with friends and family.
Or, more simply.... George was suddenly alone in LA. Not used to having no adoring fans/friends (Apple Scruffs !) around. Lucas nicked it from Joseph Campbell (Hero of a Thousand Faces).
Hi Andy. Great video. I think your insights in videos in RUclips the best on the net. You are always provocative in yout channel( In a good way) and I glad to learn so many things about music, art...and quite a British Humor😊( I from Brazil, but love the english estetisc)
Blue Jay is a bird very common in parts of America and Canada. We had mystery bus trips which always finished at a pub.. When people talk about My Truth and your Truth, it closes down discussion and the victim is THE TRUTH as each retreats to THEIR opinions.
Thanks to you, I've listened to Blue Jay Way for the first time. I simply paused your video, searched Blue Jay Way and listened to it. And... I'm not as in love with it as you are. But I absolutely love your interpretations. As usually, it was a joy to watch (or rather listen to, as I consume your videos a bit like podcasts).
*_Truth_* is like a 3 edged sword in relation to every human being and their subjectivity. There is *_your_* truth, there is *_my_* truth, and then is there is the *_actual_* truth, whatever that might be, floating out there in the cosmic ether, forever out of reach, forever unknowable (at least on this plane of existence, if you believe in others that is). Basically, we find meaning where we can. *_Whatever Gets You Through the Night_* is not only alright (as the Lennon song states), but *_It's What You Value_* (a Harrison tune) --- they are one and the same thing.
From Mystery tour "Baby You're Rich Man" came to mind
I love singing along with that song! It’s fun. 🎉
@@MsAppassionata Do you know what's that exotic instrument there? I love the messy psychedelic mix/production on it
Blue Jay Way sets a dark mood. It's not my fave,but it is in my top 5. My fave...A Day in a Life.
Absolutely love your video. Very illuminating and insightful. The Beatles are the most seminal music artists in my life and Magical Mystery Tour is the first album I ever got for myself when I was 13 in 1967, and it completely blew my mind. It's the most important album for me personally.
Didn’t see that one coming, Andy! Once you explained why it all clicked. Any fan of King Crimson would be a fan of that song.
Let me guess before I watch the video...
Every Little Thing covered by YES on their eponymous debut album?
One of the greatest of all covers!
Even Ringo was essential, according to Paul McCartney. He said that Ringo held them together.
Was a special time and they were at the forefront. A big influence on Pat Metheny. 'Nuff said. 👋
Amazed at the insights into art, philosophy, culture, music and literature. And all of it involving a subject matter which I know very well.
I remember listening to this song in my teens. I was kind of a Beatle freak just born a few years to late. The song on the surface is not that amazing but for some reason it did resonate with me. The explanation of the secondary and tertiary levels of meaning do make a lot of sense. Especially about the "sojourn" toward California , spirituality and drugs.
WOW
Thank you very much Andy. Keep it up.
30:00 I never had the opportunity to see the film to see visuals, but I often had the exact same feeling about Blue Jay Way, it certainly takes one 'out there' and back again if you are lucky. That it reminded me of a dream sequence and vision of... death. Great episode, here.
Hands down my favorite Beatles song is Rain
Rain, Bulldog, Baby You’re A Rich Man, and You Know My Name (Look Up The Number) have to be my favourites.
The 'fog' of Maya.
2014 I heard Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds in the Hallenstadion Zürich by the Godchild of Dolly Parton and I really loved it!
Your videos are among my favorites on ytube, perhaps my favorite for depth and intelligence.
A haunting composition and production that I also spent many hours contemplating the levels of meaning in, as a child experiencing this music when it was new and I had yet to be familiar with the chemically induced altered states that inspired it, and later in my teenage years when I had a bit more of a clue. ;) 😏 I largely had the same conclusions as Andy. "We'll be over soon they said" could be taken as they/our lives will be over soon. Additionally, "Ask a policeman on the street, there's so many there to meet" could be taken to mean that, when one is in an altered state and obviously behaving abnormally, every "normal" person you encounter is likely to give you some form of a reality check in their response, objectively "policing" your awareness of your own subjective state of consciousness.
That the Beatles are not only the greatest, but also the most popular band- that their genius was irrestible to high and low- well, sometimes things go right in the world.