About the song
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"Devil in Her Heart," a song by The Beatles, features on their 1963 album *With the Beatles*. This track is notable not only for its infectious melody and harmonious vocals but also for its origins and the insight it provides into The Beatles' early musical influences and development.
"Devil in Her Heart" was originally written and recorded as "Devil in His Heart" by Richard Drapkin, who performed under the name Ricky Dee, with his group The Donays in 1962. The Beatles, who were avid music listeners and collectors, discovered the song through Brian Epstein, their manager, who sourced the record from the HMV store in London. It is a testament to their keen ear for great music that they chose to cover this relatively obscure song.
The Beatles' version of "Devil in Her Heart" features George Harrison on lead vocals, which was a departure from the usual Lennon-McCartney dominance on vocals. This choice highlights the democratic nature of the band during their early years, giving each member a chance to shine. Harrison’s vocal delivery is both earnest and smooth, perfectly capturing the essence of the song’s blend of innocence and trepidation.
Musically, the song stays true to its original arrangement but with The Beatles' unique twist. The track opens with a jangly guitar riff, setting a bright and upbeat tone. The rhythm guitar, played by John Lennon, along with Paul McCartney’s bass and Ringo Starr’s steady drumming, create a solid and engaging backdrop for Harrison’s lead. The song's structure follows the typical verse-chorus pattern, but it’s the harmonies and the infectious energy that set it apart.
The lyrics of "Devil in Her Heart" are simple yet effective in conveying a sense of caution and allure. Harrison sings about being wary of a girl who appears angelic but may have hidden intentions. The chorus, with the repeated line “She’s got the devil in her heart,” is catchy and memorable, emphasizing the song's theme of deceptive appearances.
"Devil in Her Heart" is also a showcase for The Beatles' harmonizing skills. The backing vocals, provided by Lennon and McCartney, add depth and texture to the song. Their ability to blend their voices so seamlessly was one of the hallmarks of their early sound and is particularly evident in this track.
The recording of "Devil in Her Heart" took place during the same sessions that produced many of the songs for *With the Beatles*, The Beatles' second studio album. These sessions were marked by a high level of productivity and creativity. The band was still in the early stages of their career, and their enthusiasm and joy in making music are palpable in the recordings from this period.
"Devil in Her Heart" reflects The Beatles' influences from American rock and roll, rhythm and blues, and girl group sounds. Their ability to take these influences and make them their own was crucial in their development as artists. By covering a song like "Devil in Her Heart," they paid homage to their musical inspirations while also showcasing their ability to reinterpret and energize the material.
In the broader context of The Beatles' discography, "Devil in Her Heart" may not be as well-known as their original compositions, but it holds a special place in their early repertoire. It exemplifies their talent for selecting and performing cover songs that resonated with them and their audience. These covers were integral in building their reputation and honing their skills as musicians and performers.
"Devil in Her Heart" also highlights George Harrison's emerging role within the band. While Lennon and McCartney were the primary songwriters, Harrison’s vocal contributions and growing confidence as a performer added another dimension to The Beatles’ music. This track is one of the early indicators of his potential, which would later be fully realized in his songwriting contributions to the band’s later albums.
The enduring appeal of "Devil in Her Heart" lies in its straightforward, catchy melody and the charm of The Beatles’ performance. It captures a moment in time when the band was on the cusp of international stardom, still experimenting with their sound and learning from the music they loved. The song is a delightful snapshot of their early years, filled with youthful energy and the promise of what was to come.
In conclusion, "Devil in Her Heart" by The Beatles is a testament to the band's ability to take a lesser-known song and infuse it with their unique style and energy. George Harrison's lead vocals, the band's tight harmonies, and the lively instrumentation make it a standout track on *With the Beatles*. While it may not be as famous as their original hits, it remains a beloved piece of their early catalog, showcasing their diverse influences and remarkable talent.
