It’s a pretty big stretch to call any of The Beatles’ songs “underrated.” That being said, there are a few tracks here and there from the Fab Four’s discography that rarely get widespread praise. We think they’re worth a listen or two. Let’s take a look at four of the most underrated songs by The Beatles!
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1. “Baby You’re A Rich Man”
This 1967 B-side to “All You Need Is Love” was obviously overshadowed by the hit it was released with. Still, “Baby You’re A Rich Man” deserves more love than it has gotten. It’s a fantastic mutual collaboration between John Lennon and Paul McCartney, with a psychedelic energy to it that stands out.
It’s loaded with effects, synth sounds, and a beefy chorus that you won’t find in many of the Fab Four’s other songs from that era. Allegedly, Mick Jagger of The Rolling Stones contributed some backing vocals to the track. Though, that’s never been confirmed.
2. “The Night Before”
This 1965 Help! classic features some of McCartney’s best vocals. In fact, we’d be bold enough to say that the Fab Four’s harmonies on this track are the best from that particular era of The Beatles. If you haven’t seen the Help! film, this song’s scene is one of the most memorable.
3. “Don’t Bother Me”
A standout track that didn’t get much attention on the 1963 record With The Beatles, “Don’t Bother Me” doesn’t get love because it is considered a more “amateur” George Harrison contribution. It makes sense why; “Don’t Bother Me” was Harrison’s very first songwriting contribution to The Beatles.
“At least it showed me that all I needed to do was keep on writing, and then maybe eventually I would write something good,” Harrison said of the song.
4. “I’m Down”
Another B-side that deserves more recognition, “I’m Down” was overshadowed by “Help!” upon its release in 1965. Out of all the underrated Beatles songs on this list, this song is the most obvious tribute (at least vocally) to Little Richard.
“I’m Down” eventually became a fan-favorite during The Beatles’ live performances, but the recorded track could still stand to get at least as much attention as “Help!”
Photo by Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images
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