Fans often debate Lennon vs. McCartney, but the true hidden gem of the band’s songwriting might surprise you. We analyzed the deep cuts to find out.
You voted in our poll, and the guesses are in! Many of you said Paul for deep cuts like “Mother Nature’s Son.” Others championed John for darker tracks like “Yer Blues.” A solid group stood by George for “Long, Long, Long” or “I Me Mine.” And yes, a few loyal fans shouted out Ringo for “Don’t Pass Me By.”
But after analyzing the catalog—not the biggest hits, but the deeply loved fan favorites that never got their full due—one Beatle stands out as the king of underrated songwriting…
George Harrison.
Here’s Why:
While John and Paul were busy writing generational anthems, George was quietly assembling a portfolio of stunningly beautiful, spiritually complex, and musically innovative songs that, while beloved by hardcore fans, never got the same mainstream spotlight.
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“Long, Long, Long” (The White Album): A haunting, fragile masterpiece of devotion and exhaustion, hidden away on the sprawling White Album. Its subtle beauty is the antithesis of the big pop single.
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“I Me Mine” (Let It Be): A scathing and brilliant critique of the ego, with a killer waltz-time arrangement. It was so underrated by the band itself that it was nearly left off the Let It Be album.
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“Blue Jay Way” (Magical Mystery Tour): A psychedelic, eerie, and hypnotic track that showcases George’s unique artistic vision, far from the more commercial psychedelia of “Lucy in the Sky.”
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“If I Needed Someone” (Rubber Soul): A jangly gem that even The Byrds loved! It’s a perfect pop song that often gets overshadowed by the album’s more famous tracks.
The Verdict:
While John and Paul were the undeniable hit-making engines, George Harrison was the band’s secret weapon of depth. His songs provided the spiritual and musical texture that made The Beatles’ albums so rich and rewarding to explore beyond the singles. He didn’t just write songs; he wrote mood, philosophy, and atmosphere.
So, did you guess right? Whether you did or not, it’s a testament to the incredible depth of talent in one band that this is even a debate!
