About The Song
Released in 1969 on the Yellow Submarine soundtrack, “It’s All Too Much” isn’t your typical Beatles tune. Forget the three-minute pop masterpieces for a moment. This song is a swirling, kaleidoscopic journey that reflects the burgeoning psychedelic rock scene and Harrison’s personal exploration of Eastern spirituality and mind-altering experiences.
Composed in 1967, “It’s All Too Much” predates its release by a couple of years. This period marked a significant shift in The Beatles’ sound, fueled by their exploration of Transcendental Meditation and experimentation with LSD. “It’s All Too Much” stands as a testament to this period, offering a glimpse into a world where the boundaries between perception and reality begin to blur.
The song itself is a sonic collage. Distorted guitars weave through the track, punctuated by bursts of Mellotron – an early synthesizer that adds a haunting, otherworldly quality. Ringo Starr’s drumming is more subdued than usual, creating a sense of hypnotic rhythm that pulls the listener deeper into the psychedelic soundscape.
But “It’s All Too Much” isn’t just about sonic experimentation. Harrison’s lyrics, though seemingly fragmented at times, paint a vivid picture of sensory overload. He sings of “red balloons with hammers in their hands” and a “million violins in one man’s head,” imagery that evokes a heightened state of consciousness. The repeated refrain of “It’s all too much” becomes a mantra, a declaration of being overwhelmed by the intensity of the experience.
While some might find “It’s All Too Much” a departure from The Beatles’ signature sound, it’s a song that holds a unique place in their vast catalog. It’s a testament to their artistic evolution and a window into a pivotal moment in music history. So, put on your headphones, close your eyes, and let “It’s All Too Much” take you on a psychedelic journey through the mind of George Harrison.