About The Song
Released in 1963 as part of their landmark debut album “Please Please Me”, “Chains” might not be the first song that springs to mind when thinking of the Beatles’ greatest hits. Yet, it holds a certain charm, a window into the band’s early influences and their ability to transform a song into something uniquely their own.
Originally recorded by the American girl group The Cookies in 1962, “Chains” was a rhythm and blues number. In the hands of the Beatles, however, it took on a new life. Their trademark vocal harmonies, driven by John Lennon and George Harrison, added a layer of depth and texture. The driving rhythm section, anchored by Paul McCartney’s bass and Ringo Starr’s drums, propelled the song forward with infectious energy.
“Chains” may not have been a chart-topper, but it served a crucial purpose in the Beatles’ evolution. It showcased their versatility, their ability to seamlessly blend into different genres while still retaining their own sound. It also highlighted their raw talent, their ability to breathe life into a song even in a marathon recording session, as was the case for “Please Please Me”.
So, as you settle in to listen to “Chains”, take a moment to appreciate it for what it is: a snapshot of the Beatles in their early days, brimming with potential and a hunger to make their mark on the world. It’s a reminder of their journey, from enthusiastic cover artists to the legendary songwriters they would become. Let “Chains” transport you back to a simpler time, a time when the world was first catching a glimpse of the Fab Four’s magic.