The Beatles - You Know My Name (Look Up the Number)

About the song

(Watch the video below)

"You Know My Name (Look Up the Number)" by The Beatles stands as one of the most whimsical and experimental tracks in their discography. Released in 1970 as the B-side to the single "Let It Be," the song defies categorization with its surreal lyrics, eclectic musical style, and irreverent sense of humor. Despite its unconventional nature, "You Know My Name (Look Up the Number)" remains a cult favorite among fans, showcasing the band's willingness to push the boundaries of popular music and embrace creative experimentation.

From the moment the song begins, with its jaunty piano riff and playful vocals, it's clear that "You Know My Name (Look Up the Number)" is unlike anything else in The Beatles' catalog. The lyrics are a nonsensical collage of phrases and wordplay, with John Lennon and Paul McCartney trading off lines and ad-libs in a series of absurd vignettes. From references to "Mister City Policeman" to cryptic instructions to "just call me anytime," the song is a whirlwind tour of surreal imagery and absurd humor.

The-Beatles-You-Know-My-Name-(Look-Up-the-Number)

Musically, "You Know My Name (Look Up the Number)" draws on a wide range of influences, from vaudeville and music hall to jazz and psychedelia. The song features a rollicking piano melody, jazzy saxophone solos, and a swinging rhythm section that gives it a lively, danceable groove. George Harrison's slide guitar adds a touch of whimsy to the mix, while Ringo Starr's playful drumming keeps the song moving along at a brisk pace.

One of the most memorable aspects of "You Know My Name (Look Up the Number)" is its unconventional structure, with multiple sections that flow seamlessly into one another. The song begins with a catchy piano riff and a straightforward rock beat, before morphing into a jazzy interlude complete with scat singing and saxophone solos. From there, it transitions into a mock-operatic section, with Lennon and McCartney trading off lines in exaggerated falsettos. The song ends with a return to the main theme, bringing the listener full circle in a whirlwind of musical and lyrical absurdity.

In addition to its musical and lyrical eccentricities, "You Know My Name (Look Up the Number)" holds a special place in The Beatles' history as one of their final studio recordings. Although it was recorded over several years, beginning in 1967 during the sessions for "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band," the song was not officially released until 1970, following the band's breakup. Its delayed release only adds to the mystique surrounding the song, leaving fans to speculate about its origins and meaning.

The-Beatles-You-Know-My-Name-(Look-Up-the-Number)

Despite its status as a B-side and its relative obscurity compared to The Beatles' more well-known hits, "You Know My Name (Look Up the Number)" has earned a devoted following among fans and critics alike. Its irreverent humor, catchy melodies, and eclectic musical style make it a standout track in the band's catalog, showcasing their willingness to take risks and experiment with new sounds and ideas. In many ways, the song serves as a fitting swan song for The Beatles, capturing the playful spirit and creative energy that defined their legendary career.

In conclusion, "You Know My Name (Look Up the Number)" by The Beatles is a whimsical and experimental masterpiece that defies categorization. From its surreal lyrics and eclectic musical style to its irreverent sense of humor, the song is a testament to the band's willingness to push the boundaries of popular music and embrace creative experimentation. Despite its unconventional nature, "You Know My Name (Look Up the Number)" remains a cult favorite among fans, showcasing The Beatles' enduring influence and legacy as one of the greatest bands in rock and roll history.

Video

Lyrics

Let's sing along with the lyrics!

You know my nameLook up the numberYou know my nameLook up the numberYou, you know, you know my nameYou, you know, you know my name

Good evening and welcome to SlaggersFeaturing Denis O'BellCome on Ringo, let's hear it for Denis

Good eveningYou know my nameLook, look, look up the numberYou know my nameThat's right, look up the numberYou, you know, you know my nameYou, you know, you know my nameYou know my name, ba ba ba ba ba ba ba ba baLook up the numberYou know my nameThat's right, look up the numberOh, you know, you know, you know my nameYou know, you know, you know my name, huh huh huh huhYou know my name, ba ba ba pumLook up the numberYou know my nameLook up the numberYou, you know, you know my name, babyYou, you know, you know my nameYou know, you know my nameYou know, you know my name, go on DenisLet's hear it for Denis O'Bell

You know my nameYou know, you know my nameYou know, you know my namePrrr, you know my name and the numberYou know my name and the numberYou know, you know my name, look up the numberYou know my number three, you know my number twoYou know my number three, you know my number fourOh, you know my name, you know number tooYou know my name, you know my number, what's up with you?You know my name, that's right?

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Topics: singer lyrics The Beatles song band Star Shows Icon rock